Escorted Tours 2023-2024

Valley of the Temples Day 1: UK to Catania D Depart the UK on your flight to Catania, where on arrival you will be met and transfer to Ragusa. Day 2: Ragusa B Experience the grandeur of Sicily’s most scenic and historically noteworthy towns. Begin today’s exploration in ‘Montalbano Country’, or as it is more formally known, the province of Ragusa. Next, journey to the nearby town of Modica. Later discover a golden display of resplendent baroque Piazzas and churches, which line the streets of Noto. After a guided walk around this enchanting town, make a final stop in Syracuse and enjoy some time at leisure to explore the authentic Sicilian sights of Ortygia. Day 3: Ragusa B Enjoy a guided tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a captivating archaeological complex comprising of eight temples and ancient remains. Marvel at the spellbinding UNESCO World Heritage structures, including the impressive Temple della Concordia, and the Temple of Heracles, whose crumbling eight columns, partially destroyed by wars and natural disasters, are all that remains of the oldest construction in the Valley. Day 4: Ragusa to Aci Castello B Travel towards the seaside town of Aci Castello, stopping en route in Catania. A compelling tour through the heart of Catania’s Old Town leads to the Piazza Duomo, whose vast centre and collection of grey baroque buildings wear the effects of a substantial volcanic eruption in 1669. Concealing former Roman baths, the imposing Cathedral of Saint Agatha stands majestically at the centre of the old town, overlooking the city’s striking but emblematic U Liotru elephant fountain. Journey to Aci Castello for your four-night stay. Day 5: Aci Castello B Relax in your hotel or take the opportunity to explore Aci Castello at your own pace. Day 6: Aci Castello B Head to Mount Etna this morning - Europe’s highest smouldering Volcano. A striking ascent with breath-taking panoramas over the Ionian Sea, cross a unique terrain of black lava rock to reach the Silvestri craters. From the summit of this rock- strewn landscape, climb on board a Circumetnea train and travel along a path that showcases the sheer beauty of this natural phenomenon. Arriving in ‘the black town’ of Randazzo, explore this medieval village nestled in the foothills of Mount Etna. Day 7: Aci Castello B/D Today, embark on a walking tour of Taormina. Admire awe-inspiring views overlooking the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’ from the Piazza IX Aprile, before heading to the Corso Umberto. Catch a glimpse of the remarkable St Nicolas Cathedral of Taormina situated at the top of this quaint avenue. Later, enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Day 8: Aci Castello to the UK B After breakfast, transfer for your return flight, or continue on to your chosen extension. Classical Sicily Tour highlights ✔ Discover Sicily’s most prestigious baroque architecture in ‘Montalbano Country’, Noto and Syracuse ✔ Visit Agrigento’s fascinating archaeological complex, Valley of the Temples ✔ Enjoy a guided tour of Catania’s historic old town ✔ Journey to the Silvestri Craters atop Europe's highest Volcano, Mount Etna ✔ Explore Taormina on a walking tour and admire stunning views over the Ionian Sea Sicily is a diverse spectacle brimming with the world’s finest assembly of Baroque architecture and pristine Greek temples. Immerse yourself in historic charm, idyllically situated in the shadows of Europe’s highest Volcano, Mount Etna. Meal plan: 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners Accommodation: Ragusa, 4 H Hotel Mediterraneo Aci Castello, 4 H Hotel President Park Flights: London Gatwick to Sicily with British Airways Tour pace: Easygoing  Aci Castello Ragusa Catania < <  Coach Air Nights 2 4 3 Extend your tour Sliema, Malta city stay, 3 nights, 4 H B&B from £299 Valletta, Malta city stay, 3 nights, 5 H B&B from £499 Departures & from prices 23 Apr 23 £1,199 21 Apr 24 £1,249 14 May 23 £1,299 12 May 24 £1,399 11 Jun 23 £1,399 9 Jun 24 £1,499 10 Sep 23 £1,349 8 Sep 24 £1,449 8 Oct 23 £1,099 6 Oct 24 £1,149 • A single supplement starts from just £299 • Tipping paid locally £12 Europe 153 Hundreds more escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk