Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a land of enchanting contrasts and timeless allure. From the ancient ruins of Agrigento to the volcanic majesty of Mount Etna, the bustling streets of Palermo, Sicily is an Italian destination that engages all the senses! Today we share Kim and Kurt's Sicilian journey as it was a spectacular adventure of unique experiences, rich culture, and Mediterranean beauty!
We are thrilled to share the dream trip of Kim and Kurt, a delightful adventurous couple, who inspire us with their love for travel and new experiences. When they decided on their next destination - Sicily - they reached out to us to craft the ultimate Mediterranean escape, tailored to their unique travel style and desires!
"My husband and I chose TourTailors to help us set up a self-guided tour of Sicily for 12 days in October. In 2015, with the recommendation of friends, we contacted TourTailors to set up a self-guided 2-week trip to Portugal. It was so successful that we wanted to use TourTailors again for our trip to Sicily." - explains Kim.
So, let’s join Kim and Kurt as they explore the Sicilian coastline day by day!
Kim and Kurt first arrived in Taormina, welcomed by the warm Sicilian sun and the gracious local hospitality. A smooth transfer from the airport to their charming hotel offered a glimpse of the beauty awaiting!
The town’s enchanting streets, lined with historic architecture and independent boutiques, immediately captivated the couple. The scent of citrus trees mingled with the enticing aromas of local trattorias, setting the stage for the days ahead. Their first day was a chance to get some rest after a long flight, soak in the stunning views of Mount Etna and the sea, and prepare for the adventures to come!
Their second day began with an unforgettable morning tour of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. The journey up the slopes was both thrilling and awe-inspiring. The rugged volcanic landscapes, with dark lava fields contrasting against patches of greenery, showcased the raw power and beauty of nature.
The crisp mountain air carried a faint sulfuric tang, a subtle reminder of the volcano’s ever-present activity. Kim and Kurt were also rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding countryside and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea stretching endlessly into the horizon - an experience that was both exhilarating and deeply inspiring.
On the following day, Kim and Kurt delved into the historical heart of Sicily with a private walking tour of Syracuse. Their local guide brought the city’s rich Greek heritage to life as they explored its ancient ruins, including the magnificent Greek theater, the Roman Amphitheater and the mysterious Ear of Dionysius.
The Neapolis Archaeological Park truly is a treasure trove of ancient Greek and Roman heritage, offering a deep dive into the city’s storied past!
The journey continued to Modica, a town renowned for its chocolate-making tradition. Here, Kim and Kurt enjoyed a delightful tour of a chocolate factory, where they learned about the unique process of crafting Modica’s famous chocolate. The air was filled with the rich, intoxicating aroma of cocoa as they watched artisans skillfully mix and shape the chocolate. The tasting session was a treat for the senses, offering flavors infused with ingredients like citrus, cinnamon and chili.
"The town, the churches, the chocolate factory, the restaurants were delightful, and we got in many steps that day going from our hotel down to the town. The view was spectacular looking down on the town." - shares Kim. Their stay in Modica definitely added a sweet and flavorful touch to their adventure!
On day seven, Kim and Kurt headed to Agrigento, home to the iconic Valle dei Templi. As the sun began to set, they embarked on a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. As Kim says: "The temples were stunning at sunset and held an interesting history for sure!"
The ancient Greek temples, bathed in golden light, stood as majestic reminders of Sicily’s storied past. Walking through the ruins, it is possible to feel the echoes of history underfoot, as their guide shared fascinating stories about the gods and rituals that once animated these sacred spaces. The warm hues of the setting sun, combined with the soft rustling of olive trees in the breeze, created an atmosphere of serene wonder.
On their way to Palermo, Kim and Kurt stopped at the Zingaro Nature Reserve along Sicily’s northern coast, where rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and crystal-clear waters awaited them. Kim shares their memories of it: "We stopped in Zingaro Natural Preserve and hiked there for several hours. The views of the Mediterranean Sea were spectacular - another highlight for us!"
Their visit began with a scenic hike along well-marked trails, taking in stunning views of the Mediterranean. Along the way, they stumbled upon secluded coves like Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo, where you can have a refreshing swim and enjoy the serenity of the untouched landscape. There are also ancient ruins that will immerse you in the reserve’s natural and historical beauty. The day ended with a wondrous sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea, sealing the experience in the best way.
The last destination of this trip is none other than Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. A three-hour food walking tour introduced them to the city’s diverse culinary scene. From bustling markets to iconic street food stalls, they tasted local specialties such as arancini, panelle, and cannoli. The air was filled with the sizzling of frying batter and the enticing aroma of spices.
"As we came to expect from TourTailors, the guide was great!" - explains Kim - "She took us to four different restaurants with one course at each restaurant. In between she told us stories and history about Palermo and the places we walked by between restaurants. The food in Sicily was excellent—great pasta, fish, nuts, breakfasts, wine—you name it!"
On their final day, they bid farewell to Sicily! "We were tired after the busy time in Sicily, but full of good memories!" - For Kim and Kurt, it was not just a trip, but an enriching experience that deepened their connection to the island and created lifetime memories. From ancient ruins to culinary delights, Sicily has captivated their hearts and left them longing to return! If you are yearning for an experience filled with amazing landscapes and exciting adventures, get in touch and let us bring your dream vacation to life!