The incredible diversity of flavor and the captivating complexity of history will keep you engaged during your exclusive wine and highlights tour of Sicily that will unveil the distinctive characteristics of the local grapes and the undeniable charm of the unique culture. The cities possess a quintessential Mediterranean ambiance while the smaller towns reflect a sense of ancient history that dates back to the Greek settlements and the Arab traders. An incredible diversity of varietals embodies...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Palermo – Arrive in the Capital of Sicily with an Introductory Tour
Palermo is a fascinating city with a remarkable history that will enchant you immediately upon your arrival. Sitting at the center of the crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations for millennia, Palermo glows with a mixture of vibrant daily life that abounds through Byzantine mosaics, Arabesque domes, and fabulous frescoes. The aromas of delicate seafood drift through the doors of classic kitchens while street vendors proliferate the scents of freshly grilled meats, fried rice balls known as arancini, and fragrant pistachios. Your private transfer will greet you at Falcone Borsellino Airport and escort you into the heart of the bustling city where you can settle into the comforts of your luxury hotel. Your guide will meet you in the lobby ready to introduce you to the splendors of the city the Norman’s once called, “Kingdom of the Sun.”
Discover the beauty of Palermo by visiting the Cappella Palatina and the famous Cathedral. You will see the famous Teatro Massimo and enter the incredible ambiance of the Norman Palace. The complex dates back to the 9th century AD and has since become the home of the islands’ regional parliament. Your guide will offer a history of the palace, the royal apartments, and the spectacular mosaics that cover Sala dei Venti and Sala di Ruggero II. The latter room glints with incredible hunting scenes and wild animals favored at the time which offers a window into the artistic fashion and prominent symbolism of the time.
What's Included:
Day 2
Palermo – Enjoy a Luxurious Excursion to the Coastal Town of Cefalù
Day 3
Palermo – Indulge in an Exclusive Wine Tour around Vallelunga
Day 4
Palermo – Revel in a Sailing Adventure and Refined Wine Tasting Tour
Day 5
Mazara del Vallo – Visit the Ancient Towns of Segesta and Mazara
Day 6
Mazara del Vallo – Explore Famous Estates and Ancient Agrigento
Day 7
Mazara del Vallo – Bask in a Unique Wine Tour and a Relaxing Spa Day
Day 8
Palermo – Discover the Wineries and Vineyards near Marsala
Day 9
Palermo – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Savor every minute of your exclusive tours of wineries with your private guides showcasing the alluring flavors and diverse landscapes of Western Sicily
- Enjoy the distinctive North African ambiance of Mazara, a town with rich history alongside the contemporary culture of Sicily
- Marvel at the dramatic ancient Greek architecture preserved over two millennia at archeological sites like Agrigento and Segesta
- Delight in the majestic mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings of the Norman Palace in Palermo, most notably inside the Sala di Ruggero II
- Indulge in a scenic boat tour along the coastline of Mondello for a sensational view of the elegant sea and radiant promenade
- Relax with a relaxing spa treatment at a luxury hotel that uses the bounty of the Sicilian landscape as part of the greater therapeutic process
- Discover the distinctive flavors and marvelous collection of varietals that are grown in Sicily ranging from endemic to foreign grapes for an amazing diversity
Detailed Description
Your luxury wine tour of Sicily will take you on a 9-day discovery of the Mediterranean treasure often cast in the shadow of mainland Italy. The sensational island has stood at the center of Mediterranean life for millennia resulting in a culture and heritage of its own that blends the customs of the Ancient Greeks, the Roman empire, sailing Arabs, conquering Normans, royal Spaniards, and expanding French forces. Rich architecture and culinary creations embody the brilliance of the preserved past that will bring private guided tours that will surpass your expectations.
Your tour will begin with your arrival in Palermo where you will have five nights in the spectacular capital city to explore, discover, and enjoy the splendors in and around the province. Your guides will take you on magnificent private tours of the city and introduce you to the grand architecture while also leading you into the depths of the celebrated markets for a touch of heritage. You will wander through the alluring lanes in the seaside town of Cefalù and revel in the flavors of boutique wineries to learn how the different properties of landscapes are affected by the sun, sea, and mountainous terrain. A sailing excursion along the western coastline will reveal the natural beauty of seaside towns as well as the abundant seafood caught daily by local fishers. You will delight in multi-course meals paired with robust and delicate wines before transferring to Mazara del Vallo.
You can relax and enjoy the splendors of Mazara del Vallo for three nights and find a remarkable balance between the flavors of wines that have been produced on boutique vineyards and the captivating history of the ancient Greek ruins at Segesta and Agrigento. You will explore towns with uniquely North African culture, as well as vineyards that celebrate the historical methods of winemaking in Sicily. You can also take advantage of a luxurious spa treatment that will soothe and rejuvenate your body after traveling around Sicily’s western edges.
Starting Price
$4,100 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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