Tours Italy Tours Highlights of Southern Italy & Sicily

Highlights of Southern Italy & Sicily

64 Reviews
Countries
1
Days
10
Per Day
from US$ 157
Start Point:
Rome
End Point:
Rome
Ages:
10 - 75+
Accommodation:
Hotel & ferry
Transport:
Private coach & ferry

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

WasUS$ 2,395
From US$ 1,575
View Dates & Rates

Price per person in twin share room
Pay small deposit now, rest later.

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

More reasons to book with us

  • Flexible bookings: 10-day money-back guarantee & free date changes
  • Low deposit secures your booking
  • Services of your Expat Explore tour leader
  • Pay the remaining balance off in instalments
  • FREE Wi-Fi in hotels

Summary

Enticing culture, awe-inspiring landscapes and some of Europe's most fascinating historical destinations - this Southern Italy tour has it all! Discover the many wonders of ancient Rome. Marvel at Mt Vesuvius and explore the ruins of ancient Pompeii; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free days to explore the Amalfi Coast, Taormina and Palermo at your own pace. See the iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello and the ancient cave city of Matera. Eat, drink and be merry with a group of new friends on our Italy vacations. Discover Southern Italy & Sicily, and return home forever changed! 

For a longer itinerary that combines northern and southern Italy, join our Italy Explorer tour!

Highlights

  • Experience Rome, the ancient Italian capital
  • See Mt Vesuvius and explore the ruins of ancient Pompeii; a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enjoy free days to explore the Amalfi Coast, Taormina and Palermo
  • See the iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello and the ancient cave city of Matera

Start Point

Hotel in Rome | 10:00 AM

End Point

Hotel in Rome | 11:00 AM (traffic dependant)
Day 1: Start of tour in Rome

Welcome to Rome! Settle in at the hotel and meet up with your tour leader who will be with you for the duration of the tour. Meet your fellow travellers as your tour leader gives you an overview of the upcoming itinerary. Then, embark on an orientation tour of the city. See top attractions such as the Spanish Steps and the Piazza Navona before enjoying some free time to explore on your own. A welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included this evening.

Meals: Dinner

Day 1: Start of tour in Rome

Welcome to Rome! Settle in at the hotel and meet up with your tour leader who will be with you for the duration of the tour. Meet your fellow travellers as your tour leader gives you an overview of the upcoming itinerary. Then, embark on an orientation tour of the city. See top attractions such as the Spanish Steps and the Piazza Navona before enjoying some free time to explore on your own. A welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included this evening.

Experiences

Orientation tour of Rome: Get acquainted with the enchanting city of Rome on an orientation tour of Rome with your tour guide. Admire the Spanish Steps, walk to the Piazza Navona to see the Fountain of the Quattro Fiumi) and learn about other attractions that make Rome a perennial favourite with travellers all over the world!

Welcome dinner: Join your tour leader and tour group for a welcome dinner. Celebrate the first night of tour with some delicious Italian food at a local Roman restaurant.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 2: Rome - Pompeii - Amalfi Coast

Depart Rome after breakfast, and travel to the Amalfi Coast. En route, stop off to see Mount Vesuvius, and to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii; destroyed in 79AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site before sitting down for an included lunch. Afterwards, travel onwards to tonight’s hotel in the Amalfi Coast. Arrive in Salerno, where we have a two-night stay. This area is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur); the perfect way to finish off your evening! This evening, choose to join the optional excursion to Amalfi for a breathtaking ferry ride from Salerno, followed by an orientation tour of Amalfi and an authentic Italian dinner.

Experiences

See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii: Preserved since ancient times under metres of ash and pumice, Pompeii offers superb insights into life (and death) in the ancient Roman Empire. An expert local guide will accompany and introduce you to the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was destroyed in 79 AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption.

Meals

BreakfastLunch

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 3: Amalfi Coast: Free Day

Made up of a number of gorgeous old towns hugging the coastline, the Amalfi Coast is our base for the day. Explore the towns and stunning beaches in your own time. Alternatively, choose our optional excursion to the famous and exceptionally beautiful Isle of Capri. Here, enjoy an orientation tour before spending some free time exploring the rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins and stylish piazzas. Top the day trip off with a boat trip around the islands and its breathtaking grottos. It is sure to be an unforgettable day in the south of Italy!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 4: Amalfi Coast - Matera - Alberobello

Today, it is time to head east and explore the southern Italian region of Apulia, making a stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts; the ‘Sassi’. Arrive in Alberobello, and enjoy an orientation tour of the region's famous ‘trulli’ houses. These beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley. This afternoon, enjoy free time to further explore Alberobello. Great places to see include the trullo church of St Antony, and the Trulli museum. Find a beautiful spot to enjoy dinner this evening before returning to the hotel for the night.

Experiences

Stop over in the ancient cave city of Matera: Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts; the ‘sassi’.

Walking tour of Alberobello: Discover the area’s beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts that have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley, with a local guide.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 5: Alberobello - Taormina

Enjoy a coastal drive along the Ionian Sea this morning. Soon, it is time to head back to the mainland, and enjoy a short ferry ride over to the island of Sicily; home of Mount Etna. Prepare for stunning views while on the way to Taormina. Arrive, and enjoy an orientation walking tour of this hilltop town. Keep an eye out for some of the highlights you can explore further on your free day tomorrow. This evening, top off the Sicilian experience with an included dinner at the beachside hotel.

Experiences

Ferry ride to Sicily: Take a ferry ride to the island of Sicily; the home of Mount Etna.

Orientation walk of Taormina: Your tour guide will take the group on an orientation tour of this charming hilltop town. See top sights including the historic Porta Catania and the Villa Comunale. Explore more attractions on the free day tomorrow!

Dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina: Join the group for a lovely dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 6: Taormina: Free Day

Enjoy a free day to relax on Taormina's beautiful beaches, or explore the charming hilltop town which is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations. For those looking to explore further afield, why not embark on a day trip to Mount Etna? This is one of the tour’s top optional excursions and perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure. Take a cable car and a 4x4 to the top station, walk in the volcanic ash and learn more about the volcano from the local guides. After, indulge in a feast of local produce at a charming enoteca. This evening, why not watch the sunset on the beach and take a tip in Taormina’s crystal clear waters?

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 7: Taormina - Syracuse - Agrigento

Take a drive through the heart of Sicily today, and be charmed by the gorgeous Sicilian scenery en route. Along the way, make a stop in Syracuse, an ancient town on the southeast coast of Sicily that was built in ancient Greek times. Syracuse is home to an excellent food market, making it a perfect spot to grab lunch. Then, drive the final stretch for the day to ‘Valle dei Templi’ (Valley of the Temples); one of the most outstanding examples of Magna Grecia art and architecture. Enjoy a guided sunset tour with an expert local guide. Spend the night in the hilltop city of Agrigento.

Experiences

Visit Syracuse: The historically significant Sicilian city of Syracusa (as the locals call it) is located on the southeast coast of Sicily. Syracuse was originally a Greek colony, and today is home to a number of Greek remains like a Greek theatre that dates back to the 5th Century BC. You will be transported back in time as you meander cobbled lanes, pavement cafes and baroque architecture. While here, shop locally-grown pistachios, almonds and sun-dried pachino (tomatoes).

Explore the Valley of the Temples: The ‘Valle dei Templi’ is a national monument of Italy, and archaeological site in Agrigento. The Valley includes the remains of seven temples built in the Doric style. It is famous for being home to incredible examples of Magna Grecia art and architecture.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 8: Agrigento - Cefalù - Palermo

Leaving Agrigento this morning, take a scenic drive through central Sicily and arrive in the town of Cefalù. Cefalù is a historic town that boasts some of Italy’s finest beaches. Here, enjoy free time to explore or join the locally guided tour which includes lunch at a local restaurant. Next, travel on to Palermo. Arrive in the afternoon, and enjoy a walking tour that will introduce you to the city’s highlights. Founded more than 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo is noted for its history, culture, architecture and food. Top sights on the walking tour include the Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.

Experiences

Visit Cefalù: Travel to the historic city of Cefalù where you have free time to find a place to enjoy lunch. This coastal city is famous for its incredible beaches as well as its Norman cathedral complete with soaring towers and Byzantine mosaics.

Walking tour of Palermo: Follow your guide, and look out for popular attractions like the Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 9: Palermo: Free Day

Enjoy a free day to further explore Sicily’s capital; Palermo! Over the centuries, Palermo has been colonised by many different rulers, including the Greeks, Romans and Normans. This melting pot has resulted in a variety of architectural styles for you to explore in its historic old town. For an in-depth guide to this city’s many historical hidden gems, join today’s Hidden Palermo optional excursion and discover beautiful churches, diverse architecture, art and more! Or, explore on your own. Palermo is also renowned for its delicious cuisine and irresistible dishes like arancini and cannoli, don’t forget to try these delicious treats during your free day. This evening, take an overnight ferry back to the Italian mainland.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Ferry
On Tour Excursions

DAY 10: End of tour in Rome

Arrive in Naples after the overnight ferry this morning. The tour group will continue on the coach with the tour leader, and travel back to Rome, where the tour will come to an end this afternoon. Please note that the ferry times may differ throughout the year and take this into account when booking your outbound flight. Alternatively, stay an extra night in Rome and book accommodation with our partner Booking.com. After 10 days filled with Italian adventures and memories, it’s time to say arrivederci to Italy and your new travel friends. Expat Explore wishes you a safe journey onwards and hopes to see you again soon!

Meals

Breakfast

What's Included

Accommodation

  • 8 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
  • 1 night's accommodation in twin share ferry cabin with private bathrooms
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability)

Meals

  • 9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners 
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
  • Overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)

Tour Leader

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

13 Experiences!

  • Embark on an orientation tour of Rome
  • Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome
  • See Mount Vesuvius; an active volcano
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii
  • Visit Matera; an ancient cave city
  • Explore Alberobello; famous for its conical houses
  • Catch a ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily
  • Discover Taormina; a hilltop town in Sicily
  • Enjoy dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina
  • Visit Syracuse; a historic Sicilian city
  • Explore the Valley of the Temples
  • Visit Cefalù; home to Italy’s finest beaches
  • Enjoy a walking tour of Palermo

Accommodation

We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard. 

A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in Rome, click here to book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.

Rome

Photos of the tour

Optional Excursions

Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Get exclusive early access to our Black Friday Sale. Complete our quick quiz to receive a promo code to apply in checkout and save up to 30%!

Dates & Rates

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

Our pricing model: Whether you book early or take advantage of our special promotions, you’ll always get fantastic value when you choose to travel with us.
Years
Start Date / End DateFlexible BookingStatusPrice Per Person
29 Mar 2025 - 07 Apr 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-03-29Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,765
12 Apr 2025 - 21 Apr 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-04-12Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,895
26 Apr 2025 - 05 May 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-04-26Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,835
10 May 2025 - 19 May 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-05-10Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,675
24 May 2025 - 02 Jun 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-05-24Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,765
07 Jun 2025 - 16 Jun 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-06-07Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,765
21 Jun 2025 - 30 Jun 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-06-21Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,575
05 Jul 2025 - 14 Jul 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-07-05Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,575
19 Jul 2025 - 28 Jul 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-07-19Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,575
06 Sep 2025 - 15 Sep 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-09-06Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,835
20 Sep 2025 - 29 Sep 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-09-20Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,675
27 Sep 2025 - 06 Oct 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-09-27SOLD OUT!
04 Oct 2025 - 13 Oct 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-10-04Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,895
25 Apr 2026 - 04 May 2026Flexible booking date for 2026-04-25Book now with low depositUS$2,395 US$1,685

Number of travellers

Payment option

Flexible booking: flexible booking

Additional Information

For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .

Additional Information Help Centre

Reviews

Reviews powered by: Power Reviews

64 reviews
Q
Quickmarch Verified Buyer 2024-09-28
The tour offered something different ever day
We had an excellent guide in Moona. Our driver made us feel safe throughout. The itinerary was interesting and showed us the differing aspects of Southern Italy.
J
Julia Verified Buyer 2024-09-26
10 day Southern Italy
Just amazing trip covering so much territory. Out tour guide Moona was excellent. We do cover a lot of ground each day. I highly recommend if you don't mind a fast paced tour.
T
Terry Verified Buyer 2024-09-09
Excellent tour
The tour was well organized and the tour leader was excellent. The included adventures
J
Joe Verified Buyer 2024-07-16
This was a trip of a lifetime!
I loved all the beautiful sites, food, and extra tours we had the opportunity to take.
L
Logan Verified Buyer 2024-07-16
Was a very satisfying, enjoyable and interesting tour.
Was great value for money to have covered so many places of interest within 10 days. Not too long nor short.

Why this tour?

Italy is a dream travel destination. This diverse country is the complete package - stunning scenery, ancient history, world-famous art and culture scene, and, of course, the mouthwatering cuisine! If all of the above sounds ideal then Expat Explore’s Italian holiday packages are just the thing for you! This Italy Sicily tour features the highlights of Southern Italy including an incredible Sicily tour. The days are filled with excellent sightseeing, fun local activities and ample free time. 

Start your Italian adventure in Rome and travel south. There are different options for tour endpoints: Palermo, Naples and Rome. You can select the destination that works best for you at no extra cost.

The tour features several highlights that showcase the variety of experiences on offer when touring Southern Italy:

  • See Mount Vesuvius (the only active volcano on mainland Europe!) and explore the ruins of Pompeii with a local guide who will share insight into this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Enjoy an orientation tour of Rome. Your tour leader will take you to iconic Rome attractions including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon - top sights on Italy vacations. 
  • See the Trulli Houses in Alberobello and admire these 14th-century traditional huts.
  • Visit Matera which is famous for its extensive ancient cave-dwelling districts!
  • Explore Sicily, Italy - the largest Mediterranean island located just off the tip of Italy’s “boot”. See Taormina, Cefalu, Syracuse and Palermo - all must-see destinations on Sicily vacations.
  • Visit the Valley of the Temples. This archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and illustrates Sicily’s ancient culture! It’s definitely a top site on Sicily tours.
  • Three full free days in the Amalfi Coast, Taormina and Palermo are included on this Southern Italy and Sicily itinerary giving you ample time to discover Italy at your own pace.  

Add a few more travel experiences to your Italy holiday with a variety of optional activities. From a tour of the Isle of Capri to a Mount Etna day trip! 

Is this the right tour for me?

What will the accommodation be like?
Twin-share rooms in quality hotels will be used on these Southern Italy tours. Travellers will share with someone of the same gender. If you would prefer a private room, a single supplement is available to purchase. 

How fit do I have to be to join this tour?
There are orientation tours and guided walking tours included on these Southern Italy escorted tours that travellers need to be able to comfortably complete. While the tours are not physically intense, comfortable walking shoes are a must. Travellers also need to be able to transfer their luggage from the coach to the hotel.   

Will I feel safe in Southern Italy?
While Southern Italy & Sicily may have ties to mafia notoriety, the region is safe to visit. Normal traveller safety rules apply as they would in any major travel destination - keep valuables safe and keep an eye out for petty crimes like pickpocketing. 

Get ready to experience the highlights of Southern Italy & Sicily over 10 days with Expat Explore! Look forward to an Italy holiday package that is fun, convenient and affordable!