Sicily Small Group Tour
- 9 days | 8 nights
- From Palermo to Catania
- Group size: 6-12 guests
9-Day Sicily Small Group Tour: Palermo to Taormina
A 9-day intimate and luxury small group tour to Sicily, designed for just 6 to 12 travelers, across the largest island of the Mediterranean. With a slow itinerary and a focus on Sicilian food and wine, we travel from Palermo to Favignana, Erice, Agrigento, Mt. Etna, and Taormina. As the timeless legacies of ancient conquerors intertwine and weave rich tales, we travel in style, pampered and welcomed by passionate Sicilian hosts.
Trip Highlights
- Private Tour of Monreale's Golden Mosaics
- Visit an Active Salt Pan
- Day Trip to Favignana Island
- Al-Fresco Lunch in an Olive Oil Farm
- Fine Dining overlooking Agrigento's Greek Temples
- Lunch & Wine Tasting in two boutique wineries
- Pistacchio Farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna
- Taormina's Ancient Theatre
- Private dinner on the slopes of Mt. Etna
- Erice, Palermo, Valley of Temples, Naro
We begin in Palermo, skipping the crowds to delve into the layers of past civilizations. From Palermo’s vibrant food market, we transfer to Monreale and marvel at the Cathedral’s extended golden mosaics, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Next, we visit the picturesque windmills dotting the salt pans in western Sicily and the mountaintop town of Erice. Setting sail from Trapani on a high-speed ferry, we take a fascinating tour of the former Florio Tuna Fishery on the island of Favignana, followed by a traditional lunch focused on food traditions shaped by history.
From centuries-old olive trees that produce exceptional olive oil, to a home-cooked al fresco lunch, our Sicily Small Group Tour continues to a luxurious 5-star resort in Agrigento’s sun-drenched countryside. We explore the evocative Greek Temples, visit the charming, off-the-beaten-path town of Naro, and the surrounding wine region.
For the final chapters of our Sicily tour, we move to the volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna for two nights in a secluded country retreat, surrounded by fertile vineyards and old lava flows. We top off with a pistacchio farm, private dinners, and a day trip to world-famous Taormina, with a timed entrance to the Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre.
Whether it’s the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and hosts or the stunning views from your balcony, our curated Sicily Small Group Tour promises to showcase the elemental character that defines this remarkable region.
A post-tour extension to Siracusa and Noto is available on request (see below for details).
Planning Your Sicily Luxury Tour: Important Info
2027 Rates and Dates
5595€ per person in double occupancy; 6690€ in single occupancy
- October 11 — 19 : OPEN
- 2 nights in Palermo (Palazzo Cartari or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights near Trapani (Parco Degli Aromi or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights in Agrigento (Doric Boutique Hotel or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights on the slopes of Mt. Etna (Dimora Cottanera or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), including airport transfers, permits and parking fees
- Tour manager for 9 days
- 3 traditional dinners, 1 fine dining, all with wine included
- Food tastings in Palermo
- 2 lunches in a boutique wineries
- Lunch in Favignana
- Tour of an olive oil farm, olive oil tasting, and al fresco lunch
- Tour of a historic Pistacchio farm and light lunch
- Tour of a salt pan
- Return tickets for high-speed boat from Trapani to Favignana
- Local guide in Favignana, tickets for Florio’s tuna fishery museum
- Local guide for a day in Palermo and tickets for Monreale’s cathedral
- Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Valley of Temples in Agrigento
- Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Ancient Theatre in Taormina
- VAT 22%
- Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
- Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
- Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)
- Personal travel insurance
- Airfare to/from Italy
- Credit Card fees
- Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”.
This post-tour extension is the perfect way to conclude your Sicilian adventure with a focus on relaxation and refined Baroque beauty. After the main tour concludes, you will be whisked away to Noto, a masterpiece of UNESCO-listed Baroque architecture. Then, arrive to the historic island of Ortigia, the soul of Siracusa, for a two-night stay in a boutique luxury hotel.
With plenty of unstructured free time, you can wander through the labyrinthine white-stone alleys, discover hidden sea-facing piazzas, and soak in the authentic Sicilian vibe at your own pace. Your journey ends seamlessly with a private transfer to the airport, ensuring you depart the island feeling fully immersed in its timeless elegance and sun-drenched charm.
On the last day of our Sicily tour
- 10 am Transfer from the hotel on Mt. Etna slopes to Noto with a private driver
- 11:30 am Enjoy free time to explore Noto's Cathedral on your own, visit some of the most famous historic coffee and pastry shops of Sicily, and lunch on your own (we will provide directions and suggestions)
- 2:30 pm: Drive to Ortigia (Siracusa) and check in at Maniace Boutique Hotel, Ortea Palace, or a similar hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. A list of restaurant suggestions will be provided.
Day 2 of the post-tour extension
Day at leisure in Ortigia for relaxation, shopping, and independent discovery. It is possible to add a private guided tour of the Archaeological Park with the Greek theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, an impressive man-made limestone cave shaped like a tall, narrow ear
Day 3 of the post-tour extension
Check-out and private transfer to Catania airport
Rate
On request, based on the number of participants.
- Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
- Suggested arrival airport (2026): Palermo (PMO)
- Suggested departure airport (2026): Catania (CTA)
- As soon as you book your flights, please share with us your air information so that we can work on airport transfers.
- Arrival day: private transfer from Palermo’s airport to the hotel. The transfer may be shared with the other guests of our group
- Departure day: a group airport transfer is included from Siracusa to Catania’s airport. The driving time is approximately 1 hour.
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
- Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
- Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibuses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
- The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
- A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
- The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
- From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
- From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
- Read the full terms and conditions here.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
GLOBAL RESCUE
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
WHEELCHAIRS
Unfortunately we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Our Luxury Accommodations from Palermo to Mt. Etna
2 nights in Palermo
Boutique luxury hotel in the vibrant city center of Palermo. Rooms and suites decorated with high-quality finishes reflect the Sicilian allure with unique and precious details.
2 nights near Trapani
Modern and sleek accommodations in a conveniently located resort, with breathtaking views overlooking the bay below. Wellness center and infinity swimming pool.
2 nights in Agrigento
Pampered with modern amenities, fine details, and a sumptuous breakfast, this luxurious resort offers unique views over the temple of Juno and the Mediterranean.
2 nights on Mt. Etna
Once a family country house at the foot of Mt. Etna, today a secluded luxurious retreat, surrounded by fertile vineyards. Contemporary decor blended with tradition.
9-Day Sicily Tour Itinerary: Palermo, Mt. Etna & Taormina
Day 1 – Our Sicily Tour Begins in Palermo
Meals included: dinner
Accommodation: Palermo
Upon arrival at Palermo airport, you will meet our driver and be transferred to a luxurious boutique hotel, a perfect retreat from Palermo’s bustling streets.
This evening, you will meet your fellow travelers and your tour manager for a brief orientation talk before enjoying our first group dinner at a renowned osteria in Palermo, where we will toast to our Sicily Small Group Tour.
Day 2 – Palermo's Highlights and Monreale’s Golden Mosaics
Meals included: breakfast and food tasting
Accommodation: Palermo
Embark on an unforgettable tour of Sicily, starting in the vibrant city of Palermo. This city is an extraordinary tapestry of history and art, shaped by centuries of diverse conquerors and influences.
As we explore on foot, we will visit the breathtaking Martorana Church and experience the lively atmosphere of the Capo food market, renowned for its culinary delights. At the bustling Quattro Canti intersection, be captivated by the stunning fusion of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine architecture, alongside the majestic Neo-Classical Opera House that stands as a testament to Palermo’s rich heritage.
Our engaging local guide will lead you through hidden streets and cherished local spots, enhancing your experience with stops to savor Palermo’s famous street food, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive to the enchanting town of Monreale. Here, you will witness the remarkable cathedral, commissioned by Norman King William II in 1172, a true marvel of architectural beauty.
Allow our local guide to lead you through the awe-inspiring golden mosaics that adorn the interior, recognized as among the most extensive and exquisite in the Mediterranean.
Upon returning to Palermo, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, with dinner on your own, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the local dining scene. Don’t miss this chance to discover the heart and soul of Sicily!
Day 3 – Alcamo Wine Region, The Salt Pans, And Erice
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside
After checking out, we embark on an enchanting drive west to Alcamo’s renowned wine region. Here, a beautifully restored fortified farmhouse invites us to explore its cellar and production facility, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Immerse yourself in a tasting of indigenous grape varietals, such as the Catarratto, which forms the backbone of the esteemed Alcamo DOC wine. Our lunch, perfectly paired with homemade dishes, becomes a delightful and educational journey through the rich flavors of Western Sicily you won’t want to miss.
The Salt Pans of Trapani and Marsala
As our Sicily Small Group Tour unfolds, we make our way to the stunning shores of the Stagnone lagoon. Our knowledgeable local guide captivates us with tales and intriguing facts about the ancient art of salt production, all against a backdrop of sun-soaked coastlines and strong winds.
In the mid-afternoon, we check into a boutique resort with spectacular views of the Western Sicilian coastline.
Unwind by the pool or wander through the serene gardens before reaching the mountaintop town of Erice with a short drive, just before dinner time, when most tourists will be gone.
Founded by the Romans and developed in the Middle Ages as a center of Christian convents, Erice’s mystical vibe comes alive at sunset. Our tour manager suggests the best local restaurants for a memorable dinner on your own.
Day 4 – The Essence of the Mediterranean: a Day Trip to Favignana Island
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside
Embark on a short drive to the port of Trapani, where a high-speed ferry whisks you away to the enchanting island of Favignana in just 30 minutes. Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian islands, beckons with its laid-back charm and vivid colors, truly a hidden gem on our Sicily Tour.
As you step onto the dock, our knowledgeable local expert greets you and guides you to a delightful coffee break in the lively main piazza. Immerse yourself in history as we step into the former Florio tuna fishery, now a captivating museum, that served as the economic backbone of Favignana for over a century. Be ready for a journey through rich traditions, ancient myths, and ingenious fishing techniques that have played a vital role in sustaining tuna populations in the Mediterranean.
Lunch will focus on the ancient art of making couscous, the most iconic local dish, and other delicious, freshly prepared courses.
Enjoy some free time, maybe to dip your toes in the sea, before returning to Trapani, with the option to explore the elegant shopping streets of the city center alongside your tour manager. Dinner is on your own, either in Trapani or at the hotel’s restaurant.
*Please note that in case of rough sea conditions, we prioritize safety and may arrange for a larger ferry. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the Favignana excursion will be substituted with another enriching land-based activity. No refunds will be given in either scenario.
Day 5 – From an Olive Oil Farm to Agrigento Luxurious Resort
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Agrigento
After checking out this morning, we explore the countryside of Castelvetrano and Menfi, one of Sicily’s premier regions for olive cultivation. Here, among century-old olive trees rooted in mineral-rich soil, you’ll discover a world of extraordinary flavors as we sample award-winning olive oil in a home-cooked al fresco lunch, a true Sicilian highlight! Lunch will not only deepen your appreciation for extra-virgin olive oil but also focus on fresh vegetables, Castelvetrano sourdough bread, and traditional recipes crafted with love.
As we traverse the picturesque plains and rolling hills adorned with vibrant orange groves, we’ll arrive in the sun-soaked countryside of Agrigento. Here, you’ll check into a luxurious 5-star resort, perfectly positioned with breathtaking views of the Valley of the Temples and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.
Arriving after lunch allows our guests to unwind in style, whether by your private patio pool or at the larger central pool by the bar. Finally, prepare to be amazed at dinner as the resident chef dazzles us with a creative menu featuring local ingredients and traditional recipes, all reimagined with a modern twist and served with fine dining finesse. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Day 6 – The Valley of Temples, Naro & Lunch with Wine Tasting
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Agrigento
Part of the experience on our Sicily tour is waking up to the fragrances of aromatic herbs, flowers, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Enjoy breakfast in the sunny and tranquil countryside of Agrigento, at one of the few hotels in the area where you won’t hear any traffic.
A short 5-minute bus transfer will take us to the entrance of one of Italy’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Valley of the Temples. This site features some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, dating back to the 6th century B.C. Our informative and friendly local expert will guide us on a journey back in time, and the tour will last approximately two hours.
Next, we will explore the countryside of Agrigento, known for its local DOC wine appellation. We will visit the President of the consortium in his private home—a restored “Baglio,” or farmhouse, perched on a hill overlooking the vineyards. Lunch will be served on the outdoor terrace (in case of inclement weather, we will dine in the indoor dining room) and will feature a tasting of Sicily’s indigenous grape varieties, Grillo and Nero d’Avola, along with international grapes such as Syrah and Chardonnay.
Our small group tour will then take us to Naro, a hidden gem in our Western Sicily and Syracuse adventure. This Baroque and medieval town is less popular than Noto but deserves a visit for its elegant architecture, including churches and aristocratic palaces. We will take a leisurely walk to experience this typical Sicilian town, where few tourists visit, allowing us to see local life in its authentic form.
For tonight’s dinner, you have the option to drive to the nearby beach town of San Leone to try one of the casual pizzerias or seafood restaurants. Alternatively, you may choose to stay for a romantic à la carte dinner at the hotel’s refined restaurant.
Day 7 – Pistacchio Farm on Mt. Etna
Meals included: breakfast, light lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: on the slopes of Mt. Etna
After another great breakfast at our luxurious resort, we will check out of Agrigento and drive toward the enchanting eastern coast of Sicily.
As we traverse the stunning landscapes of mainland Sicily, we prepare for captivating stories, intriguing facts, and ample photo opportunities. Marvel at the hilltop towns, golden wheat fields, and secluded valleys, including the breathtaking city of Enna, dramatically perched on a cliff, alongside the historical region of former sulfur mines.
Our adventure takes us to the lower slopes of Mt. Etna, near Bronte, where a remarkable microclimate created by the sea’s proximity and fertile volcanic soil fosters the cultivation of the world’s finest pistachios.
Here, you’ll meet Andrea, the passionate owner of a historic farm, where the time-honored art of grafting crooked pistachio trees and harvesting these exquisite nuts has been passed down through generations. As you relax in the farm’s charming courtyard, savor a delightful light lunch featuring an array of savory and sweet specialties crafted from these delectable pistachios, celebrated for their exceptional taste.
We continue our scenic drive around the base of Europe’s highest active volcano, making our way to the next luxurious inn, which is surrounded by ancient lava flows and lush vineyards.
Upon check-in, you can explore the grounds and amenities of this former family country house, now transformed into a hotel. We enjoy tasting Mt. Etna wines, such as the robust Etna Rosso and the vibrant Etna Bianco, learning how the unique terroir influences each sip. Partake in an evening of friendship and relaxation, pairing wines with local delicacies in an informal yet cozy setting.
Day 8 – Taormina's Ancient Theatre and Views
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: on the slopes of Mt. Etna
After enjoying a delightful breakfast featuring local products, we set off for the world-famous Taormina. Our expert local guide will take us to the iconic Ancient Greek and Roman theatre, where we will enter through a reserved entrance. Next, we will explore the beautiful gardens overlooking the bay of Giardini Naxos, with the majestic Mt. Etna in the background, as well as other hidden stories of Taormina.
You’ll have free time to wander the charming alleys of the town center, filled with high-end fashion stores, artisan pottery, and elegant cafés.
In the afternoon, we will escape the crowds of Taormina and return to our secluded hotel, where we will enjoy one last evening of tranquility, delicious Sicilian food, and wine at our Farewell Dinner.
Day 9 – Arrivederci to our Sicily Tour
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
Enjoy one more breakfast before checking out. A group transfer to Catania’s airport is included.
Until we meet again!
What Guests Say About Our Sicily Small Group Tour
Don’t just take our word for it—discover why travelers rate our 9-Day Sicily Small Group Tour as their favorite Italian holiday.
Read all our reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Traveling with Meet Piemonte on their small group tour of Sicily and Taormina was an absolutely delightful and enriching experience. One of the stand-out highlights in Sicily was our visit to a local olive farm. We learned firsthand about traditional olive oil production, walked among ancient groves, and sampled fresh oils paired with regional delicacies. The tour’s inclusion of several small, family-run wineries was a true treat for wine lovers. Exploring the salt pans was another unique highlight. In Palermo we enjoyed vibrant streets and shopping, fascinating architecture, and great street food. Our day trip to Farvignana island was a fascinating experience. The Meet Piemonte tour manager, Clarissa, was fantastic, and the guides on our excursions were outstanding. Transportation was comfortable, accommodations were fantastic, and every meal showcased Sicilian flavors. The balance of guided excursions and free time allowed us to explore independently while benefiting from expert recommendations. I highly recommend Meet Piemonte’s small group tours to anyone eager to experience Sicily, or any other Italian location."
By Kathleen L on Oct 25, 2025 | From Google
"The trip itinerary was by itself wonderful—the landscape, the hotels, medieval towns, wineries, olive and pistachio farms, museums and churches. At no time did we feel stressed or rushed. Staying at each hotel for 2 or 3 nights helped. The pace suited us to a tee.
Clarissa,our tour director, is a treasure—caring, knowledgeable, warm, funny, flexible and now a “family member”. She “got us”. One day I wasn’t well and she adjusted the schedule so that I would not miss seeing the planned sites. She gave us options and steered us to those things she knew we would enjoy-always.
This was by far the best trip my husband and I have ever taken. As a result of our overwhelmingly positive experience we are signing up for next year’s Puglia trip.
See you then."
By Linda P on Jun 04, 2025 | From Wetravel
"Our tour director Clarissa - was the best ever!
We had a wonderful time and look forward to our next trip!"
By John L on Jun 03, 2025 | From WeTravel
"This was one of the best trips I have ever taken to Italy. Many thanks to our tour leader Clarissa and to Marco and Meet Piemonte for putting this together."
By Engrid W on Oct 18, 2025 | From WeTravel
Why Choose Meet Piemonte’s Intimate Sicily Small Group Tour?
As an Italian travel company, Meet Piemonte Tour Operator offers a top-rated guided tour of Sicily, featuring insights from local guides and travel professionals and crafted into an exclusive itinerary spanning centuries of history. Being the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily’s mountains, plains, and shores require the combination of our in-depth knowledge and the support from some of Sicily’s finest local experts to enjoy this comprehensive itinerary.
- Our top-rated Sicily small-group tour offers a blend of hidden gems and iconic sites, including Monreale’s Cathedral, the Valley of the Temples, and the Ancient Theatre of Taormina.
- It grants exclusive, personalized access to unique venues, including family-owned boutique wineries, esteemed olive oil producers, and home-cooking experiences.
- We have chosen to expand our program to Western Sicily, which is often overlooked by competitors, while also ensuring a more relaxed schedule despite the long drives typical of the region.
In the following paragraphs, we detail how this Sicily Small Group Tour emphasizes areas of the island that may be less frequented but are rich in authenticity and cultural significance.
A Comprehensive Small Group Tour to Western Sicily and Mt Etna
Our Sicily Small Group Tour is tailored for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors to Sicily. We take pride in highlighting the western coast, a gem often overlooked.
- From Palermo, we go west to Trapani, Erice, and Marsala to unravel the unique light of the salt pans, dotted with windmills, visible only in Western Sicily.
- Unlike many competitors who rush to Agrigento for a brief visit to the Valley of the Temples before departing on long, tiring bus rides, our small-group tours to Sicily offer two nights at a luxury resort nestled in the sun-drenched countryside of Agrigento. Guests can savor exquisite dining while enjoying views of the Greek Temples at night and discover the local area known for winemaking and authentic cultural experiences.
- We end on Mt. Etna, its wine region and Taormina.
Many Sicily tours limit Siracusa to a day trip, but we opted to leave it out for an optional post-tour extension. Guests can relax and take in the vibe of the historic area of Siracusa, Ortigia, an island linked to the mainland by bridges. It stands out as one of Sicily’s most enchanting seaside towns, especially in the evening, when the cruise ships and day tourists have departed.
Sicily Tour with a Focus on Food and Wine Tasting
Our small-group tour to Sicily celebrates the rich flavors of local cuisine, which uniquely blends Arab and Spanish influences.
- From the traditional couscous found on Favignana Island to the fresh produce sourced from the slopes of Mt. Etna, the menus featured in our Sicily Small Group Tour showcase a diverse array of local specialties.
- Explore new flavor nuances during a technical olive oil tasting and savor the refreshing coffee ice slush served for breakfast at a longstanding pastry shop in Taormina.
- We ensure that all our small-group tours to Sicily visit the island’s renowned restaurants, offering a delightful combination of fine dining and rustic home cooking that is hard to find on your own.
- With the 2027 Sicily tour, we sip wines in three wineries located in the main wine regions of the island: Alcamo, Agrigento, and Mount Etna. Learn More about Mt. Etna wines vs. Barolo.
Luxurious Hotels from Palermo to Mt. Etna on our Small Group Tour
Experience charming farmhouses transformed into luxury hotels and a centrally located stay in Palermo’s vibrant city center. Whether you wake up to a view from your window or unwind with a coffee in hand, let the nearby olive groves, vineyards, or the distant blue Mediterranean inspire you. We thoughtfully select accommodations for our Sicily Small Group Tour that embody the island’s essence, offering more than just a place to rest. The luxury resort with views of the Greek Temples will treat you to private pools on your room’s patio, along with all modern amenities. On the slopes of Mt. Etna, we stay in a restored country house where each room differs in size and decor, yet offers contemporary amenities and design features.
What are the advantages of a small group tour in Sicily?
While some areas of Southern Italy can be quite different from the rest of the nation, exploring independently may pose unexpected challenges due to complex logistics, particularly when driving.
- Our Sicily tour package handles all the arrangements for a stress-free vacation, giving you peace of mind.
- This allows us to access remote parts of the island and navigate the charming back streets of Palermo, where our local guide shares insights into everyday life.
- With our small group tours to Sicily, you can delve into the rich histories of Taormina, Agrigento, Erice, and Palermo, where ancient Greek temples, theaters, and golden mosaics highlight the island’s glorious past- all without the worries of driving, coordinating with local vendors, overcoming language barriers, or any other potential hassles.
How big are the group sizes on this Sicily tour?
- Our Sicily tour is designed for 6 to 12 travelers and to strike the perfect balance between intimate romance and shared luxury.
- It is a premier choice for couples, mom-and-daughter trips, or groups of friends.
- We avoid the crowds and enjoy a level of privacy that larger groups simply can’t offer.
- We’ve carefully curated the itinerary to include unstructured free time, allowing travelers to get lost in cobblestone alleys or enjoy a quiet sunset at their own pace.
- Best of all, by traveling with a small circle of like-minded explorers, you gain access to high-end, luxurious inclusions that would be prohibitively expensive to book independently.
What is the best time of year to take a small group tour to Sicily?
Sicily can be scorching hot in summer, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C / 104°F. April, May, late September, and October are generally the best times of year for a tour of Sicily. Learn more about Sicily’s geography, airports, climate, and what to see on our Complete Guide to the Sicily Region
Booking a Sicily tour online
Traveling is an ever-changing adventure, and unexpected situations may arise. On our Sicily Small Group Tour, we will be flexible and adaptable, ready to accommodate even the most discerning travelers. With our flexible cancellation policy and partnership with Global Rescue, you can book in advance and enjoy your time in Italy, knowing you’re covered. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Our escorted tour to Sicily will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this captivating Mediterranean island.
Trip Highlights
- Private Tour of Monreale's Golden Mosaics
- Visit an Active Salt Pan
- Day Trip to Favignana Island
- Al-Fresco Lunch in an Olive Oil Farm
- Fine Dining overlooking Agrigento's Greek Temples
- Lunch & Wine Tasting in two boutique wineries
- Pistacchio Farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna
- Taormina's Ancient Theatre
- Private dinner on the slopes of Mt. Etna
- Erice, Palermo, Valley of Temples, Naro
Reviews
Read all our reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Traveling with Meet Piemonte on their small group tour of Sicily and Taormina was an absolutely delightful and enriching experience. One of the stand-out highlights in Sicily was our visit to a local olive farm. We learned firsthand about traditional olive oil production, walked among ancient groves, and sampled fresh oils paired with regional delicacies. The tour’s inclusion of several small, family-run wineries was a true treat for wine lovers. Exploring the salt pans was another unique highlight. In Palermo we enjoyed vibrant streets and shopping, fascinating architecture, and great street food. Our day trip to Farvignana island was a fascinating experience. The Meet Piemonte tour manager, Clarissa, was fantastic, and the guides on our excursions were outstanding. Transportation was comfortable, accommodations were fantastic, and every meal showcased Sicilian flavors. The balance of guided excursions and free time allowed us to explore independently while benefiting from expert recommendations. I highly recommend Meet Piemonte’s small group tours to anyone eager to experience Sicily, or any other Italian location."
By Kathleen L on Oct 25, 2025
"This is our second tour with Marco. Our first tour was northern Italy, and we thought nothing could compare. Well, our tour to the Amalfi Coast was just as spectacular. Everything including the hotel with private terraces overlooking the Mediterranean in Positano, the many private tours, the private boats to and around Capri, the cooking class and all the food were amazing. Marco is very accommodating; he always goes out of his way to ensure everyone is having the trip of a lifetime. Already thinking about where we want to go on our third tour with Meet Piemonte!"
By Christine M on May 27, 2025
"This trip was everything I had hoped it would be. I traveled from the city to the lake, to the mountains, and to the Mediterranean. The tour was full of activities that were so much fun. The group walked and shopped, tasted chocolate, had a cooking class, ate at a Michelin star restaurant, swam in the sea. toasted one another with fabulous local wines, and much much more. If you want to get a great tour of these regions of Italy, this is the tour of tours! Book it now!!!!!! I have to applaud the trip leader, Marco Scaglione, for an outstanding job of being leader, tour guide, and friend. He was so professional and handled everything with ease, even when there was a "hiccup" and the weather didn't cooperate one day. He quickly found a replacement activity that was magnificent. I highly recommend Marco and Meet Piemonte."
By Elizabeth C on Aug 01, 2025
By ROBERT N H on Dec 10, 2025
