Palermo | Western Escape & Aegadian Islands Experience

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Experience the authentic soul of Western Sicily on an exclusive journey combining escorted sightseeing with a flexible private extension. Discover Palermo’s Arab-Norman heritage, vibrant markets and street-food traditions, explore the medieval charm of Erice, and savour the celebrated wines of Marsala.  Admire the spectacular Stagnone Salt Pans, then sail through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegadi Islands, visiting Favignana and Levanzo. Enjoy free time to relax or personalise your stay with optional experiences such as cooking classes, olive oil tastings or excursions to Selinunte. With small groups of up to 20 guests and exclusively English-speaking services, enjoy the perfect blend of guided discovery, authentic experiences and independent leisure.

Day 1 : Arrival in Palermo

Sunday - Independent arrival at the hotel. Meet your tour leader and fellow travellers during a welcome dinner. This first gathering offers the perfect introduction to Sicily's warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. Free evening to begin discovering the local atmosphere. Overnight. (D)

Day 2: Palermo

Monday - Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the day with a guided visit of Palermo, a fascinating city where centuries of Arab, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish influences have left an extraordinary cultural legacy. Explore the historic centre and admire some of its most iconic landmarks, including Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, Piazza Bellini and the magnificent Palermo Cathedral. Continue your discovery with a visit to one of Palermo’s renowned open-air markets, where vibrant colours, enticing aromas and centuries-old traditions create an authentic and unforgettable Sicilian atmosphere. Conclude the morning with a tasting of the traditional Sicilian arancino, a beloved local speciality. The afternoon is free to enjoy Palermo at your own pace or to join an optional excursion to Cefalù: Discover Cefalù, one of Sicily’s most picturesque coastal towns. Wander through its charming medieval streets, admire the stunning Arab-Norman Cathedral, visit the historic medieval washhouse and enjoy a relaxing walk along the scenic seafront before returning to Palermo. (B)

Day 3: Erice | Marsala

Tuesday - After breakfast, depart for Erice, a perfectly preserved medieval village dramatically located on a hilltop overlooking the western coast of Sicily. Explore its charming, cobbled streets, discover its historic treasures and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views extending across the surrounding coastline. With its ancient churches, traditional stone pathways and artisan boutiques, Erice offers an authentic journey into Sicily’s fascinating past and heritage. Continue to Marsala, a town celebrated worldwide for its historic fortified wine and deep-rooted maritime traditions. Visit a local winery for a guided tour of the historic cellars, followed by a wine tasting experience featuring its renowned wines, accompanied by a light lunch showcasing typical Sicilian flavours. In the afternoon, discover the unique landscapes of the Stagnone Lagoon, one of western Sicily’s most distinctive natural settings. Visit the historic salt pans, where salt harvesting has shaped the area’s identity for centuries, and admire the beauty of the shallow waters as they reflect the changing colours of the afternoon light. Accommodation at your hotel in Marsala. Dinner and evening at leisure. (B)

Day 4: Egadi Islands: Favignana & Levanzo | Marsala

Wednesday - After breakfast, embark for a full-day excursion to the stunning Egadi Islands Marine Reserve, one of the Mediterranean's most pristine archipelagos. Your first stop is Favignana, the largest of the islands, famous for its turquoise waters, picturesque harbour and traditional tuna-fishing heritage. Enjoy free time to explore the charming town, relax along the waterfront or discover the island's unique atmosphere. Continue by boat to the peaceful island of Levanzo, a small fishing village where whitewashed houses overlook crystal clear waters. Wander through its quiet streets and admire the island's unspoiled natural beauty. During the excursion, enjoy time to swim (weather permitting) and admire the spectacular coastal scenery before returning to Marsala in the afternoon. Dinner at leisure. Overnight. (B)

Day 5: Marsala

Thursday - Full day at disposal to relax in your resort or hotel or you can book some optional activities: cooking class, pastry cooking class, excursion to Selinunte and lunch in a farmhouse with olive oil tasting. Overnight. (B)

Day 6: Departure

Friday - Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before making your way to the airport for your return journey. An optional private transfer is available on request. (B)

Guaranteed English only departures!

2027 Departures:  Sunday
May 9, 16, 23, 30 \ June 06, 13 \ August 29 \ September 05, 12, 19, 26 \ October 03, 10, 17

This tour is limited to a maximum of 20 participants. In the case of 8 or fewer participants, the tour will be operated by minivan with an English-speaking driver & local guide services as necessary, and the travel program might be adjusted.