DAY 1 ISTANBUL AIRPORT – CATANIA
Meeting with our valued guests at Istanbul Airport International Departures Terminal at 03:00. Following baggage drop, passport control, and check-in procedures, departure for Catania at 07:00 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1393. Arrival in Catania at 08:25 local time. We depart for Mount Etna in our awaiting vehicle. As we ascend towards Etna, we have the opportunity to take magnificent photos of Mount Etna, which welcomes us with its lush vegetation and stunning scenery. While ascending Europe's highest active volcano, we will see the 2nd Silvestri Crater at an altitude of 1,800 meters. Afterwards, we continue our tour accompanied by beautiful views in the area formed by the lava of Mount Etna. From here, we proceed to Syracuse. Syracuse, the city where the famous mathematician Archimedes lived, features highlights such as the Fountain of Arethusa, the Cathedral, the Fountain of Diana, and the Temple of Apollo. Transfer to our hotel after the tour. Free time following check-in procedures. Overnight at our hotel.
DAY 2 SAVOCA – TAORMINA – GIARDINI NAXOS – CATANIA
Following breakfast, we start our full-day excursion at the time specified by our tour guide. In Savoca, we will see the filming locations of the world-famous movie "The Godfather." Highlights to be visited include Bar Vitelli and the Church of San Michele. After walking through cinematic streets, we depart for Taormina, the pearl of the Ionian Sea and the most picturesque coastal town of Sicily. After visiting this charming town known for its unique views, its location at the foot of Mount Tauro, quaint streets, and souvenir shops, we proceed to Giardini Naxos, famous for its colorful streets and volcanic beach. Founded in 734 BC as Sicily's first Greek colony, you can capture unforgettable photos in this historic settlement. Return to our hotel following the visit. Overnight at our hotel.
DAY 3 CATANIA – CEFALÙ – PALERMO
Following breakfast, we complete our hotel check-out procedures and proceed to Catania city center. On our panoramic city tour, the Duomo Cathedral, Fontana dell'Elefante, Piazza della Repubblica, and Via Etnea are among the sights to be seen. Afterwards, we depart for Cefalù. In this charming fishing town situated along the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, we see the historic 12th-century cathedral and the Fishermen's Gate (Porta Pescara), and spend enjoyable time along its authentic streets. After the tour, we arrive at our hotel in Palermo. Overnight at our hotel.
DAY 4 ERICE – CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO – MONREALE – PALERMO
Following breakfast, at the time designated by our tour guide, we depart for Erice, a quintessential medieval town with city walls, stone houses featuring courtyards, and charming stone alleys. During the free time granted here, you will truly feel as if you are in the Middle Ages. Afterwards, we head to Castellammare del Golfo. One of Trapani's small yet captivating towns, Castellammare del Golfo draws attention with its historic texture and natural beauty. Its long promenade and the Arab-Norman Castle are among the highlights to be seen. We then visit Monreale Cathedral, one of the most prominent monuments in Sicily, bearing the artistic imprints of Norman, Byzantine, and Islamic cultures. Renowned for its 6,500 square meters of mosaics, the cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Norman-era art. Afterward, we return to Palermo city center. Politeama Square, Quattro Canti, Via Roma, and Via Libertà are among the sights to be visited. Overnight at our hotel.
DAY 5 PALERMO – ISTANBUL AIRPORT
Following breakfast, we complete our check-out procedures and transfer to Palermo Airport at the time advised by our tour guide. After passport control and baggage check-in procedures, we depart for Istanbul at 09:25 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1374. Arrival at Istanbul Airport at 13:00 local time marks the end of our tour. We look forward to welcoming you on our next tour.