Syracuse and Taormina

Pick up your car at Catania airport and take the dramatic coastal road to the ancient Greek city of Syracuse (approx. 1 hour) before enjoying a delicious Sicilian evening meal.

Syracuse is one of Sicily’s finest destinations, boasting a rich Greek history and culture, developed over thousands of years of continued inhabitation. Take the opportunity to explore the archaeological wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, notably the Greek Theatre dedicated to the Goddess Athena. Joined to the mainland by three bridges is the island city of Ortigia – an enthralling island city packed with historical attractions and pedestrian-only alleyways.

Leave historic Syracuse behind, as you make the gripping drive to the beautiful town of Taormina, set high in the hills above Isola Bella beach (approx. 1.5 hours). First stop, check in to one of our extensive range of hotels, before heading out to enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of Corso Umberto, Taormina's main street. Finish the day with a dinner in one of the town’s many authentic trattorie.

The next few days are spent at leisure in Taormina and the surrounding area. Taormina combines breathtaking views from its mountain-side location, and is best-known for its Teatro Greco – a Roman amphitheatre with stunning views over the bay across to the distant Mount Etna. The town is filled with many more historic sights, and also enjoys a prime location moments from the beautiful pebble beach facing Isola Bella.

Naturally, no visit in Sicily would be complete without a visit to the highest active volcano in Europe; pre-book the Mount Etna Excursion and Alcantara Gorges and discover Etna's amazing volcanic countryside. The excursion stops at the Alcantara Gorge which was formed by burning lava flow from Mount Etna's eruptions, before ascending to 1,900 metres above sea level to admire the breathtaking views across Sicily. The more daring can choose to climb to 2,900 metres via cable car and off road minibus, in order to reach the main crater of Europe’s tallest active volcano.

Wave goodbye to Taormina, as you head back to Catania airport (approx. 45 minutes) and drop off your car before embarking on your return flight home.