Bella Sicilia

br />Sicily is a fascinating mosaic of diverse cultures that reveal its rich and varied history. Explore this beautiful Mediterranean island on this 11 day tour and discover the influences left by ancient Greeks and Romans, Arabs and Normans, who in turn ruled Sicily. Excursions and special presentations bring the destination to life. Explore the ancient Greek city, Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s famed Valley of the Temples.

Day 1: Overnight Flight


Day 2: Palermo, Italy - Tour Begins
Begin your tour in Sicily’s vibrant, welcoming capital – Palermo. Tonight, meet fellow travelers during a festive welcome dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Day 3: Palermo - Monreale - Palermo
This morning, depart for the nearby town of Monreale where you will visit the 12th-century cathedral which dazzles from the moment you step inside. Return to Palermo for a tour of the city featuring the squares of Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and Piazza Bellini. Discover the exotic blend of Moorish, Norman and Spanish Baroque styles. You will also see the Palace of the Normans, La Martorana Church, and the Cathedral, which houses the Imperial Crown of Constance of Aragon.

Day 4: Palermo - Erice - Segesta - Palermo
Travel to Erice, a medieval city founded by the Phoenicians and perched 2,400 feet above sea level. Take a stroll in the public gardens or visit the lovely Castle of Venus. Then, visit the archaeological site of Segesta with its well-preserved Doric Temple. Learn about the ancient settlers as a local expert shares Segesta’s fascinating history.

Day 5: Palermo - Cefalù - Sicilian Countryside - Agrigento
This morning visit the seaside town of Cefalù which houses one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Sicily. After strolling through its medieval streets, proceed to a family farm in the mountains. Learn about a day on a Sicilian farm and the typical products created there. A farmer demonstrates* how to make a Sicilian favorite – ricotta cheese! Watch a chef prepare local specialties and enjoy a hearty lunch featuring the farm’s own products and recipes. Your day ends in Agrigento, on Sicily’s gorgeous southern coast.

Day 6: Agrigento - Licata - Agrigento
Start your day at the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy walking around the temples of Juno, Concordia, Hercules and Jupiter. Learn about ancient Greek culture during your guided tour of the the Archaeological Museum, known for its extensive collection of Greek vases, statues and other artifacts. This afternoon enjoy the hospitality of a Sicilian baron and his family when you visit their 18th-century baglio and winery, nestled in the coastal Licata countryside. A tasting allows you to sample some of Sicily’s wines.

Day 7: Agrigento - Siracusa
Depart Agrigento, journeying through the beautiful Erei Mountains to Sicily’s Ionian Coast to Siracusa. Reflect on the grandeur of ancient Greece during an excursion to the historical sites in Siracusa, boasting archaeological treasures rivaling those in Athens. A local expert guides you through the Archaeological Park which features an impressive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities.

Day 8: Siracusa - Noto - Ragusa - Siracusa
Enjoy a historic look at two jewels of Baroque architecture on this day trip from Siracusa. First you’ll stop in Noto where a local expert will take you on a walking tour to see gorgeous palaces that once belonged to wealthy barons. Look for the elaborate balconies, said to be Sicily’s most beautiful, which adorn these magnificent dwellings. Also admire Noto’s monastery which dates back to the 18th century and visit the city’s duomo, another architectural treasure. After a quick break for lunch, continue to nearby Ragusa. Discover Sicily’s Baroque past as you stroll Ragusa’s panoramic streets and visit some of the town’s churches and monumental buildings. Stunning views of the Iblei Mountains complete the experience.

Day 9: Siracusa - Catania
This morning arrive in Catania, a coastal city at the foot of an active volcano, Mount Etna, where a local guide shares its history. Visit the cathedral and view the main sites of this historic city. Witness the daily spectacle of bartering for fresh fish and produce when you visit the local market. Enjoy free time in Catania’s elegant center.

Day 10: Catania - Taormina - Catania
Explore Taormina, the jewel of Sicily, perched above the Ionian Sea. During a guided tour you will see the Greek Theatre, Duomo and public gardens. Spend the afternoon dining at a sidewalk cafe or shopping in the town’s boutiques. On your return to Catania, travel along the Cyclops Coast, passing vineyards, citrus groves and charming fishing villages. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day 11: Catania - Tour Concludes
Your tour of Sicily ends today, as you return home with many cherished memories.

Touring Date	Land Only	Land + Air	Single (Land Only)	Single (Land + Air)
6/8/2012 - 6/17/2012	$2,099
8/3/2012 - 8/12/2012	$1,999
9/7/2012 - 9/16/2012	$2,199
9/28/2012 - 10/7/2012	$2,199
10/5/2012 - 10/14/2012	$2,199
11/9/2012 - 11/18/2012	$2,099
4/12/2013 - 4/21/2013	$2,099
4/19/2013 - 4/28/2013	$2,099
Note: Departures appearing above in green are guaranteed to operate by the tour operator.
Airfare Disclaimer A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link. Documents TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

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