Sicilian Sonata: A Decadent Decade of Discovery

• Day 1: Arrive in Palermo, Sicily's Vibrant Capital

Begin your Sicilian adventure in Palermo, the island's bustling capital. Explore the historic heart of the city and marvel at iconic monuments like Palermo Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends Norman, Moorish, Gothic and Baroque architecture. Wander charming streets and sample Sicily's world-famous sweets at local cafes.

• Day 2: Palermo's Anti-Mafia History and Cooking Class

Delve into Palermo's fascinating anti-mafia history on a walking tour of symbolic sites like Teatro Massimo, Cape Market, and Piazza della Memoria. Meet courageous shop owners who have stood up to the mafia and support the "Pago chi non paga" ethical consumer campaign. In the afternoon, learn the secrets of authentic Sicilian cuisine during a hands-on cooking class with a local chef, crafting seasonal dishes with the freshest local ingredients.

• Day 3: Medieval Erice and Marsala's Famous Wines

Journey to Erice, a beautifully preserved medieval town perched 750 meters above the sea. Admire the unique architecture shaped by various ruling armies over the centuries. Don't miss tasting traditional Genovesi pastries filled with luscious custard or ricotta cream. Continue to the lovely coastal town of Marsala, renowned for its exquisite dessert wines. Stroll the marble-paved streets and treat yourself to a sip of the town's namesake wine.

• Day 4: Mazara del Vallo's Tunisian Flair and Scala dei Turchi

Discover the distinctive Arab influences in the old port town of Mazara del Vallo. Wander the colorful kasbah quarter, where Tunisian families have enriched the town's artistic and cultural landscape since the 1970s. En route to Agrigento, stop at the spectacular Scala dei Turchi, white marble cliffs that once provided shelter to roaming pirates.

• Day 5: Agrigento's Valley of the Temples

Explore the Valley of the Temples, one of the world's largest archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site. With a knowledgeable guide, visit the awe-inspiring Greek temples of Hera, Herakles, Zeus, Castor and Pollux, all while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Mediterranean Sea. Spend the afternoon wandering Agrigento's charming old town alleys and courtyards.

• Day 6: Baroque Splendor in Ragusa, Modica and Noto

Embark on a scenic journey to Siracusa, stopping at some of Sicily's most picturesque towns. Marvel at the stunning architecture of Ragusa and Modica, the latter famous for its decadent chocolate. Join a guided walking tour in Noto, an off-the-beaten-path gem celebrated for its dazzling limestone structures that glow in the afternoon sun.

• Day 7: Siracusa's Ancient Wonders

Take an orientation walk through Ortigia, a small island brimming with ancient ruins, beautiful fountains and authentic trattorias. In the afternoon, explore the Neapolis Archaeological Site, considered one of the world's finest. With your guide, uncover the crumbling remains of the ancient Greek theater, Roman amphitheater and stone quarries sprawling across 35 hectares.

• Day 8: Mount Etna and Catania's Contrasts

Embark on an unforgettable daytrip to Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. At 2,000 meters, walk into an extinct crater, explore a lava cave, and traverse the eerie landscape of Piano Provenzana, a former ski resort destroyed by the 2002 eruption. Continue to Catania, a city of intriguing contrasts - a vibrant bar scene and nightlife juxtaposed with the UNESCO-listed Late Baroque town of Val di Noto.

• Day 9: Taormina's Timeless Charm

Journey to the enchanting city of Taormina for a guided walk unveiling its Greek influences. Meander through back streets and gardens, visit the renowned Greek theatre and cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere, sip a drink, or savor traditional Sicilian pasta.

• Day 10: Farewell to Sicily

Your captivating Sicilian odyssey comes to a close in Catania. Bid farewell to the island's rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm hospitality, taking with you a treasure trove of memories to last a lifetime.