La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 From Rome to Sicily (Tour code: 15104)

Begin an unforgettable experience in Maratea with an exhilarating visit to the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Monte San Biagio. Standing 650 metres above sea level, this majestic monument is one of Maratea’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian coast.

The journey continues with a visit to the Basilica of San Biagio—a site of deep historical and spiritual significance. Admired for its simplicity and charm, the church is a striking example of religious architecture. Inside, you'll discover precious frescoes and sacred artworks, immersing you in the cultural and spiritual richness of the region.

From the basilica, sweeping views stretch across the valley and out to sea, adding to the contemplative and atmospheric nature of the visit. As part of the guided tour, you’ll also enjoy an authentic culinary experience, with tastings of regional specialities—flavours that reaffirm Maratea’s reputation as a destination for food lovers.

Join a unique and captivating journey through the heart of Maratea, where history, nature, and craftsmanship converge in an unforgettable experience curated for the curious and refined traveller. Your private guided tour begins at the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue, rising 650 metres above sea level.

From there, ascend into a world of reverence and elegance at the Basilica of San Biagio. Nestled on the mountain ridge, this architectural treasure invites quiet contemplation with its centuries-old sacred art, frescoes, and panoramic views of the sea below.

The experience continues with an intimate visit to a local Libbani artisan workshop—a hidden gem where age-old traditions live on. Watch as master craftspeople breathe life into raw materials, transforming them into exquisite handmade creations. This is more than a visit—it’s an immersion into Lucanian heritage, where every gesture tells a story passed down through generations.

Indulge in an exclusive invitation at the Santavenere Hotel in Maratea, where refined elegance and authentic tradition unite in a seamless celebration of the senses.

At the heart of this experience lies the signature culinary atelier—an intimate voyage into the rich tapestry of Lucanian cuisine. Guests will have the opportunity to uncover the secrets behind traditional regional dishes, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guided by expert chefs, the class reveals not only culinary techniques and treasured recipes, but also the stories and cultural heritage that imbue each dish with meaning.

The experience culminates with a sophisticated aperitivo, set against the panoramic splendour of the Tyrrhenian coast—a perfect harmony of taste, culture, and breathtaking beauty.

Santavenere is not merely a destination, but a sensory journey into the essence of southern Italy’s most exquisite heritage.

Begin your curated Sicilian experience with a leisurely stroll through the timeless alleys of Taormina, where ancient charm meets Mediterranean allure. The journey then ascends to the mighty Mount Etna—Europe’s highest active volcano and a site of immense natural power.

Aboard a private Jeep, you’ll traverse striking, lunar-like landscapes, guided by an expert local naturalist. Along the way, explore ancient craters, rugged lava fields, and panoramic vistas that stretch to the Ionian Sea. This is more than a sightseeing tour—it’s a profound encounter with a living, breathing landscape, enriched by stories of geological marvel and ecological resilience.

Your day concludes with an indulgent visit to an exclusive wine estate nestled on Etna’s fertile slopes. Here, traditional Sicilian dishes—rooted in the volcanic land—are paired with exceptional local wines. As you relax amidst vineyard views and refined hospitality, savour a sensory evening where nature, culture, and taste unite in perfect harmony.

This is Sicily at its most authentic and elevated—a seamless blend of discovery, storytelling, and gourmet pleasure that lingers long after the last glass is poured.

Embark on a curated journey through two of Sicily’s most evocative destinations: Castelmola and Taormina, where history, beauty, and flavour converge in an immersive celebration of local culture.

Beginning in Castelmola—a tranquil hilltop village suspended above the Ionian coast—you’ll continue with a guided walk through the elegant streets of Taormina, renowned for its Greco-Roman heritage and breathtaking vistas that sweep from the crystalline shoreline to the slopes of Mount Etna. As you wander its storied laneways, you’ll follow in the footsteps of centuries of travellers drawn to this coastal gem.

Following your cultural exploration, you’ll be welcomed into an exclusive pastry atelier for a hands-on masterclass in crafting the iconic Cannolo Siciliano. Led by a renowned local pastry chef, this interactive culinary session unveils the secrets of Sicily’s most beloved dessert—from shaping the golden shell to blending fresh ricotta with citrus zest. A true sensory journey into tradition and sweetness.

Your experience concludes with a delightful dinner in a serene garden setting, where traditional Sicilian dishes are reimagined with elegance and care. Surrounded by aromatic herbs, gentle lighting, and sea views, enjoy a final moment of connection—with place, palate, and memory.

This is not just a tour—it’s a taste of Sicily’s soul, beautifully woven into a day of discovery, indulgence, and heartfelt hospitality.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, through an exhilarating Jeep excursion and scenic walk across its awe-inspiring landscapes.

This journey takes you along some of the volcano’s most captivating panoramic trails, where you’ll discover ancient craters, lunar-like terrain, and a rich variety of unique flora and fauna. Accompanied by a specialised volcanologist, you’ll gain fascinating insights into the geological history of Etna and the extraordinary biodiversity that thrives in this powerful environment.

The day culminates with dinner at one of the region’s most prestigious wine estates, where Sicily’s finest wines—nurtured by the volcano’s fertile soils—are paired with traditional dishes prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s a chance to savour the true essence of the region’s cuisine, deeply connected to the land.

This experience offers a perfect harmony of nature, culture, and gastronomy—leaving you with lasting memories of an extraordinary journey into the heart of Sicily.