Best of Sicily and Sorrento small group Deluxe

Discover the Best of Sicily and Sorrento: An Honest Look at a 13-Day Small Group Tour

Traveling through Sicily and Sorrento with a reputable tour provider can be just the adventure you’re craving—offering a chance to explore iconic sights, savor authentic food, and enjoy luxurious accommodations. This particular 13-day journey, rated 5 stars with just two reviews so far, promises a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.

What we love about this tour? First, the carefully curated itinerary that hits all the highlights—from ancient temples and bustling markets to breathtaking coastal views. Second, the small group size (max 25 travelers), which often means more personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. That said, one aspect to consider is the price—at nearly $5,000 per person, it’s definitely a premium trip that might not be for everyone.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, expert-guided experiences, and a mix of cultural and scenic highlights. If you’re after a well-organized trip that handles logistics seamlessly while still offering time for your own exploration, this could be a great fit. But if you prefer a more independent style, you might find the schedule a bit packed.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Small group size, deluxe accommodations, and included transfers make for a relaxed trip.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major Sicilian sights plus highlights in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
• Cultural & Culinary Experiences: From Greek temples to wine tastings and cooking classes, there’s plenty to engage your senses.
• Active Days & Free Time: A good mix of guided tours and free afternoons for personal exploration.
• Scenic Beauty: From Mount Etna to Positano, the views are truly memorable.
• Cost & Value: The premium price reflects quality accommodations, expert guides, and curated experiences.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Days 1-2: Getting Acquainted with Palermo and Cefalù

Your adventure kicks off in the charming seaside town of Cefalù, where you’ll be greeted at Palermo airport by your tour leader. The included transfer will take you to your hotel, giving you the chance to settle in and relax by the pool or on the beach. An initial welcome dinner introduces you to regional Sicilian cuisine—think fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional appetizers.

The next day, you’ll dive into Palermo’s vibrant streets. Our sources highlight the tour’s focus on Palermo’s hidden treasures, with visits to notable sites like the Monreale Cathedral, famous for its gold mosaics. The guided city tour promises a good mix of history and local flavor, making it an engaging start. Afterwards, you have free time—perfect for wandering through markets or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Days 3-4: The Salt Flats, Greek Temples, and Wine

Traveling along Sicily’s northern coast, you’ll stop in Erice, a mountaintop town that offers breathtaking panoramic views. The stop here isn’t just for scenery—Giacomo, your guide, will share stories about the town’s history and traditions. Moving on to Trapani, known for its salt flats and historical architecture, sets the tone for a trip blending natural beauty and history.

In Marsala, the highlight is visiting a beautifully restored 19th-century baglio—an authentic Sicilian winery. Sampling local wines during a winery tour and dinner at a renowned restaurant makes this trip memorable. The following day takes you to Segesta, famous for its remarkably preserved Greek temple. The combination of ancient ruins and a wine cellar tour with tasting and a cooking class makes this a real highlight for foodies and history buffs alike.

Days 5-6: Ancient Temples and the Charm of Taormina

Moving south to Agrigento, you’ll explore the Valley of the Temples—an UNESCO site that offers a window into Sicily’s ancient past. The guided tour here is designed to bring the ruins to life, and many reviews emphasize how special this site is.

Next, you’ll head east to Taormina, a favorite for its stunning coastal vistas and charming streets. Visiting the private Pace Gravina Palace and enjoying a buffet lunch there adds a unique touch, along with the chance to explore the town’s shops and the famous Greek Roman Theatre. The free afternoon allows for personal wandering or relaxing at your seaside hotel.

Days 7-9: Mount Etna and Leisure in Taormina

A highlight of the trip is the excursion to Mount Etna. You’ll experience Europe’s tallest active volcano with breathtaking views and learn about its significance. Visiting a local rosticceria in Zafferana for arancini and cannoli adds tasty local flavor to your day.

You’ll also have free time to relax or explore in Taormina, with an optional trip to Syracuse on offer, which many travelers find enriching. The evening dinner with Sicilian chef Cristian Foti, featuring local wines and live music, sounds like a perfect way to cap off your time in Sicily.

Days 10-13: Sorrento, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast

Crossing from Sicily to mainland Italy, you’ll take a ferry across the Strait of Messina, with a relaxing lunch stop in Calabria. Arriving in Sorrento, you’ll immediately feel the charm of this seaside town, with stunning views over the Gulf of Naples.

From Sorrento, you’ll visit Capri, one of Italy’s most glamorous islands. You’ll have ample free time to explore, shop, and soak up the views from the famous Piazzetta. The next day, a trip along the Amalfi Coast to Positano offers picture-perfect scenery, with opportunities for shopping and sightseeing.

Your farewell dinner in Sorrento, featuring music and dance, provides a fitting end to the trip, with memories of spectacular scenery and delicious food.

Final Day & Departure

The tour concludes with a transfer to Naples International Airport. For those who want more, staying in Sorrento a bit longer is recommended, as the region offers many more sights and experiences.

What Real Travelers Say

The reviews emphasize the expert guides, stunning views, and excellent food. One reviewer called it “one of the best trips of my life,” appreciating the balance of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and the warmth of Italy. The other highlighted the stunning hotels and delicious restaurateurs they stayed in, making the experience feel truly special.

Both reviews echo the sense that this trip is well-organized and rich with memorable moments, from ancient temples to picturesque coastlines. The small group size is often praised for making the experience more personal and relaxed, especially at popular sites like Mount Etna and Capri.

Practical Considerations and Value

At nearly $5,000 per person, this tour is an investment, but many feel the value justifies the cost. It includes luxury accommodations, guided tours, select tastings, and transportation—elements that make logistics easier and the trip more enjoyable.

The itinerary is quite full, with many days packed from morning to evening. This means you’ll see a lot, but it also leaves limited free time—something to keep in mind if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

Since the tour is capped at 25 travelers, you’ll get a more intimate experience, and the guides can cater more personally to your interests. Plus, the included transfers and organized excursions mean less hassle planning on your part.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Sicily and Sorrento in a relatively short time. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy guided cultural and culinary experiences. The premium price reflects the quality of hotels and expert guides, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a luxury small-group adventure rather than budget travel.

If you’re traveling with someone who values scenic beauty, historical sites, and authentic cuisine, and prefers a mix of guided and free time, this tour could be just right.

FAQ

Is transportation included for all days?
Yes, transportation, including private transfers, ferry rides, and coach travel, is covered throughout the trip, ensuring smooth logistics between all destinations.

What’s the size of the tour group?
The maximum number of travelers is 25, which tends to foster a more personal and relaxed experience compared to larger groups.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, an optional full-day trip to Syracuse from Taormina is offered, giving a chance to see an additional cultural gem in Sicily.

Do I need to arrange my own flights?
You can book your own flights; the tour starts at Palermo Airport and ends at Naples International Airport. The tour provider offers a pickup service from Palermo if your flight arrives within scheduled times.

Are meals included?
Most dinners are included, including a special Sicilian dinner at your hotel and a farewell dinner in Sorrento. Lunches are generally not included, but there are opportunities for tastings and local experiences.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the activities are generally suitable for most adults and older children, especially those interested in history, scenery, and food.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and layers suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings are advisable. Expect some active days with sightseeing on foot.

How much free time will I have?
There’s a good balance of guided excursions and free afternoons, allowing you to explore on your own or relax at your hotel.

What’s the value of this tour for the price?
Considering the included luxury accommodations, guided tours, wine tastings, and transportation, many travelers find the experience well worth the investment for a comprehensive Sicilian and Amalfi Coast adventure.

In the end, this tour offers an elegant way to experience Sicily and Sorrento without the stress of planning every detail. It’s a good pick for those who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and delicious food—all in a small, friendly group. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive Italian adventure, this one deserves a spot on your list.