Guided Tour from Palermo: Unknown Sicily in the Sican Mountains

Sicily , Italy

Guided Tour from Palermo: Unknown Sicily in the Sican Mountains

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About this experience

Discover authentic and unknown Sicily with our exclusive tour among the Sicani mountains. We start from Lercara Friddi, the homeland of Frank Sinatra's father, where we will visit the Mother Church and its unique collection of a thousand nativity scenes. We continue towards Prizzi, a medieval village that will make you take a leap back in time, and Palazzo Adriano, a mix of cultures and the set of the Oscar-winning film "New Cinema Paradiso".

We will then take you to the Hermitage of Santa Rosalia alla Quisquina, a place of great spirituality immersed in the woods, and to San Giovanni Gemini, where we will visit the mother church that houses the Black Christ “Jesus Nazarè”. Finally, we will delve into the heart of Cammarata, known as "a mountain of excellences", where we will savor a lunch with local delicacies.

This is not a simple tour, but a journey through history, culture, and gastronomy in the heart of Sicily. Hurry up, places are limited and this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.

Available options

Guided Tour from Palermo: Unknown Sicily in the Sican Mountains

Pickup included

What's included

Transport

All entrances where provided

Complete with “eco-sustainable” water and wine with local raw materials.

Detailed itinerary

Our tour begins from the predetermined meeting point, from which we will head towards Lercara Friddi. Here we will visit the Mother Church, which houses a unique collection of a thousand nativity scenes in its crypt. You will hear the echo of history resounding in the stone walls and the scent of incense pervading the air. Lercara Friddi is also known for being the place of origin of Frank Sinatra's family.

From there, we will move towards Prizzi, a municipality rich in history dating back to 258 BC. We delve into the timeless charm of the city's narrow streets, where getting lost is equivalent to taking a leap back in time. From this privileged position, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a spectacular view of the heart of Sicily.

Il nostro viaggio prosegue verso Palazzo Adriano, un gioiello nel cuore della Sicilia. Questa cittadina, fondata nel XV secolo da esuli albanesi, è un affascinante mix di culture. Tra le sue peculiarità spicca una chiesa di rito greco-bizantino, testimone delle antiche tradizioni albanesi ancora vive tra gli abitanti. Palazzo Adriano è anche famosa per essere stata il set del film premio Oscar "Nuovo Cinema Paradiso", rendendola una meta amata dai visitatori di tutto il mondo.

Our journey continues towards Cammarata, but first we will stop at Santo Stefano Quisquina. We will take a short walk in the woods, close to the Monte Cammarata nature reserve, to reach the Hermitage of Santa Rosalia alla Quisquina, a place of great spirituality and beauty, immersed in nature. Especially in the summer months, the hermitage opens all its internal rooms, even the cells, offering a unique experience. In the winter months, however, the charm of the exteriors does not lack, equally offering an unforgettable experience.

Arriving in Cammarata, also known as the town of "a mountain of excellences" for its numerous globally recognized culinary excellences, we will stop for a lunch with all the local delicacies. We will savor high-quality cheeses, vegetables and roast meats at km 0, homemade pasta with seasonal ingredients and local desserts. Cammarata, a town that boasts a rich and fascinating history, with its roots dating back to the Norman era, will amaze us with its unique urban landscape, with its narrow courtyards and the staircases of the Arab quarter.

Finally, we will head towards San Giovanni Gemini, where we will visit the mother church that houses the Black Christ “Jesus Nazarè”, a figure that reveals a fascinating story and is known for the great feast that brings incredible emotions every year. We will return to the initial meeting point bringing with us unforgettable memories of an unknown but incredibly fascinating Sicily. This is not just a simple excursion, but a journey through history, culture, and gastronomy in the heart of Sicily. The tour also reserves several surprises, which will make the experience even more unique and unforgettable. Hurry up, places are limited and this is an opportunity you will not want to miss!

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT

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1 reviews

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2 reviews

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Valley of the Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.

Historical 2-3 hours €10

Mount Etna

Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nature Half day to full day €30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.

Architectural 1-2 hours €7

Taormina

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre

Cefalù

A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.

Beach Half day to full day Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.

Dessert Vegan and gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park Volcano trekking on Mount Etna Beach lounging in Cefalù Spa treatments in Taormina Visiting the Valley of the Temples Exploring the historic center of Palermo Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.

Getting there

By air

Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center

By train

Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale

By bus

Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Palermo Centro Storico Taormina Catania Centro Agrigento

Day trips

Aeolian Islands

25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight

A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.

Erice

100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day

A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.

Noto

90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day

A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.

Festivals

Infiorata di Noto • May Taormina Film Fest • June Sagra del Miele • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.