Personally Escorted Small Group Tours of Sicily & Malta 2027

Discover the Heart and Soul of Sicily & Malta – A 22-Day Boutique Journey with a touch of Calabria.

Personally escorted small group Tour with Connie White

Join me on a 22‑day small‑group journey through the soul of Sicily and Malta. We begin in Reggio Calabria, where the rugged coastline, powerful traditions, and unmistakable Calabrian spirit set the tone for what’s ahead. From there, we cross into Sicily and Malta—two Mediterranean treasures shaped by ancient civilisations, layered histories, and unforgettable food.

As the daughter of Sicilian migrants, Sicily isn’t just a destination for me—it’s part of my identity. I grew up with its stories, flavours, and rhythms, and it’s a joy to share them with you. Adding Malta brings a beautiful dimension to the journey, connecting two islands whose histories intertwine through centuries of culture, conquest, and creativity.

This is more than a tour. It’s a personal invitation to experience Sicily, Malta, and a touch of Calabria through my eyes. Walk the paths of my ancestors, savour the dishes that coloured my childhood, and let these remarkable places capture your heart.

Connie xxx

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Trip Summary 22 Days

Beginning in Reggio Calabria, this journey follows the threads of my Sicilian heritage across two remarkable islands. Join me as we share food, traditions, and the Mediterranean spirit I grew up with.

Upcoming Tour Dates

04 October 2027

AUD$10,980.00 per person based on twin share accommodation.
AUD$2,000.00 Single supplement available on request

Itinerary

Day 1: Monday 04 Oct 2027– Reggio Calabria (B D)

In the morning, we meet up with our local guide for an easy-going walking tour of the city. The afternoon is yours to enjoy however you like — take your time exploring at your own pace. Later on,  we’ll wander over to our restaurant and settle in for an evening of local food and wine.

Check in for our 1-night stay at our hotel located near the sea.

Day 2: Tuesday 05 Oct 2027 (B)

Today, we leave the mainland and cross the Strait of Messina to reach Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean. After a brief stop in the city of Messina, we continue on to the charming seaside village of Cefalù. Known for its golden beaches, medieval lanes, and impressive Norman cathedral, Cefalù offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and historic character.

Check in for our 2-night stay at our hotel located near the sea.

Day 3: Wednesday 06 Oct 2027 –Cefalu (B)

Today, you have the option to venture into the scenic Madonie Mountains for a morning of exploration, or simply unwind with a full day at leisure by the sea in beautiful Cefalù. The choice is yours.

 

Day 4: Thursday 07 Oct 2027 – Travel to Palermo (B L)

This morning we leave Cefalù and travel to a local farm, a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful Madonie Mountains where we learn about traditional farming followed by lunch. After lunch, we continue to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. Renowned as the world’s most conquered city, Palermo is a captivating tapestry shaped by centuries of Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and  Norman influence. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local guide for a walking tour through the city’s lively streets and markets, immersing ourselves in its rich history and local traditions.

Check in for our 2-night stay in our centrally located hotel in the historic centre.

Day 5: Friday 08 Oct 2027- Palermo (B)

Today is yours to soak up the lively atmosphere of Palermo at your own pace. Explore its bustling markets, visit stunning churches and museums, or simply relax and enjoy a coffee in one of its lively piazzas.

 

Day 6: Saturday 09 Oct 2027 – Travel to Trapani (B)

Today, we leave Palermo and make our way to the enchanting hilltop village of Erice. On arrival, we’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through its cobbled streets, taking in the medieval charm and panoramic views, followed by a chance to sample some of Erice’s world-famous pastries. In the afternoon, we continue to Trapani for a stroll through its historic centre, rich in Baroque architecture and seaside          atmosphere before settling into our hotel.

Check in for our 2-night stay in our centrally located hotel near the historic centre.

Day 7: Sunday 10 Oct 2027 – Excursion to the Egadi Islands (B L)

Today, we set sail from Trapani to explore the beautiful Egadi Islands. Our day focuses on Favignana, knwn for its crystal‑clear turquoise waters and relaxed island charm, and Levanzo, the smallest of the Egadi Islands, celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and striking rocky coastline. After a full day soaking up their natural beauty, we return to Trapani in the late afternoon. The evening is at leisure.

Day 8: Monday 11 Oct 2027 – Travel to Agrigento (B L)

This morning we leave Trapani behind travel to Agrigento. On the way we stop to explore the historic centre of Marsala, known for its charming streets, Baroque architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting experience paired with local food in a stunning winery on the outskirts of Marsala. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Agrigento, where we’ll check in for a two-night stay at our hotel, conveniently located just a short distance from the Valley of the Temples.

Day 9: Tuesday 12 Oct 2027 – Excursion to the Sicilian Countryside (B L)

After breakfast, we head into the countryside to visit a traditional olive farm. Here, we’ll tour the olive groves, learn about the production process, sample fresh olives and oils, and enjoy a relaxed street food-style lunch. In the late afternoon, we’ll meet our guide for a walking tour of the Valley of the Temples, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing some of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins in the world.

Day 10: Wednesday 13 Oct 2027 – Travel to Ragusa Ibla (B L D)

Today, we travel to Ragusa, with a stop along the way at the picturesque town of Piazza Armerina. Here, our guide will lead us on a tour of the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman mosaics. We’ll then enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing on to Ragusa. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our centrally located hotel.

Check in for a 1-night stay in a charming hotel carved into the rockface in the historic centre.

In the evening we will walk to our local restaurant to indulge in a traditional Sicilian dinner.

Day 11: Thursday 14 Oct 2027 – Travel to Ortygia (B)

We begin the day with a visit to the elegant Donnafugata Castle, a 19th-century noble residence surrounded by lush gardens and steeped in Sicilian history. From there, we travel to Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its magnificent Baroque architecture and famous artisanal chocolate. Here, we’ll enjoy a special tasting experience that showcases the unique flavours and ancient techniques of Modica’s chocolate-making tradition. Later we continue to Siracusa and the island of Ortygia, our home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, perfectly situated in the heart of Ortygia — an ideal location for soaking up the charm and atmosphere of this beautiful little island.

Check in for 2 nights in a charming, centrally located boutique hotel.

Day 12: Friday 15 Oct 2027 – Explore Ortygia (B)

Today, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of Siracusa and the quaint island of Ortygia, discovering its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local life. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure—wander charming streets, browse lively markets, visit unique shops, or relax in one of the many inviting restaurants.

Day 13: Saturday 16 Oct 2027 – Travel to Catania (B)

Today, we make our way to Catania, an ancient port city on Sicily’s east coast, sitting at the base of Mount Etna. Catania has a lively, down‑to‑earth feel — full of Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and that unmistakable Sicilian energy. When we arrive, we meet our local guide and enjoy  a laid‑back exploration of the city. The afternoon is yours to wander, take things at your own pace,                  or enjoy a bit of shopping therapy.

Check in for a 1-night stay in the centre of Catania.

Day 14: Sunday 17 Oct 2027 – Travel to Taormina via Mt Etna (B L)

After breakfast, we set out for Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, for our unforgettable Etna Experience—an opportunity to take in its dramatic landscapes and volcanic wonders up close. We have the added experience of enjoying lunch on the slopes of Mt Etna before continuing our journey to Taormina for some free time to explore this enchanting hilltop town. With the evening at leisure, you might like to find a scenic spot for dinner and soak in the views as the sun sets over the coast.

Check in for a three-night stay at our hotel overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Day 15 Monday 18 Oct 2027 – Excursion to meet my cousins (B L)

Today, we journey to Savoca, a peaceful and ancient hilltop village perched high above the sea, where you can truly soak in the authentic spirit of Sicily. This charming town is best known for its connection to Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather, with scenes filmed in the village square at the iconic Bar Vitelli.After exploring Savoca, we continue to my parents’ home village—another memorable filming location from The Godfather. Here, we’ll be welcomed by my cousins and share a traditional home-cooked Sicilian meal. It’s the perfect way to toast and enjoy a local experience nearing the end of our unforgettable 26-day journey.  Early evening, we will return to Taormina.

Day 16: Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 – Explore Taormina (B D)

After breakfast, we meet our local guide for a walking tour, uncovering Taormina’s rich history and  its breathtaking views. Once the tour wraps up, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy — take your time exploring the medieval streets and winding laneways at your own pace. In the evening, we come together for dinner at a local restaurant to toast the end of our journey through Puglia, Calabria and Sicily, and reminisce about the wonderful experiences we’ve shared.

Day 17: Wednesday 20 Oct 2027 – Taormina to Malta (B)

The morning is yours to enjoy Taormina at your own pace — perhaps a final wander through its elegant boutiques or a relaxed stroll to soak in those unforgettable views. Later, we travel south to Pozzallo to board our ferry to Malta. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take us to our hotel overlooking the beautiful Valletta Harbour.

Check in for our 5-night stay in our centrally located hotel.

Day 18: Thursday 21 Oct 2027 Valletta and the Three Cities (B D)

Today, we explore the historic city of Birgu, one of the renowned Three Cities, with its narrow lanes, fortifications, and rich maritime heritage. Then enjoy stunning views of the Grand Harbour before discovering Valletta, Malta’s elegant capital, filled with Baroque architecture, grand churches, and vibrant streets. Tonight we will dine together in a local restaurant.

Overnight in Valletta.

 

Day 19: Friday 22 Oct 2027 Valletta and Ancient Mdina (B L)

We step back in time today as we explore Malta’s ancient antiquities and medieval towns. Explore Mdina, the silent city, with its narrow, winding streets and medieval architecture, before visiting Rabat, home to fascinating Roman ruins and early Christian sites. We continue to a local winery for lunch before we visit Mosta, a quaint town famous for its stunning Rotunda Church, which houses one of the largest unsupported domes in Europe.

Overnight in Valletta.

Day 20: Saturday 23 Oct 2027 Valletta, Gozo Island and the Blue Lagoon (B)

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic ferry to Gozo Island, Malta’s tranquil sister island, where we’ll explore its picturesque countryside and the stunning Azure Window (weather permitting). The adventure continues with a ferry ride along Comino’s coastline, offering magnificent views of the Blue Lagoon and the island’s sea caves, allowing us to experience the beauty of Malta’s pristine waters and rugged coastline.

Overnight in Valletta.

Day 21: Sunday 24 Oct 2027 Valletta and Ancient Temples (B D)

Today, we visit the Charming South & Ancient Temples of Malta. We travel through the island’s captivating southern region, where we see the prehistoric Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, ancient megalithic sites dating back over 5,000 years.  In the afternoon, we return via Marsaxlokk, a charming fishing village known for its colourful boats, vibrant market, and picturesque waterfront. This evening we conclude our tour with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Valletta.

Day 22: Monday 25 Oct 2027 Farewell (B)

Our tour concludes after breakfast today. Following our farewells, we’ll transfer to the airport for our onward flight.

Highlights

Valletta and the Three Cities in Malta.
Ancient Mdina and Rabat.
Gozo Island and the Blue Lagoon.
Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, ancient megalithic sites in Malta.
Charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
The charming markets of Ortygia for an explosion of colours, scents and flavours.
Taste authentic chocolate produced in Modica, using the ancient Aztec recipe.
The Roman polychrome mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina.
Endless hills of olive and lush citrus groves.
Valley of the Temples, the World Heritage Site in Agrigento.
Visit the ancient hilltop village of Erice, with time to enjoy the local pastries.
Day excursion to the Egadi Islands.
Enjoy a scenic excursion taking in Mt Etna and its surroundings.
Walk in the steps of the Godfather in Savoca, followed by a visit to the church with its gorgeous collection of photographs from “The Godfather”.
Visit my parents hilltop hometown, where scenes in “The Godfather I” were shot. Savour the traditional dishes prepared by my cousins and served in the laneways of the village.
Spend time in the stunning seaside town of Taormina.

Inclusions

21 nights’ accommodation in central, boutique-style accommodation 4 star
Local guides for all excursions/walking tours, including entrance fees.
Private coach with a professional driver.
Daily breakfast, 8 lunches and 5 dinners.
Arrival transfer in Reggio Calabria.
Departure transfer from the Valletta hotel to Malta Airport.
City accommodation taxes.
Tips for guides and driver.

Exclusions

Airfares.
Meals not included in the itinerary.
Personal expenses.
Travel Insurance.

Additional Information:

Cost is based on a minimum of 16 passengers traveling together.

The maximum group size is 28.

Travel insurance must be purchased at the time of booking to cover any unforeseen cancellations.

Due to availability limitations in central locations, rooms in the same hotel may vary in size, facilities and décor.

Price is based on the current exchange rate and adjustments may apply.

Information is correct at the time of printing and may change due to circumstances beyond my control.

Price is based on the current exchange rate and adjustments may apply.
Information is correct at the time of printing and may change due to circumstances beyond my
control.

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Upcoming Tour Dates

Beginning in Reggio Calabria, this journey follows the threads of my Sicilian heritage across two remarkable islands. Join me as we share food, traditions, and the Mediterranean spirit I grew up with.

04 October 2027

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