DAY 1: UK - Catania - Cefalu.
Fly to Catania where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Cefalu for three nights. (D)
DAY 2: Cefalu.
The day is yours to enjoy the many attractions of Cefalu, a fishing port with a Romanesque cathedral, pretty beaches and medieval streets tangled around a palm-lined piazza. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to the Aeolian Islands, departing from Cefalu by boat, the journey takes in rugged cliffs, aqua blue seas and virgin beaches. The trip also includes a stop off at the picturesque town of Lipari, known for its castle and ancient ruins as well as free time to sample a thermal spa or mud bath. (B, D)
DAY 3: Segesta - Erice.
This morning you visit the stupendous Greek temple at Segesta, a graceful 36-pillared temple, encircled by a ravine and magnificent countryside, before visiting the ancient mountain town of Erice, with its atmospheric castle ruins and quaint cobbled streets and piazzas. (B, D)
DAY 4: Cefalu - Agrigento - Piazza Armerina - Giardini Naxos.
Another fascinating trip, this time to Agrigento's acclaimed Valley of the Temples. You'll enjoy a tour by a local guide of this enthralling UNESCO World Heritage site, including visits to two of its nine imposing temples built into a valleyside. On the way to Giardini Naxos for four nights in your chosen hotel, we stop at Piazza Armerina, a medieval village famous for its stunning, mosaic-floored Roman villa portraying detailed scenes from mythology, circuses and daily Roman life. (Meals as per hotel details).
DAY 5: Giardini Naxos - Mount Etna.
An unforgettable morning visit to ascend brooding Mount Etna, one of the world's largest and most active volcanoes. 60,000 years old, its lava-walled crater and smouldering potholes are a breathtaking reminder of the power of nature. Take an optional jeep ride or cable car (when operating) to approximately 7,500 feet. The afternoon is yours to relax or why not take an optional tour of charming Taormina, with its twisting streets, beautiful gardens and magnificent Greek theatre with stunning views over the sea and distant Etna. (Meals as per hotel details).
DAY 6: Syracuse - Noto.
Today you head to Syracuse, founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC and famed for its amazing archeological ruins, including a vast Greek theatre, haunting catacombs and ancient sacrificial altar. From there it's on to Noto, one of the island's prettiest towns, graced by honey-coloured churches, piazzas and flamboyantly balconied palaces. (Meals as per hotel details).
DAY 7: Caltagirone.
This morning you head for Caltagirone, another delightful town known for its colourful ceramics, which embellish its palaces, bridges and balconies. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (Meals as per hotel details).
DAY 8: Giardini Naxos - Catania - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)