Mount Etna and Taormina tour from Syracuse

Guided Corleone mafia resistance tour with lunch

Corleone was once a town once infamous for its mafia ties, but today it is a beacon of resistance and justice. The panoramic drive through the mountains sets the stage for an enlightening day ahead. Vincenzo, one of our expert local guides says, “This fascinating, insightful tour is designed to educate and debunk Hollywood's glamorised portrayal of mafia life, offering instead a genuine glimpse into the courageous fight against organised crime. This is an important tour for our town." First up is The Godfather's House Museum, a grand 19th-century residence that takes you on a journey through time, exploring the birth of both the mafia and anti-mafia movements. Next, delve deeper into this complex history at the CIDMA Antimafia Museum, home to an extensive collection of documents and exhibits chronicling the dark past and brave resistance against the mafia. After a walking tour of Corleone's historic streets, you'll be whisked off to a local restaurant near the Royal Palace of Ficuzza for a classic Italian lunch, surrounded by natural beauty. Finally, sit back and relax on your return journey to Cefalù, taking with you a deeper understanding of Corleone's transformation from a mafia stronghold to a place that local people are proud to call home, a place with a future free from the clutches of organized crime.

Full-day Syracuse guided heritage tour

The past comes to life in Syracuse – a city packed with classical heritage as well as flamboyant Sicilian baroque architecture. You'll visit the Greek theatre, go into the Ear of Dionysius and explore Ortygia island, the heart of the old town and location of baroque gems such as the cathedral.

Pizza cookery class in Giardini Naxos

Meet your professional pizza chef Maurizio for your 2-hour pizza making lesson. Learn the tricks of the trade from the real deal, a Sicilian Pizzaiolo in a local pizzeria. Chef Maurizio will explain the magic involved in turning simple ingredients into a mouthwatering pizza, and at the end of the session you will sit down to enjoy your pizza with a glass of local wine.

Taormina and Mount Etna from Cefalù

Set off from Cefalù on a full-day tour to two of Sicily's must-see treasures – Mount Etna and Taormina. At Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, you can check out the Silvestri Craters, shops and cafes at 1,900 metres above sea level, or ride the cable car and 4x4 up to 2,900 metres for jaw-dropping views across the island. Then, it's off to Taormina, a charming hilltop town with winding Medieval streets, boutiques, cozy cafes and a historic Greek theatre overlooking the sea.

Mount Etna tour from Taormina

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and a true icon of Sicily. This is your chance to venture either 1,900 or 2,900 metres above sea level to check out the lunar-like landscapes of the volcano's craters. You'll be driven from Taormina to Rifugio Sapienza, where – if you've chosen to go up to 2,900 metres – you'll switch to a cable car and 4x4 vehicle to reach the main crater for a guided walk and some epic views. If you opt to stay at 1,900 metres, there's free time to explore the nature trails around the Silvestri Craters, along with souvenir shops, cafés and a small museum that tells the story of the mountain's past. Either way, you'll want your camera for this one.

Evening transfer to Palermo from Cefalu

Hop aboard this transfer service and spend an evening in Palermo. Once you arrive, your guide will give you a quick orientation of the city, before sharing their favourite spots and recommendations. Then, you'll have three hours of free time in the Sicilian capital before your transfer back to your hotel – whether you fancy seeing the city's most iconic sights, sampling local dishes or soaking up the bustling atmosphere, there's something for everyone.You can head over to Vucciria Market, which comes alive with street food vendors, music, and dancing, offering a taste of local nightlife. Iconic squares like Piazza Rivoluzione and Piazza Sant'Anna buzz with activity, perfect for enjoying a drink and people-watching. The area around Teatro Massimo is filled with lively bars and cafés, making it a great spot to start your evening. For a more relaxed vibe, head to Mondello Beach and enjoy the serene seaside under the stars.

Siracusa & Ortigia Tour from Syracuse

Tick off a Sicilian must-do on this morning tour to Syracuse. Unravel layers of history while admiring Roman, Greek, medieval and baroque architecture at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, before heading to the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, for a tour around its honey-coloured lanes. You'll also see the UNESCO-protected Cathedral of Syracuse and the Fountain of Arethusa.

Mount Etna and Taormina tour from Syracuse

Perched on a clifftop overlooking sweeping bays, Taormina is home to some of the best-preserved historic landmarks in the world. And on this tour, you'll not only see the famed ‘pearl of Sicily', but you'll also see the highest active volcano in Europe. Journey up to 1,900 metres for the grandstand views atop Mount Etna, before spending free time in Taormina and tasting the local Sicilian Arancino.

Pizza cooking class in Taormina

Make traditional Sicilian Pizza with a real 'pizzaiolo' - the Italian word for pizza chef. Learn the secrets of perfect pizza from an expert as you prepare the dough and the toppings for flash baking in a searing hot pizza oven. Take the skills and knowledge home with you to recreate authentic pizza whenever you like. You'll get a certificate and souvenir apron, too.

Arancino making class in Taormina

The classic Sicilian arancino is a plump croquette of rice coated in breadcrumbs and served hot and crisp. There are a number of traditional fillings such as ragu, mushrooms, prosciutto or spinach - but the most popular in Sicily is a meat sauce with peas and mozzarella. Join a professional chef to learn the secrets of making these perfect little Sicilian snacks.