ITALY BY TRAIN: Sicily

A land of contrasts and wonders, eastern Sicily is a sensory journey weaving together millennia of history, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, sun-kissed Baroque stone, and the scent of the sea. Here, nature erupts in all its power—from the breath of Mount Etna to cliffs plunging into the blue—while cities tell a Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman past that can be felt at every corner. The deep identity of the region is also reflected in its cuisine: bold flavors, time-honored recipes, lively markets, and rural traditions that endure through time.

Arrival in Catania and hotel check-in.

Departure by train from Catania to Syracuse (approx. 1h10min). Hotel check-in.

A millennia-old city, founded by the Greeks and deeply loved by Archimedes, Syracuse enchants visitors with its dual soul: on one side, the vast archaeological park with Greek theaters, stone “ears,” and rock-cut tombs; on the other, the refined Ortigia, an island connected to the mainland by two bridges, where temples transformed into churches, noble palaces, and narrow streets come alive with markets, artists, and the scent of the sea.

Included experience:

Guided tour of Syracuse

A fascinating journey into the heart of one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, where myth, art, and architecture intertwine. Accompanied by an expert guide, explore the archaeological area with the magnificent Greek Theatre and the enigmatic Ear of Dionysius, then immerse yourself in the Baroque elegance of Ortigia, with its history-filled alleys, temples turned into churches, luminous squares, and spectacular sea views.

Suggested and not included experience:

Cooking class in Syracuse

Join a local chef for an authentic experience discovering Sicilian flavors. Learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as handmade pasta, caponata, or cannoli, using fresh market ingredients. At the end of the class, enjoy lunch featuring your creations, paired with local wine.

Overnight stay in Syracuse.

To enhance your stay in Syracuse, you may choose from the following optional experiences. All proposed activities depart from Syracuse and allow you to explore the city and its surroundings from different perspectives, including archaeology, the sea, and local food traditions.

Suggested experiences:

Guided visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park

A journey through time among the archaeological highlights of Syracuse: the perfectly preserved Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, the Latomiae, and the Roman Amphitheatre. The guide will share stories of myths, wars, and great civilizations that shaped Sicily.

Boat tour along the coast of Ortigia

Sail along the calm waters of the Syracuse marine protected area, enjoying an aperitif with local products as the sun sets. Admire historical monuments and unspoiled nature from the sea in a relaxed and atmospheric setting.

Street food tour in Ortigia

Discover the authentic flavors of Syracuse with a guided tour through the streets of Ortigia. Walk through markets and historic squares while tasting arancini, panelle sandwiches, local cheeses, granita, and other typical specialties. Between tastings, the guide will share stories and insights about the city’s Baroque heart.

Overnight stay in Syracuse.

Suggested and bookable train departure from Syracuse to Noto. The excursion is optional and can be organized according to personal preferences, with return to Syracuse at the end of the visit.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Noto

Train departure to Noto (approx. 30 minutes).

A Baroque masterpiece in the heart of the Val di Noto. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, Noto is a triumph of harmony and golden limestone. The scenic Via Nicolaci with its intricately carved stone balconies, the Cathedral dominating the staircase, and the pastry shops offering granita and almond-based sweets all contribute to a poetic, warm, and relaxed atmosphere.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Noto’s Baroque historic center

Stroll among the golden façades of noble palaces and churches, admiring the artistic details that have made Noto a symbol of Sicilian Baroque. The guide will reveal the secrets of this city rebuilt from the ashes of the 1693 earthquake.

Baroque sweets and almond tasting

Taste a selection of traditional sweets made with almonds, pistachios, and citrus fruits, paired with a glass of Moscato or Nero d’Avola. A sweet and fragrant journey into the authentic flavors of Sicily.

E-bike tour in the countryside around Noto

Cycle through olive groves, almond orchards, and ancient farmhouses in the Sicilian countryside, accompanied by an expert guide. An active and immersive nature experience, with stops for tasting local products.

Overnight stay in Syracuse.

Train departure from Syracuse to Catania (approx. 1h10min). Check-in at the hotel.

Situated at the foot of Mount Etna and overlooking the Ionian Sea, Catania is a city of contrasts: dark with lava yet bright with sunlight, ancient and contemporary, Baroque and popular. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surprises visitors with majestic churches, lively markets, Roman ruins, and noble palaces blackened by the volcano. The symbol of the city is the lava stone elephant, called "Liotru", which stands in Piazza Duomo, the heart of Catania’s historic center.

Included experience:

Guided tour of Catania’s historic center

A full immersion into the vibrant heart of Catania, among elegant Baroque palaces, ancient markets, and fascinating Roman remains. Accompanied by an expert guide, discover the Cathedral of Sant’Agata, the city’s elephant symbol, and the most charming hidden corners of the streets.

Optional experience (not included):

Catania street food tour with local guide

A tasty walk through lively markets and historic squares, sampling authentic specialties such as arancini, cipolline, cartocciate, and traditional sweets. A fun and informal way to explore Catania’s culinary traditions.

Overnight stay in Catania.

For those wishing to enhance their stay in Catania, optional activities departing directly from the city are available. These experiences allow you to explore Mount Etna and its surroundings, combining nature, culture, and local gastronomy.

Suggested experiences:

Etna Jeep Excursion

Venture through the lunar landscapes and extinct craters of Europe’s highest active volcano. Accompanied by an expert guide, follow trails among solidified lava, listening to the volcano’s geological stories and legends, with breathtaking panoramic stops.

Etna DOC Wine Tasting in a Winery with Typical Lunch

Explore the slopes of Mount Etna with a guided tour through vineyards and wineries. Discover the unique volcanic terroir while tasting fine wines and enjoying typical dishes prepared with local ingredients. A perfect combination of nature, wine, and tradition.

Overnight stay in Catania.

You can enhance your stay in Catania with an optional excursion to Taormina, reachable by train (about 50 minutes). Activities depart directly from the city and offer the chance to explore the historic center, the Ancient Theatre, and the unique views of the Ionian coast.

Suggested train departure and bookable: Taormina

Taormina is a gem suspended between sky and sea, offering one of Italy’s most spectacular panoramas. Its Greek origins are reflected in the impressive Ancient Theatre, which still hosts concerts and performances today. Strolling along Corso Umberto, you’ll experience timeless elegance among boutiques, gelaterias, panoramic terraces, and postcard-perfect views. At the foot of the promontory, Isola Bella offers moments of pure relaxation among coves and crystal-clear waters.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Taormina and the Ancient Theatre

Experience the magic of Taormina with an expert guide who will lead you through the historic center’s alleys, flowered gardens, and the impressive Greek Theatre, with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea. Discover the millennial history of this city suspended between myth and nature.

Overnight stay in Catania.

Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your return flight.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.