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Italy

Treasures of Sicily

Program No. 18212RJ
Immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Sicily as you learn about important archaeological sites, historic towns and monuments, and savor a meal on the slopes of Mount Etna.
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Start
Small Group
Length
15 days
Rating (4.96)
Activity Level
Starts at
5,499
Flights start at
950
Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
15 days
14 nights
What's Included
30 meals ( 13B, 10L, 7D )
5 expert-led lectures
18 expert-led field trips
2 performances
An experienced Group Leader
13 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Transfer from Catania Airport to hotel is 45 miles (1-hour ride). Walking approximately 1 mile.
Afternoon:
Check-in and settle in. At 5:30 p.m., we gather in the meeting room for an Orientation session. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts will be buffets. Other included meals will be plated and served from a set menu unless indicated otherwise; water is included, other beverages will be available for purchase. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Transportation will be provided primarily by bus and regional train. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times might change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will notify you as soon as possible in the event of any changes. Thank you for being so understanding. Next, we will join our Group Leader in a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice).
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles; inclined roads, paths of uneven stone pavers, steep and uneven stone steps at the amphitheater, few handrails. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We set out on foot for a field trip to the Teatro Greco (Greek Theater) along Corso Umberto I. This lively street, exclusively reserved for pedestrians, is adorned with shops and cafés. The remarkably well-maintained amphitheater, featuring stone "bleachers" sculpted out of rock, traces its origins back to the 3rd century BCE. Our local expert will identify the Mediterranean communities that colonized eastern Sicily and elucidate the additions made by the Romans in the 2nd century CE. A picturesque panorama of the sea and Mt. Etna unfolds as we gaze beyond the proscenium's columns. If the climb seems daunting, you can appreciate the theater and the awe-inspiring vista of Mt. Etna from the proscenium level, our initial point of entry into the theater.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also refer to the suggested Free Time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. After a short break, we will gather in the meeting room for a lecture led by a local expert, exploring the world of Sicilian folklore and traditions. During this session, we will dive into the island's rich cultural tapestry, examining the evolving dynamics of Sicilian society.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 40 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours of riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day; uneven terrain at the winery.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will travel by bus with a local expert to the northeastern slopes of Mt. Etna National Park, where we will learn about the history of eruptions from this active volcano. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mt. Etna is the tallest mountain on a Mediterranean island and the world's most active stratovolcano, with an eruptive history spanning at least 2,700 years. Its activity has shaped scientific study in volcanology and geophysics, and supports unique ecosystems. Afterward, we will visit a winery to see how ancient lava flows have enriched the soil, creating ideal conditions for vineyards to thrive.
Lunch:
At the winery, we will enjoy a farm-to-table meal featuring ingredients sourced directly from the estate. Our host will introduce the wines produced from the surrounding vineyards, and we will take part in an expert-led tasting to explore their distinctive flavors and characteristics.
Afternoon:
Upon our return by bus to Taormina in the late afternoon, take some time to unwind and rejuvenate. In a classroom session at the hotel led by our Group Leader, we will delve into the intricate tapestry of Italian society, exploring its regional nuances and the profound influence of national institutions that continue to shape the lives of its residents with a lecture on Italy today.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for tomorrow's check out and departure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 76 miles throughout the day, approximately 3.5 hours total riding time. Walking about 4 miles throughout the day; uneven stone, paved sidewalks.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the late morning, we will check out of the hotel and travel by bus along the coast to an agriturismo on the southern slope of Mt. Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. We will visit the estate and orchards with one of the agriturismo staff, seeing firsthand how the fertile volcanic soil supports an abundance of crops.
Lunch:
At the agriturismo.
Afternoon:
Once back on board the bus, we will resume our scenic journey towards the exquisite city of Siracusa and its ancient district, the island of Ortygia. Ortygia, a place steeped in history, is inaccessible to bus traffic. After checking in and settling into our rooms at the hotel, we will have the opportunity to freshen up and rejuvenate. In the lobby, we will meet a local expert for a walking field trip through the historic center of Ortygia. Highlights include the Duomo, built in the 7th century CE on the site of a 5th-century BCE temple to Athena. Doric columns from the original temple remain visible in the cathedral's walls. After an earthquake destroyed its facade, the interior was rebuilt in the 18th century in Sicilian Baroque style. Our walk will also take us through the pedestrian center, with its narrow streets and lively squares.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 65 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours total riding time on country roads. Getting on/off a boat; riding about 1 hour. Walking up to 4.5 miles throughout the day; some rises, uneven pavement.
Breakfast:
Buffet at the hotel.
Morning:
We will visit Buscemi, a village depopulated by emigration a century ago, now preserved as a living museum. With a local expert, we will begin at the local museum before exploring the village itself. Stops include a farm laborer's hut with original furnishings, a carpenter's shop, a shoemaker's shop, and the home of a land manager, each offering insight into the rural life of the past. We will also see a traditional wine press, reflecting the region's long history of viticulture. Afterward, we will travel by bus to a nearby agriturismo.
Lunch:
At the agriturismo.
Afternoon:
We will board the bus for our return to Siracusa, arriving by mid-afternoon. If weather and sea conditions allow, we will walk to the dock for a boat ride around the island of Ortygia. Highlights include the 13th-century Maniace Fortress and the Fountain of Arethusa, linked to the legend of a Greek nymph pursued by a river god. Surrounded by papyrus plants and home to ducks, the fountain's freshwater source was once crucial during sieges. After the field trip, participants may return to the hotel at their own pace or continue exploring Siracusa independently. NOTE: In case of inclement weather or unsafe sea conditions, our Group Leader will make every effort to reschedule the boating field trip, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking up to 4 miles, park paths of stone, dirt, gravel, and some inclines. No handrails in the archaeological park or amphitheater.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board the bus for a visit to the Archaeological Zone on the outskirts of Siracusa, joined by a local expert. Our field trip will include the Greek Theater and the Paradise Quarry, where 7,000 Athenian soldiers were once imprisoned. Carved into the hillside in the 5th century BCE, the Greek Theater was a major center of ancient culture. We will have the chance to climb its stone seats and view the proscenium as spectators did over two millennia ago. After exploring the site, we will reboard the bus and travel to a local agriturismo.
Lunch:
At the agriturismo.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will return to Siracusa for a visit to the Marionette Museum, which showcases the role of puppetry in Sicilian culture. We will learn about the history and craftsmanship of these traditional marionettes before watching a performance in the local dialect. Through skilled manipulation, the puppets will bring to life stories of heroes, villains, and mythical creatures, preserving a tradition that has been passed down for generations. The museum docent will explain the plot and introduce the characters, with our Group Leader providing a summary in English.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested Free Time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time continues.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for tomorrow's check out and departure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 155 miles, approximately 3.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; uneven terrain, stone and gravel paths, steps to access catwalks set up for viewing mosaic pavements from above.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
As our time in Siracusa comes to an end, we will complete the check-out process, bidding farewell to this beautiful city. Excitement fills the air as we eagerly board the awaiting bus, ready to transfer to the western part of Sicily. En route, prepare to be captivated by the vistas that unfold before us, revealing the wondrous tapestry of the island's mountainous heart.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in the town of Piazza Armerina.
Afternoon:
Piazza Armerina is a small, charming town that hides a remarkable treasure—the ruins of a private Roman villa. Discovered by chance, this site features 63 rooms and an impressive collection of mosaics covering an area of 377,000 square feet. Led by a local expert, we will explore the villa, learning about the mosaics and the mysterious figure who commissioned the villa. The recently restored mosaics are now protected by a new roof, preserving this ancient masterpiece for future generations. After the visit, we will continue our journey to Agrigento and check into our hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 2 miles, approximately 1/4 hour riding time. Walking up to 4 miles; uneven dirt, gravel paths, inclines. Few handrails at archaeological sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will meet in the hotel's meeting room for a presentation by a local expert on the history of the Greek colonies of Akragas and Selinunte. This session will provide valuable context for our afternoon visit to the archaeological area, home to some of the most impressive Greek temple complexes in the world. We will then travel by bus to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With our local expert, we will explore the ancient ruins and learn about their history. According to UNESCO, "Founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century B.C., Agrigento became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean world. Its supremacy and pride are demonstrated by the remains of the magnificent Doric temples that dominate the ancient town, much of which still lies intact under today's fields and orchards. Selected excavated areas highlight the later Hellenistic and Roman town and the burial practices of its early Christian inhabitants."
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Our exploration of Agrigento continues to the Archaeological Museum, where we will delve further into the history and heritage of the region. Following our field trip, we will board our bus and head back to the hotel, allowing us to reflect on the experiences and discoveries of the day.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for tomorrow's check out and departure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 125 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Walking up to 4 miles; uneven terrain, inclines, stone or gravel pavement.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once we have completed the check-out process at the hotel, we will gather and board our bus, commencing our journey toward Selinunte. Selinunte, situated on the southwestern coast of Sicily, is an archaeological site steeped in history. Once a thriving Greek city, it flourished as a trade outpost between the 7th and 6th centuries BCE until Carthage attacked and destroyed it. Today, the ruins of Selinunte remind us of its former glory, with vast temple complexes and an expansive archaeological park spread across its picturesque landscape. We are treated to stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea while exploring the remnants of this ancient city, marveling at the scale and grandeur of the temples that have endured the test of time. Our destination holds a magnificent archaeological park spanning an impressive expanse of over 600 acres, making it the largest in all of Europe. Led by a local expert, we will witness an extraordinary demonstration of craftsmanship, observing how the temple columns were meticulously chiseled out of solid stone —a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient artisans.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Once again, we will reunite with our bus and continue onward toward the vibrant city of Palermo. Upon our arrival, we will check in at our hotel, allowing us a well-deserved opportunity to settle into our rooms and freshen up after our travels. In the late afternoon, we'll meet in the lobby and follow our Group Leader to the classroom for a presentation on Sicilian history, which will enrich our understanding of the region's heritage.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles; extended standing during the visit of the Norman Palace. Uneven stone and cobblestone streets, inclines, unavoidable steps that may not have handrails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
A local expert will guide us on a walking field trip through the center of Palermo, visiting notable churches, chapels, and museums. We will explore the city's Baroque heritage, known for its ornate decoration, dramatic design, and intricate detail. Palermo's Baroque style is evident in its churches, palaces, and public buildings, with facades featuring elaborate sculptures and interiors adorned with frescoes, stucco work, and gilded accents.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will take taxis to a meeting point for the next part of our walking field trip in Palermo. A highlight will be the Palatine Chapel of the Norman Kings, commissioned by Ruggero II of Sicily in the 12th century. This masterpiece seamlessly blends Norman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, reflecting Sicily's rich and diverse history. Inside, floor-to-ceiling mosaics crafted with precious stones and gold create a striking display of artistry, linking spirituality, history, and culture. Back at the hotel, our Group Leader will give a lecture on the origins of the Mafia. We will trace its development from the mid-19th century, examining the social, cultural, and political factors that allowed it to grow in power and influence. This session offers a clear view of the Mafia's historical roots and its lasting impact on Sicily and beyond.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 148 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Walking up to 4 miles; uneven cobblestone pavement, rises and steps, some without handrails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our exploration continues as we board our bus for a walk in the hilltop city of Erice. With our Group Leader, we will explore its narrow streets and historic landmarks. Tradition holds that Erice was founded by Elymian refugees after the fall of Troy and named for Eryx, its legendary king, who introduced the worship of Aphrodite to Sicily. We will see the remains of her temple, along with a notable church and imposing Norman walls, each adding to the city's layered history and cultural significance.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Our journey continues to the salt works in Trapani, where salt has been harvested since ancient times. Here, the sun and wind naturally evaporate seawater in large basins, a process that has remained unchanged for centuries. Our bus will drop us at one of the town's old gates, from where we can enjoy a self-paced walk through Trapani, taking in its atmosphere and local character. We will then return to the hotel in the mid-to-late afternoon, with time to relax and prepare for the evening's activities.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
We will enjoy a private concert at the Oratorio di San Cita, featuring the Trio Serpotta. Surrounded by the oratory's rich Baroque decor, we will experience an intimate performance that showcases the ensemble's artistry in a uniquely historic setting.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 20 miles, approximately 3/4 hour riding time. Walking up to 4 miles; extended standing during the visit to the Norman Palace. Uneven stone and cobblestone streets, inclines, and unavoidable steps that may not have handrails. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will join our Group Leader for a visit to Palermo's lively Mercato Ballarò, a bustling market of sights, sounds, and aromas, where we will learn about the market's role in daily life and Palermo's rich culinary traditions. Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested Free Time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
After gathering in the hotel courtyard, we will board our bus to Monreale, a hill town overlooking Palermo. Our destination is the Norman Cathedral, renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine medieval mosaics. Crafted with remarkable precision and rich golden tones, these mosaics depict biblical scenes and reflect deep religious devotion, creating an atmosphere that feels both historic and sacred. With a local expert, we will learn the distinctions between a church, a basilica, and a duomo, and explore the stories told through the cathedral's mosaics. These masterpieces preserve the region's Byzantine artistic traditions and stand as a testament to Sicily's cultural heritage. After our visit, we will return to Palermo by bus.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant. Recap your adventures and share your favorite memories.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for tomorrow's check out and departure.
Activity Note
Hotel check out 10:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on departure time. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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