Northern Sicily: Islands & Volcanoes

There’s no better way to connect with a new city than by exploring the local food scene, so dive into Palermo with this street food and market tour. Set off on foot from Central Station and whet your palate with several popular street food options as you amble through Corso Vittorio Emanuele, toward towards Piazza Pretoria and its fabulous fountain. Explore Palermo as it is meant to be seen, off the beaten path. You’ll leave with a full belly and a greater understanding of what makes Palermo so special.

Cefalù's crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular along the whole Sicilian coast. Enjoy a quick dip in the waters, or simply lounge on the beach.

The Salita Saraceni is an enormous staircase that winds up through three tiers of city walls. Spend 30 to 45 minutes heading up to the summit of La Rocca - from here, you'll have wonderful views of the town below.

Have an aperitivo in Piazza Duomo and visit Cefalù's cathedral, one of the jewels in Sicily's Arab-Norman crown. Opt to climb the towers themselves for great views of the area.

One of Lipari's great pleasures is simply going for a passeggiate (afternoon stroll) around the island's streets, taking in its laid-back atmosphere. Head to Corso Vittorio Emanuele - the liveliest street in town - and visit one of its many inviting bars, cafes and restaurants.

Head to the island's most popular swimming spot - the long, pebbly strip at Canneto - and spend a day on the beach like a local.

Take a 10 min ferry ride to nearby Vulcano, a small volcanic island, visited since ancient Roman times. Opt to take an hour-long crater hike.

Head out with your CEO for an introduction to this elegant and lively city.

Built in the 3rd century BC and still in use today, Teatro Greco is one of the most dramatically situated Greek theatres in the world.

Taormina's chief delight is wandering this pedestrian-friendly, boutique-lined thoroughfare.

Created by Englishwoman Florence Trevelyan in the late 19th century, these beautiful public gardens offer breathtaking views of the coast and Mt Etna.

Head out on the town with a local expert, discovering the culinary delights of Catania’s vibrant food scene. Stroll through picturesque alleyways and marvel at the iconic landmarks while sampling classic treats like arancini, cannoli, fried fish, and flavourful cipollina. You’re sure to be captivated by the colours, aromas, and lively energy found in the historic Pescheria Market, as your guide uncovers Catania’s rich, local history. This is, quite possibly, the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Take a guided tour of Mount Etna and learn about the history of this ancient volcano from local naturalist guides. Walk through old growth forests, unique lava formations, and a volcanic cave (weather permitting). After, continue to a vineyard and enjoy a late lunch of cheeses, salami, olives and bread, paired with excellent local wines.

Catania's raucous fish market, which takes over the streets behind Piazza del Duomo every weekday morning, is pure street theatre. Open from 7am-2pm.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Catania's central piazza is a set piece of contrasting lava and limestone, surrounded by buildings in the unique local baroque style and crowned by the grand Cattedrale di Sant'Agata.

Stroll through Catania's main shopping street, which runs straight from Piazza del Duomo to the foothills below Etna. Visit the Giardino Bellini gardens and watch local unfold.