Italy
Winter in Italy: Taormina & Sicily’s Culture & Cuisine
Program No. 22850RJ
There’s no better time to experience Sicily than winter! Delight in local cuisine and the Italian Opera, discover Mount Etna and learn about the Roman and Greek history of Taormina.
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Participant Reviews
Based on 69 Reviews
SHOWING
Really fun to stay in Taormina within view of Mt Etna! Unfortunately the volcano was shy and we couldn't get a clear view. But we still took the long ride up to 6000 ft. Enjoyed the local cuisine and wines of Sicily, had an evening of opera arias, and explored the historic cities close by Taormina.
— Review left April 9, 2025
Our leader, Rosa, was knowledgeable and organized and put everyone at ease. Great leader.
— Review left March 31, 2025
Our small group experience with the Road Scholar tour "Winter in Taormina" was wonderful. Our tour guide, Rita, was very friendly and knowledgeable, and we were fortunate to be introduced to Massimo, who gave us a cooking class in his beautiful home. We went to an opera, and we climbed part of Mt. Etna, on what was probably one of the windiest days in March. We learned a lot about the history of Sicily by traveling to various sites, and it would be remiss not to mention the food! We packed a lot into this short trip. It was amazing.
— Review left March 17, 2025
The trip exceeded our expectations, thanks to group leader Rosa Rizza's enthusiasm, humor, knowledge, and passion for Sicily and its rich history.
— Review left March 11, 2025
This was a wonderful program! Our guide, Rosa was fantastic, and brought the history of the region to life through her stories and knowledge of history. The pace of the tour and excursions was comfortable, the Hotel accommodation was excellent, and the setting was amazing! I had a fantastic experience!
— Review left March 9, 2025
Stunning vistas, past/present/future knowledge gained, hands on experience was not to be missed. Terrain can be challenging, but Road Scholar correctly advises in advance about those challenges.
— Review left March 3, 2025
Well planned, well executed experience.
— Review left January 27, 2025
Our trip to Sicily was even better than we hoped it would be. We learned, we ate, we walked, we explored and met interesting new friends. It was a wonderful experience. We are so glad to have actualized the adventure!
— Review left January 27, 2025
Wonderful experience! Rosa, our guide was friendly, personable, and extremely knowledgeable. The hotel was comfortable and convenient, and the breakfasts were delightful. The itinerary was well planned and executed, as was the pace of travel. Thank you, Road Scholar for another great experience.
— Review left December 22, 2024
Winter in Sicily was fantastic; ROSA was a superb tour guide. Food and wine excellent. Could have been 1-2 days longer though.
— Review left December 22, 2024
I couldn't have asked for a better experience! Our guide, Rosa, was supremely knowledgeable and managed our group expertly. The weather was perfect. The streets were not as crowded as they would have been in the summer. I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
— Review left December 22, 2024
Winter in Sicily was well organized and executed. Taormina, is a lovely town with substantial history and has the distinct advantage of being easily walkable within the allotted free time.
Travel to the three day trip locations was somewhat slow and supporting the itinerary which focuses on nearby locations of Mt Etna, Catania, and Syracuse.
Our leader, Rossa, is experienced, knowledgeable and passionate, communicates effectively, and is able to adjust the program details to accommodate weather and other uncontrollable circumstances. Overall an excellent guide.
The physical requirements of the trip closely matched the advertised description. Given the numerous, extensive, and organized meals (reflecting the importance of cuisine and camaraderie in Sicily), the included and opportunity for exercise was welcomed.
Highlights for me personally were the cooking class in Taormina, the ancient quarry and d’omou in Syracuse, and the many opportunities to sample Sicilian cuisine. The 700’ climb up to the Norman era fortress above Taormina, though not part of the tour, provided exceptional perspective on the geography of the town, the coastline, and above all the Greek Theatre, and is a great use of the free time allotted in Taormina.
— Review left December 19, 2024
Winter in Sicily is a wonderful experience. I would highly recommend it.
— Review left December 6, 2024
Altogether one of the most memorable trips I've ever taken. The historic background was so much appreciated, and beautifully presented by our guide Rosa. I wanted to see Sicily precisely for the Greek history; she taught us about all the other cultures that have dominated the island in centuries past. Rosa was an outstanding guide and very accessible, and my fellow Scholars were all people I would love to know in "real life"!
— Review left March 30, 2024
There's a lot to learn about the culture, history, and foods of Sicily. This program goes a long way in fullfilling that quest for knowledge. The food was great and the field trips educational. The group leader was knowledgeable and willing to share it with the participants. The stunning scenery of the coastline of Sicily made the program complete. I highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about this part of the world.
— Review left March 30, 2024
A charming part of the world where our visit included wonderful food, fascinating history, and a looming volcano that was always there. We were fortunate to have had a wonderful guide whose interpretation and management were flawless.
— Review left March 25, 2024
Visiting Sicily in March was magical. We had the most magnificent guide in Rosa Rizza! We saw and learned so much--but it wasn't overwhelming. It was just right. We will definitely recommend this specific trip to others. We loved every minute of it.
— Review left March 21, 2024
The Winter in Italy trip was well-run, reasonably priced and action packed. We enjoyed the outings (tho pace was frenetic!) and especially liked the cooking experience. Our guide was knowledgeable if a bit of a drill sergeant! This was our first RS trip and we will definitely consider others in the future.
— Review left March 21, 2024
This week in Taormina and surrounding area was amazing. The food was wonderful and the cooking class was the highlight. I would highly recommend this adventure. It's the perfect time to go to Sicily (November).
— Review left March 14, 2024
You won't go wrong if you attend this program. The leader, Rosa, is incredible. Just be prepared for a full week of learning.
— Review left March 8, 2024
The program is everything they say it's is.you also will be very lucky if you do the winter in Italy tour,and your guide be the amazing Rosa rizza.
— Review left March 4, 2024
Great program in Sicily, well-designed and executed but the guide made it extraordinary!
— Review left February 6, 2024
Wonderful trip.... Rosa the guide had an excellent knowledge of the country and relayed it in an interesting and comprehensible way. The activities were varied and very interesting. The places we visited were beautiful.
The hotel was wonderful. The view was wonderful and they were very accommodating when a few meals had to be moved. Very clean and had everything I needed.
I thought Rosa, worked hard to ensure everyone who wanted to get to an activity, were able. A few people were physically limited and needed to be cabbed instead of walking to a place.
The food was excellent except for the last night. There the fish was dry and overcooked.
I highly recommend this tour.
— Review left January 26, 2024
This was the most amazing group tour! Tour guide Rosa Rizza is absolutely fantastic. No matter what trip you take with her it will be a wonderful experience. Sicily is an interesting, lively, warm place. I plan to go back.
— Review left January 19, 2024
This trip was my first Road Scholar adventure; it exceeded my wildest dreams. I fell in love with Sicily and plan to continue learning and travelling with Road Scholar. Our guide Rosa, shared her passion for the history of her country. Each of the adventures in Catania, Syracuse, Taormina and Mt. Etna were filled with amazing sights and ancient history. We ate at fantastic restaurants and also enjoyed the cooking lessons with Chef Massimo. Under his guidance we cooked and then enjoyed the fruits of our labor. This was a perfect introduction to Sicily and Italy. The only thing I would change would be to extend my visit a few extra days.
— Review left January 4, 2024
A wonderful introduction to part of Sicily's ancient and contemporary history, its unique experience living near Mt Etna and the beautiful people, their cuisine and even a taste of their love of opera...made this trip a gem to remember!
— Review left December 26, 2023
This was a wonderful program! Traveling off season was a great idea. The weather was pleasant, sites were not crowded, streets were decorated for the holidays and shopkeepers were happy to see us. The selected hotel had a terrific, walkable in-town location, with a spectacular Mt Etna view. The included tours were a good balance of history, natural sights, and culture.
The food was delicious & generous! Our tour guide, Rosa Rizza, was wonderful, enthusiastic, informative & fun. A very enjoyable week!!
— Review left December 16, 2023
Amazing, exceeded expectations!
— Review left December 5, 2023
Sicily is FANTASTIC! The off-season is the time to go - no crowds and it's cooler. We had a bonus as Mt. Etna was mildly active. The Group Leader was really excellent. Just be aware there are a lot of steps.
— Review left December 5, 2023
A GREAT experience that lived up to the high standards we have come to expect on all RS trips. Sicily is an amazing place that comes alive due to the knowledge of our trip leader and the experiences RS has arranged such as cooking class and meeting with sheep farmer family. And great job by RS travel helping us rebook when our flights were cancelled due to weather and airline was overwhelmed trying to accommodate stranded passengers.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Under the guidance of a guide who is knowledgeable and passionate about Sicily, we learned the history of this place and how it has influenced the history of Europe (and Vice versa) and the USA. Taormina (and many of the historical sites) is a steep hilly place and to see it, one must be able to navigate stair steps - lots of them - some of which are over a 1000 years old! While there, our airline canceled the flight from Rome to Washington DC area. The 24 hour emergency Road Scholar phone number works at midnight in Sicily when we were helped to reschedule another flight on an airline (United) with whom the Italian airline did not have a reciprocal relationship. We have been on a number to RS trips and this was the first we had to use it and the person answered and was extremely helpful making that stressful situation much less so. The leader, Rosa, was extraordinary in her passion and knowledge. This trip is paced very well and the subject matter is a delightful blend of the culture today and history.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Our experience in Taormina was excellent. The location of the hotel, quality of presentations by the group leader, Rosa, field trips and experiences were all excellent. The pacing of the program worked very well, and the physical exertion required was somewhat intense on certain days, but managed very well with appropriate breaks. A very enjoyable and memorable trip. In addition, we had our first experience with the Road Scholar 24 hour emergency number when our return flight from Rome was cancelled. The person who answered my call was courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Our problem was resolved quickly, satisfactorily and the resolution made the rest of our trip more enjoyable. Excellent experience, excellent service.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Wonderful introduction to Sicily. Taormina is so much more than "White Lotus" and is not only a beautiful town but a great jumping-off location for day trips to Mt. Etna, Siracusa, and Catania. Diversity of program activities is a big plus. And our group leader, Katarina, was exceptional. Highly recommend this program!
— Review left November 12, 2023
The best trip ever, Katerna was a terrific guide, great with all translation, restaurants, help with lost belongings on the bus!!! So energetic!!
If you choose to take the trip, watch "white lotus" because thats where your
going. The hotel was roomy, good showers, lovely breakfast. You will be soo overwhelmed with the food, so don't consider a diet, but the gluten free and vegetarian had all their request fulfilled. Every town was wonderful great Mercedes bus with AC. We had spectacular weather, not too hot or rainy.
Massimo is a great teacher, technique, and why you do what you do. No butter in Sicilian cooking, only on your toast. I was in heaven with the coffee, cappuccino etc. Now I have coffee here and its awful, no matter was establishment.
I met the nicest people, enjoyed everyone, also went alone and met a couple new gals that I could travel with. The couple were great as well, the vino flowed
and here I am reviewing the photos wanting to go back for more.
Jewels
— Review left November 9, 2023
I had a wonderful time and met some wonderful people. Rosa, our guide, expertly answered any and all questions. I will be travelling with the some of the same people to Madeira in February.
— Review left May 8, 2023
This is an essential place to visit! Not to be missed.
— Review left March 18, 2023
Since finding Road Scholar, I like that really want to make you trip enjoyable.
— Review left March 18, 2023
Wonderful trip! Tour guide Rosa is a gem and fountain of knowledge not only about the academics but the culture. Highly recommend!
— Review left March 8, 2023
Road Scholar can be counted on to provide high quality programs with outstanding local guides. This was no exception. It was a wonderful experience in a gorgeous setting that made for a memorable trip.
— Review left February 27, 2023
Not the usual time to visit Italy, but so worth it. Less crowds made it more enjoyable. Our guide, Rosa, went out of her way to give us a welcoming experience to the area. After one of the Road Scholars mentioned he liked opera, she arranged for a special performance just for us. Preparing lunch at Chef Massimo's home was so special.
— Review left February 23, 2023
Sicily is a dream, made more fantastic by our wonderful guide, Rosa, and her knowledgeable explanation of our wonderful tours to Etna, Siracusa, and Taormina, which was a wonderful vantage point to see Mt. Etna, to shop (lots of great ceramics and pastries), and to eat!
— Review left January 25, 2023
One of the best ways to experience travel to a foreign country! If you love to learn & explore different cuisines, I definately recommend this program. Meeting different people while learning the culture is worth it.
— Review left January 22, 2023
Rosa is a passionate and skilled storyteller. She is the reason the trip was fantastic. She brought context to the beauty by weaving centuries of ancient mythology, history, multiple cultures, religions and art. Although time only allowed for a broad telling--she managed to touch upon many of these complex ideas and elements and root them to the very soil and island and, most importantly, to the living volcano which is the heart of the place and touches the hearts of all inhabitants. She brought the ideas to life as we saw/tasted/smelled/heard the physical traces of the history of Sicily.
— Review left January 16, 2023
Great food, great guide and great value! I had a wonderful time.
— Review left December 30, 2022
This trip was everything I'd hoped it would be, and more! Learning about Sicilian culture, history, and cuisine from our warm and wonderful group leader, Rosa, we experienced amazing meals, beautiful historical sites, festive town centers and markets, and the majestic Mt. Etna. I now feel connected to my Sicilian roots, and have new memories for a lifetime.
— Review left December 27, 2022
Winter in Sicily was a great experience. Food was great and guide was even greater.
— Review left March 28, 2022
This tour was wonderful in every way. Our leader, Moshe, was exceptionally skilled, organized and personable. He made everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Sicily exceeded my expectations--fascinating history, beautiful scenery, delicious food, amazing culture, offering a completely different perspective of mainland Italy. Our hotel was well-situated, clean and comfortable, and the breakfast was excellent. There was a perfect balance of planned activities and free time. All planned excursions were interesting, fun and educational. I highly recommend this tour--but be aware that the journey to Sicily is long. From Florida, it took over 24 hours of travel and layovers to reach our destination in Taormina. However, I would do it again because we had such a wonderful time! This was our first RS tour and will definitely plan another RS tour--very pleased with our experience.
— Review left March 23, 2022
A super program with a great Group Leader. Traveling to Sicily was more of an unknown destination for me---now I realize the history, culture and archeology is so very interesting. All the food was super. The cooking class was fabulous. Traveling in March was a bit chilly but an advantage as a time when there were fewer tourists. Go...
— Review left March 21, 2022
This program to Sicily exceeded our expectations, and I expected a lot as I'd been on two previous and fabulous tours, one in Greece, the other in Puglia, Italy. Our guide, Rosa Rizza, had such passion and depth of knowledge of Sicily--and of art, history, and past and present cultures with true excitement--that she made every day special. We went during the Omicron surge, and yet it was safe and the crowds, minimal. We had an experience the likes of which we may never see again.
— Review left February 1, 2022
Amazing program!
— Review left November 14, 2021
Exceptional program and exceptional value. I will participate in another tour without hesitation.
— Review left November 14, 2021
When the pandemic is over, visit Sicily with this program. If your group leader is Moshe Ben Simon that trip will be even more delightful. The "plated meals" were excellent.
— Review left March 14, 2020
Great trip, Katerina was an outstanding group leader. She has vast knowledge of Sicily in general and of the history and culture of the Taormina-Catania-Syracuse region. She's a very friendly and patient person.
The most interesting side trips were Mt Etna and the Greek/Roman amphitheater sites at Syracuse.
This turned out to be a very nice time of the year to visit Sicily as the weather was fairly warm (about 60F during the day). Clear views of Etna's summit most days.
We took a side trip to another region of Sicily (Ragussa region) and Katerina gave us a list of things to see in that area.
— Review left March 7, 2020
I heartily recommend this trip! Sicily in winter proved to be a wonderful adventure. Our group leader was outstanding in his knowledge, experience and ability to communicate a world perspective. The weather, stunning visas, culture, history and people, plus the trip itinerary made this one of my favorite Road Scholar trips.
— Review left February 27, 2020
Our February prorgram in Sicily was wonderful. Our guide was excellent, informative, and fun! The location beautiful and the group quite congenial. What a lovely winter adventure!
— Review left February 27, 2020
What a terrific trip! The country is even more beautiful than I imagined, and I learned so much about the variety of cultures who settled there over the centuries, making it what it is today. Our guide was unbelievably knowledgeable as well as a wonderful human being. I won’t forget my experiences here.
— Review left February 23, 2020
What an exceptional combination - breathtaking scenery (including an active volcano), fascinating history, and phenomenal food!
— Review left February 22, 2020
As a new solo traveler and stepping out of my comfort zone, I was pleased at the warmth of the group, the group leader including me in and my ability to accept and grow.
— Review left January 27, 2020
This was my first Roadscholar trip and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Rosa, our tour guide, was wonderful and I learned so much about Sicily, its food, people, and culture. I also enjoyed meeting some interesting people on the tour. I hope to do another tour soon.
— Review left December 25, 2019
Winter in Sicily is the way to go! Beautiful destination, minus the crowds and the heat of summer and fall. You get this jewel to yourself and experience the best Taormina has to offer.
— Review left December 16, 2019
This RS trip is a wonderful adventure with a professional guide. Highly recommended educational experience.
— Review left December 2, 2019
Sicily is a fascinating multicultural place that our fabulous leader, Rosa, brought to life for us. History, culture, markets full of local color, Mt. Etna, and a cooking lesson are all part of this Road Scholar program. I highly recommend this program to others. You will experience a feast for the senses and come home with an appetite to know more.
— Review left November 21, 2019
I originally chose this program because of the value pricing and timing and not necessarily out of a lifetime desire to see Sicily. I was blown away by the quality of the food and the fascinating Greek and Roman ruins. Rosa brought it all to life. This has moved to one of my favorite Road Scholar trips
— Review left March 31, 2019
This was a great way to experience the East Coast of Sicily. The food and wine were delicious. Our group leader was wonderful and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this experience. It was short (5 days and 6 nights), but a lot was included in the itinerary.
— Review left March 15, 2019
All I can say is “Go”. Going off season was wonderful. Not crowded or rushed. Rosa, the leader, is what really made this trip all that it was. She is fun and entertaining and knows SO much about Sicily and its history. Sicily is different than other European countries - like stepping back in time. The hotel is a fantastic place to stay. We had a great group that had fun together. One tip - there are lots of steps without railings. You have to watch where you are going, I brought and used a hiking pole some of the time. I cannot say enough good things about Rosa and Winter in Sicily.
— Review left March 9, 2019
Excellent and very enjoyable program! Our guide Rosa was very informative about the history and culture of Sicily, important archeological sites and Mt. Etna. The hotel was nice and had a wonderful breakfast buffet. The cooking class and wine tasting were also fun and informative. All meals were beyond delicious.
— Review left March 3, 2019
The Road Scholar Winter in Sicily trip so far exceeded my expectations!!! Outstanding knowledgable personable and fun! She skillfully guided our group makingI everyone welcome and included. I had a medical emergency and she took care of everything for me. I learned so much and met wonderful people!
— Review left February 26, 2019
Taormina is incredibly beautiful, historical and very walkable. Worth the trip!!!
— Review left February 14, 2019
Road Scholar experiences are a wonderful way to fulfill your travel dreams and feed your soul. The people - staff and local leaders - work hard to create an easy, enjoyable and fulfilling journey.
— Review left January 31, 2019