Sicily Tour: Catania & Beyond

From USD2,989

Discover Sicily’s baroque charm on our 9-day Sicily Tour. Enjoy stress-free rail travel, stunning architecture, and rich culture. Book your adventure today!

Trip Type

Self Guided
Activities

Beach, Culture, Gastronomy, Scenery, Wine
Group Size

2 Min - No size limit
Reviews

0 Reviews
Locations

Europe , Italy
Trip Duration

9 Day(s) 8 Night(s)

Trip Enquiry

Trip code WT-CODE 4914

Sicily Tour: Catania & Beyond

Experience the Baroque Soul of Sicily by Rail with our famous Sicily Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite architecture of Sicily’s southeastern corner on this unforgettable 9-day rail tour. Beginning by exploring lively Catania, its ancient roots contrasting with baroque grandeur in the shadow of Mount Etna’s peak. Then delve into Siracusa’s seaside Greek and Roman archaeological sites. Be dazzled by the intricate carved stone masterpieces of Modica and Ragusa before returning to Catania.

We’ve modelled for you an in-depth journey showcasing the best of Sicily’s UNESCO-listed Baroque towns and cities. The schedule will allow you ample time to wander through labyrinthine old towns, marvel at stunning piazzas and architectural confections, indulge in iconic regional cuisine featuring pistachios and chocolate, embrace the warm hospitality of the locals, and truly understand the diverse cultures that sculpted this remarkable area.

As you travel easily between cities aboard comfortable regional rail, we’ll handle the logistics of your centrally located hotel stays and timed train journeys. You’re free to lose yourself in the vibrant tapestry of art, history, and mouthwatering flavors surrounding you.

This tour of Sicily’s highlights is an immersion into the island’s layered baroque soul. Embrace the contrasts, indulge in the iconic cuisine, and uncover the unique cultures and stories that have defined this picturesque Mediterranean corner through the centuries.

What your itinerary will look like:

Day 1: Arrive in Catania
Day 2: Explore Catania
Day 3: Catania to Siracusa
Day 4: Discover Siracusa
Day 5: Siracusa to Modica
Day 6: Modica to Ragusa
Day 7: Explore Ragusa
Day 8: Ragusa to Catania
Day 9: Depart Catania

Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrive in Catania

Benvenuti a Catania! Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Start exploring with a walk along Via Etnea, the city's main street, to Piazza del Duomo. Visit the iconic Fountain of the Elephant and the Cathedral of Sant'Agata. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner at a local trattoria in the historic center. [Night in Catania]

Day 2

Explore Catania

Begin your day at the bustling fish market, La Pescheria. Then, visit the Roman Theater and Odeon. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of Castello Ursino, a 13th-century castle. End your day with a stroll through the beautiful Giardino Bellini and dinner in the lively Piazza Vincenzo Bellini area. [Night in Catania]

Day 3

Catania to Siracusa

After breakfast, take a train to Siracusa. Check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the island of Ortigia, Siracusa's historic center. Visit the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, and the stunning Duomo. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant with views of the Ionian Sea. [Night in Siracusa]

Day 4

Discover Siracusa

Dedicate this day to Siracusa's archaeological park. Visit the Greek Theater, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius. In the afternoon, take a boat tour around Ortigia or visit the Papyrus Museum. End your day with a puppet show at the traditional Sicilian puppet theater. [Night in Siracusa]

Day 5

Siracusa to Modica

After checking out, take a train to the baroque town of Modica. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the town's famous chocolate shops and learning about traditional Modica chocolate making. Visit the stunning Church of San Giorgio and enjoy the panoramic views from the upper town. [Night in Modica]

Day 6

Modica to Ragusa

Start your day with a visit to Modica's Civic Museum before taking a short train ride to Ragusa. Check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin your exploration of Ragusa Ibla, the town's historic center. Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio and wander through the charming narrow streets. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the illuminated baroque architecture. [Night in Ragusa]

Day 7

Explore Ragusa

Dedicate this day to fully exploring Ragusa. Visit the Castello di Donnafugata, a 19th-century castle with beautiful gardens. Return to Ragusa Ibla to visit the Giardino Ibleo and the Church of San Giuseppe. In the evening, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes. [Night in Ragusa]

Day 8

Ragusa to Catania

After breakfast, take the train back to Catania. Check into your hotel for your final night. Spend the afternoon visiting Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Take a cable car ride or a guided tour to explore the lunar-like landscapes. Return to Catania for a farewell dinner featuring local specialties and Etna wines. [Night in Catania]

Day 9

Depart Catania

On your final morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps some last-minute shopping at Catania's local boutiques. Visit the Monastero dei Benedettini if time allows before heading to the airport for your departure. Arrivederci, Sicilia!

Your rail adventure and hotel package includes:

Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey.

First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating.

4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience.

Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options.

Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include:

International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights.

Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs.

Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility.

Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.

Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered.

Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.

Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included.

Important Notes

Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler.

Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.

Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package.