From Palermo Sicilian Retreat Erice & Marsala Tour with Lunch

Palermo , Italy

From Palermo Sicilian Retreat Erice & Marsala Tour with Lunch

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(72 reviews)

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About this experience

Allocate a day of your Sicilian escapade to break away from the island's capital on this comprehensive small group day tour from Palermo, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour escort. The schedule encompasses a visit to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, a delectable lunch, a wine and olive oil tasting at a winery or traditional farm, and a panoramic drive along Marsala’s captivating Salt Route.
While Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, stands as one of Italy's most exhilarating cities, you might find solace in stepping away from its vivacious rhythm after a couple of days. And what better means to achieve this than partaking in a full day small group tour from Palermo, an expedition that unveils the captivating town of Erice and presents the opportunity to marvel at the distinctive vistas of Marsala. Your journey will commence from Palermo, aboard an air-conditioned minivan, guided by an adept driver and tour leader. Brace yourself for a truly extraordinary and enchanting day.

Available options

From Palermo Sicilian Retreat Erice & Marsala Tour with Lunch

What's included

Typical Sicilian lunch in a winery or farm

Exploration of Erice

Air-conditioned vehicle

Engaging wine tasting session

English speaking driver/tour leader

Exterior tour of the Marsala salt pans

Complimentary water bottle

Detailed itinerary

The amazingly sited Castello di Venere in Erice. Towering over the west of Sicily at 751m above sea level and often covered in its own personal cloud, Erice is a wonderfully preserved Mediaeval town offering the most breathtaking views and a palpable sense of history.

Stop 2

Marsala is the most populated town in its province and the fifth in Sicily. The town is famous for the docking of Giuseppe Garibaldi on 11 May 1860 (the Expedition of the Thousand) and for its Marsala wine. A feature of the area is the Stagnone Lagoon Natural Reserve – a marine area with salt ponds.

The salt marshes of Marsala in Sicily are a unique spectacle. Imagine finding yourself in front of placid stretches of water framed by slight white salt dunes where, suddenly, you can see traditional mills. Keep imagining that you are witnessing this show during the sunset time. The orange-red color of the setting sun turns purple and the landscape becomes extraordinarily magical. Well this is one of the experiences you can have by going to the Marsala Salt Pans during an itinerary in Sicily.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pick up and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

48 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.7

24 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We suggest good walking shoes (no flip-flops!) as well as hat and sunscreen

The tour runs rain or shine

Please note that this tour might be run on Mercedes luxury vans or Mercedes luxury minibuses according to the tour occupancy and always providing the highest possible quality

We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours

Please inform us first about food allergies and intolerances

Meeting point

TOWNS OF ITALY TOURIST HUB & COOKING SCHOOL | PALERMO
Located at Via Volturno, 44, 90138 Palermo.
We kindly request your arrival at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure. Regrettably, we cannot accommodate latecomers.

About Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city of rich history, stunning architecture, and a unique cultural blend. Known for its Norman-Arab-Byzantine influences, Palermo offers a mix of grand palaces, bustling markets, and delicious street food that will captivate any traveler.

Top Attractions

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful interior.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €7 for the cathedral and cloister

Palermo Cathedral

This grand palace was the seat of the Norman kings of Sicily. It houses the Palatine Chapel, known for its stunning mosaics and Arabic-Norman architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1.5-2 hours €12 for the palace and chapel

Ballarò Market

One of Palermo's most famous street markets, Ballarò offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce, street food, and local crafts.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to explore

Monreale Cathedral

Located just outside Palermo, Monreale Cathedral is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours including travel €6 for the cathedral and cloister

Teatro Massimo

The largest opera house in Italy and one of the most famous in the world, Teatro Massimo is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.

Architectural/Entertainment 1 hour for a tour €7 for a guided tour

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Panelle

Chickpea fritters, a popular street food in Palermo.

Snack Vegan

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Swimming and snorkeling at Mondello Beach Beach lounging at Mondello Beach Enjoying a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours to the nearby islands Swimming and water sports at the beach

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

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

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Palermo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you

Getting there

By air

Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport • 32 km from city center

By train

Palermo Centrale

By bus

Palermo Centrale Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Palermo. It's affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalsa Vigàta Mondello

Day trips

Monreale

7 km • Half day

Monreale is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and the Benedictine Abbey.

Cefalù

70 km • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beach and medieval cathedral.

Erice

120 km • Full day

A medieval hilltop town with stunning views and well-preserved architecture.

Festivals

Festa di Santa Rosalia • July 10-15 Sagra del Mandarino • January to February Palermo Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit the markets early in the morning for the best selection and freshest produce
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Take a food tour to discover the best street food and local specialties
Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Visit the cathedral and other religious sites early in the morning to avoid crowds