COLORS , FLAVORS and SMELLS IN THE SCENIC BAROQUE of SICILY

Catania , Italy

COLORS , FLAVORS and SMELLS IN THE SCENIC BAROQUE of SICILY

Active

(4 reviews)

Duration varies

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

2 days to visit the south baroque Sicily and its' precious jewels

You will visit

a small charming village of Arabic origin: Marzamemi. one of the prettiest seaside fishing villages which until today has been keeping its original colors and shapes.

you can enjoy a delicious lunch of local fish in front of the sea

we will end up at the very southeast corner of Sicily, one of the outposts of Europe on the border with the Mediterranean and Africa: Portopalo di Capopassero .

you will be guided through an olfactory “Journey” made of unknown aromas and forgotten scents

You will discover the baroque jewels of Scicli and Modica

you will watch the “chocolatiers” at work.

Available options

COLORS , FLAVORS and SMELLS IN THE SCENIC BAROQUE of SICILY

What's included

breakfast included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private tour

Driver/guide or Tour escort/host

Fish lunch

Round-trip private transfer

Lunch

Olfactory visit and lunch

Breakfast

Air-conditioned vehicle

1 Overnight accommodation in a charming hotel 4*

Local taxes

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Transport by private vehicle

Bottled water

Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points

Visit to a chocolate factory and taste

Fuel surcharge

What you'll see

Day 1

09am Meet our driver escort at your pick up selectionned location .

Departure to a small charming village of Arabic origin: Marzamemi. one of the prettiest seaside fishing villages which until today has been keeping its original colors and shapes. We will visit, and listen to a fascinating explanation: from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, the Romans and the Arabs, in Marzamemi fish processing is a tradition . A walk along the sea will lead us in a cute , little Taverna where you can enjoy a delicious lunch of local fish..

If we follow the road south we will end up at the very southeast corner of Sicily, one of the outposts of Europe on the border with the Mediterranean and Africa : Portopalo di Capopassero . Capo Passero, on Sicily’s southernmost tip, is one of those outposts of Europe on the border with the Mediterranean and Africa. Time has stood still in Portopalo, a village which still lives from fishing and agriculture.

Portopalo is a far off place both geographically and in terms of atmosphere and it is the ideal location to get back to Sicily as it once was, the real Sicily.

Continue to Ragusa or Modica . Check in at our 4* charming hotel. Dinner on your own and overnight.

day 2

Meet our driver escort . Set in rolling countryside among rocks and giant carob trees, we’ll discover Scicli , situated in the south eastern part of Sicily, closed to the Mediterranean sea and included in the World Heritage List. The extraordinary late baroque buildings makes this city unique in the Val di Noto

Our visit will be carried out in a nursery between Scicli and the sea , where we will be guided through an olfactory “Journey” made of unknown aromas and forgotten scents

An itinerary of sensuous experiences with instructions-for-use, recipes, and tastings-aperitifs in an event space created in one of the greenhouses. Lunch

Discover now the baroque jewels of Modica . The town has been declared World Heritage site by the UNESCO with its terraced narrow alleys and its successful integration into the wildly romantic landscape. Modica is an open air museum. Hard to describe, you have to be there! .

But Modica needs also to be smelled: when chocolatiers and cake's shops bake local specialties and when the flowering jasmine embraces you in the summer nights. Enjoy all this still made in the traditional way, that is based on Aztec methods and old recipes. For the real "chocoholic", it will be possible to watch the “chocolatiers” at work. End of our services

NB you can add other excursions from the list : like Syracusa and Noto or taormina or a transfer tour to the west Sicily

What's not included

Gratuities

Licensed tourist local guide ( our drivers are not local guides. They are tour escort)

Entrance fees to monuments

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

Dress code is formal or smart casual

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Important notes

• Dress code is formal
• Dress code is smart - no casual clothes (i.e. jeans, sportswear, joggers or sneakers)
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Valid from the time you exchange your voucher, for the consecutive days selected.

About Catania

Catania is a vibrant city on the east coast of Sicily, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and active volcano, Mount Etna. The city offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, baroque buildings, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Catania, featuring the stunning Catania Cathedral and the elegant Elephant Fountain. The square is a hub of activity and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Romano

The Roman Theatre is an ancient ruin dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's a fascinating glimpse into Catania's Roman past and a popular spot for cultural events and performances.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €4 (includes access to the nearby Roman Odeon)

Castello Ursino

Castello Ursino is a 13th-century castle that now houses the Civic Museum, showcasing art and artifacts from Catania's rich history. The castle's imposing structure and scenic views make it a must-visit attraction.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours €8

Mount Etna

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Nature/Adventure Half-day to full-day €50-€150 (depending on the tour)

Fish Market (La Pescheria)

La Pescheria is Catania's bustling fish market, offering a vibrant and authentic Sicilian experience. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, interact with local vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (food purchases vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta alla Norma

A classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata, and basil. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Sicilian cuisine.

Main Course Vegetarian

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas. They are a popular street food and a must-try in Catania.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit. Cannoli are a beloved Sicilian dessert and a must-try in Catania.

Dessert Vegetarian

Granita con Brioche

A refreshing Sicilian breakfast consisting of granita (a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors) served with a sweet brioche bun. It's a perfect way to start the day, especially in the summer.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Etna Guided volcano tours Scuba diving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Visiting museums Attending cultural events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Catania is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

18-28°C 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Catania is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.

Getting there

By air

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Catania Centrale

By bus

Autostazione di Catania

Getting around

Public transport

The AMT bus system covers the entire city and its suburbs, offering frequent and affordable service. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Catania.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San Berillo Borgo Canalicchio

Day trips

Taormina

50 km • Half day to full day

Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its stunning views, ancient Greek theatre, and elegant shops and cafes. It's a popular day trip from Catania, offering a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.

Syracuse

70 km • Full day

Syracuse is a historic city on the eastern coast of Sicily, known for its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and rich history. It's a fascinating day trip from Catania, offering a mix of archaeological sites and scenic views.

Mount Etna

30 km • Half day to full day

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Festivals

Festa di Sant'Agata • February 3-5 Catania Jazz Festival • Late October to early November Infiorata di Catania • May (first Sunday)

Pro tips

Visit the fish market (La Pescheria) early in the morning for the freshest catch and a lively atmosphere.
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods, such as San Berillo and Borgo, for an authentic and immersive experience.
Take a guided tour of Mount Etna for a safe and informative exploration of the volcano's craters and lava fields.
Sample local specialties, such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli, at traditional trattorias and street food stalls.
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Festa di Sant'Agata and the Catania Jazz Festival, for a unique and memorable experience.