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Savoring the Enchanted Flavors and Mediterranean Magic of Sicily

(Exploring the Eastern Shores of Sicily from Cannoli to Cabernet)

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Priced From
$5,398 USD *
(Price Per Person, Double Occupancy)
* Plus taxes. Tours sold on an availability basis.
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7 days | 6 nights

Culinary Splendor on the Golden Isle
A Taste of Sicilia | Food, Wine & Timeless Beauty

Discover the elegance, flavors, and timeless beauty of southeastern Sicily. From the enchanting island of Ortigia to the slopes of Mount Etna, every experience has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the region's celebrated cuisine, world-class wines, rich history, and warm hospitality. Your stay begins in refined Baroque accommodations, where historic architecture and modern comfort create an unforgettable home base. Each morning starts with a generous Italian breakfast before setting out to explore Sicily alongside knowledgeable English-speaking hosts and expert local guides. Wander the ancient streets of Ortigia, marvel at the archaeological wonders of Siracusa and the Baroque splendor of Noto and experience the remarkable Neapolis Archaeological Park. Enjoy a memorable tuk-tuk ride through the historic city while uncovering the charm and character that define this extraordinary destination. Sicily's culinary traditions come alive through immersive, hands-on experiences designed exclusively for luxury travels. Visit Ortigia's vibrant market with a local chef before preparing authentic Sicilian dishes in an intimate cooking class. Spend a special day with a welcoming Sicilian family, sharing treasured recipes and traditions that have been passed down for generations. You will discover wines unlike any other in the world along the landscapes of Mount Etna. Delight in a local honey tasting, sample Sicily's beloved specialties at the iconic Borderi market, and experience the artistry of a traditional Sicilian puppet performance, a cherished cultural tradition unique to the island. Your journey begins with a warm welcome dinner at one of Sicily's premier pizzerias and concludes with an elegant farewell dinner at a charming locanda in Ortigia, celebrating the unforgettable memories created throughout the week.

Savoring the Enchanted Flavors and Mediterranean Magic of Sicily

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Itinerary Accommodations Map FAQ
VACATION HIGHLIGHTS
Please note: Tour inclusions can change depending upon seasonality and weather conditions.
•6 Nights Baroque Palace Accommodations
•Italian Breakfast Buffet Each Morning
•5 Lunches, 3 Tastings, 3 Dinners
•Round-Trip Private Airport Transfers
•Private Transfers For Scheduled Activities
•English-Speaking Tour Host & Guides
•Welcome Dinner at Top Sicilian Pizzeria
•Guided Tour Of Ortigia
•Pupillo Estate Winery Visit, Tour & Tasting
•Chef-Led Local Market Visit In Ortigia
•Hands-On Sicilian Cooking Class
•Guided Tour Of Siracusa & Noto
•Mount Etna Visit & Wine Tasting
•Honey Tasting Experience
•Full-Day Sicilian Family Experience
•Hands-On Cooking Class Led By Local
•Tuk-Tuk Transfer Experience
•Guided Tour Of Neapolis Archaelogical Park
•Visit To Borderi & Local Tastings
•Traditional Sicilian Puppet Show
•Farewell Dinner At Locanda In Ortigia
While our tours are designed as soft adventure experiences, walking, climbing stairs, and in rare cases mild hiking may be required. If you have mobility issues, you should speak with one of our culinary travel specialists to determine if this tour is appropriate for your situation.
AVAILABLE DATES
This tour runs multiple weeks throughout the year. Click the orange "Check Pricing & Dates" button to view available dates.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Please note: Actual itineraries are subject to change due to seasonality.
Click arrows (▶) to show details
Day 1
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Welcome to Sicily: Arrive in Enchanting Ortigia Upon arrival at Catania Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by your dedicated tour host, who will greet you at the arrivals gate and escort you to your private transfer. Relax as you travel along Sicily's eastern coastline before arriving at your accommodations at Lanterne Magiche Ortigia, a collection of beautifully restored 18th-century Baroque residences nestled in the heart of Ortigia, Syracuse's historic island center.
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Ortigia Orientation Walk with Sicilian Pizza! After time to settle into your accommodations, your tour host will lead the group on a short walk through Ortigia's charming streets to one of the city's favorite neighborhood pizzerias. Enjoy a casual welcome dinner featuring authentic Sicilian pizza, giving you your first taste of the island's celebrated cuisine while getting to know your fellow travelers. After dinner, your host will accompany the group back to the hotel, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and oriented before the adventures ahead.
Day 2
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy a Sicilian breakfast: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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Discover Ortigia Taste the Wines of Syracuse Begin the day with a guided walking tour through the timeless streets of Ortigia, one of Sicily's most captivating historic centers. Wander narrow medieval lanes, elegant Baroque piazzas, and picturesque waterfront promenades while your local guide shares the fascinating history of ancient Syracuse, once among the most powerful cities of the Greek world. Along the way you'll discover architectural treasures, hidden courtyards, bustling cafés, and the vibrant atmosphere that makes Ortigia one of Italy's most beloved destinations.
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Taste the Wines of Syracuse In the afternoon, travel into the countryside to the historic Pupillo Winery, an estate renowned for producing exceptional wines from grapes cultivated in volcanic soils. Following a guided tour of the beautiful gardens, vineyards, and historic buildings, enjoy a tasting of four carefully selected wines paired with a farm-to-table "zero-kilometer" lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients. Learn how the region's unique volcanic terroir shapes the character and complexity of each wine while savoring authentic Sicilian flavors.
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Traditional Sicilian Feast Dinner This evening, gather with your tour host for dinner at La Rampa, where you'll enjoy a traditional Sicilian feast featuring beloved regional specialties including caponata, eggplant Parmigiana, bruschetta, panelle, homemade pasta, savory sausage with potatoes, and a classic Sicilian cannolo for dessert. (B,L,T,D)
Day 3
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy a Sicilian breakfast: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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From Market to Table Experience Experience Sicily the way locals do by beginning your morning at Ortigia's colorful open-air market alongside a local chef. Browse vibrant stalls overflowing with seasonal produce, freshly caught seafood, aromatic herbs, artisan cheeses, and local delicacies while learning how Sicilians select the freshest ingredients for their daily meals. With your market purchases in hand, continue to a private hands-on cooking experience where you'll prepare an authentic Sicilian lunch together. Rather than following a fixed menu, you'll collaborate with your chef to decide what to cook based on the finest ingredients available that day. Learn traditional cooking techniques, family recipes, and regional culinary secrets before sitting down to enjoy the delicious meal you've created together.
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Enjoy The Baroque Beauty of Noto Later in the afternoon, travel to the magnificent Baroque town of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its honey-colored limestone architecture. Stroll elegant boulevards lined with ornate churches, noble palaces, and impressive piazzas while enjoying free time to browse local boutiques, sample artisanal gelato, or simply admire one of Sicily's most beautiful towns before returning to Ortigia. (B,L)
Day 4
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy a Sicilian breakfast: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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Explore Mount Etna Today's adventure takes you to Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano and one of Sicily's most extraordinary natural wonders. Traveling through dramatic volcanic landscapes, you'll witness how centuries of eruptions have created some of the island's most fertile agricultural land and breathtaking scenery.
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Volcanic Wine Tasting Visit a renowned Etna winery where you'll tour the estate and discover how vines flourish in mineral-rich volcanic soils. Enjoy a guided tasting of five distinctive wines, each expressing the unique characteristics of Mount Etna's volcanic terroir, accompanied by a leisurely light lunch showcasing fresh local products.
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Sicilian Beekeeper Tour The day also includes a visit to a local honey producer, where you'll learn about Sicily's long beekeeping traditions and sample a variety of artisan honeys produced from the diverse wildflowers and citrus blossoms that flourish on Etna's slopes. This sweet finale perfectly complements a day dedicated to the flavors born from Sicily's remarkable volcanic landscape. (B,L,T)
Day 5
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy a Sicilian breakfast: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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Authentic Sicilian Traditions: A Day with a Local Family Step beyond the typical tourist experience and spend the day immersed in authentic Sicilian life with a welcoming local family in the charming hill town of Palazzolo Acreide. This unforgettable cultural experience offers a rare opportunity to participate in traditions that have been lovingly preserved for generations. Throughout the day, you'll enjoy a variety of hands-on activities that showcase Sicily's rich heritage. Learn the art of traditional weaving, make fresh ricotta and local cheeses, prepare homemade Sicilian pasta, discover the healing properties of native medicinal herbs, and create natural soaps using age-old methods. You'll also be introduced to Sicilian mythology, folklore, ancient superstitions, folk songs, nursery rhymes, and storytelling traditions that reveal the island's unique cultural identity. A home-cooked lunch shared with your host family provides the perfect opportunity to connect through food, conversation, and hospitality. More than simply a cooking class or cultural demonstration, this immersive experience offers a genuine glimpse into everyday Sicilian life and traditions that few visitors have the opportunity to experience. (B,L)
Day 6
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy a Sicilian breakfast: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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Ancient Syracuse Guided Tour Travel by charming tuk-tuk to the remarkable Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to some of the most important ancient Greek and Roman monuments in the Mediterranean. During your guided tour, explore remarkable archaeological treasures including the magnificent Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheater, and the famous Ear of Dionysius, while learning about Syracuse's extraordinary role in the ancient world.
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Local Flavors Lunch Following your exploration of antiquity, experience one of Ortigia's most beloved culinary institutions with a visit to Borderi, famous for its generous sandwiches and outstanding selection of locally produced specialties. Sample a variety of authentic Sicilian flavors while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the nearby market.
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Sicilian Puppetry Storytelling Tradition In the evening, enjoy one of Sicily's most cherished artistic traditions with a performance of the Opera dei Pupi, the island's iconic puppet theater recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Watch beautifully handcrafted marionettes bring medieval tales of knights and heroes to life through this centuries-old storytelling tradition.
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Farewell Dinner Your Sicilian farewell dinner follows at Locanda del Collegio, where you'll savor an elegant meal featuring regional appetizers, almond-crusted swordfish, local wine, and a deconstructed cannolo dessert, providing the perfect celebration of your week discovering Sicily's extraordinary cuisine and culture. (B,L,T,D)
Day 7
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Sicilian Breakfast Enjoy one final breakfast in Ortigia: to start the day with a local flavor we offer you a Sicilian breakfast. Cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and typical Sicilian desserts accompanied by good coffee. Sicily must be tasted in all its scents.
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Arrivederci, Sicilia As you depart Sicily, you'll take with you unforgettable memories of historic towns, breathtaking landscapes, exceptional wines, authentic cuisine, and the warm hospitality that makes this island one of Italy's most captivating destinations. From ancient Greek ruins and Baroque masterpieces to family traditions and unforgettable culinary experiences, your Sicilian journey is sure to leave lasting impressions long after you've returned home. (B)
Lanterne Magiche Ortigia
Lanterne Magiche Ortigia is a charming boutique property nestled in the heart of Ortigia, the historic island center of Syracuse, Sicily. Recently renovated, this collection of beautifully appointed apartments located throughout meticulously restored 18th-century Baroque palaces seamlessly blends authentic Sicilian character with modern amenities, creating a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking comfort and style. Each space has been thoughtfully furnished with warm elegance, featuring refined décor and inviting touches that reflect the island's timeless charm. Equipped with every comfort, Lanterne Magiche offers a relaxing and convenient stay, placing guests just steps from Ortigia's picturesque streets, waterfront promenades, historic landmarks, and vibrant local dining scene.
Ortigia•Noto•Borderi•Catania
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What Currency is being quoted?
The Currency Code is listed directly after the published amount. If it states USD, then the quoted price is in United States Dollars. If it states CAD, then the quoted price is in Canadian Dollars. If it states EUR, then the quoted price is in European Union Dollars…etc. However, please note that all charges are processed in USD, and Epitourean’s Merchant Bank automatically calculates the currency conversion on the day of the charge.
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What does Double Occupancy mean?
Two persons traveling together, and staying in the same room. Tour prices are normally quoted as “per person, double occupancy” in case two people are traveling together and staying in the same room, but paying separately. The cost of the lodging is also shared by two people, thereby reducing costs. This could be a married couple, two friends or relatives.
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What is a Single Supplement?
Whenever a person travels alone, the cost of their lodging cannot be shared by another person. When tour products are priced, they are normally stated as “per person, double occupancy.” Whenever a guest occupies a room as a solo, the whole cost of the lodging must be incurred by that one individual. Tour companies accommodate this by charging a Single Supplement. Epitourean does its best to keep the single supplement as low as possible, but it is a real cost that tour companies must absorb, and must pass along to the single traveler.
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If I am a Solo Traveler, will I be paired with another person?
Epitourean never pairs a solo traveler with another person without a special request. If you book Single Occupancy, you will have a room entirely to yourself. However, should you wish to be paired with another solo traveler to save on the single supplement, you may make this request. We cannot guarantee that we can accommodate such requests, since it would take another solo traveling on the same tour for the same dates. But if requested, we will certainly try.
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Are flights included in the tour price?
No. Flights are never included in the price of our land-only tours. Epitourean does not provide air, rail or sea travel, unless expressly noted in the itinerary.
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May I give a culinary tour as a gift?
Yes. Epitourean has a special program designed specifically for this purpose. Our Gift Packages come with features such as special messages to the recipient, gift box option, gift link (without pricing), and floating dates (should you not know when the gift recipient wants to travel). Contact a Culinary Travel Specialist at 800-390-3292 or customerservice@epitourean.com to receive additional information about this unique offering.
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May we request separate beds if sharing a room?
Yes. In most cases, Epitourean can accommodate a request for two beds to be placed in one room. Just make sure to make this request in the comments section of the reservation process.
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Does each guestroom have a private bathroom?
Yes. Epitourean partners with the best lodging options in each destination, and private (en suite) bathrooms are a requirement. However, you should inquire as to the configuration of bathrooms should you have a special need. For example, some tours include accommodations in medieval villages, where either a shower or bath(but maybe not both) are present.
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Can your tours accommodate my dietary restrictions?
In almost all cases, Epitourean can accommodate dietary choices and restrictions. But we do request that you ask a Culinary Travel Specialist prior to making your reservation so that we can assess your individual situation.
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If I am unable to use a portion of the tour, can I get a partial refund?
Unfortunately, due to vendor and supplier contracts, we are unable to provide partial refunds for unused portions of any tour or tour component.
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Are Transfers included in the Itinerary?
Round-trip transfers from the airport or train station are normally included in our international tours. Transfers to the destination (for both international and domestic tours) are not included in the tour price. Please see the Sample Itinerary. If it mentions that transfers are included, then yes, transfers are included at no additional cost.
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What meals and excursions are included in the tour?
The Sample Itinerary should be your reference. If the meal or excursion is described in the Sample Itinerary, then it is included at no additional charge. For those days where it expressly notes Free time, then any optional activities you elect to participate in might have an additional cost. In addition, if the itinerary states "evening on your own," it would imply that you have the opportunity to visit a restaurant of your own choosing, and at your own expense. If you have any question about inclusions, please submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button under the price section.
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Is it possible to book pre or post tours or stays through Edible Destinations?
Yes, we often do have optional 2 and 3 night excursions that are priced separately from the tour. We can also assist with pre and post night stays in a hotel if you choose to come in early before the tour starts, or stay on after a tour ends. The price of those hotel stays are not included in the price of the tour, but we would be happy to provide a quote. Simply ask your Culinary Travel Specialist, or submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button.
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Are Guide or Host Gratuities included in the price of the tour?
Since tipping guidelines and customs vary widely between countries, we do not include gratuities in the price of the tour. Your Culinary Travel Specialist can provide you with recommendations. But the general rule is to tip modestly when you are pleased with a guide’s services, either at the end of the tour, or at the conclusion of a specialty day excursion where you will only be with that guide (or chef) on that day.
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Should we plan on any personal expenses during the tour?
All lodging, meals, transfers, classes and excursions mentioned in the Sample Itinerary and Vacation Highlights are included in the price of the tour. However, we highly recommend taking local currency for purchasing personal items, souvenirs, tipping, etc. You can either get the local currency at an airport exchange service, ATM or from your local bank prior to travel. However, you should note that many hosted destinations do not accept credit cards for personal purchases.
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Do you recommend Travel Protection?

We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection plans that can include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Travel Delay, Baggage Delay and more. For more information on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0248.

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. Insurance coverages underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company (NAIC #16535, state of domicile: New York), 1299 Zurich Way, Schaumburg, IL 60196. Coverages available to residents of U.S. States and the District of Columbia only. Certain coverages are not available in all states.

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