DAY 1: UK - Catania.
Fly to Catania where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Cefalu for a three night stay. (D)

DAY 2: Cefalu.
The day is yours to enjoy the many attractions of Cefalu, a fishing port with a Romanesque cathedral, pretty beaches and medieval streets tangled around a palm-lined piazza. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to the Aeolian Islands, departing from Cefalù by boat, the journey takes in rugged cliffs, aqua blue seas and virgin beaches. The trip also includes a stop off at the picturesque town of Lipari, known for its castle and ancient ruins as well as free time to sample a thermal spa or mud bath. (B, D)

DAY 3: Segesta (included sightseeing) - Erice.
This morning we visit the stupendous Greek temple at Segesta, a graceful, 36-pillared temple encircled by a ravine and magnificent countryside, before visiting the ancient mountain town of Erice, with its atmospheric castle ruins and quaint cobbled streets and piazzas. (B, D)

DAY 4: Agrigento (included sightseeing) - Giardini Naxos.
Another fascinating trip, this time to Agrigento's acclaimed Valley of the Temples. You'll enjoy a tour by a local guide of this enthralling UNESCO World Heritage site, including visits to two of its nine imposing temples built into a valleyside. From there, we travel to Giardini Naxos for a four night stay. (Meals as per hotel details).

DAY 5: Giardini Naxos - included visit to Mount Etna.
An unforgettable morning visit to ascend brooding Mount Etna, one of the world's largest and most active volcanoes. 60,000 years old, its lava-walled crater and smouldering potholes are a breathtaking reminder of the power of nature. Take an optional jeep ride or cable car (when operating) to approximately 7500 feet. The afternoon is yours to relax or why not take an optional tour of charming Taormina, with its twisting streets, beautiful gardens and magnificent Greek theatre with stunning views over the sea and distant Etna. (Meals as per hotel details).

DAY 6: Syracuse (included sightseeing) - Noto.
Today we head to Syracuse, founded by the Greeks in the 7th-century BC and famed for its amazing archeological ruins, including a vast Greek theatre, haunting catacombs and ancient sacrificial altar. From there to Noto, one of the island's prettiest towns, graced by honey-coloured churches, piazzas and flamboyantly balconied palaces. (Meals as per hotel details).

DAY 7: Piazza Armerina (included visit to the Roman Villa) - Caltagirone.
This morning we head for Piazza Armerina, a medieval village famous for its stunning, mosaic-floored Roman villa portraying detailed scenes from mythology, circuses and daily Roman life. After visiting the villa, it's on to Caltagirone, another delightful town known for its colourful ceramics, which embellish its palaces, bridges and balconies. (Meals as per hotel details.)

DAY 8: Giardini Naxos - Catania - UK.
Transfer to Catania airport for your flight to the UK. (B)