Code: G2
Flavours Of Sicily Self Drive 2025
Catania - Mount Etna - Taormina - Mount Etna - Syracuse - Noto - Marzamemi - Syracuse - Ragusa - Agrigento - Alcamo - Marsala - Alcamo - Palermo
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Day by day Itinerary
Day 1
Catania - Mt Etna Area
Pick up your rental car at Catania Airport, then depart for Mount Etna, the symbol of Sicily. The overnight stay is scheduled in a splendid area on the slopes of the volcano, a wine resort surrounded by vineyards and fully equipped with all comforts. After arriving you are greeted with a tasting of local wines. Rest of the day at leisure to visit the Etna area. Overnight stay at a farmhouse. (T)
Approx driving distance: 40km
Day 2
Mt Etna Area - Taormina - Mt Etna Area
Breakfast at the farmhouse, then departure to discover Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe (3,350m). You can drive up to approx 2,000m freely by car and reach the Silvestri Craters, volcanic cones now inactive, surrounded by the most recent lava flows. Those who want to get even closer to the top of the volcano can continue by cable car and then by a 4x4 car, accompanied by an expert mountain guide. Alternatively, you can stop at a local winery, with a visit to the vineyards, tasting of 5 wines and light lunch with local products (not included). The afternoon is dedicated to the enchanting Taormina, suspended between the rocks and the sea, famous for its natural landscape, historical monuments and the unforgettable panorama with Mount Etna in the background. In addition to strolling through the delightful alleys of the medieval centre and shopping at the artisan shops, we recommend that you do not miss a visit to the famous ancient theatre. At the end, return to the farmhouse and give yourself a nice overnight rest. (B)
Approx driving distance: 80km
Day 3
Mt Etna Area - Syracuse
Breakfast at the farmhouse, then departure for Syracuse, the largest and most powerful Greek colony in Sicily. We recommend starting the visit with the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which preserves a magnificent Greek theatre, a Roman amphitheatre, remains of temples and tombs, and several caves, including the one called “the Dionysus' Ear“. In the afternoon you can explore the islet of Ortygia on your own, the heart of the city, with its splendid Baroque cathedral and the historic Aretusa Fountain, one of the most famous freshwater springs in the Greek world. Overnight stay at a hotel in Syracuse. (B)
Approx driving distance: 100km
Day 4
Syracuse - Noto - Marzamemi - Syracuse
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Noto, the “capital of the Sicilian Baroque”, with its richly decorated churches, its magnificent noble palaces and elegant iron wrought balconies. A typical “granita” is to be tried in one of the many bars on the main street, not only to cool off from the heat, but also to discover an unforgettable flavour. In the afternoon, we recommend visiting the typical seaside village of Marzamemi, “out of time” and away from the crowds, and then relaxing on one of the splendid beaches of south-eastern Sicily, where the sea is crystal clear. The most beautiful may be found in the Vendicari Marine Reserve (Calamosche and Cittadella dei Maccari), in Marzamemi (San Lorenzo and Spinazza) and in Portopalo (Carratois). At the end of the day, return to Syracuse for overnight. (B)
Approx driving distance: 120km
Day 5
Syracuse - Ragusa - Agrigento
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Ragusa, the cradle of the Sicilian late-baroque style, which houses 18 buildings protected by UNESCO. Not to be missed is a tour of the Ragusa Ibla quarter, the oldest in the historic centre, with its churches, the 18th century buildings and the luxuriant Ibleo Garden. Just outside the city, the majestic Donnafugata Castle is also worth a stop, with its huge park and an amusing stone labyrinth. Widely renowned wines are produced in this area, such as the Nero d'Avola and the Cerasuolo di Vittoria. For those who wish, we can organise a visit to a local winery cellar with wine tasting and a light lunch (not included). Continue to Agrigento for check in at the hotel and overnight. (B)
Approx driving distance: 230km
Day 6
Agrigento - Alcamo Area
Breakfast at the hotel, then whole morning dedicated to the visit of the Valley of the Temples, included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The archaeological area preserves 11 Doric temples of the 5th century BC, caves, necropolises and tombs, in a landscape embellished with hundreds of almond trees. Leaving Agrigento, proceed north westwards to Alcamo. An overnight stay is scheduled at a wine resort surrounded by greenery. In this area, wine and olive oil are produced according to organic agriculture methods. The underground cellars of the wineries, with cool temperatures all year round, offer the ideal climate conditions for the production and storage of wine, and house dozens of large barrels. A tasting of organic wines is included. Overnight stay at a farmhouse. (B, T)
Approx driving distance: 120km
Day 7
Alcamo Area - Marsala - Alcamo Area
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Marsala, on the western coast of Sicily. This area is rich in salt marshes and since ancient times has developed an intense activity of extraction of salt from the sea water. Trapani salt flats well testify to this, with their characteristic windmills, and the interesting Salt Museum. For lunch, a wine tasting at a historic winery in the area is included, combined with local gastronomic products. In the afternoon, the centre of Marsala is also worth a visit, with its baroque churches and the contrast between the yellow of its houses, the blue of the sea and the green of the vineyards. At the end, return to the farmhouse in Alcamo Area for overnight. (B, L/T)
Approx driving distance: 140km
Day 8
Alcamo Area - Palermo
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Palermo and whole day dedicated to the visit of the Sicilian capital, rich in history and monuments of different architectural styles, which reflect the island's multicultural past. A tour of the city on an 'Ape Calessino' (a 3-wheeled vehicle) is scheduled to discover the treasures of Palermo: the beautiful Arab-Norman Cathedral, the Teatro Massimo, Pretoria Square with the large Pretoria Fountain, and the frenetic Vucciria Market, animated by the sellers shouts. An artistic-gastronomic walk is also included, with a series of stops to taste the typical products of the Palermo street cuisine, such as “arancine” (stuffed and fried rice balls), the “panelle” (chickpea flour fritters) and the potato croquettes. In the afternoon we recommend driving to Monreale nearby, to admire the splendid Cathedral with its polychrome mosaics and the wonderful cloister in Arab-Norman style. Overnight stay at a hotel in Palermo. (B, T)
Approx driving distance: 90km
Day 9
Palermo
Breakfast at the hotel and free time depending on your flight departure. Drop off the car at the Palermo Airport. (B)
Inclusions
- 8 Nights at farmhouses & 4* hotels or similar
- 8 Breakfasts (B)
- Wine Tasting Experience in Etna Area (T)
- Winery Visit & Organic Wine Tasting in Alcamo Area (T)
- Wine & Food Tasting in Marsala (L/T)
- Street Food Tour in Palermo (T)
- Tour of Palermo historic city centre by Ape Calessino
Rent A Car
- Economy - Ford Fiesta Manual or similar 9 days (Day 1 - 9)
▪ Pick up at Catania Airport Day 1 (0800-2230HRS)
▪ Drop off at Palermo Airport Day 9 (0800-2230HRS)
▪ One Way Supplement
▪ Unlimited km
▪ Additional driver
▪ RCA Insurance, vehicle license fee
▪ Coverage Package for Sicily tours
Note: Coverage Package for Sicily tours resets the excess provided for damage, including any damage occurring to glass, tyres, roof and underside of the vehicle. Excludes damage to the interior, damage due to improper use of the vehicle or negligence, total theft, partial theft and attempted theft. Ask about adding higher-level insurance coverage.
New Inclusion - eSIM (1 Per Person)
▪ Italian Data Traffic eSIM is an innovative solution for staying connected during your Italian journey.
▪ eSIM includes 1 Italian phone number, 5GB mobile data in Italy, 60 minutes international calls.
▪ Get your eSIM instantly, without identity verification and be connected without any roaming charges.
Exclusions
- City taxes paid directly to each hotel
- Drinks during meals & any meal not specified in Inclusions
- Tips, porterage or any extras
- Anything not specified in Inclusions
Pricing and Accommodation
|
Twin | Single | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
$POA | $POA |
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Included Accommodation (or similar)
Mount Etna - Tenuta San Michele Farmhouse (Santa Venerina)
Syracuse - Grande Albergo Alfeo
Agrigento - Hotel Foresteria Baglio Della Luna (Maddalusa)
Palermo - Hotel Federico II Central Palace
Would you like to extend your stay?
Mount Etna - Tenuta San Michele Farmhouse (Santa Venerina)
From $POA
Palermo - Hotel Federico II Central Palace
From $POA
Important Notes
▪ Operated daily on request from 01 April to 23 October 2025.
▪ City tax is not included and is to be paid on the spot to each hotel.
▪ Minimum 2 / Maximum 3 participants (3 Adults or 2 Adults + 1 Child)
▪ Child 0-6 years old in Double Room with 2 Adults
▪ Special rate for Pre/Post tour nights on request and subject to availability
▪ It is highly recommended that clients take comprehensive travel insurance including against cancellation of reserved services.
GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS VALID FOR SELF DRIVE PACKAGES
RATES
All rates are quoted in New Zealand Dollars per person. Tourist tax is never included and must be paid locally.
HOTELS
Local Operator reserves the right to substitute hotels in case of Force Majeure, always before the client's arrival. A replacement hotel of the same or higher category will be provided at no extra charge. The name of the hotels will be available 15 days before the start of the tour.
START & END OF SERVICES
The services provided by the Local Operator are land services, beginning when the customer receives the first scheduled service operated by the Local Operator (always after border and customs procedures) and ending when the customer receives the last scheduled service. Croatia Times Travel and Local Operator cannot take any responsibility for circumstances arising from services not provided by Local Operator (problems that may arise in customs / border, overbooking in air spaces, loss / deterioration of luggage on flights etc).
SALES
For all Self Drive Packages it is necessary to check PRICES and AVAILABILITY at time of booking request, which will be quoted according to the best available rates at the time.
HEALTH CONDITIONS OF PASSENGERS
In the case of a passenger with special needs, Croatia Times Travel must be informed at the time of booking. Local Operator may establish special booking conditions for those passengers whose physical or health conditions require dedicated assistance and may not allow the normal course of the tour. If this information is not provided at the time of booking, Croatia Times Travel and Local Operator will not be responsible for any disruptions.
PICK-UP TIMES
Croatia Times Travel and Local Operator are not responsible in the event that the traveller fails to appear at the designated meeting point without prior notice to the Local Operator’s tour manager / assistant / emergency line and misses a scheduled transfer / excursion / tour etc.
TRIPLE ROOM RECOMMENDATION
In many hotels in Italy, triple rooms do not exist; they are in fact a double room with an extra bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are below the international standards of triple rooms. Booking a triple room implies acceptance of this fact. Triple rooms are always on request: the actual room layout will be specified at the time of booking.
LUGGAGE - LIABILITY LIMITS
You are allowed to have a total of 2 standard suitcases and 2-3 bags per car during the tour, depending on the car’s boot capacity. Croatia Times Travel and Local Operator assume no responsibility for the loss or theft of unlabelled luggage, and no responsibility for damage to luggage caused by normal transportation such as scratches, cuts and similar damage.
GENERAL RENTAL CONDITIONS
The rental of vehicles from the company selected by the Local Operator or its affiliates or licensees is governed by these general rental terms and conditions, including the privacy policy; the rental agreement will be signed by the customer at the time of vehicle pick up. The customer, by signing the rental agreement, declares that he/she has read and accepted the general rental terms and conditions and that he/she has approved them. All car models are provided as a guide only and may be substituted by others with similar characteristics. Minimum age for rental varies from 21 to 25 years with a driver's license obtained at least 1 to 2 years prior to start of rental, maximum age 70 years old (age limits valid only for rental of intermediate/compact category cars). A driver's license and possession of a credit card by the customer are a mandatory condition for car rental. Electronic type credit cards are not accepted. Insurance and surcharges must be paid locally by credit card. A security deposit will be required on the credit card at the time of rental. The owner and/or driver must be the holder of the credit card used for the rental.
RENTAL CATEGORY
Intermediate car category is included in the packages unless otherwise stated. The car rental company reserves the right to replace the car with a model of similar or higher category. It may be possible to upgrade the car category at the time of booking or later at the rental desk at additional cost, subject to availability. Pick up and drop off details are stated in inclusions for each package.
CAR RENTAL INCLUSIONS
▪ One way surcharge
▪ Unlimited mileage
▪ Liability insurance, road tax and airport taxes
CAR RENTAL INSURANCE
Each vehicle has basic standard coverage with liability and Kasko insurance with deductible (CDW).
CAR PICK UP AND DROP OFF
Details are included in each programme.
DRIVER'S LICENSE
Drivers must have at least one year of driving experience and present a valid driver's license issued in their state/country of residence. The driver's license must be in Latin characters. Otherwise, clients must provide an international driving permit and a sworn translation of their driver's license.
FUEL
Please note that cars are picked up with a full tank of fuel and must be returned with a full tank of fuel.
CHILD SEAT
Is never included, it is possible on request at additional cost.
PARKING
Parking space is never included. Offered hotels have adjacent parking lots or garages available.
DELAY OF THE TRIP
Croatia Times Travel and the Local Operator will communicate at the time of confirmation the times made by the rental company for the pick up and drop off of the car. Any pick up or drop off outside these times will therefore not be handled by the Local Operator or Croatia Times Travel who will not be responsible for any additional expenses resulting from missed pick-ups and/or drop-offs.
LIABILITY
Croatia Times Travel is acting as a booking Agent for the Local Operator. Local Operator, in undertaking tours, transportation, hotel accommodations and other services, acts only as an intermediary agent with the clear understanding that it, or Croatia Times Travel will in no way be held liable for any accident, damage, loss, delay or inconvenience caused in connection with travel arrangements arranged by the Company, its employees or agents.
COMPLAINTS
Complaints regarding all services (except rail transportation services) should be addressed to the Local Operator on the spot without delay and be confirmed in writing. If the matter cannot be resolved on the spot, Local Operator must be notified in writing within 21 days of the conclusion of the services. Subsequent complaints will not be considered. All information on this webpage is correct at the time of publication. Croatia Times Travel and Local Operator reserve the right to change the information and/or content at any time and without notice in case of errors or changed conditions related, for example, to contracts with suppliers or different costs for local regulations. This contract is governed by Italian law. In the event that the contract cannot be executed due to contingent measures relating to the Client's country of origin or destination, Italian laws and regulations will apply, with particular regard to those that may prevent the stay due to epidemics, pandemics or other completely unforeseeable events, as well as the provisions that will regulate the economic relations between the parties.