THE GRAND SOUTHERN ITALY DISCOVERY TOUR
Rome to Sicily - 15 Days / 14 Nights
Join us on a spectacular 15-day journey through the radiant, vibrant, and authentic soul of Southern Italy. Travel from the historic gates of Rome all the way to the sun-drenched shores of Palermo, exploring the world’s most enchanting destinations along the way: Naples, Sorrento, Capri, Taormina, Syracuse, and Agrigento.
Marvel at the majesty of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Savor world-acclaimed culinary traditions, and walk among breathtaking ancient Greek and Roman ruins. This is the ultimate Italian bucket-list vacation.
Rome to Sicily - 15 Days / 14 Nights
Join us on a spectacular 15-day journey through the radiant, vibrant, and authentic soul of Southern Italy. Travel from the historic gates of Rome all the way to the sun-drenched shores of Palermo, exploring the world’s most enchanting destinations along the way: Naples, Sorrento, Capri, Taormina, Syracuse, and Agrigento.
Marvel at the majesty of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Savor world-acclaimed culinary traditions, and walk among breathtaking ancient Greek and Roman ruins. This is the ultimate Italian bucket-list vacation.
Tour Program
DAY 1
Day 1: Welcome to the Eternal City (Rome)
Welcome to Italy! Upon arriving at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), your private transfer will whisk you away to your elegant hotel for a two-night stay.
Take the afternoon to unpack, relax, and familiarize yourself with your beautiful surroundings. In the late afternoon, meet your expert Tour Leader and fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner at a beloved local Roman trattoria.
Meals Included: Dinner
DAY 2
Day 2: "The Great Beauty" of Rome – Your Choice
Fuel up with breakfast before stepping out into a living museum. Today, we offer three expertly curated tracks so you can experience Rome exactly your way:
• Track 1: Ancient Rome: Step inside the mighty Colosseum to relive the days of the gladiators. Walk the cobblestones of the Roman Forum and explore the Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome.
• Track 2: History & The Papal Basilica: Take a poignant guided walk through the historic Jewish Ghetto, the oldest Jewish community in Europe. Continue to the 4th-century Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to tour the Room of the Popes and the stunning Bernini Staircase.
• Track 3: Vatican City Jewels: Skip the lines at the Vatican Museums, marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling inside the Sistine Chapel, and stand in awe of St. Peter’s Basilica before strolling past the historic Castel Sant’Angelo.
Spend the evening exploring Rome's charming piazzas at your own leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 3
Day 3: Naples, Authentic Pizza, & The Ruins of Pompeii
After breakfast, we head south toward the shadow of Mount Vesuvius.
Arrive in Naples for a guided walk through the vibrant, narrow streets of Spaccanapoli. Take in Baroque art, stunning gulf views, and enjoy a first taste of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Next, step back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii. A local specialist will guide you through the remarkably preserved streets, the Gymnasium, the Temple of Apollo, and the grand Basilica.
Arrive at your hotel in coastal Sorrento for a relaxing evening at leisure.
Travel: ~185 miles / 3 hours total driving.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 4
Day 4: Glamour on the Isle of Capri
Board the morning ferry to Capri, the mythical "Isle of the Sirens."
A local expert guide will lead you through the island’s glamorous historic center to the iconic Piazzetta—the perfect spot for people-watching. Enjoy free time to explore high-end designer boutiques.
• Optional: Weather permitting, opt for a private motorboat excursion to see the rugged coastline and the magical Blue Grotto.
Return to Sorrento for last-minute souvenir shopping and a delicious group dinner at the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5
Day 5: Scenic Trans-Italian Road Trip to Sicily
Today we embark on a scenic journey south through Calabria to the sun-kissed island of Sicily, featuring curated stops along the way.
Board the ferry to cross the historic Strait of Messina, arriving in the cliffside paradise of Taormina. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Travel: ~340 miles / Approx. 7 hours including ferry crossing.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
Day 6: "The Godfather" Village & Stunning Taormina
Travel to the medieval village of Savoca, famously featured in Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather. Stop at the iconic Bar Vitelli to enjoy a refreshing, traditional Sicilian granita with a warm brioche.
Return to Taormina for a guided walking tour of the historic center, highlighted by a visit to the spectacular ancient Greek Theater overlooking the sea.
Enjoy a free afternoon to soak up Taormina’s sweeping coastal vistas.
• Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 7
Day 7: The Majesty of Mount Etna
Today we ascend Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano. Enjoy an incredibly scenic drive up to a panoramic viewpoint where you can observe extinct craters and dramatic, solidified lava fields.
Return to Taormina for a completely free afternoon and evening to dine and explore at your own pace.
Travel: ~40 miles / 1.5 hours each way.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 8
Day 8: Ancient Syracuse & The Baroque Charm of Modica
Bid farewell to Taormina as we journey to Syracuse. Tour the spectacular Archaeological Park with a local guide to see the Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, and the legendary "Ear of Dionysius" cave.
After lunch, continue to the breathtaking late-Baroque town of Modica. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening stroll before a wonderful group dinner.
Travel: ~125 miles total.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9
Day 9: Modica & The Art of Ancient Chocolate
Discover Modica's enchanting architectural treasures with a local expert, including the magnificent Church of San Giorgio. Step inside the famous Dolceria Bonaiuto, a 150-year-old chocolate factory. Enjoy an exclusive tour detailing their ancient Aztec-inspired cold-crafting process, followed by an unforgettable chocolate tasting.
Spend the rest of the day exploring Modica's winding streets at your leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 10
Day 10: Roman Mosaics to the Valley of the Temples
Travel to Piazza Armerina for a guided tour of the Villa Romana del Casale, home to the world’s largest and most pristine collection of ancient Roman mosaics.
Continue to Agrigento, check into your hotel, and enjoy a light evening stroll followed by an elegant dinner at the hotel.
Travel: ~130 miles total.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11
Day 11: Agrigento's Temples to Historic Marsala
Embark on a guided morning walking tour through the majestic Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples on earth. After a leisurely lunch, we head west to the coastal town of Marsala. Check in, explore the historic streets, and enjoy dinner at a local culinary hotspot.
Travel: ~90 miles / 2.5 hours.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 12
Day 12: Marsala Wine Tastings & Coastal Paradises
Uncover the history of Marsala with a local expert. Visit a bespoke historic winery to learn about the production of this world-famous fortified wine, capped off with an exclusive tasting.
• Optional: Spend the afternoon taking an optional boat excursion to the stunning, crystal-clear island of Favignana.
Enjoy a free evening to catch a gorgeous Mediterranean sunset.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 13
Day 13: Medieval Erice to Vibrant Palermo
Travel to the mountaintop town of Erice. Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll along its stone-paved streets, taking in breathtaking views of the Sicilian coastline.
Continue to Palermo, Sicily’s bustling capital. Meet a local guide for an introductory sightseeing tour of the city’s opulent, history-steeped architecture.
Celebrate the evening with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.
Travel: ~80 miles / 2 hours.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 14
Day 14: Monreale's Gold Mosaics & Sicilian Street Food
Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale, globally renowned for its breathtaking, shimmering gold Byzantine mosaics.
Return to Palermo to dive into the vibrant atmosphere of its legendary historic markets. Stop at a local market stall to experience Palermo's famous street food culture (optional). Enjoy a final afternoon for shopping and exploration before our farewell group dinner.
Travel: ~10 miles.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 15
Day 15: Arrivederci, Italy!
Savor your final Italian breakfast, check out of your hotel, and take your group transfer to Palermo Airport (PMO) for your flight home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Price per Person:
Single supplement
Price per person
Single supplement
-
€ 3900,00
Sharing a standard double room with breakfast included
-
Using a standard double room as a single, with breakfast included.
Price per Person:
Single supplement
-
€ 3900,00
Sharing a standard double room with breakfast included
Price per person
Single supplement
-
Using a standard double room as a single, with breakfast included.
- The price shown above is per person sharing a double/twin room to include breakfast.
- The price shown above is based on group of 20 participants
- 1 gratuity every 15 participants
- For smaller groups prices on request
- Double room with single supplement on request and availability
- The price shown above includes compliomentary transfers on the first and last day of your tour. If your flights do not coincide with the transfer times, you can choose to purchase a private transfer throguh us. To book your transfer(s), just contact us and provide your flight details no less than 21 days prior your departure
- Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.
Price include
Price not include
Itinerary Flexibility and Expert Availability
Excursions and activities in this itinerary may be subject to changes. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. We will endeavour to do our utmost in minimising any disruption or inconvenience, whilst making sure you continue to enjoy your fantastic holiday experience.
Travelling by coah:
Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.
Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb
Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”
*Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage.
So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Practical advices
Twin Room All listed pricing in the brochure and website is per person based on two people sharing a twin room (a room with 2 twin size beds). A double bed can be requested at time of booking if preferred.
Solo Supplement If you are traveling alone and require a single room, there will be an additional Solo Room Supplement added to your price.
Triple Room Rooms that sleep 3 people are available on some itineraries. The third bed is typically a pull out or cot.
In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation.
Prior to traveling, please notify Passucci International Travel of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.
It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination.
Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.
A Note on Tipping
While tipping in Italy is a personal choice and not mandatory, it is a wonderful way to reward the exceptional service of your dedicated team. As a general guideline for the American market, guests typically budget around $10–$15 per day for their Tour Leader and $5–$8 per day for the coach driver. For local city guides, a tip of $3–$5 per tour is standard and deeply appreciated. Gratuities are usually collected in cash (Euros) at the end of the journey or after specific tours.
Tipping at Restaurants & Cafés
Unlike in the US, restaurant servers in Italy are paid a full living wage, so large tips are not expected. You will often see a small charge on your bill called "coperto" (a standard cover charge for bread and tableware). If the service was excellent, it is customary to leave a cash tip of 5% to 10% of the total bill, or simply round up to the nearest €5 or €10. Please note that tips cannot usually be added to credit card payments in Italy, so keeping a small amount of Euro cash on hand is always recommended.