Sicily, along with Sardinia, are two islands of Italy that are somewhat difficult to get around if you haven't been there before. Trains are often slow; roads and signs iffy. Then there's also the language problem. Perhaps a guided coach tour would be the best way for the first-time traveler to experience the vibrant life of and on the island. Here are tours of Sicily from Viator that will take you to my favorite places to visit in Sicily.
ViatorThe city of Noto was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1693 in baroque style, and is known for its flower festival held at the end of May called the Infiorata. Noto's cathedral has been recently restored, and is not to be missed. Siracusa, (Syracuse) along with Agrigento, is one of my favorite cities in Sicily.
If you're interested in life in ancient times, you'll enjoy this tour of western Sicily. Segesta is home to a 5th century Doric Temple and a rock carved Greek theater. Erice is a delightfully medieval city with Punic and Greek roots seen in its ancient surrounding walls.
Cefalu is one of the prettiest coastal towns in the Mediterranean. From beach activities to exploring the medieval center, between the mountains and the sea, there's something for the whole family in this tour. Plus, you'll visit the 14th century borgo and castle, Castelbuono.
Take a tour of the salt marshes on the western coast of Sicily. Think salt is boring? Salt was a very important commodity in antiquity, and these rich salt marshes have been visited and used by many cultures, including those from the 5th and 6th century bc, which you'll see evidence of on this tour.
Like those little fishing villages that are turning into tourist traps on the Italian mainland? This tour takes you to the "Cyclops Riviera" and the small fishing villages of the coast. You'll also see the Norman Castle at Acicastello, built in lava. Then you'll take a visit up the slopes of the valcano. On the way down you'll stop for some refreshment at a local Etna winery.
Palermo is the capital of Sicily and lies on the northern coast. Its mild climate has attracted the wealthy over the years. Find out why with this tour.
The territory covered on this tour, on the eastern coast of Sicily, features Sicily's largest Greco-Roman amphitheater with Mount Etna as a backdrop. Catania is Sicily's second largest city. While of great antiquity, Catania has suffered lava flows from Etna that have obscured some of the signs wealth that during Roman times made it the richest city in Sicily. Today's Catania is mostly evident through the wide streets and majestic palaces that were built during the 18th Century.
