Loading...

NEW YEAR SALE! Essence of Sicily & Malta Tour

Save 15% per person!
  • history
    DURATION
    11 nights
  • history
    DURATION DAYS
  • history
    DURATION NIGHTS
    11 nights

Get acquainted with Palermo’s colourful markets and the city’s famous "street food." Meet a countess in her medieval palace and visit a family-owned farm where you’ll hear Sicilian folk music and learn how they make ricotta cheese. Stand in awe at Agrigento’s spectacular Valley of the Temples (UNESCO). Spend 4 nights in Taormina, the jewel of Sicily, perched above the Ionian Sea. Reflect on the grandeur of ancient Greek influence during an included excursion to historical sites in Siracusa (UNESCO), whose archaeological treasures rival those in Athens. Discover the medieval streets of Mdina and enjoy a day at leisure in Malta. On a journey along the Ionian coast, discover the everlasting influences left by ancient Greeks and Romans, Arabs and Normans.

Photos

expand_more
Slide 1 of 3
12 Days to explore Sicily & Malta!

Inclusions/Exclusions

expand_more

Your tour includes:

  • 11 nights accommodation
  • 18 meals including 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 5 dinners

Tour Highlights:

  • Spend 4 nights in Taormina and explore the island's most impressive sights
  • Immerse yourself in ancient history with visits to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Enjoy a free day in Malta, the island paradise of the Mediterranean
  • Visit a medieval palace where you're welcomed by a countess
  • Journey to the beautiful seaside town of Cefalu and stroll the streets like a local
  • Learn to make ricotta cheese at a family farm in the Sicilian countryside, followed by an unforgettable homemade farmhouse lunch
  • Sample Sicilian 'street food' at a local restaurant
  • Taste the wines of the region whilst in Malta
  • It's Your Choice - set out on a panoramic coach tour of Palermo OR stroll the streets of Palermo with a local guide

Itinerary

expand_more

Day 1: Palermo, Italy - Tour Begins

You are on your way to Sicily. Allow yourself to take in the immersive culture, the layers of ancient history, and the incomparable beauty of this sparkling Mediterranean island. Welcome to Palermo (UNESCO), Sicily’s vibrant and welcoming capital. Bursting with Arab-Norman architectural masterpieces, this island’s history is waiting to be discovered. This evening, come to know your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Palermo

Make the most of Palermo this morning because it’s your choice! Choose to set out on a panoramic coach tour of Palermo, including views of the Politeama Concert Hall, the Massimo Opera House, the ruins of Palermo's medieval seaside fortifications and Spanish-era City Walls and the imposing exterior of the Palace of the Normans. Your tour includes a visit to the dazzling Monreale Cathedral -OR- stroll the streets of Palermo with a local guide, feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time as you pass by medieval remnants, picturesque piazzas, and ornate fountains. Make your way inside St. Catherine of Alexandria, a Baroque church where you can sample local pastries baked with the nuns’ secret recipe. After your tour, wander through an open-air market displaying traditional Sicilian "street food" before getting a taste of these classics at a local restaurant. Later, visit a medieval palace where a countess welcomes you on a tour of her family’s home, joining you for an aperitif and hors d’oeuvres in one of the palace's stunning chambers.

Day 3: Palermo - Cefalù - Sicilian Countryside - Palermo

Journey to the countryside with a local guide and stroll the medieval streets of Cefalù (UNESCO), a seaside town that’s home to one of Sicily’s most magnificent cathedrals. Embrace Italian country life as you set off to experience a day on a family farm where Sicilian folk music greets you upon arrival. Get a glimpse of the delectable products they make on the farm and observe how they create a Sicilian favourite – ricotta cheese!* Watch a chef prepare local specialities before getting a taste of the farm’s own products with a hearty lunch made from family recipes. Return to Palermo for an evening at leisure.

Day 4: Palermo - Erice - Agrigento

Today’s journey brings you to Agrigento, a coastal hub of preserved Greek temples. Along the way, meander through the town of Erice and roam the streets. Admire the town from an awe-inspiring lookout point at Venus Castle, built upon an ancient Roman temple. Continue on to Agrigento, where you’ll have some free time to explore the resort’s amenities.

Day 5: Agrigento - Taormina

Epic history and stunning scenery lie ahead in the Valley of the Temples (UNESCO), a place filled with ancient Greek ruins. Join an expert on a guided tour as you explore this once-prominent Greek colony and the temples of Juno, Concordia, Hercules and Jupiter. Your journey continues past the Erei Mountains to Sicily’s stunning Ionian Coast. The gorgeous coastal city of Taormina is your home for the next four nights.

Day 6: Taormina

Today, discover Taormina, “the jewel of Sicily.” A local guide leads you on a tour of this picturesque city where you’ll see the well-preserved Greek theatre, the Duomo and the public gardens. Spend the afternoon on your own in this city perched high above the sea. Perhaps dine at a sidewalk café or shop in the town’s boutiques.

Day 7: Taormina

The entire day is yours to explore! With free time, you can choose to relax on the coast, dig in to Taormina’s mouthwatering cuisine, or even take an optional tour to Europe’s largest active volcano – Mt. Etna.

Day 8: Taormina - Siracusa - Taormina

Reflect on the grandeur of ancient Greece whilst uncovering its archaeological treasures in historic Siracusa (UNESCO). An expert shares stories of Siracusa’s creation whilst leading you through the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, with its impressive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities. This evening, toast Sicilian culture as you’re serenaded by local musicians during dinner.

Day 9: Taormina - Pozzallo - Tas-Sliema, Malta

Say goodbye to Italy and venture to the island paradise of Malta. Cross the Mediterranean by high-speed ferry to one of the smallest countries in the world. Enter the town of Tas-Sliema, home to breathtaking coasts and deep blue waters. In this fishing village that was transformed into a resort town, you’ll find quaint cafés and seaside promenades. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 10: Tas-Sliema - Mdina - Valletta - Tas-Sliema

Get an intimate look at Mdina – the “Silent City.” As there are no vehicles allowed in town, you will join a local guide for a walking tour featuring the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Head to a local winery where you’ll get a chance to taste the wines of the region. Your adventure continues in Valletta, the capital of Malta. Discover this fortified city on a panoramic coach tour. You’ll take in the picturesque Barrakka Gardens overlooking the harbour, featuring a charming blend of natural beauty and terraced arches. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 11: Tas-Sliema

The day is completely yours to experience the island of Malta however you please. Perhaps you’ll join an optional excursion to a temple complex older than Stonehenge, stopping at a vibrant fishing village and natural blue grotto along the way. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers as you recount your favourite memories of the Mediterranean islands.

Day 12: Tas-Sliema - Tour Ends

Say goodbye to Malta and the Mediterranean as your tour comes to a close today.

Dates and Prices

expand_more

Please note prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change without notice.

Book your holiday before 8 January 2020 and SAVE up to 15%!

Departure dates - 06 Dec 2020, 31 Jan 2021, 28 Feb 2021 :

  • Was $3,899 pp twin share, NOW from $3,314 pp twin share
  • Was $4,649 sole use, NOW from $3,952 sole use

Departure dates - 03 May 2020, 24 May 2020, 14 Jun 2020, 26 Jun 2020, 26 Jul 2020, 23 Aug 2020, 06 Sep 2020, 13 Sep 2020, 20 Sep 2020, 27 Sep 2020, 04 Oct 2020, 11 Oct 2020, 18 Oct 2020, 11 Apr 2021, 18 Apr 2021, 25 Apr 2021:

  • Was $4,849 pp twin share, NOW from $4,122 pp twin share
  • Was $5,899 sole use, NOW from $5,014 sole use

Freecall our local travel team on 1300 414 198 for more details or to book your tour.

Accommodation

expand_more

Hotels on your tour include:

  • Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Palermo
  • Baia Di Ulisse, Agrigento
  • Hotel Villa Diodoro, Taormina
  • Hotel Waterfront, Malta

*hotels are subject to change based on departure dates.

FAQs

expand_more
Tour Activity Level:

The activity level for this tour is 4. To truly experience the program and destination, you need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included activities occurring later in the evening.

Are airport and hotel transfers available?

Passengers can purchase transfers (for the first and last day of the tour) at an additional cost starting at $120 per person, round trip. Some restrictions may apply. All transfers leave at pre-scheduled times.

What is not included in the tour price?

The land price does not include international air travel to and from Australia, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end-of-trip gratuities.

Do I need to tip on my tour?

Whilst tipping may not be expected in Australia, in most other countries you will visit it is customary to tip. This is a way of thanking and rewarding the staff that looked after you on your tour.

Can I purchase pre-paid tipping?

From the 1st of January 2020, Collette is pleased to offer a pre-paid tipping option for guests travelling after 1st May 2020. This allows guests to purchase the package up to 45 days prior to departure and know that all tipping is covered.

How much does pre-paid tipping cost?

The tipping package will vary due to tour length and inclusions. A classic style tour will cost approximately $11 per person, per day and Explorations style tour will be approximately $14 per person, per day. An additional $3 per person will be added for each additional guide that the tour may include. Please contact our reservations team to find out exactly how much the pre-paid package will cost for your tour.

T&Cs

expand_less

Travel at 60 booking conditions apply. Valid for new bookings only.

NEW YEAR SALE: Offer valid on new bookings made 30 Dec 2019 –08 Jan 2020 only, for tours departing 01 Jan 2020 – 30 Apr 2021. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offers are not valid on group, existing bookings or combinable with any other offer. Offer is not valid on Antarctica, British Landscapes, Alaska Discovery, Colours of New England, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, Maritimes Coastal Wonders, or Croatia & Its Islands tours Payment for booking must be made in full by 30/1/20. 

  • SAVE 10% on tours to USA, Canada and South and Central America
  • SAVE 15% off tours to Europe, Africa and Asia
Share this holiday with your friends!

This holiday deal has expired.

Want to find an alternative? Search for another holiday here or contact us.

Share this holiday with your friends!
Simply click any of the buttons below to share this holiday with your favourite travel buddy/group!

This holiday deal has expired.

Want to find an alternative? Search for another holiday here or contact us.