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Eastern Escape & Baroque Experience
Thumbnails
Ragusa
Syracuse
Mount Etna
Cathedral of San Giorgio
Noto
Italy

Eastern Escape & Baroque Experience (Tour code: 17046)

Starts and Ends
Catania to
Ragusa
Travel Periods
28 Apr 27 - 20 Oct 27
Experience
Travel Style
Escorted Group Tour
Experience eastern Sicily’s ancient treasures, volcanic landscapes and Baroque splendour. Explore Siracusa, Ortygia and Mount Etna, discover UNESCO-listed Ragusa, Modica and Noto, and savour authentic flavours including Etna wines, Modica chocolate and fresh seafood in picturesque Marzamemi.

Highlights

Exclusive tour for small groups up to 20 people maximum

Explore Siracusa’s Greek ruins and discover the historic island of Ortygia

Admire volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna and taste Etna DOC wines at a prestigious local winery.

Discover Ragusa Ibla’s magnificent Baroque palaces and Cathedral of San Giorgio

Explore Modica’s historic centre and sample its traditional artisan chocolate

Admire Noto’s golden Baroque architecture before relaxing in colourful seaside Marzamemi

Entire Bonus

This holiday package is carefully designed by our team to give you complete Peace of Mind, with access to trusted local partners and expert support at your destination.

7 days
From
AUD 3,799
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

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Only $100pp deposit to Book Now

Visit our Agent Portal for more info.

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Overview

Uncover the captivating charm of eastern Sicily, where ancient treasures, dramatic volcanic landscapes and exquisite Baroque architecture come together. Begin in Catania and explore the ancient wonders of Siracusa and the historic streets of Ortygia, before travelling to Mount Etna for spectacular views and a tasting of renowned Etna DOC wines. Continue through the UNESCO-listed towns of Ragusa, Modica and Noto, admiring grand churches, ornate palaces and picturesque lanes. Along the way, savour authentic Sicilian flavours, from traditional street food and Modica chocolate to fresh seafood in Marzamemi.

Peace of mind booking plan
  1. ENTIRE Cooling-Off Period
  2. ENTIRE AUD Prices
  3. ENTIRE Change of Mind
  4. ENTIRE Industry Accredited
  5. ENTIRE On Ground Support
  6. ENTIRE Australian Owned

Inclusions

6-night accommodation in 4-star hotels
Transportation by deluxe coach or minivan
Daily breakfast
Street food lunch experience in Syracuse including a glass of wine
Welcome drink on day 1
Traditional Modica chocolate tasting
Baroque Train experience in Ragusa Ibla
Visit of a cellar and wine tasting on Mount Etna
Walking tour of Noto and visit Marzamemi
Explore the historic centre of Ortygia and Modica
"Whispers" Kit (audio guide-for group with more than 10 passengers) on days 2-3
English-Speaking Only Tour Director

Day 1 Catania

Make your way to the hotel in Catania.

Late in the afternoon, meet your tour leader and fellow travelers during a welcome drink. Free evening to enjoy dinner at leisure and begin discovering the local atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Catania at Katane Palace Hotel or similar.

Catania
Catania

Day 2 Catania Siracusa Ortygia Catania

After breakfast, depart for Syracuse, one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the impressive Archaeological Park of Neapolis, including The Greek Theatre, The Roman Amphitheatre, The Ear of Dionysius, The Latomia del Paradiso.

Continue to Ortygia Island, the enchanting historical centre of Syracuse. It is a maze of elegant Baroque palaces, hidden courtyards, and piazzas facing the sea. Highlights include: The magnificent Cathedral built upon the ancient Temple of Athena, The Fountain of Arethusa, The Temple of Apollo. Enjoy a curated street-food lunch experience, tasting some of Sicily's most beloved local specialties.

In the afternoon, free time at disposal in Ortygia. Return to Catania. Evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Catania at Katane Palace Hotel or similar.

Breakfast, Lunch
Catania → Siracusa → Ortygia → Catania
Ortygia

Day 3 Catania Mt Etna Taormina Catania

After breakfast, travel to Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. Journey through spectacular volcanic landscapes of black lava fields, vineyards and ancient forests to reach approximately 1,800 metres above sea level. Visit the Silvestri Craters and admire breathtaking views stretching from the volcano to the Ionian coastline.

Continue to one of Etna's most prestigious wineries, where volcanic soils produce some of Italy's most acclaimed wines. Enjoy a winery tour, a guided tasting of Etna DOC wines and a selection of local cheeses, cured meats and traditional delicacies .

In the afternoon, continue to Taormina, Sicily's most elegant resort town, known as the "Pearl of the Ionian Sea." Enjoy free time to explore Corso Umberto, visit artisan boutiques, admire panoramic terraces. Return to Catania. Dinner at leisure.

Overnight stay in Catania at Katane Palace Hotel or similar.

Breakfast
Catania → Mt Etna → Taormina → Catania
Taormina

Day 4 Catania Ragusa

After breakfast, depart towards south-eastern Sicily, a region renowned for its extraordinary Baroque heritage, rolling countryside and authentic rural landscapes.

Arrive in Ragusa, one of Sicily's most fascinating towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Ragusa Ibla, by the “Baroque train”. You will admire its stunning baroque palaces and churches; together with other seven cities in the Val di Noto, Ragusa is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Stroll through the charming lanes and admire the magnificent Cathedral of San Giorgio, one of the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture.

Enjoy time to explore local artisan boutiques and traditional cafés, discovering regional products and the unique atmosphere of this enchanting hilltop town. Continue to your hotel in Ragusa. Dinner at leisure.

Overnight stay in Ragusa at San Giorgio Palace Hotel or similar.

Breakfast
Catania → Ragusa
Ragusa

Day 5 Ragusa Modica Ragusa

After breakfast, depart for Modica, another UNESCO-listed Baroque gem famous worldwide for its unique chocolate making tradition. Explore the historic centre, characterised by impressive churches, elegant palaces and scenic stairways connecting the upper and lower parts of the town. Visit the magnificent Cathedral of San Giorgio and enjoy a tasting of Modica's traditional chocolate, produced according to an ancient recipe introduced during the Spanish period.

Continue your discovery with a visit to local artisan shops, where traditional crafts and regional specialties showcase the authentic identity of south-eastern Sicily. Return to the hotel. Lunch, afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Overnight stay in Ragusa at San Giorgio Palace Hotel or similar.

Breakfast
Ragusa → Modica → Ragusa
Cathedral of San Giorgio

Day 6 Ragusa Noto Marzamemi Ragusa

After breakfast, depart for Noto, the "Pearl of Sicilian Baroque" and one of the island's most elegant historic towns. Enjoy a walking through its magnificent centre, admiring the Cathedral of San Nicolò, the refined Baroque palaces, decorated balconies and golden limestone façades that create the town's unique charm. Take time to explore local boutiques, artisan workshops and charming cafés.

Continue towards the coast to Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village known for its colourful waterfront, traditional architecture and authentic maritime atmosphere. Stroll through the charming square, once the centre of the ancient tuna fishing tradition, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this seaside gem. Free time to enjoy a seaside lunch or sample local seafood specialties. Return to the hotel. Dinner at leisure.

Overnight stay in Ragusa at San Giorgio Palace Hotel or similar.

Breakfast
Ragusa → Noto → Marzamemi → Ragusa
Marzamemi

Day 7 Ragusa

After breakfast, end of the tour.

Breakfast

Accommodation

Katane Palace Hotel

Catania
The Katane Palace Hotel is in the historical centre of Catania, which is between the sea and Mount Etna and is one of the most beautiful parts of Sicily. The Katane Palace Hotel is close to Via Umberto and Via Etnea, which are in the centre of Catania. It is a good place to stay for business or pleasure. With period furniture, expensive tapestries, an arched ceiling, and paintings, the room has a sophisticated feel.

Optional Extras

Entrance Fees Supplement

The Entrance tickets to sites and museums include:

  • The Neapolis in Siracusa and the Dome;
  • Crateri Silvestri in Mount Etna.

In case of price increases for the entrance fees, we will update you at the time of the booking.

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Transfer from Catania Airport to Catania

One way transfer from Catania Airport to Catania Hotel.

*There will be a surcharge for arrivals between 22:00 and 07:00. In addition, a supplementary fee will be applied to all transfer services on the designated bank holidays: January 1st and 6th, Easter Sunday and Monday, April 25th, May 1st, June 2nd, August 15th, November 1st, December 8th, 25th, and 26th.

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Transfer from Ragusa to Ragusa Airport

One way transfer from Ragusa to Ragusa Airport.

*There will be a surcharge for arrivals between 22:00 and 07:00. In addition, a supplementary fee will be applied to all transfer services on the designated bank holidays: January 1st and 6th, Easter Sunday and Monday, April 25th, May 1st, June 2nd, August 15th, November 1st, December 8th, 25th, and 26th.

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

Official language
Italian
Local currency
EURO
  • We work with a selection of hotels in each location. All bookings are subject to availability, which means our team will confirm your specific hotels upon confirmation and payment of deposit. The package price is based on 4-star accommodation.
  • A minivan with driver/guide, normally not equipped with wifi, will be provided if the number of participants is equal to or less than eight.
  • Please be advised that in the Aeolian Islands, there will be independent touring provided by multilingual local guides (without a tour leader/escort).
  • For organizational reasons, the itinerary may be reversed or modified without notice. In this case, our supplier ensures similar visits and excursions in accordance with the spirit of the tour program.
  • Blackout dates may apply during festive season.

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.),
  • Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurant or boat staff, etc.
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package (Entrance tickets to sites and museums)

FAQs

Who are Entire Travel Group?

Welcome to Entire Travel Group. We offer exceptional travel experiences across our extensive range of Entire Holiday Packages, Entire Group Journeys, Entire Rail Journeys, and Entire Cruise Journeys. With our industry-leading Peace of Mind Booking Plan, you can Book Now with flexibility and confidence.

Entire Travel Group is celebrating over 50 years of passionately delivering unique and memorable travel experiences. We are an Australian, family-owned, award-winning business with a friendly team ready to match your expectations to the perfect holiday experience.

Entire Travel Group used to be known by the individual brands shown in the footer of the website. The company has not changed, but we have amalgamated under one brand - Entire Travel Group.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

Is Entire Travel Group Australian owned and operated?

Entire Travel Group is proudly Australian family owned and operated and as it stands today represents 50 years of experience, progress, and evolution. We proudly support the community with our long-term commitment to many important charity organisations. We were awarded the best operator in our class at the most recent National Travel Industry Awards.

Is Entire Travel Group industry accredited?

Entire Travel Group is both ATIA and CATO Accredited. The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) is the trade association representing the land supply sector of the Australian Travel Industry.

Does Entire Travel Group have industry awards?

Entire Travel Group was honoured at the 2023 National Travel Industry Awards with Most Oustanding Wholesaler - Product / Service.

As our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, it was exciting to have this acknowledged with the highest recognition. The award is also a testament to the quality of our partners around the globe, and we take this opportunity to thank them for their tremendous support of our customers.

Are the Entire Travel Group holiday packages exclusive?

In some cases, we are the sole representative in Australia for the overseas travel operator. In other circumstances the product developed has been exclusively built for Entire Travel Group and can’t be found elsewhere.

What’s unique about Entire Travel Group Holiday Packages?

  • They are not group tours with set departures - they are pre-designed, purpose built, independent holiday packages full of unique and memorable experiences.
  • Our holiday packages have been exclusively built for us in collaboration with our handpicked suppliers, who also offer full on-ground support for the clients.
  • We are offering unique travel experiences which cannot be found elsewhere.
  • Many packages include our “Freedom of Choice” options which allow you to tailor the holiday experience. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.
  • They include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan.
  • A wide selection of our packages are compliant with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Covid Safe Travels.

Our motto for Independent Holiday Packages is start your holiday when and with who you want!

Our Independent Holiday Packages are NOT group tours with set departure dates. Group Tours have specific set departure dates, and of course, you are travelling with unknown passengers in a coach. These tours are great for certain travellers and there are many reputable tour operators providing a wide range of options around the world.

At Entire Travel Group, our focus is Independent Holiday Packages. Available daily, they are pre-designed, purpose built, packaged itineraries full of memorable experiences delivered by our hand-picked local partners.

Our holidays suit every demographic, from couples to singles, to retirees to families and everyone else in between.

Why travel with Entire Travel Group?

Of Entire Travel Group's attributes, we have settled on "When Experience Matters" as the quality we believe adds the most value to our customers. We have the experience to ensure your itinerary makes the dream holiday possible. Our continually enhanced technology allows our team to provide a quality customer service experience, and our partnerships with outstanding operators ensure we are confident of the on-ground experience for our customers.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

How does the Peace of Mind Booking Plan work?

Our Peace of Mind Booking Plan allows you to book with confidence in the new international travel environment. With low deposits, a cooling off period and a flexibility period where you can cancel and rebook later, we really do have you covered.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

Is there a cooling-off period?

Look for packages with our Peace of Mind Booking Plan logo on the website.

  • We understand that occasionally plans may change, so we give you the confidence to proceed with a cooling off period.
  • You may cancel for any reason within 7 days, where you will receive a 100% refund of your $100 per person deposit.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

What is Freedom of Choice?

At Entire Travel Group we understand that our customers have their own personal tastes and interests - so throughout our packages look for “Freedom of Choice” which gives you the ability to tailor your holiday from the various experiences offered on selected days. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.

The Freedom of Choice options are included in the package price, and the price remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days in the itinerary.

  • Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day in the itinerary.
  • The price of the package remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

For more details please visit - Freedom of Choice | Entire Travel Group

What is Book Now?

Book Now offers you the ability to make a reservation on our website for Holiday Packages that include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan. But it’s not just a static offer – you have complete flexibility from travel dates, passenger numbers, single supplements, room upgrades, optional extras, flexible booking terms and more.

  • Our team will contact our overseas suppliers and confirm all arrangements.
  • A Confirmation from our reservation system will be sent in the coming days.
  • The Booking Number on this confirmation supersedes the website reference.

How secure is the Entire Travel Group's on-line payment portal?

  • Entire Travel Group have partnered with TravelPay to ensure secure on-line credit card payments.
  • TravelPay is a level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which gives you peace of mind that your payment card data is in safe hands.
  • Entire Travel Group does not store any credit card information.

For more details please visit - Security and Compliance - TravelPay

What forms of payment can be used at Entire Travel Group?

  • To confirm a booking using our on-line Book Now process, a credit card must be used to pay the refundable deposit.
  • For additional payments on the booking, Entire Travel Group supports bank transfer, credit card, TravelPay B2B, PaymentGate.
  • For further details please visit our Payments page.

Can you book my international airfares?

On some Islands Holiday Packages (e.g. Fiji), it is practical to include flights, so where we have done this it is indicated by the plane icon.

However, on the majority of our Holiday Packages, we do not include international flights.

We found that many customers may prefer to:

  • Travel on a specific airline of their choice
  • Have the flexibility to book flights with Frequent Flyer points
  • Select flight dates that may be different to our Holiday Package start/end dates
  • Use a Travel Credit already held with the airline
  • Use their travel agent for this service

We are able to assist with flights on any Holiday Package, so please just notify us during the Book Now process or contact our team.

Should I take travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. During the Book Now process please confirm you require assistance, and our team will be in contact with you.

What should I do before travelling?

Before you travel it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate documentation including visas. If you are travelling on a passport other than Australian or New Zealand, you will require a permit to re-enter Australia. It is your responsibility as the traveller and/or travel booker to meet all government entry requirements.

For more information please visit - Before you travel | Entire Travel Group

How does a Travel Agent make a booking?

Please visit the Entire Travel Group's Agent Portal. We are here to support our industry partners with a range of informative updates, marketing collateral for campaigns and a reward & recognition program.

How do I start a Booking?

  • On any page that has Book Now simply follow the booking process.
  • You must select the Travel Agent tick box and provide correct details.
  • To confirm a booking only the refundable deposit is required.
  • An agency credit card must be used for this initial payment.

How do I contact Entire Travel Group?

For more information please visit - Contact us | Entire Travel Group

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