Sicily

On Day 1, we will arrange a shuttle from the airport to our hotel where you can settle in and have some free time until we gather for a welcome dinner. Dive into the heart of Sicily’s capital city, where the fusion of cultures is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and history.

The next morning we’ll take a one-hour bus ride to Cefalu, a coastal city with stunning views, a 12th-century Norman cathedral, and a 17th-century fortress. We’ll learn about the area’s history and culture while enjoying a vegan food tour. After some free time, we’ll have dinner at a lovely seaside restaurant before heading back to Palermo.

Meals Included
Day 1: Dinner
Day 2: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today we’ll explore the bustling energy of thriving Palermo where the present-day aromas fill the ancient streets. Immerse yourself in the stunning Arab-Norman architecture inspired by Nordic tradition and Islamic influence. We’ll enjoy vegan versions of traditional Sicilian dishes, and savor the modern plant-based restaurants that make this city the vegan hotspot of Sicily. During a morning walking tour we’ll visit a beautiful noble palace, followed by Ballaro Market, surrounded by gorgeous colors. In the Martorana Church, you’ll admire one of the most beautiful and interesting churches in the world, amidst shining mosaics. Between lunch and dinner you’ll have some free time to relax or explore on your own.

The next day our journey continues to the enchanting city of Siracusa, where history comes to life on the tiny island of Ortigia. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy lunch and then master the art of creating traditional Sicilian vegan cannoli in Ortigia’s exclusive restaurant, MOON.

Meals Included
Day 3: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

On Day 5, after a leisurely morning, we’ll wander through the enchanting streets, admiring the Baroque architecture and lively piazzas. We will dive into Sicilian mythology as we visit the Fountain of Arethusa, the Temple of Apollo, the Piazza of Archimedes, and much more. Absorb the ancient history in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to the legendary Greek Theater. You’ll feast on vegan versions of traditional Siracusan street food with Vegan Food Tour Ortigia guide, Tonia.  After a little downtime, or time for an afternoon espresso, we’ll gather for an intimate vegan chocolate and wine pairing before dinner.

The next day will be spent sailing the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea on a small sailboat while noshing on a vegan lunch on board.  We’ll then enjoy a last dinner in picturesque Ortigia.

Meals Included
Day 5: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 6: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

The next morning we’ll hop a train to Catania, nestled in the shadow of the majestic Mount Etna. After lunch, you’ll have some time to relax or explore on your own before we regroup for dinner.

On a walking tour the next morning, we’ll explore the winding streets of the historic center, adorned with magnificent Baroque buildings crafted from volcanic stone. You’ll learn about Sicily’s Greek, Roman, and Arab influences as we visit the ancient ruins of the Roman Theater and the Greek-Roman Amphitheater, and view Mount Etna from afar.

Meals Included
Day 8: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 9: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

On our final full day, we’ll witness the beauty and majesty of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano in a jeep tour. During the excursion, we will explore its lunar landscapes, fertile slopes, and breathtaking views of the eastern side of Sicily! We will pass idyllic Sicilian villages and some of Sicily’s most famous wine-growing regions and while gaining altitude, you will learn a lot about the country, the population, and its culture. You will certainly remember the impressive play of colors of the black lava and the extraordinary vegetation on Mount Etna. As we pass by the lava flows of recent years, we will see centuries-old forests and we will stop at some of the most beautiful places on Mount Etna. During an easy but impressive hike of 45 minutes on the surrounding craters, you will see the unique landscape with the old and new lava. We’ll then continue the adventure on an off-road track through the pine forests to gain further insight into the unique and diverse flora and fauna which inhabit the lava rocks. We will be equipped with helmets and flashlights to explore one of the famous lava caves on foot. Centuries ago, residents close to Mount Etna used these caves for ice production. At the end of the half-day tour, we will drive to the hardened lava flows, which destroyed the local ski lift during the last big eruption. Our final dinner will be back on Catania.

Our tour will end after breakfast the next day.

Meals Included
Day 8: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 9: Breakfast