12-Day Sicily & Malta Escorted Tour

Catania • Syracuse • Ragusa • Agrigento • Palermo • Cefalù • Valletta • Mdina • Gozo

Two Mediterranean jewels. One unforgettable journey.
Discover the ancient Greek temples of Sicily and the fortified Baroque cities of Malta on this immersive small-group escorted tour through history, culture, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Perfect for travelers seeking a unique Italy and Malta vacation package filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, archaeological wonders, medieval towns, and authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

DAY 1 – Sunday: Depart for Italy

Board your overnight flight to Sicily and begin your Mediterranean adventure.

DAY 2 – Monday: Arrive in Catania

Benvenuti in Sicilia!

Arrive in Catania, a vibrant coastal city set beneath the dramatic presence of Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy time at leisure to relax or begin exploring one of Sicily’s most important cultural centers.

At approximately 6 PM, meet your Tour Manager for a welcome orientation followed by dinner.

Overnight: Catania
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3 – Tuesday: Catania City Tour & Optional Taormina

Explore Catania’s fascinating blend of ancient ruins and Baroque grandeur. After its destruction in the 17th century, the city was magnificently rebuilt in Sicilian Baroque style, featuring wide piazzas and elegant architecture.

Afternoon at leisure — or join the optional excursion to Taormina, the legendary “Jewel of the Ionian Sea.” Visit its spectacular Greek Theater, offering panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Etna.

Optional: Taormina Tour
Overnight: Catania
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 – Wednesday: Syracuse & Arrival in Ragusa

Travel to Syracuse, once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world and birthplace of Archimedes.

Visit the Archaeological Park, including:

• The Roman Amphitheater

• The Greek Theater

• The legendary “Ear of Dionysius” cave

After free time to explore, continue to Ragusa, arriving in the afternoon.

Overnight: Ragusa
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5 – Thursday: Ragusa Ibla & Optional Donnafugata Castle

Discover Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO-listed Baroque masterpiece filled with ornate churches and aristocratic palaces.

Afternoon at leisure — or join the optional Donnafugata Castle excursion. Explore this romantic estate surrounded by dry-stone walls and countryside landscapes. Admire lavish interiors, period furnishings, frescoes, and learn about Sicilian aristocratic life.

Optional: Donnafugata Castle Tour
Overnight: Ragusa
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6 – Friday: Valley of the Temples & Palermo

Journey to Agrigento to explore the spectacular Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest archaeological parks in the world. The remarkably preserved Greek temples stand as timeless monuments to Sicily’s classical past.

Enjoy a regional lunch before continuing to Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital.

Overnight: Palermo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7 – Saturday: Palermo Old City Tour & Optional Wine Experience

Explore Palermo’s historic Old City, where Arab, Norman, Gothic, and Baroque influences coexist in stunning harmony. Visit the magnificent Cathedral and stroll through lively streets and colorful markets.

Afternoon at leisure — or enjoy an optional wine tasting experience just outside Palermo. Sample four local wines paired with traditional Sicilian delicacies while learning about the island’s winemaking heritage.

Optional: Palermo Wine Tasting
Overnight: Palermo
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8 – Sunday: Cefalù & Return to Catania

Depart Palermo and travel to the charming seaside village of Cefalù. Wander through its medieval streets and arrive at Piazza del Duomo, home to one of Sicily’s most beautiful Norman cathedrals.

Continue to Catania for your final evening in Sicily.

Overnight: Catania
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9 – Monday: Flight to Malta & Valletta Tour

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Malta.

Upon arrival, explore Valletta, the fortified capital built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. Admire majestic gardens, Baroque churches, and historic streets that preserve the city’s noble heritage.

Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Qawra
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10 – Tuesday: Leisure in Malta or Optional Gozo

Enjoy a day at leisure in Malta — or join the optional excursion to Gozo, Malta’s serene sister island.

On Gozo, visit the Ggantija Temples, among the world’s oldest freestanding prehistoric structures. Experience rural landscapes, scenic coastlines, and traditional island life.

Optional: Gozo Island Tour
Overnight: Qawra
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11 – Wednesday: Mdina & St. Paul’s Catacombs

Explore Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled capital known as the “Silent City.” Walk through its narrow medieval streets and admire panoramic views from its bastions.

Continue to St. Paul’s Catacombs, an extensive underground burial complex dating back to the 3rd century B.C.

Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable Sicily and Malta journey.

Overnight: Qawra
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12 – Thursday: Depart Malta

Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

Meals: Breakfast

Escorted Tour Package Includes

✔ Round-trip flights (New York–Catania / Luqa–New York)
✔ Intra-flight from Catania to Malta
✔ 10 nights First Class accommodations
✔ 13 meals (10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners)
✔ Guided sightseeing with local experts
✔ Entrance fees per itinerary
✔ English-speaking Tour Manager throughout
✔ Modern air-conditioned motor coach
✔ Hotel taxes & Maltese eco-contribution tax
✔ Hotel porterage & included gratuities
✔ Wireless headsets for enhanced touring