Bask in the simultaneously simple and complex flavors of Sicily in a paradise that you never knew existed. The Mediterranean Sea sparkles along the golden sandy beaches. Greek ruins adorn hilltops and overlook the surrounding valleys. Citrus orchards and olive groves provide ample tastes of the island’s natural flavors. Wineries blanket the undulating landscape and chocolateries fill the streets with indulgent rich aromas. Your Sicily culinary tour is custom tailored to your desires, allowing...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Palermo - Delectable Palermo
Palermo is an amalgamation of global history, enriched by cultures from around the world, spanning over two millennia. The markets thrive and produce a warm, inviting atmosphere. The Capo Market runs along Via Porta Carini and Via Beati Paoli, filled with food stalls. The aroma of vivacious spices fills the air. Vendors call out to you with magnanimous smiles. Awnings cast shade between the buildings and create a distinct North African atmosphere on the European island. Your private transfer meets you at Falcone-Borsellino Airport upon your arrival in Sicily.
You make your way into the city center and find the heart of the city. Palm fronds rustle in the sea breeze, sweeping across the port. Your accommodation has an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean Sea. Lush trees frame your window. The quiet resort-style accommodation is located in a stunning historic palazzo. The city has an endless vibrant life teeming along the cobblestone streets. Your guide meets you at your hotel, eager to show you the historical depths of the city, along with the visible combination of cultures that have shaped the traditions of Sicily.
The Norman Palace was erected in the 9th century as an Arab castle, but was repurposed by the Normans after their invasion of Sicily in the 11th century. The stunning architecture boasts Norman characteristics; however, the details of the structure’s Arab roots are still visible. The interior holds the Cappella Palatina, a glittering chapel filled with gold mosaics. Your footsteps echo against the marble floors. The wooden honeycomb vaults are an element of the pre-Norman history of the structure.
What's Included:
Day 2
Palermo - True Introduction to Culture
Day 3
Sciacca - Enchanting Open Space
Day 4
Sciacca - Captivating Cultures
Day 5
Taormina - Ruins to Recognition
Day 6
Taormina - Richness of Sicily
Day 7
Taiormina - Characteristics of the Soil
Day 8
Taormina - Taking the Flavor with You
Trip Highlights
- Discover the sensational flavors of traditional Sicilian cuisine with a cooking lesson taught by a Palermo chef, who will guide you in the morning market
- Explore the stunning flavors of celebrated gelaterias in the beautiful town of Noto
- Indulge in the sensational richness of the chocolate dishes created and shaped by the brilliant minds of celebrated pastry chefs in Modica
- Tour an organic vineyard at Mount Etna to learn about the traditional methods of winemaking, along with sampling the variety of wines produced
- Delight in the remarkable Greek ruins of Sicily that offer insight into the modern culture of the island that is based on a global heritage
- Enjoy the beachside luxuries of a resort-style accommodation overlooking the wondrous Mediterranean Sea
Detailed Description
The generous portions and succulent qualities of Sicilian cuisine inspired the movement of what many believe to be authentic Italian food. Rich tomato sauces grace the plate and fresh basil garnishes the dish. Brilliant wines accompany each plate, followed by the cream filled dessert everyone desires, known as a cannolo, which is the singular of cannoli. Your 8-day Sicily culinary tour introduces you to the exciting world of Sicily’s traditional cuisine, ranging from historical influences from Arab and Norman societies and even ancient Greek civilizations to the contemporary movements encouraging local aspiring chefs. You arrive in Palermo, the capital of the province.
Your private transfer meets you at the airport and escorts you to your lavish accommodation overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. After settling in, your guide leads you on a private tour of Palermo and Monreale, where you have a firsthand look at the cultural influences present in the architecture. Your guide takes you through the bustling markets of the city in search of fresh ingredients. You continue with a private cooking course, where you learn how to make the traditional cuisine of Sicily and Palermo. Your private transfer escorts you to the seaside town of Sciacca where you settle into your resort-style accommodation.
You can bask in the hot sand on the shores of the Mediterranean or stroll through the town of Sciacca in search of local culinary treats. Next, you venture to a family-owned winery for a private culinary class and wine tasting, seeing if you can properly pair each dish with a local vintage. In the afternoon, you make your way to the ancient town of Selinunte for a private tour of the historic ruins. The following day takes you to the borders of modern Agrigento to view the remarkable ancient ruins at the Valley of the Temples before continuing to the seaside city of Taormina for a pastry tasting. Travel to the beautiful Baroque town of Noto. Tour the charming streets and sample the celebrated gelato, or Italian ice cream, of the city.
You continue to the enchanting city of Modica to tour the palaces and sample the exquisite chocolate concoctions for which the city is famous. The following day, your guide leads you along the foothills of Mount Etna to visit a winery and enjoy an incredible sampling of the vineyards enriched by the volcanic soil. On your final morning in Sicily, your private transfer escorts you to the airport where you board your flight home. There is always much more to experience in Italy. You could extend your culinary excursion with a gastronomic tour of Tuscany to contrast the diverse dishes of the regional cuisine of Italy.
Starting Price
$3,600 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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