13-Nights Highlights Of Sicily & Southern Italy - Undiscovered Globus from $3,799

Globus

OFFER ID 1515231

In Greek mythology, the Scylla and Charybdis were two sea monsters located in the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the Italian mainland, endangering ancient mariners, and inspiring the expression "being caught between a rock and a hard place." Will you find yourself in such a predicament on this Undiscovered Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily? On the contrary, you’ll delightfully find yourself caught between Byzantine and Roman culture, flanked by Norman and Italian influences, and in the midst of a cross-cultural wonderland. Your comparison of cobblestones, customs, and cuisine gets underway in Rome, heads down to the dramatic Sorrento Coast, and then kicks the fun from Italy’s heel to its toe and all the way into the great melting pot of Sicily. From Italy’s lower half to its largest island, ruins, resorts-a rich history awaits.

13 nights from $3,799 per person

Valid for new bookings deposited from January 2, 2024 – December 31, 2025 for travel January 2, 2024 – December 31, 2025

*Promotion may not be combinable with any other offers, promotions, or discounts, and is subject to availability and airline booking guidelines. Other restrictions may apply.

Itinerary

Highlights Of Sicily & Southern Italy

Day 1 ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALYWelcome to Rome! At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

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Day 2 ROME–CASTEL GANDOLFO–SORRENTO AREA Holy Grounds CASTEL GANDOLFO Take a [LF] guided visit of the Papal Palace and the Barberini Gardens. (B)
193 mi / 310 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Enjoy an extraordinary, guided visit to explore the Papal Palace and beautiful Barberini Gardens. Stroll the spectacular grounds of the grand papal retreat of Castel Gandolfo, where Holy Fathers and world dignitaries walked and talked about faith and the world at large.

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Day 3 SORRENTO AREA. EXCURSION TO CAPRICoves, Cliffs & The Clear Blue Sea SORRENTO AREA Jetfoil ride to Capri.
CAPRI Take a funicular ride from the harbor to the village for guided sightseeing, including the Augustus Gardens. Free time for lunch.
SORRENTO AREA Free time. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Nestled high above the sea on the island of Capri lie the exquisite Gardens of Augustus. This natural paradise promises 180-degree panoramic views and a kaleidoscope of botanical beauty on the cliffs overlooking island and the sapphire sea below.

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Day 4 SORRENTO AREA. EXCURSION TO POMPEII AND NAPLESA Slice of Life in Naples POMPEII Take a guided walking tour of the excavations. Free time to browse.
NAPLES Guided sightseeing includes an orientation drive on the panoramic road to Posillipo, a stop in Piazza Plebiscito. (B)
68 mi / 110 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii is a treasured glimpse into Roman life near the Bay of Naples. This once thriving and sophisticated Roman city was consumed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., with its residents and structures buried beneath inescapable ash and stone. See the preserved site of excavated ruins that reveal remarkable frescoes, artwork, and artifacts within its streets and the dwellings of the people who perished here.

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Day 5 SORRENTO AREA–BARISpectacular Apulia SORRENTO COAST Scenic drive to Bari. (B)
186 mi / 300 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Puglia region forms the heel of Italy’s “boot,” with whitewashed towns, centuries-old pastoral landscapes, and the magnificent Mediterranean coastline. The vibrant port of Bari and its lovely Baroque architecture is a feast for the eyes and palate in the quintessential Italian style.

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Day 6 BARI–LECCE–ALBEROBELLO AREASweet Strolls in Apulia BARI Guided sightseeing includes a walking tour of Bari Vecchia, the city’s oldest district, and San Nicola’s Church.
LECCE Walking tour with a Local Guide includes the Duomo and Santa Croce Basilica. [LF] Taste traditional pasticciotto (filled pastry) with almond-infused iced coffee. (B,D)
186 mi / 300 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITIONS Traditional pasticciotto is the beloved cream-filled pastry of Lecce, which graces the shelves of Apulia’s bakeries and restaurants. Legend has it that this ubiquitous confection was invented by happy accident when chef Andrea Ascalone made too much cake batter, using the excess ingredients to mix up the original pasticcio (meaning mishap or mess in Italian) - a smaller cake with a creamy filling. Sink your teeth into this heavenly pastry with an almond iced coffee to complete the experience.

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Day 7 ALBEROBELLO AREAStone Houses ALBEROBELLO Guided walking tour includes a visit to a Trullo (traditional conical-roof house). Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The iconic round houses (Trulli) date back hundreds of years. These Trulli, constructed of dry stone and cone-shaped roofs include the oldest structures built in the 16th century and were used as grain storage or residences. Made without cement in the masonry techniques of the day, these whitewashed homes were easily disassembled to avoid property taxes when the collectors came calling! Today, you can stroll the streets lined with Trulli houses to see their conical rooftops decorated with symbols such as a cross, heart, astronomical symbol, or the evil eye.

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Day 8 ALBEROBELLO AREA–MATERA–PIZZO CALABRO–REGGIO CALABRIACreamy Desserts & Cave Dwellings MATERA Orientation walk with panoramic view of the picturesque sassi house (cave houses). Take a scenic drive along the Gulf of Taranto.
PIZZO CALABRO Enjoy a [LF] traditional tartufo (ice cream dessert) tasting.
REGGIO CALABRIA Join a guided visit of the museum that houses the Bronzi di Riace (famous bronze warrior sculptures). (B,D)
280 mi / 450 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The only thing better than a taste of gelato is having a few different tastes inside a chocolate-shelled truffle! Indulge in a tartufo dessert that will melt in your mouth during a visit to Pizzo Calabro.

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Day 9 REGGIO CALABRIA–TAORMINA RIVIERAGrand Greek Drama STRAIT OF MESSINA Ferry crossing to Sicily.
TAORMINA Visit the ancient Greek theatre. Free time to explore. (B)
81 mi / 130 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Greek Theatre of Taormina is considered one of the most impressive examples of auditorium engineering and architecture for its superb natural setting and acoustical design. This ancient marvel was dug into the hard rock slopes of Mount Tauro in the 3rd-century BC, with seating to accommodate thousands of spectators. The Teatro Antico di Taormina was built in the Greek tradition of incorporating the natural surroundings to become part of the performance, with light and air permeating the columns to become part of the story.

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Day 10 TAORMINA RIVIERAThe Pearl of the Mediterranean TAORMINA RIVIERA Enjoy a free day in Taormina, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION With a backdrop of the Volcanic Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea providing the cinematic setting for the resort town of Taormina, this Pearl of the Mediterranean is a picturesque coastal gem that will spoil you with its stunning beaches, village beauty, and sumptuous culinary specialties.

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Day 11 TAORMINA RIVIERA Sicilian Summits TAORMINA RIVIERA Enjoy a free day. (B)

FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE What better way to spend this free day than with an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano and one of the most active in the world. Learn how in 1669, an eruption that lasted 112 days developed a record long stream of lava that destroyed the city of Catania.

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Day 12 TAORMINA RIVIERA–AGRIGENTO–PALERMOTimeless Temples AGRIGENTO Take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples en route to Palermo. (B)
211 mi / 340 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.

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Day 13 PALERMOCathedrals & New Beginnings PALERMO Guided sightseeing includes a visit to the cathedral. Scenic drive to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and a visit to the Norman Cathedral. [LF] Hear about “Addiopizzo”, an anti-mafia movement that supports the local community. (B,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
FAIR TRADE “Addiopizzo” literally means “good-bye protection payment” and is an association founded in Palermo by a group of young, local people. They will share with you their story of how they are supporting local communities and helping with the regeneration in some of the urban areas. As they have gained support over the years, the movement can now also be found in other Italian cities.

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Day 14 PALERMOSafe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

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Featured Destinations

Reggio Calabria

Alberobello

Sorrento

Sorrento is a town of extraordinary beauty and is known as a popular gateway to Italy's most spectacular stretch of coastline - the Amalfi Drive lined with fishing villages and famous resorts. The seaside resort of Amalfi sits with weathered houses scrambling up steep cliffs. Visitors marvel at its location and its magnificent cathedral. The religious sanctuary of Cloister of St. Francis is worth a visit. The tiny, exclusive resort of Positano has its famous world-class hotel, San Pietro. Excavations of the ruined city of Pompeii, which was destroyed in 79 A.D. during the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius, give visitors a vivid impression of life in a very wealthy ancient city and the tragic end of its population. The Isle of Capri ranks as one of the most beautiful islands and has captured visitors for centuries with excellent climate, spectacular landscape and fantastic sea caverns. Capri has lavish villas, elegant hotels, chic boutiques and quaint restaurants. Museo Correale contains a death mask of poet Torquato Tasso and some special editions of his works, pictures, furniture and porcelain.

Excursions

Sorrento: The Ancient City of Pompeii - 6 Hours

Sorrento: The Iconic Amalfi Coast - 6 Hours

Sorrento: Capri Exploration by Private Motorboat – 8 hours

Rome

Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one
of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded
in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always
been and remains the Eternal City.

Rome enjoyed its greatest splendor during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art
flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman
legions swept outward, conquering all of Italy. These victorious armies then
swept across the Mediterranean and beyond to conquer most of the known world.
With Rome's establishment as capital of the western world, a new ascent to glory
began.

Today's Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious
parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafes and elegant shops, is
one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous
monuments is the Colosseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine
the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combats between
muscled gladiators and ferocious animals.

Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city's political and commercial
center. In later times, Rome's squares were enhanced with such imposing structures
as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di
Trevi. Join the millions who stand in awe of Christendom’s most magnificent
church and admire the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo's frescoes in the
Sistine Chapel.

Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Grasp all you can during the short,
precious time you have available in the Eternal City. With so much to see and
do, a day or two will only allow you a sampling of the city's marvelous treasures.

Caution: As in many big cities and tourist destinations purse snatching
and pickpocketing is common. Valuable jewelry and excess cash are best left
in a safety deposit box in your hotel.

Shopping For most visitors shopping for beautiful Italian leather articles,
designer shoes, fashions for men and women, linens, knitwear, silk scarves and
ties is a favorite pastime. Except for tourist-oriented shops, the majority
of stores are closed on Sundays. Some of the department stores, such as Rinascente,
open in the late afternoon on Sundays.

Cuisine Rome's choice of restaurants is mindboggling as is the variety
of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria,
you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by
wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.

Other Sights Rome's attractions are endless, and depending on how much
time you have at your disposal a careful selection has to be made about what
to see. Be aware of horrendous traffic conditions and major construction work
all around the city in preparation of Jubilee 2000, the Holy Year. Some of the
sights not to be missed:

Piazza Venezia - This busy square is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio
Emanuele II Monument. The white marble structure was inaugurated in 1911 as
a symbol of Italy’s unification.

The Forum - Once the civic heart of ancient Rome, today the remains include
a series of ruins, marble fragments, isolated columns and some worn arches.

Colosseum - No visit to Rome is complete without a stop at this awe-inspiring
theater, which is among the world’s most celebrated buildings. Here ancient
Rome flocked to see gladiatorial contests and numerous other spectacles.

Trevi Fountain - Take a stroll to Rome's famous fountain. A spectacular fantasy
of mythical sea creatures and cascades of splashing water, the fountain is one
of the city's foremost attractions. Legend has it that visitors must toss a
coin into the fountain to ensure their return to Rome.

St. Peter's Square - Part of Vatican City, this square created by Bernini
is considered one of the loveliest squares in the world. Twin Doric colonnades
topped with statues of various saints and martyrs flank either side of the square.
In the center stands an 84-foot obelisk, brought from Egypt in 37 A.D.

St. Peter's Basilica - At the head of the square stands Christendom's most
magnificent church, which was begun in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was
buried. Throughout the following 200 years, such Renaissance masters as Bramante,
Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled
masterpiece. Of special note are Michelangelo's Pieta and the bronze canopy
over the high altar by Bernini. The immense dome was designed by Michelangelo.

Vatican Museum - To see this museum's immense collection would take days.
As you enter, there are special posters that plot a choice of four color-coded
itineraries. They are repeated throughout the museum and are easy to follow.
It is a good idea to pickup a leaflet at the main entrance and concentrate on
exhibits of major interest. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must. Most likely
you may have to wait in line to enter.

Bari

Bari (ancient Barium) is an industrial city in the Apulia region of southern Italy and a seaport on the Adriatic Sea. The old quarter of the city sits on a promontory separating the old and new harbors. It is the site of two notable Romanesque churches: the Basilica of San Nicola (11th-12th century) and the cathedral (late 12th century). Bari was formerly a Greek colony and later a Roman trading settlement. It came under the domination of the Lombards, the Byzantines, and the Normans. It was a key Italian naval base during World War II and sustained heavy damage. From here it is easy to visit Alberobello and Egnazia.

Excursions

Bari: Polignano a Mare & Monopoli - 5 hours

Bari: Locorotondo & Alberobello - 5 hours

Bari: Ancient Matera - 8 hours

Bari: Highlights of Puglia & Cheese Tasting - 8 hours

Today you will meet your English-speaking guide for a full day excursion of “Valle d’Itria”. You will visit Alberobello which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was founded in the 15th-century by the Counts of Acquaviva. The image of the trullo in Alberobello has always been associated with Puglia. The trullo is a construction with a central round or square base of dry stone and a con-shaped roof.

Afterwards you will visit Locorotondo where you will see the architecture typical of the region with white-washed, stone buildings with cool, shaded, cave-like interiors, narrow streets and churches. The town also features several community squares, each of which are built on the edge of the hill allowing for some spectacular views.

Next visit to a local cheese production where you will see the different phases of how different cheeses are made. After the visit you will enjoy an informal cheese tasting with a buffet where you will taste the local products.

Finally, visit Polignano a Mare, shining gem on the coast of the Valle d’Itria, perched atop a 20 metre-high limestone cliff above the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, Polignano a Mare truly lives up to its name and literally could not be any more ‘at sea’!

Highlights:

Tour the charming and architecturally impressive villages of Alberobello and Locorotondo
Experience the authentic taste of Puglia with a cheese tasting that includes various local products

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by luxury car or minivan
An expert local guide throughout (8 hours)
Cheese tasting
Entrance fees
All taxes

Exclusions:

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities

Taormina

Palermo

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

03/30/2025 - 04/12/2025

from $4,419 per person *

04/13/2025 - 04/26/2025

from $4,629 per person *

04/20/2025 - 05/03/2025

from $4,619 per person *

04/27/2025 - 05/10/2025

from $4,629 per person *

05/11/2025 - 05/24/2025

from $4,629 per person *

05/18/2025 - 05/31/2025

from $4,629 per person *

05/25/2025 - 06/07/2025

from $4,629 per person *

06/01/2025 - 06/14/2025

from $5,559 per person *

06/15/2025 - 06/28/2025

from $4,679 per person *

06/22/2025 - 07/05/2025

from $4,569 per person

06/29/2025 - 07/12/2025

from $4,179 per person *

07/20/2025 - 08/02/2025

from $4,679 per person *

08/17/2025 - 08/30/2025

from $3,799 per person *

08/24/2025 - 09/06/2025

from $5,409 per person *

08/31/2025 - 09/13/2025

from $4,629 per person

09/07/2025 - 09/20/2025

from $4,729 per person *

09/14/2025 - 09/27/2025

from $4,729 per person *

09/21/2025 - 10/04/2025

from $4,729 per person *

09/28/2025 - 10/11/2025

from $4,629 per person *

10/05/2025 - 10/18/2025

from $4,629 per person *

10/12/2025 - 10/25/2025

from $4,619 per person *

10/19/2025 - 11/01/2025

from $4,629 per person *

10/26/2025 - 11/08/2025

from $5,189 per person *

11/02/2025 - 11/15/2025

from $4,219 per person

11/09/2025 - 11/22/2025

from $3,999 per person *

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $3,799 per person

Length

13 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.

Remarks

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1515231

Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.

Swain's Travel, Inc.

35 Old South Road
Nantucket, MA 02554
USA

(508) 228-3201

13-Nights Highlights Of Sicily & Southern Italy - Undiscovered Globus from $3,799

Excursions

Sorrento: The Ancient City of Pompeii - 6 Hours

Sorrento: The Iconic Amalfi Coast - 6 Hours

Sorrento: Capri Exploration by Private Motorboat – 8 hours

Excursions

Bari: Polignano a Mare & Monopoli - 5 hours

Bari: Locorotondo & Alberobello - 5 hours

Bari: Ancient Matera - 8 hours

Bari: Highlights of Puglia & Cheese Tasting - 8 hours

Excursions

Taormina and Mt Etna Day - 8 hours

Excursions

Palermo and Monreale - 8 hours

Vacation Details

Swain's Travel, Inc.