Iconic Eastern Sicily

This journey brings Sicily’s millennia of history to live – from the ancient splendor of Syracuse and the stunning mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale to the forgotten power of Morgantina.

Sicily
10 Days
May 3 – 11, 2026
6-12 Guests
Itinerary ↓
Gallery ↓
Why This Journey ↓
What’s Included ↓
FAQs ↓

Tour Overview

Where can you walk in the footsteps of Greeks, Romans, Normans with Europe’s favorite volcano rumbling in the background? Eastern Sicily.

Explore 3000 years of history on a 10-day journey through its landscapes, cities, and legends, from the ancient grandeur of Syracuse, Morgantina, and Agrigento to the glittering mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale. Explore Taormina’s Greco-Roman theater, climb Mount Etna, and wander Baroque gems like Noto, Modica, and Ragusa. Along the way, enjoy exclusive access, cook with village mammas, taste granita at iconic Caffè Sicilia, and visit Cefalù’s Norman cathedral.

Ancient stone amphitheater ruins with tiered seating, surrounded by hills; a distant snow-capped mountain under a blue sky.
A faint, monochrome outline of a classical statue depicting a standing figure with one arm raised and a deer by their side on a pedestal.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

May 3

Arrival & Check-in

Arrive in Sicily and check in to your hotel in Syracuse (Ortigia). Optional: For early arrivals and travelers unfazed by jet lag, we offer a light walking tour of Ortigia to stretch your legs and preview the city.

Meals: Aperitivo and dinner.

May 4

Syracuse & Noto: Crossroads of Civilizations

Begin the day at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, including the Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, and Ear of Dionysius. Then, step into Ortigia to visit the Duomo (Temple of Athena), the Fountain of Arethusa, and Caravaggio’s Burial of St. Lucy.In the late afternoon, head to Noto to admire its UNESCO-listed Baroque streetscape. Optional: Add a visit to the Jewish mikveh — advance notice required as this will extend the day’s program.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 5

Ragusa & Modica: Baroque and Beyond

Full-day excursion to Ragusa Ibla, a jewel of Sicilian Baroque. Afternoon visit to Modica for a chocolate tasting and a stroll through its dramatic cliffside alleys and staircases.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 6

Heart of Sicily: Caltagirone, Villa Romana del Casale, Morgantina

We’ll explore Caltagirone, a charming town famed for its colorful ceramics and staircases. Then, continue to the Roman Villa at Piazza Armerina (Villa Romana del Casale), celebrated for its world-class mosaics, and end the day at Morgantina, a Greek-Roman city.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 7

Catania & Riviera dei Ciclopi: Transfer to Taormina

Begin with a morning walking tour of Catania’s historic center, from its bustling fish market to its Baroque piazzas. Follow the coast north along the Riviera dei Ciclopi, steeped in myth and lava-stone charm. Afternoon arrival in Taormina

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 8

Taormina & Castelmola: Leisure with a View

Morning guided tour of Taormina, including the ancient Greek-Roman theater, followed by a visit to the picturesque mountaintop village of Castelmola. Afternoon free for shopping, beach time, or café-hopping.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 9

Mount Etna Jeep Adventure & Winery Lunch

Venture up Mount Etna in off-road jeeps with local expert guides. Explore recent lava flows and ancient craters.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 10

“The Godfather” Movie Tour: Savoca, Forza d’Agrò & Motta Camastra

Trace the cinematic footsteps of The Godfather through the hill towns. Visit film locations including Apollonia’s silver screen arrival and the churches of Michael Corleone’s wedding scenes. Lunch and cooking experience with the Mamme del Borgo in Motta Camastra, featuring traditional maccarruni and regional recipes.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

May 11

Departure

Transfer to Catania airport or extend your stay independently.

Travel With Context

Every destination becomes richer when you understand the people who lived there, the events that shaped it, and why it still matters today.

Led by an Archaeologist

Experience Rome alongside someone who has dedicated his career to studying, teaching, and sharing its history.

Thoughtfully Sized Groups

Small groups create space for conversation, flexibility, and meaningful engagement throughout the journey.

Stories Beyond the Guidebook

Discover unexpected connections between archaeology, architecture, food, culture, mythology, and everyday life.

Local Perspective

Benefit from decades of living and working in Rome while exploring both world-famous landmarks and lesser-known places that reveal another side of the city.

What's Included

Included:

Participants can opt to receive educational credit for an added cost of $75 per person
All meals and beverages, as detailed in the itinerary
Hotel Accommodations
All guided touring, admission fees, site transport and activities, as detailed in the itinerary
Expert guides and drivers, including your host and the 24/7 support of Ancient Rome Live’s partners on the ground
Expert travel team to plan all excursion details
Custom trip planning for add-on travel is available; please inquire

Not Included:

Meals not specified and premium or alcoholic beverages
Optional activities and expenses
All gratuities
Travel insurance

From Past Travelers

stars

“Darius made archaeology feel immediate and human. The conversations were just as memorable as the places we visited.”

Traveler Name
Location
stars

“Darius has an extraordinary gift for making Rome’s history feel alive. With decades of experience living, working, and studying in the city, he knows its layers like few others. Every story he tells feels like stepping through a portal to Ancient Rome. Exploring the city through his eyes is an unforgettable experience.”

Laura and Jim
Palm Beach, FL
stars

“Darius helped us see connections we never would have noticed on our own. Every place became part of a much larger story.”

Traveler Name
Location
stars

“Darius made archaeology feel immediate and human. The conversations were just as memorable as the places we visited.”

Traveler Name
Location

Frequently Asked Questions

How many participants will there be?
Is this an academic trip?
What if I have some questions?
How do I sign up?
What happens next?
What's the best airport?
The visits are in the mornings. What is there to do in the afternoons?

Continue Exploring

Explore all Experiences

Ready to Explore History Beyond the Guidebook?

Reserve your place on the next journey, or reach out to Darius directly with any questions about the itinerary, group, or destination.

Travel with Darius