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Secure your place on this program with a non-refundable $350 lifetime deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before the program's start date.

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      We are also offering this program as two separate halves: Northern Sicily on March 21–27 and Southern Sicily on March 27–April 3.

      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 03/21/2027 - 04/03/2027

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 14 Days / 13 Nights

      Overview

      On this immersive two-week journey through Sicily’s northern and southern coasts, explore the seaside charm of Cefalù, take in the dramatic landscapes of the Aeolian Islands, and witness the island’s iconic volcanic scenery. Continue south to experience a hands-on Sicilian cooking class, wander through historic medieval villages, and relax in sun-soaked coastal towns rich in history and culture. Get a comprehensive look at Sicily’s beautiful landscapes, traditions, and heritage, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      What's Included:
      • Orientation walks in Palermo, Cefalù, Taormina, and Syracuse
      • Panarea & Stromboli Islands boat excursion
      • Arancini cooking class
      • Visit to Ragusa
      • Villa Romana del Casale visit
      • Valley of the Temples guided tour
      • Monreale Cathedral visit
      • G Adventures tour leader throughout
      • 13 breakfasts and 1 lunch – allow $495-645 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (13 nts)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by private vehicle and ferry
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Airport transfers
      • Single/private accommodation (add-on available)

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Palermo Arrive in Palermo at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until the Welcome Meeting in the evening. The nearest airport is the Palermo's Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO).

      If your schedule allows, arrive a day or two early to spend more time in Palermo, adjust to the time zone, and buffer against flight delays. We can request extra hotel nights for you before the program begins.

      Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting
      Hotel check-in is normally between 2–3 p.m. Check with reception for the exact time and location of the group welcome meeting, typically between 6–7 p.m. Please make every effort to attend this meeting. If you're running late, send a message in the group WhatsApp or call the emergency number on your trip voucher so that your tour leader can let you know where and when to meet the group.

      After the meeting, you might choose to have dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to get to know one another further.

      • Joining Instructions
      • There are a variety of transportation options to choose from to travel from the airport to your hotel, including a taxi, bus, and train. A taxi (around €35 EUR) is the quickest and most convenient travel option, as they offer 24/7 door-to-door services. The Prestia e Comandè bus is cheaper (€6.30 for a one-way ticket to the city center), and the Trinacria Express connects the Palermo airport and Palermo Centrale. The train costs €6.50, departs every 30 minutes, and takes approximately one hour.

      Head out for an orientation walk of Palermo's historic city center. The city has been the crossroad of many civilizations: Phoenicians, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards. You will see baroque and gothic façades, neoclassical theaters such as Teatro Massimo (the biggest in Italy and one of the largest in Europe), unusual squares such as Quattro Canti, and the majestic Palermo Cathedral.

      You can also pre-book a food tour in Palermo for today. See more details below under "Activities to Pre-Book."

      Continue to Cefalú, often cited as one of Italy's most beautiful townships, and stroll through cobbled streets to a picturesque cove by the beach. Enjoy a brief walk with your tour leader. The squares, streets, and churches of this medieval town are so postcard-pretty that it's no wonder director Giuseppe Tornatore chose to set parts of his much-loved film Cinema Paradiso here.

      With free time, observe local fishermen working on their boats, or simply wander around town. Cefalù's crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular along the whole Sicilian coast.

      The Salita Saraceni is an enormous staircase that winds up through three tiers of city walls. Opt to take 30 to 45 minutes climbing up to the summit of La Rocca – from here, you'll have wonderful views of the town below.

      Opt to end the day with an aperitivo in Piazza Duomo and visit the 12th-century Duomo di Cefalù, one of the jewels in Sicily's Arab-Norman crown. Climb the towers for great views of the area.

      Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by private vehicle.
      Meals included: Breakfast

      Travel to the Aeolian Islands, a small archipelago of volcanic lands known as "the pearls of Italy" for their intriguing natural formations and named after Aeolus, the god of the winds. Take a car and ferry to reach Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore. Opt to visit the island's most popular swimming spot, the long, pebbly strip at Canneto, or take another short ferry (12 euros) to the island of Vulcano to see its active crater. The word volcano, and its equivalent in several European languages, derives from the name of this island, which in turn derives from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.

      Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by private vehicle, 1 hr by ferry
      Meals included: Breakfast

      Take the morning to relax or leisurely wander through Lipari.

      Later, set sail for a journey through the stunning Aeolian Islands, stopping at Panarea and Stromboli. On Panarea, visit Cala Junco beach and wander through the village. Then see Basiluzzo, the smallest of the Aeolian Islands. Continue to Stromboli and enjoy free time to explore local shops in town.

      As sunset approaches, cruise back to the islet of Stombolicchio and arrive just as it starts to get dark at the Scara del Fuoco, considered the best spot for viewing Mount Stromboli's eruptions. This is the last stop and, for many, the most awaited. (Please note: this activity begins at 2 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m. We recommend bringing a sweater, as the evening breeze gets chilly aboard the boat!)

      Approximate travel time: 8 hrs by boat
      Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, travel from Lipari to Milazzo by ferry and then finish the journey to Taormina by private vehicle.

      Once in Taormina, join your tour leader for a brief introduction to this beautifully situated hilltop town, once part of the "Grand Tour" many affluent Europeans took in the 18th and 19th centuries. After the orientation walk, enjoy free time when you may opt to visit the stunning Teatro Greco, an ancient Roman amphitheater with commanding views of Mount Etna. You could also visit the Corso Umberto I, Taormina's pedestrian-friendly, boutique-lined thoroughfare, or the Villa Comunale Gardens, beautiful public gardens that offer breathtaking views of the coast and Mt. Etna.

      Finally, continue onwards to Catania for the evening.

      Approximate travel time: 1 hr by ferry, 2.5 hrs by private vehicle (1.5 hrs Milazzo-Taormina, 1 hr Taormina-Catania)
      Meals included: Breakfast

      In the morning, your tour leader will take you around Catania so you can get your bearings and see some of the city's main sites. If something catches your eye, there will be plenty of opportunity for you to return during your free time after the walk.

      The rest of the day is yours to explore. Catania's central piazza is a set piece of contrasting lava and limestone, surrounded by buildings in the unique local baroque style and crowned by the grand Cattedrale di Sant'Agata. La Pescheria, Catania's raucous fish market, takes over the streets behind Piazza del Duomo every weekday morning and is pure street theatre (open from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.).

      Shoppers will enjoy a stroll through Catania's main shopping street, Via Etnea, which runs straight from Piazza del Duomo to the foothills below Etna. Visit the Giardino Bellini gardens and watch local life unfold.

      You can also pre-book a food tour in Catania for today. See more details below under "Activities to Pre-Book."

      Meals included: Breakfast

      Spend a free day in the second-largest city on the Italian island of Sicily. Catania also happens to be an important economic hub for the country. The city proudly displays its heritage and culture within its museums, like the Basilica Sant’Agata and the Museo Civici. There are also plenty of opportunities for day trips and outdoor excursions.

      Opt to take a guided tour of Mount Etna and learn about the legendary history of this ancient volcano from local naturalist guides. Walk through old-growth forests, unique lava formations, and a volcanic cave (weather permitting). Continue to a vineyard and enjoy a late lunch of cheeses, salami, olives, and bread, paired with excellent local wines.

      Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, we travel to Syracuse, an enchanting city by the Ionian Sea that was once at the center of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. After you arrive, learn how to prepare a delicious snack enjoyed beyond the borders of Sicily: deep-fried arancini, a ball of creamy risotto rice typically filled with a savory cheese or meat filling.

      Later, explore the old town's baroque piazzas and medieval side streets on an orientation walk with your tour leader.

      Approximate travel time: 1 hr by private vehicle
      Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

      During a free day in Syracuse, opt to uncover the city's ancient past at the Parco Archeologico della Neapoli, home to Syracuse's sprawling Teatro Greco. First constructed in the 5th century BC, today visitors can wander the grounds and imagine what 2nd-century gladiator combats and horse races at the Anfiteatro Romano may have looked like.

      You may also take a local bus to Noto, about an hour southwest of Syracuse, home to one of Sicily's most beautiful historic centers. Stroll through the Arco di Trionfo to reach Corso Vittorio Emanuele and visit the majestic 18th-century Noto Cathedral.

      Meals included: Breakfast

      This morning, we drive to Ragusa and enjoy some free time to explore the alleyways and the squares of this hilltop city, rich with baroque architecture.

      Later, we visit the world's most varied collection of Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Piazza Armerina. Dating back to the 4th century and known for their incredibly well-preserved state in situ, or in their original location, the mosaic tiles beautifully depict ancient scenes of hunting, fishing, and athletics. While the visit is included, you can can opt to upgrade to a guided tour on-site to get more out of the mosaics.

      Afterward, continue to Agrigento on Sicily's southwestern coast.

      Approximate travel time: 5-5.5 hrs by private vehicle (1.75 hrs Syracuse-Ragusa, 1.75 hrs Ragusa-Piazza Armerina, 1.75 hrs Piazza Armerina-Agrigento)
      Meals included: Breakfast

      Visit the Valley of the Temples, where you will learn the history of this magnificent site and explore the ruins of its seven temples nestled on a ridge below Agrigento. Regarded as the best example of ancient Hellenic architecture in Sicily, the archaeological site's oldest structures date back to the 5th century. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Concordia, with its majestic columns, and learn about the site's history from a local guide.

      While en route to Trapani, stop in Marsala to visit some of Europe's oldest traditional salt marshes, where sea salt is still harvested in the same way it has been for hundreds of years.

      Approximate travel time: 3-3.5 hrs by private vehicle (2.5 hrs Agrigento-Marsala, 45 mins Marsala-Trapani)
      Meals included: Breakfast

      Spend a full day exploring Trapani on your own, or opt to participate in one of the excursions below (booked and paid for locally).

      Full-day Egadi Islands excursion (50-75 euros per person): The crystal-clear seas off western Sicily are home to the idyllic Aegadian islands of Favignana and Levanzo. Cruise through the coastal waters and drop anchor in beautiful spots around the islands.

      Half-day Erice excursion (9 euros per person): Head to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, a walled 12th-century village perched high above the sea. Take a cable car from Trapani's city center to reach Erice and spend a few hours wandering its picturesque streets.

      Full-day Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro excursion (50-70 euros per person): Visit Sicily's first nature reserve, Zingaro Nature Reserve, located about an hour from Trapani. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, you can spend the day hiking on spectacular trails that overlook the Mediterranean Sea.

      Meals included: Breakfast

      On the last full day of our tour, we drive to Monreale to visit the World Heritage-listed Cattedrale di Monreale, considered one of Europe's greatest examples of Norman architecture with a heavy Moorish and Byzantine influence.

      Continue on to Palermo and admire panoramic views of the Conca d'Oro (Golden Valley) and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Palermo or join your tour leader on another orientation walk around the city center's squares and streets, although this will be a repeat of the orientation walk from Day 2.

      Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by private vehicle (1.5 hrs Trapani-Monreale, 15-30 mins Monreale-Palermo)
      Meals included: Breakfast

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Palermo at any time. The nearest airport is Palermo's Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO). If you wish to extend your stay in Palermo, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us.

      Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk.

      Meals included: Breakfast

      • Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive 10% off the lesser value program(s), up to 3 programs per year.
      • Interested in extending your time abroad? We can help you find a trip from our tour partner G Adventures' larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but by booking through GEEO we can offer you a discounted educator price, and you will be helping our non-profit.

      The hotels listed below reflect the properties expected to be used for this program. Final accommodations are subject to change based on group size, availability, or seasonality. The confirmed start and end hotels are listed on your trip voucher:

      Day 1 Palermo (Mar 21): B&B Palermo Quattro Canti
      Day 2 Palermo (Mar 22): B&B Palermo Quattro Canti
      Day 3 Lipari (Mar 23): Hotel Oriente Lipari
      Day 4 Lipari (Mar 24): Hotel Oriente Lipari
      Day 5 Catania (Mar 25): Best Western Hotel Mediterraneo
      Day 6 Catania (Mar 26): Best Western Hotel Mediterraneo
      Day 7 Catania (Mar 27): Best Western Hotel Mediterraneo
      Day 8 Siracusa (Mar 28): Hotel Gran Bretagna Siracusa
      Day 9 Siracusa (Mar 29): Hotel Gran Bretagna Siracusa
      Day 10 Agrigento (Mar 30): Colleverde Park Hotel
      Day 11 Trapani (Mar 31): B&B Hotel Trapani Crystal
      Day 12 Trapani (Apr 1): B&B Hotel Trapani Crystal
      Day 13 Palermo (Apr 2): B&B Palermo Quattro Canti

      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Important

      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the program information on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that travelers who review the full trip details are happier with their experiences.

      Trip Notes & Expectations

      ACCOMMODATION

      Our program fees are based on double-occupancy accommodation (see "Single Travelers" below if you do not have a travel companion and would be interested in a private room). Our accommodations are chosen to provide a safe, conveniently located place to sleep. While you may be pleasantly surprised, please don't expect luxury, as we prioritize keeping our programs affordable. In addition, single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller, and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.

      TRANSPORTATION

      This trip uses a mix of public and private transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.

      FREE TIME

      This program has quite a bit of free time in each location, with few activities included as part of the tour. This allows participants to choose how to spend their time exploring each destination. Your group leader is available to help with plans. For ideas, check the “Optional Activities” section at the bottom of this page, or GEEO's recommended Viator tours.

      ACTIVITY LEVEL & PACE

      Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities. This trip includes plenty of walking and some light hiking, and requires at least an average level of fitness. On the more active days, expect to walk quite a bit. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go at your own pace. We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.

      LUGGAGE

      In Europe, it can be rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels, or other public places. We use some public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from place to place and possibly up multiple flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. You should be able to comfortably walk for 10-30 minutes at a time with your luggage. It is essential, therefore, that you pack light and bring luggage that is compact and lightweight. Carrying your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.

      LOCAL GUIDES

      In Europe, all guiding is based around local guides, all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks that will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are legally unable to share historical facts and figures in public places. Your tour leader will be able to help you find a local guided tour in each location if you would like one.

      GROUP LEADER

      All GEEO programs are led by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO), whose role is to take the hassle out of travel and help you get the most from your trip. They’ll share information about the places you visit, suggest activities and restaurants, and introduce you to our local friends. While not traditional guides, CEOs have broad knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and daily life. On some excursions, local guides are used for deeper insight.

      PROGRAM DETAILS

      Single Travelers
      Traveling solo? You’re in good company—about half of our participants do the same. Shared room by default. The program fee covers one person in a twin room. We’ll pair you with a roommate of the same gender if you don’t have a travel companion. Want a private room? Most trips offer a “My Own Room” (single-supplement) upgrade. Check the price in the Extra Services section, then email travel@geeo.org to reserve it. You pay the single-supplement only if you request it.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS: G Adventures UK office (manned UK 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.) +44 20 7243 9870 For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact +441858378000 If you are unable for any reason to contact the local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with the 24-hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      See our blog post of staff-recommended gear to help you pack for your upcoming travels. You must be able to carry your own luggage—up stairs, on and off of transport, and during 15 to 20 minute walks. Bring one small or medium backpack or rolling bag (22-30lb) and one daypack for daily items. Space is limited on transportation, so oversized bags cannot travel. As you prepare your packing list, we recommend checking average weather conditions for your destination.
      SUGGESTEDOPTIONALDOCUMENTS
      • Personal clothing for mild weather – we recommend packing enough clothes so that you only have to do laundry once
      • Sturdy walking or hiking shoes
      • Hiking pants
      • Wool socks
      • Daypack
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun hat
      • Water bottle
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Toiletries – important: some hotels may not give you soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit, including lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      • Travel pillow
      • Light-weight silk sleep sheet
      • Money belt
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronic, as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can buy snacks when you get there too, so don't go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      • Light fleece top
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Travel insurance (with photocopies)
      • Airline tickets (with photocopies)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
      • G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent 10-30 days before departure
      *Laundry: Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. You can also use a local laundromat, if necessary. We recommend packing enough clothes so you only have to do laundry once.
      Passports and Visas
      Travelers are responsible for securing all required travel documents and meeting the entry requirements for every country on their itinerary, including applicable transit/layover countries. PASSPORT All travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip dates with enough blank pages for stamps. Need to apply or renew? Start here. ENTRY/VISA REQUIREMENTS Visa rules change frequently—always verify the latest requirements on the U.S. State Department Country Information Pages. Non-U.S. passport holders should verify requirements with your country's official government resources. Use the tool below to see entry requirements for your specific itinerary. Entry information below is provided by Sherpa, a third-party service and trusted G Adventures partner. You must search each of your destination countries separately; “Add connection” solely searches transit visa requirements. Additional fees apply if you choose to purchase any services through Sherpa.
      Money Exchange
      Currency: Italy is part of the Eurozone and uses the common currency, the euro (EUR). For current exchange rates, visit www.xe.com. Credit/Debit Cards: Credit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at many hotels, shops, and restaurants, but not everywhere. Some vendors may also charge an international transaction fee, so check with your bank before you travel. Cash: For small purchases, tipping, or places that don’t take cards, we recommend using ATMs to withdraw local currency while traveling. If you bring U.S. dollars to exchange, the bills must be new, unmarked, and in excellent condition—damaged or older notes are often rejected. Emergency Funds: Bring at least $200 USD (or the equivalent in local currency) in cash for emergencies in case of ATM or card issues. Always carry more rather than less to avoid feeling short of funds while traveling. See the Estimated Trip Costs section at the bottom of this page for budgeting guidance. For more advice, see our post, Smart Travel Finances: Your Guide to Money, ATMs, Fees, and Safety Abroad
      Tipping
      Tipping is optional but appreciated and goes a long way for the people who look after you on the trip. If you are happy with the service, use these ballpark amounts and adjust as you see fit: - Service providers/Waiters: €1-2 EUR for snacks or 10% of the bill. - Local guides and drivers: €3-5 EUR per person per day. - G Adventures tour leader (CEO): €30-40 EUR per person per week. (We suggest pooling contributions in an envelope and presenting it as a group) Tipping Kitty: On some trips, your CEO may suggest a “tipping kitty” where everyone contributes at the start of the tour, and the CEO uses that pooled amount to tip service providers for the group as a whole (not including your CEO). If your CEO doesn’t mention it and you’d like to use a kitty, we recommend asking about it early in the trip. Your CEO will advise the suggested amount and preferred currency for the kitty.
      Flights
      Wait for official trip confirmation via email from GEEO before booking your flights. Prices tend to be lowest 90–120 days out, but that window varies by route and year. Neither GEEO nor G Adventures bears responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins and ends in Palermo. Check the itinerary for the required arrival date. Aim to arrive no later than mid-afternoon for the 6 p.m. Day-1 welcome meeting, and consider arriving a day or two early to buffer flight delays and see more of Palermo. You can depart at any time on the final day of the trip.
      Plugs and Converters
      Italy uses Europlug Type C/F outlets, and the voltage is 220-240V. To use your electronics safely, you’ll need to consider: 1. Adapter (plug shape) Adapts your U.S. plug to fit another type of socket. See our recommended all-in-one travel adapter in our Gear Recommendations post. 2. Converter / transformer (voltage) Steps the outlet voltage down to 120V for U.S. appliances that can’t handle higher voltage. Check what you need: Look on your device's plug or power brick. “Input: 100-240V” works worldwide—you only need a plug adapter. Any range narrower (e.g., "110-120V" or “Input: 120V”) means you need an adapter and a voltage converter to avoid damage. Converters are inexpensive and available online or in travel stores.
      Weather
      March is a lovely time to visit Sicily, although the weather can be variable. Average daily temperatures across the island typically range between 43–57°F, with cooler mornings and evenings that make warm layers important. March can bring a mix of sunshine, clouds, and occasional rain, so it’s best to dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. Pack a light jacket, sweater, and a rain layer, along with sunglasses and an umbrella. Palermo tends to be a bit milder (around 48–63°F), while areas near Catania are often slightly warmer and drier thanks to their position on the east coast. Sea temperatures are still quite cool (around 57°F), so swimming isn’t ideal for most people—but on sunny days, it can still be pleasant enough to relax by the water or enjoy coastal views, especially in sheltered spots.

      Historical Monthly Weather Averages

      Palermo

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      Lipari

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      Catania

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      Syracuse

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      Agrigento

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      Trapani

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      Average High
      Average Low
      Rainfall

      Extra Services & Costs

      EXTRA SERVICES TO PRE-BOOK
      Send us an email if you would like to pre-book any of the extra services listed below for your program. Space and availability are limited, and pricing is not guaranteed until booked. *Extra services are non-refundable within 30 days of your program's start date. *Costs will be added to your final balance.
      Private/Single Room $1,239 (2 left)
      Pre-trip Hotel (per night) B&B Palermo Quattro Canti - Single: $135, Twin/Double: $170
      Post-trip Hotel (per night) B&B Palermo Quattro Canti - Single: $135, Twin/Double: $170
      Airport Transfers Airport transfers not available for this program. See itinerary Day 1 for transportation options.
      ACTIVITIES TO PRE-BOOK

      Palermo Food Tour: $68 per person

      Day 2 (March 22) or Day 14 (April 3)

      There’s no better way to connect with a new city than by exploring the local food scene, so dive into Palermo with this street food and market tour. Set off on foot from Central Station and whet your palate with several popular street food options as you amble through Corso Vittorio Emanuele, toward towards Piazza Pretoria and its fabulous fountain. Explore Palermo as it is meant to be seen, off the beaten path. You’ll leave with a full belly and a greater understanding of what makes Palermo so special.
      **Special meal requirements (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) cannot be accommodated.

      Catania Food Tour: $79 per person

      Day 6 (April 3)

      Head out on the town with a local expert, discovering the culinary delights of Catania’s vibrant food scene. Stroll through picturesque alleyways and marvel at the iconic landmarks while sampling classic treats like arancini, cannoli, fried fish, and flavourful cipollina. You’re sure to be captivated by the colours, aromas, and lively energy found in the historic Pescheria Market, as your guide uncovers Catania’s rich, local history. This is, quite possibly, the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
      **Special meal requirements (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) cannot be accommodated.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency. You do not have to decide in advance which activities you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please feel free to use them as a guide for budgeting your trip. For more options, check out GEEO's recommended Viator tours

      • Palermo food tour:

        There’s no better way to connect with a new city than by exploring the local food scene, so dive into Palermo with this street food and market tour. Set off on foot from Central Station and whet your palate with several popular street food options as you amble through Corso Vittorio Emanuele, toward towards Piazza Pretoria and its fabulous fountain. Explore Palermo as it is meant to be seen, off the beaten path. You’ll leave with a full belly and a greater understanding of what makes Palermo so special.
        **Special meal requirements (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) cannot be accommodated.

      • Cefalù Beach Visit:

        Cefalù's crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular along the whole Sicilian coast. Enjoy a quick dip in the waters, or simply lounge on the beach.

      • Salita Saraceni Visit:

        The Salita Saraceni is an enormous staircase that winds up through three tiers of city walls. Spend 30 to 45 minutes heading up to the summit of La Rocca - from here, you'll have wonderful views of the town below.

      • Duomo di Cefalù:

        Have an aperitivo in Piazza Duomo and visit Cefalù's cathedral, one of the jewels in Sicily's Arab-Norman crown. Opt to climb the towers themselves for great views of the area.

      • Town Centre Visit:

        One of Lipari's great pleasures is simply going for a passeggiate (afternoon stroll) around the island's streets, taking in its laid-back atmosphere. Head to Corso Vittorio Emanuele - the liveliest street in town - and visit one of its many inviting bars, cafes and restaurants.

      • Spiaggia di Canneto Beach Visit:

        Head to the island's most popular swimming spot - the long, pebbly strip at Canneto - and spend a day on the beach like a local.

      • Ferry to Vulcano Island: 12 EUR

        Take a 10 min ferry ride to nearby Vulcano, a small volcanic island, visited since ancient Roman times. Opt to take an hour-long crater hike.

      • Teatro Greco Taormina: 14 EUR

        Built in the 3rd century BC and still in use today, Teatro Greco is one of the most dramatically situated Greek theatres in the world.

      • Corso Umberto I Visit:

        Taormina's chief delight is wandering this pedestrian-friendly, boutique-lined thoroughfare.

      • Villa Comunale Gardens:

        Created by Englishwoman Florence Trevelyan in the late 19th century, these beautiful public gardens offer breathtaking views of the coast and Mt Etna.

      • Catania Orientation Walk:

        Head out with your CEO for an introduction to this elegant and lively city.

      • Catania Food Tour:

        Head out on the town with a local expert, discovering the culinary delights of Catania’s vibrant food scene. Stroll through picturesque alleyways and marvel at the iconic landmarks while sampling classic treats like arancini, cannoli, fried fish, and flavourful cipollina. You’re sure to be captivated by the colours, aromas, and lively energy found in the historic Pescheria Market, as your guide uncovers Catania’s rich, local history. This is, quite possibly, the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
        **Special meal requirements (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) cannot be accommodated.

      • La Pescheria Visit:

        Catania's raucous fish market, which takes over the streets behind Piazza del Duomo every weekday morning, is pure street theatre. Open from 7am-2pm.

      • Piazza del Duomo:

        A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Catania's central piazza is a set piece of contrasting lava and limestone, surrounded by buildings in the unique local baroque style and crowned by the grand Cattedrale di Sant'Agata.

      • Via Etnea Walk:

        Stroll through Catania's main shopping street, which runs straight from Piazza del Duomo to the foothills below Etna. Visit the Giardino Bellini gardens and watch local unfold.

      • Mt. Etna Excursion & Wine Tasting Tour: 70 EUR

        Take a guided tour of Mount Etna and learn about the history of this ancient volcano from local naturalist guides. Walk through old growth forests, unique lava formations, and a volcanic cave (weather permitting). After, continue to a vineyard and enjoy a late lunch of cheeses, salami, olives and bread, paired with excellent local wines.

      • Parco Archeologico della Neapolis Visit: 10 EUR

        Uncover the city's ancient past at the Parco Archeologico della Neapoli, home to Syracuse's sprawling Teatro Greco. First constructed in the 5th century BC, today visitors can wander the grounds and imagine what 2nd century gladiator combats and horse races at the Anfiteatro Romano may have looked like.

      • Noto Visit: 12 EUR

        Take a local bus to Noto, about an hour southwest of Syracuse. Home to one of Sicily's most beautiful historic centres, stroll through the Arco di Trionfo to reach Corso Vittorio Emanuele and visit the majestic 18th century Noto Cathedral.

      • Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro Excursion (Full-Day): 50-70 EUR

        Visit the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, Sicily's first nature reserve located about an hour from Trapani. Perfect for nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, spend the day hiking on spectacular trails that overlook the Mediterranean Sea.

      • Egadi Islands Excursion (Full-Day): 50-75 EUR

        The crystal-clear seas off western Sicily are home to the idyllic Aegadian islands of Favignana and Levanzo. Cruise through the coastal waters and drop anchor in beautiful spots around the islands.

      • Erice Excursion (Half-Day): 9 EUR

        Head to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, a walled 12th century village perched high above the sea. Take a cable car from Trapani's city centre to reach Erice and spend a few hours wandering its picturesque streets.

      Estimated Trip Costs

      Use the prices below as ballpark figures to estimate the full cost of your trip and decide what fits your budget.
      • GEEO Program Fee: See our price in the top right corner
      • Optional Activities: $100-250 USD
      • International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $600-1,200 USD If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
      • Airport Transfers: Varies depending on whether you take public transport or taxis. Anywhere from $20 to $80.
      • Insurance: $30-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      • Tipping: We recommend €60-80 EUR ($70-90 USD) for your G Adventures tour leader and $40 for tipping local guides and drivers.
      • Meals not listed in the itinerary: $495-645 USD
      • Laundry, Drinks, Mobile Data, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      • Souvenirs: Variable—at your personal discretion
      • Vaccines: Variable—please consult with your primary care provider
      • Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.
      Book Any G Adventures Trip Through GEEO

      Book any G Adventures program through GEEO, or transfer your existing booking over to us and receive:

      Non-educators welcome! Your booking supports our 501(c)(3) mission.

      Contact us: travel@geeo.org | 1-877-600-0105

      Anyone can travel with GEEO!

      GEEO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and our mission is to help teachers travel by offering private educator-focused group trips—but we also partner with G Adventures to offer trips worldwide for anyone, not just educators.

      When you book through GEEO, you receive:

      Your booking supports our mission!

      To get started, contact us:
      travel@geeo.org | 1-877-600-0105