Best of Southern Italy: Sicily & Puglia

Explore Sicily and Puglia on a 13-day Southern Italy tour featuring UNESCO sites, historic towns, coastal scenery, local cuisine and wine tastings
Discover the best of Southern Italy on an unforgettable 13-day tour through Sicily and Puglia. Begin in Catania and explore Syracuse, Noto, Ragusa, Agrigento, Palermo, Mount Etna and Taormina before flying to Bari. Continue through Puglia’s captivating landscapes and historic towns, including Matera, Castel del Monte, Trani, Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto and Gallipoli. This immersive Italy itinerary combines UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient ruins, Baroque architecture, dramatic coastlines and authentic regional wines
13 Days from $7699/person CAD
Food & Wine
Guided
Premium
UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Primary Location

Sicily & Puglia, Italy

Departures

Weekly Saturday departures from March to November 2027

Included:

  • 12-night stay in 4-star hotels
  • 2 nights in Catania
  • 1 night in Ragusa
  • 1 night in Agrigento
  • 2 nights in Palermo
  • 3 nights in Bari
  • 2 nights in Lecce
  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners in Sicily
  • Traditional product tastings, including Sabadì chocolate in Modica (Day 3), Florio wine with a light lunch in Marsala (Day 4), Sicilian granita and brioche in Catania (Day 6), local honey and typical Etna products at Mount Etna (Day 7), olive oil at a masseria in Alta Murgia (Day 9), Caffè Leccese with almond milk in Lecce (Day 12), and Salento wine in Gallipoli (Day 13)
  • Multilingual tour leader from Day 2 through Day 7
  • Local guides or audio guides, where required
  • Visits to Syracuse, Noto, Modica, Piazza Armerina, Agrigento, Monreale, Palermo, Cefalù, Catania, and Mount Etna
  • Transportation by air-conditioned coach from Day 2 through Day 7
  • 5 breakfasts and 1 lunch in Puglia
  • Private transfer from the Catania hotel to Catania Airport on Day 8
  • Flight from Catania to Bari, direct or with a stopover, including one 10 kg cabin bag and one 20 kg checked bag
  • Private transfer from Bari Airport to the Bari hotel on Day 8
  • Dedicated driver and shared group vehicle throughout the Apulia tour, using a car or minivan depending on the group size
  • Private guided tours for the group in Castel del Monte, Matera, Bari, Alberobello, and Lecce

Not Included:

  • Entrance tickets are not included. They may be purchased on-site or prepaid by purchasing the Privilege Package
  • International or domestic airfare
  • Gratuities to guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance
  • Beverages during meals and additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary
  • Entrance fees to monuments or museums
  • Local city tax for overnight stays
  • Visas required for entry into the country as necessary
  • Anything of a personal nature or that is not mentioned in included

Pricing Details

Click Book Online for pricing!

  • The extension to Puglia is unescorted, allowing for greater flexibility and independent exploration without a Tour Leader or Guide
  • From price is CAD per person, based on double occupancy
  • The final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel
  • Prices are subject to change
  • Please note this tour may operate as part of a combination of other tours. As a result, the Tour Leader and fellow travelers may change during the journey

Optional Extras:

  • Pre and Post-Accommodation
  • Elevate your adventure with these additional enhancements below (Privilege Package):
  • Private Airport Transfers: Enjoy the utmost convenience and comfort with private airport transfers, ensuring a seamless transition from your arrival to your hotel and back to the airport at the end of your journey
  • All-Inclusive Entrance Fees: Explore Sicily's rich cultural heritage without any worries about entrance fees. All fees to monuments or museums as per the itinerary are included, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the historical and artistic wonders of the region
  • Room Category Upgrade: Enhance your stay by upgrading to a Superior or Deluxe room category at the 4-star hotels, adding an extra touch of luxury and comfort to your accommodation experience

Travel Privately

You can request to book this tour, travelling only with people you know.

Find out more

Itinerary

DAY 1: WELCOME TO CATANIA

Your journey begins as you arrive in Catania, a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. You have the option to include a private airport transfer for added convenience and comfort. After your arrival, take the opportunity to unwind and immerse yourself in the charming Catania city center. Explore its historic streets, savor local cuisine, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this Sicilian gem.

Accommodation at the Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar

DAY 2: WONDERS OF SYRACUSE, NOTO & RAGUSA

Depart after breakfast for Syracuse to explore the impressive Archaeological Park of Neapolis, the largest Greek colony in Sicily. Visit the captivating old town center of Ortigia, featuring the stunning Piazza Duomo and its magnificent Cathedral.

Continue to Noto, renowned as the “stone garden” and celebrated for its UNESCO-listed baroque architecture. Stroll through the city center, marveling at the craftsmanship displayed by local artisans. Noto’s baroque structures boast intricate details, from elegant curves to floral motifs, creating a visual feast. Conclude the day with a journey to Ragusa, where you’ll check in at the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Mediterraneo Palace, Ragusa, or similar

DAY 3: MODICA, PIAZZA ARMERINA & AGRIGENTO

After breakfast at the hotel, explore the enchanting town of Ragusa Ibla, known for its stunning churches and the picturesque Ibleo garden. Continue your journey to Modica, where you’ll be captivated by its abundance of baroque treasures, all designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Conclude your visit with a delightful tasting of local products.

Next, head to Piazza Armerina for a visit to the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, a remarkable late imperial period residence and another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Finally, transfer to your hotel in Agrigento, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a comfortable night’s rest. Meals: B, L, D

Accommodation at the Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa, Agrigento, or similar

DAY 4: VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES & TRANSFER TO PALERMO WITH MARSALA & SALINE

After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, marvel at the impressive temples of Giunone, Concordia, and Ercole.

Later, continue your journey to Marsala, a city steeped in history from Phoenician, Arab, and Norman dominations. Immerse yourself in a wine-tasting session to savor the distinctive local flavors.

Next, visit the famous Via del Sale, where the lagoon and the islands of Stagnone form a vast nature reserve of significant environmental importance. The salt marshes in this area represent one of the oldest salt mining industries globally.

In the evening, arrive in Palermo, where you’ll check in at the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Mercure Palermo Centro, Palermo, or similar

DAY 5: PALERMO HIGHLIGHTS & MONREALE

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Monreale, a town renowned for its remarkable Arab-Norman Cathedral and breathtaking Cloister. Following this visit, return to Palermo.

In Palermo, immerse yourself in the historical treasures of the Arab-Norman period. Explore the splendid Cathedral, the captivating Byzantine Church of the Martorana, and the Palatine Chapel, a remarkable testament to the coexistence of diverse cultures and religions.

While exploring, pause for a delightful culinary surprise at a local bakery. Conclude the day with a comfortable overnight stay in Palermo. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Mercure Palermo Centro, Palermo, or similar

DAY 6: PALERMO TO CATANIA VIA CEFALU

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before setting off to the picturesque medieval village of Cefalù. Here, you’ll marvel at the Norman Cathedral, a true architectural gem.

Take some leisure time to explore the renowned Mandralisca Museum, known for its intriguing collections.

Continue your journey to Catania, a city boasting baroque architecture that has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Delight in a stroll through the old town center, making your way through the historic ‘pescheria’ (old fish market) to reach the scenic Piazza del Duomo. Here, you’ll be captivated by the stunning Cathedral and the iconic lava stone Elephant, a symbol of the city.

Indulge in a delightful stop at a local bar to savor the famous granita with brioche, a quintessential Sicilian treat.

End your day with a comfortable overnight stay in Catania. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar

DAY 7: MOUNT ETNA & TAORMINA

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating journey. Begin with a quick visit to a historic “fishmonger,” providing a glimpse into the vibrant local market scene.

Next, set your sights on Etna, the towering and active volcano that stands as the highest in Europe at 3,350 meters. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Etna Park encompasses a vast 59,000 hectares, boasting a diverse and flourishing flora, as well as a host of protected species. The awe-inspiring landscapes become increasingly visible as you approach Rifugio Sapienza.

Continue to Crateri Silvestri, volcanic cones that date back to 1888. While these cones are now dormant, they are surrounded by more recent lava flows. The panoramic view from this vantage point encompasses a multitude of volcanic cones and craters, extending to the Aeolian Islands and Calabria, presenting an utterly unique spectacle.

Later, visit a beekeeping farm to witness the honey extraction process and savor homemade honey alongside other typical local products.

Proceed to Taormina, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, marine wonders, historical landmarks, and an unforgettable view of the sea and Mount Etna. Explore the captivating Greco-Roman theatre, which offers a sweeping view of Naxos Bay.

As the day winds down, take in the splendid panorama of the stunning Riviera dei Ciclopi. Finally, return to your hotel in Catania for a comfortable overnight stay. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar

DAY 8: CATANIA TO BARI FLIGHT

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time to explore Catania before your private transfer to Catania Airport, scheduled according to your flight departure time.

Fly from Catania to Bari, where your tour will continue without a tour leader. Upon arrival, take a private transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure discovering Bari’s historic streets, local culture, and charming atmosphere. Dinner at your leisure, followed by an overnight stay in Bari. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

DAY 9: CASTEL DEL MONTE & TRANI

After breakfast at the hotel, depart with your private driver for the scenic Alta Murgia countryside. Visit Castel del Monte, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will meet your local guide.

Continue to a traditional masseria for a guided tasting of extra-virgin olive oil, accompanied by local bread and regional products, followed by a lunch featuring authentic Apulian specialities.

In the afternoon, travel to Trani, an elegant Adriatic coastal town renowned for its picturesque harbour and magnificent pale-stone cathedral overlooking the sea. Enjoy free time to stroll along the waterfront and explore Trani’s historic centre before returning to Bari. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

DAY 10: MATERA EXPERIENCE

After breakfast at the hotel, depart with your private driver for Matera, one of the Mediterranean’s most extraordinary destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meet your local guide for a fascinating journey through the thousand-year history of the Sassi di Matera—ancient districts carved into the rock, with historic dwellings, rock-hewn churches, and narrow lanes shaped by centuries of ingenuity and tradition. Enjoy free time for lunch.

In the afternoon, continue to Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia. Join your local guide for a walking tour through the heart of Bari Vecchia, discovering the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Bari Cathedral, and the charming alleyways where local women still make traditional orecchiette pasta by hand. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay in Bari. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

DAY 11: POLIGNANO A MARE, ALBEROBELLO & OSTUNI

Depart with your private driver for Polignano a Mare, a picturesque seaside village perched dramatically above the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy free time to explore its whitewashed lanes, charming historic centre, and panoramic clifftop terraces.

Continue to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will meet your local guide. Discover the enchanting Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts, renowned for their distinctive stone trulli houses. Enjoy free time for lunch.

In the afternoon, stop in Ostuni, famously known as the White City, and wander through its lime-washed alleyways and flower-filled squares. Continue to Lecce for dinner at your leisure and an overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel delle Palme, Lecce, or similar

DAY 12: OTRANTO EXCURSION

Depart with your private driver for Otranto, Italy’s easternmost town, beautifully situated on the Adriatic coast. Enjoy free time to explore the picturesque harbour, the Aragonese walls, and Otranto Cathedral, home to the renowned Tree of Life mosaic. Enjoy lunch at your leisure.

In the afternoon, return to Lecce, the jewel of Baroque architecture, and meet your local guide for a walking tour of the city. Discover Lecce’s elegant squares, the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, the Cathedral, and the city’s traditional papier-mâché artistry. Stop at a historic café to sample the famous caffè leccese, served with almond milk. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay in Lecce. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel delle Palme, Lecce, or similar

DAY 13: GALLIPOLI EXCURSION & FINAL STOP IN LECCE

Depart with your private driver for Gallipoli, a picturesque coastal town whose historic centre occupies a small island connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. Enjoy free time to explore Gallipoli’s old town, artisan workshops, Baroque churches, and lively fishing harbour.

Continue to a renowned Salento winery for a guided wine tasting featuring the region’s celebrated Negroamaro and Primitivo wines, paired with local specialities. Afterwards, return to Lecce, where your tour services conclude.

Need an additional night in Lecce after the tour? Please let us know at the time of booking, and we’ll be happy to assist with arrangements. Meals: B

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