3-day private tour of Sicily: Syracuse, Noto, Modica, and Marzamemi

Thinking about enjoying the heart of Sicily without feeling rushed? This 3-day private tour promises just that—an intimate journey through some of the island’s most captivating spots. From historic cities to seaside villages, complemented by boat trips and local flavors, it’s an experience crafted for travelers who want authenticity and comfort.

What really caught our eye? First, the personalized approach with a dedicated guide, which makes all the difference in truly feeling connected to each place. Second, the combination of cultural sights and unique experiences like boat tours and tastings, giving a well-rounded taste of Sicily. One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed and flexible, so if you’re craving a slow pace, you might want to customize or pace yourself.

This tour is ideal for those who love cultural exploration combined with scenic beauty, and who prefer having a private guide to tailor the experience. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even as a family, the flexibility and exclusive nature make it a worthwhile consideration.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Includes boat tours, with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring submerged Roman ruins
• Authentic tastings: local market foods, Sicilian desserts, chocolates, and seafood lunches
• Focus on scenic views and cultural highlights in historic cities and seaside villages
• Accommodation options include selected hotels with breakfast included
• Optional add-ons: professional photographer, Vespa or Ape rides, private transportation

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

This 3-day private tour offers a comprehensive yet intimate glimpse into southeastern Sicily’s charms. The fact that it’s private means you set the tone—whether you want more cultural visits, leisurely stops, or culinary experiences. It’s designed for travelers who value quality over quantity and prefer a curated experience over crowded group tours.

The mix of iconic landmarks, like the UNESCO-listed Noto, along with less commercialized spots like Marzamemi, makes it feel authentic and balanced. Plus, the boat trips stand out as a highlight, giving travelers a chance to see stunning coastlines and submerged Roman ruins—something quite special and unique to this experience.

Day 1: Syracuse – The Seaside and Its Secrets

Starting in Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse, you’ll immediately sense the charm of this lively island. As your private guide takes you through narrow streets, you’ll get to see the Temple of Apollo and Fonte Aretusa, both spots that tell stories of the city’s ancient past. Walking through the market stalls, you’ll taste local products like cheeses, olives, and cured meats—think of it as a foodie’s paradise.

The boat tour later in the afternoon is where the experience really elevates. You’ll visit sea caves, swim in crystal-clear coves, and snorkel among vibrant marine life. An added touch—on request, you can enjoy prosecco, fresh fruit, and traditional Sicilian appetizers on board, making it a leisurely and indulgent moment.

Many reviews praise the stunning views and the chance to see Syracuse from the water, with one traveler noting, “The boat trip around the island was an absolute highlight, with caves and clear waters I won’t forget.” If you’re into photography, you might consider adding a professional to capture these scenic moments, which seems to be a popular extra.

Day 2: Noto & Modica – Baroque Marvels & Chocolate Delights

The second day is centered around two distinctly fascinating towns. Noto is famed for its Baroque architecture, and you’ll visit iconic spots like Porta Reale and climb up to panoramic terraces for sweeping views of the golden cityscape. The charm of Noto’s historic buildings and vibrant streets makes it a photographer’s dream.

A stop at a celebrated local bar—featured even on Netflix—lets you relax with a granita and Sicilian pastries, perfect for a sweet break. You’ll also visit Modica, a city synonymous with Europe’s oldest chocolate-making traditions. Touring an artisan chocolate factory, you’ll learn about its Aztec origins and savor chocolates with a rich, deep flavor that’s quite different from your usual store-bought treats.

Travelers often comment on how authentic and flavorful these experiences are, with one noting, “It’s a real treat to taste the traditional chocolate and learn its history firsthand.” The scenic streets of Modica, with their uneven stairs and pastel-colored buildings, make a charming backdrop for photos and strolling.

Day 3: Marzamemi – The Coastal Treasure

Your final day takes you to Marzamemi, a seaside village that seems straight out of a postcard. Its colorful houses, historic tuna fishery, and lively central square evoke a sense of timeless charm. It’s a place perfectly suited for wandering and soaking up seaside vibes.

If luck is on your side, you might spot pink flamingos near the salt pans—a subtle reminder of Sicily’s diverse nature. The highlight here is the boat with a transparent bottom, revealing the seabed and submerged Roman ruins beneath. This experience is quite unusual and memorable, offering a glimpse into the ancient history hidden beneath the waves.

The tour wraps up with a seafood lunch overlooking the sea, giving you one last taste of Sicily’s marine bounty. Many reviews mention the breathtaking scenery and the unique opportunity to see Roman ruins underwater, making this a fitting end to your trip.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The fact that it’s completely private and customizable can’t be overstated. You have the flexibility to choose the pace, focus more on certain regions, or add special extras like a photographer or Vespa rides. This tailored approach ensures that your experience feels personal and special.

The inclusion of local tastings—from markets to chocolates and seafood—adds a sensory dimension that elevates your understanding of Sicilian culture. The boat trips are especially praised for their stunning views and unique experiences, with travelers highlighting the caves and submerged ruins as unforgettable highlights.

Plus, the tour’s accommodation package with breakfast included offers a comfortable base, allowing you to relax after busy days of exploring.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed with flexibility in mind—if the weather turns bad, boat activities can be rescheduled or replaced with other experiences. It can also accommodate families, couples, or groups of friends, depending on your preferences.

The cost, which covers private guides, tastings, boat tours, and accommodations, offers good value for travelers looking for an all-inclusive, curated experience. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize quality, authentic experiences, and scenic beauty over a rushed itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private tour provides a balanced mixture of history, scenery, and local flavor. If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service, wants to explore Sicily’s iconic towns intimately, and loves the idea of boat trips and tastings, this experience ticks many boxes. The stunning views from land and sea, combined with exclusive experiences like the submerged Roman ruins, make it a memorable choice.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the flexibility and private guide ensure it can be tailored to your needs. It’s perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Sicily without feeling overwhelmed, and who cherish genuine, well-rounded experiences.

If you’re after a trip that combines cultural depth with scenic beauty and authentic Sicilian touches, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since it can be tailored to your pace. Just note that boat activities and tastings are generally family-friendly, but you might want to discuss specific needs with the provider.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is completely private and customizable, so you can choose the pace, focus on certain cities, or request additional experiences.

What’s included in the package?
It includes a private guide, exclusive itineraries, tastings (market, desserts, chocolate, seafood), two boat tours, accommodation with breakfast, and optional extras like a photographer or private transportation.

Are the boat trips weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is bad, boat activities may be rescheduled or replaced with other experiences to ensure safety and comfort.

Can I add special experiences like a Vespa ride?
Yes, extras like Vespa or Ape rides, private transportation, and onboard snacks are available upon request for an additional cost.

How long are the stops in each city?
The itinerary is flexible, but highlights include walking through historic streets, visiting markets and landmarks, and enjoying scenic views during boat tours.

What if I have food intolerances or allergies?
The tastings can be adapted at no extra cost to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How do I meet the guide?
The tour begins with a personalized meeting at your accommodation or a location you specify; airport or train station pick-ups are also available upon request.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine slice of Sicily—capturing its history, flavors, and scenery in a way that feels personal and memorable. It’s a solid choice if you value quality, flexibility, and authentic experiences in your travels.

You can check availability for your dates here: