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Sicily All inclusive Vacations

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Experience Sicily's charm with our unbeatable all-inclusive vacation deals

Sicily, Italy, offers a diverse and captivating landscape that is perfect for an all-inclusive vacation. From its rich historical sites and delicious dining options to its vibrant shopping scene and charming cafes, there is something for everyone. Relax on the beautiful beaches, explore fascinating museums, and admire stunning cathedrals. Take guided tours to discover the island's hidden gems and enjoy leisurely walks through picturesque streets lined with impressive monuments. Sicily's distinctive geographic landscapes and attractions promise an unforgettable vacation experience.

Top reasons for your vacation to Sicily

• Rich Historical Sites : Sicily offers a wealth of historical sites, including ancient temples and ruins, that provide a glimpse into its fascinating past.
• Delicious Dining Options : Indulge in Sicily's renowned cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, flavorful pastas, and delectable desserts, for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
• Vibrant Shopping Scene : Explore the bustling markets and boutique shops of Sicily, where you can find unique souvenirs, fashionable clothing, and local crafts.
• Charming Cafes : Relax in Sicily's charming cafes, sipping on espresso or enjoying a gelato, while soaking up the authentic Italian atmosphere.
• Stunning Beaches : Bask in the beauty of Sicily's stunning beaches, with their crystal-clear waters and golden sands, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and water activities.

Book a Package and Save Money on Your Sicily Vacation

A travel package combines flights with hotels or car rental, allowing you to conveniently book everything in one place. It saves you time and effort from searching for separate deals. Plus, you can customize your package to suit your preferences and budget. With Expedia's price and theme filters, you can find a great all-inclusive vacation deal for Sicily.

Booking an all-inclusive package for your vacation in Sicily is the perfect idea. With its rich historical sites, delicious dining options, vibrant shopping scene, charming cafes, beautiful beaches, fascinating museums, stunning cathedrals, informative tours, pleasant walking paths, and impressive monuments, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.

How to Save Money on a Vacation to Sicily

• Book your flights and accommodations together through Expedia's OneKey program to take advantage of bundled savings.
• Consider using public transportation like buses or trains to get around Sicily instead of renting a car. It can be more cost-effective and allows you to experience the local culture.
• Look for discounted or free activities and sightseeing options, such as visiting public parks, exploring local markets, or taking advantage of museum free days.
• Opt for local restaurants and street food vendors to enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine at more affordable prices compared to touristy restaurants.
• Take advantage of Expedia's OneKey program to collect points and redeem them for future savings on your all-inclusive vacation deals.

Where to Stay in Sicily

When it comes to all-inclusive vacations in Sicily, you'll find a variety of exciting areas to explore. From the historical charm of Palermo to the picturesque beaches of Taormina, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the delicious dining in Catania or the cultural treasures of Syracuse. Sicily has it all!

• Palermo : Experience the rich history and culture of Palermo as you explore its magnificent monuments, cathedrals, and churches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city while sipping coffee at charming cafes and browsing through unique shops. Take guided tours to discover the fascinating museums and indulge in the beauty of Palermo's sightseeing spots.
• Catania : Step back in time as you visit the historical landmarks, cathedrals, and churches of Catania. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene, influenced by its prestigious university. Explore the museums and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the local cafes and shops. Experience the city's charm by taking leisurely walks through its streets.
• Syracuse : Uncover the historical and cultural gems of Syracuse, from its impressive monuments to its charming cafes. Discover the mysteries of archaeology and admire the beauty of the city's cathedral and ruins. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the seafront and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this enchanting city. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Syracuse's captivating sightseeing spots.

Explore the best places to visit in Sicily

Sicily offers a perfect all-inclusive vacation deals vacation with its rich historical sites, delicious dining options, vibrant shopping scene, charming cafes, stunning beaches, fascinating museums, impressive cathedrals, informative tours, scenic walking trails, and magnificent monuments. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or relaxing on the beach, Sicily promises a diverse and memorable experience for all visitors.

• Mondello Beach : This picturesque beach in Mondello offers a unique experience of sun, sand, and clear blue waters. Relax on the soft sandy beach, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. With its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere, Mondello Beach is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
• Valley of the Temples : Immerse yourself in history at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. Explore the ancient temples, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and admire the breathtaking ruins. As you walk among the well-preserved structures, you'll feel a sense of awe and wonder at the rich historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Port of Trapani : Discover the charm of Trapani at its bustling port. Admire the stunning monuments, take a leisurely stroll along the marina, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Explore nearby islands, embark on exciting boat adventures, and soak in the rich cultural heritage of this captivating city. With its mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty, the Port of Trapani offers a unique experience for every visitor.

Best months to visit Sicily

Sicily boasts a year-around average temperature of 67.0°F, peaking at 82.0°F in August, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 55.9°F in February, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 45.7mm annually, with December seeing the heaviest showers and July being the driest month.

All-inclusive Sicily vacations: everything you need to know

Can i book a sicily vacation with airfare and meals.

On an all-inclusive vacation, your mind and body can wander far from your wallet. Pay one simple price when you bundle your accommodation and airfare, and you avoid all those yucky bills after conversation-starting cocktails or decadent dinners.

How can I find Sicily all-inclusive vacations that are adults only?

All the best all-inclusive, all-adult vacations are a click of a filter or two away. Choose from great grown-up features. Say, a spa for a couple’s massage, a hot tub to soak away the stresses of the day, or a swim-up bar to get the party started.

How much is an all-inclusive trip to Sicily?

Affordable all-inclusive is yours, whatever your budget. Packages start tempting you from just . Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

How can I book cheap all-inclusive trips to Sicily?

Whenever you book your travel, sorting by price and filtering by budget shows you what’s out there in your price range.

What are the benefits of all-inclusive Sicily vacations with airfare?

Create your dream getaway by bundling your flight and hotel and you get delightful deals and discounts. Add your car rental, too, and you save on all three.

What should I think about when I book an all-inclusive Sicily family vacation package?

With little tummies taken care of, you just need to put smiles on their faces. Easy! Book an all-inclusive vacation with a full-on water park or epic pools—or book your stay near the world’s biggest theme parks and attractions.

Why should I book an all-inclusive honeymoon package in Sicily?

You can start your married life how you mean to go on with an all-inclusive honeymoon package. Eat and drink to your heart’s content, waltz around in happy harmony, and have your fill of delights. Together, you can book up adventure excursions and return to a pool-side cabana for cocktails at sunset.

Can I book an all-inclusive Sicily package with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

When you’re searching for your all-inclusive getaway, filter your results by payment option to find free cancellation and buy now, pay later options. That way, you can rebook without worry, should your plans change.

Why should I book an all-inclusive Sicily package vacation with Expedia?

Book amazing all-inclusive adventures, all in one place. Choose from a vast inventory of deals, adding every little extra to build your brilliant break in minutes.

Top All inclusive Sicily Hotels

• 45 min drive from Palermo Harbour

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• 5 hours drive from Palermo Harbour

Reviewed on May 21, 2023

Reviewed on Oct 14, 2023

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Invigorate all of the senses in this ethereal 3,000-year melting pot. Greek, Roman, Norman, Arab, and Aragonese influences have left indelible impressions in the architecture, cuisine, and culture that culminate in the splendor that is famously Sicilian. Discover the natural panoramas that have attracted civilizations for time immemorial: the magnificent peaks of mountains, the charming hills, and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

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15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,365

Culture perpetually surrounds you, and the depths of history arise anew on your custom tailored  15-day Italy and Sicily tour. Gondolas float down the maze-like network of canals in Venice. The eclectic, historic cultures that once called Palermo home remain strong in the traditions of the marketplace. The summits of Mount Etna and Mount Vesuvius loom over cities both ancient and contemporary. Roman ruins and Doric temples, opulent beaches and Renaissance artwork combine for a breathtaking Italy vacation.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,649

Immerse yourself in the charms of the culture, the beauty of the undulating scenery, and the unforgettable flavors on your custom-tailored Sicily and the Amalfi Coast tour. Towns cast along the mountainous landscape of the Amalfi Coast, and the blend of classical cities with exquisite seaside views of Sicily are sure to enchant you. Rows of vineyards decorate the horizon. The Blue Grotto shines with iridescent hues. Locals overtake the fish market in search of the freshest catch and best daily deal. Ancient temples overtake the hillside and glow white in the Mediterranean sunlight.

19  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $14,815

Welcoming temperatures, coastal communities, and picturesque beaches appear in abundance on this 19-day tour of Sicily and Puglia. Lacking the icy elegance of Italy's Northern region, Southern Italy has long attracted those in search of rich culture and compelling history. From the bustling port of Palermo to the mysterious origins of the Trulli in Puglia, this tour ensures your full immersion into the warmth and vitality of Southern Italy.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,571

Experience the essential culture and remarkable history of Italy during this 11-day Sicily tour. This adventure immerses you in the hidden splendor of the island’s western edge. Indulge in secret splendor by sampling the customary flavors of diverse cuisine and basking in the elegant magnitude of glistening mosaics. Sample celebrated wines, witness preserved ancient architecture, and dig your toes into the golden sands of the Mediterranean coastline during this magnificent Sicily tour.

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,015

The luxuries of Sicily emanate from every sip of wine, each bite of food, and the unforgettable panoramas of the landscape. Your Sicily wine tour is custom tailored to ensure comfort and elegance, flavor and culture. The sea shines a deep sapphire blue. The hills transition between golden grasses and verdant vineyards. The exquisite snowcapped peak of Mount Etna rises over the sandy beaches, and immense columns of ancient Greek temples continue to stand stoically against rolling hills surrounding the valley. From the moment you arrive, you will relish the splendor of Sicily.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,217

The majesty of Sicily will enrapture you with mythical tales, vibrant culture, indulgent cuisine, and ineffable history. Architecture seamlessly blends Arab and Norman influence. Markets present an atmosphere similar to a North African bazaar. The seaside glistens multiple shades of indescribable blue. The beauty of Greek ruins shares the spotlight alongside Baroque palaces. The wonderment of Mount Etna’s towering peak complements the five-star luxuries of your unforgettable accommodations. Your custom-tailored best of Sicily tour encapsulates the splendors of Sicily, showing you marvelous vistas overlooking endless vineyards and preserved Roman mosaics providing insight into the lavish lifestyle of prosperous colonists.

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Dynamic pricing from  $3,933

The ancient world of the Mediterranean comes to life during your custom-tailored Rome, Sicily, and Greece Tour. The brilliant hues of Michelangelo’s paintings encompass the entirety of the Sistine Chapel. The pillars of the Parthenon support the history of thousands of years of Western Civilization and overlook the city of Athens. Greek temple ruins complement the Sicilian landscape, surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards. Outdoor markets showcase timeless local traditions, and historic churches hide ancient splendors. Explore the treasures of the past that have helped to shape the wonders of contemporary culture.

Dreamlike escape filled with magnificent architecture, ancient ruins, delicious food, breathtaking art, and embracing natural scenery is yours to experience on this 11-day Italy and Sicily trip. From the Sistine Chapel to Michelangelo’s David, exuberant palaces to magnificent towers, your custom-tailored Italy tour with Sicily takes you to unforgettable cities, each brimming with historical delight and treasured enchantment.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,007

A romantic vacation should encompass exotic landscapes and transcendent experiences. Your custom-tailored romantic getaway to Sicily encompasses the lavish and the beautiful as well as natural wonders and ancient civilizations, combining for an unforgettable whirlwind of passion, history, and flavors. Share pastries in a celebrated bakery, with delectable treats crafted from inherited recipes. Sip wine on a secluded vineyard in view of Europe’s largest active volcano. Witness the magnificence of ancient temples up close. Swim in cobalt-blue waters and lounge on white sand beaches. Indulge in the otherworldly splendor of Sicily with your significant other, for a timeless memory.

All roads lead to Rome, but your unique path begins in the fascinating heart of Sicily. Historic structures shimmer an aged gold. Emerald grapevines carpet the landscape beneath the shadow of Mount Etna’s peak. Ancient Greek temples speckle the landscape, overlooking olive orchards and orange groves. Cave dwellings honeycomb the walls of a ravine, and conical homes create a fairytale ambiance in the rolling hills of the southern Italian scenery. The radiance of Italy’s south bursts with life and culture, history and charm, ensuring your custom tailored Southern Italy and Sicily tour overflows with all the wonders in between.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,575

Discover your private secret garden in Sicily, lush with decorative vines, orange groves and olive orchards; explore the rich soil that creates the incredible fertile landscape. Chefs create unique and widely sought dishes using traditional ingredients grown in personalized private plots. Noble families decorate their estates with blossoming white trees and towering palm fronds. Vineyards comb the fertile foothills of Mount Etna. Baroque palaces frame elegant squares and verdant gardens hide behind ancient Doric ruins. Your custom tailored tour of Sicily’s landscapes and gardens has you strolling along parks and botanical gardens, history, and unforgettable scenery.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,859

Uncover the secrets to a perfect bottle of wine in the unparalleled landscape of Sicily. Follow the trail of an open-air museum dedicated to the different grapes of the island. Sip a sensual red or robust white in an antique farmhouse. Discover the ancient civilizations that settled the hillsides and shores. The subtle flavors of wine are influenced by the soil and elements, nurtured to absorb the qualities of its surroundings. Embark on a luxurious Sicily wine tasting experience that will introduce you to the Planeta estates and has you fall in love with the distinctive characteristic of each property’s wine and production.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,291

Venture beyond “par for the course” on your luxurious golf vacation in Sicily, meant for golf enthusiasts and history lovers, culture aficionados and those that enjoy a delectable glass of wine. Set your tee on a course positioned alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Embark on the finest of Sicily private tours , and follow a footpath leading you to incredible ancient Doric temples peppering the hills. Sample the local wine of a boutique vineyard with a backdrop of Mount Etna and indulge in a panorama of the azure water shimmering in the Bay of Naxos. Your custom tailored tour brims with golf greatness, sensational scenery, and ineffable culture.

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7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

Sicily will enchant you with its stunning architecture, embracing culture, and elegant flavors on your custom tailored Sicily Baroque tour. Elegant statues frame trickling fountains. Locals dine on timeless recipes passed down from generation to generation. Quality olive oil is as coveted as celebrated wine, and sampled with the same reverence. Marketplaces alight with the colorful rinds of fresh produce. The aroma of citrus emanates from wild orange groves. Sicily’s layered history emboldens and enhances the wonders of its contemporary lifestyle, from the cities to the countryside, and to those that hold its traditions dear.

Sicily is the home of past kings and fabled warriors, ancient cities and celebrated mosaics. Your Sicily tour is specially customized, specializing in showing you the true heritage of the island that housed historic cities larger than Athens and temples grander than those found in Delphi. Baroque architecture highlights the grandeur of the bygone and illuminates the celebrated culture of towns and cities across the landscape. Vibrant markets persist. Jovial fishers return from sea, following the gentle tide and searching for the pastel buildings lining the coast. The traditions of Sicily are powerful, exciting, and enchanting.

Dynamic pricing from  $2,501

For fans of the Godfather trilogy, this custom tailored Godfather tour in Sicily is an offer you can’t refuse. Retrace the footsteps of Vito and Michael Corleone around the villages of Sicily. Listen to the echoes of familial rivalries that have spanned generations. Witness lavish historic palaces and breathtaking Baroque churches that influenced the powerful rise of the infamous Cosa Nostra, of which the Corleone Family fictitiously took part. Discover the depths in which the mafia spurred the growth of Sicily and how the crime families, large and small, captured imaginations across the world.

Bask in the simultaneously simple and complex flavors of Sicily in a paradise that you never knew existed. The Mediterranean Sea sparkles along the golden sandy beaches. Greek ruins adorn hilltops and overlook the surrounding valleys. Citrus orchards and olive groves provide ample tastes of the island’s natural flavors. Wineries blanket the undulating landscape and chocolateries fill the streets with indulgent rich aromas. Your Sicily culinary tour is custom tailored to your desires, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cuisine of Sicily that can be rustic or refined, sweet or savory, and is never less than scintillating.

Sicily is a very distinctive region of Italy, filled with unique personality stemming from architecture that spans thousands of years. The coastline undulates between pristine beaches to remarkable cliffs. Mount Etna looms over wineries and cities, puffing smoke and spouting lava. Baroque palaces line charming piazzas. Marvelous frescoes decorate historic churches. Greek temples continue to stand tall along the edges of a modern city. Cobblestone streets twist and turn alongside medieval homes. Your custom tailored Sicily culture tour brings you to the unforgettable wonders of Sicily, embodied in the buildings, cuisine, and scenery scattered across the island.

Your view over the water brings an endless azure panorama sweeping upwards into the looming conical peak of Mount Etna. Ancient Greek temples decorate the valley floor, their pearl marble color standing out against the rugged hillsides. A Norman castle contains elements of Arabic décor and the Riace Warriors show bearded, muscular figures cut from bronze. Your custom tailored Sicily tour takes you through the unparalleled history around the island, showcasing the splendor of the past and the unique culture of the present.

The finer details of Jewish tradition have left a tangible mark on Sicily, adorning ancient buildings and shaping local culture. A hidden mikveh (bath used for ritual immersion) continues to bubble with fresh spring water. Stars of David decorate municipal buildings in towns that have not had a Jewish community for centuries. Synagogue foundations and demarcations of Jewish Quarters are found throughout the region. Jewish culture and traditions are as spirited and as tenacious as the people who hold these values dear. Your Jewish cultural tour of Sicily highlights the influence of Sicily’s Jewish population in the art, architecture, and cuisine on a luxury excursion of a unique and untold history.

Puffs of smoke drift into the blue sky from the various craters of Mount Etna. Vineyards sweep across the foothills adding lush vines to the rugged landscape and absorbing the unique characteristics of the terrain. A local chef prepares artichokes in a farmhouse overlooking the lush prairie, and a decadent aroma fills the kitchen. Your gourmet Sicily tour shows you the flavors of the island, from brilliant wines to eclectic cuisine, ancient architecture to exquisite Mediterranean waters. Discover majestic Greek ruins and Norman mosaics, each day adding a wealth of pleasures for the senses.

The discoveries of Sicily are endless on an island bursting with ancient wonders and vivacious culture, stunning landscape and iridescent beaches. Medieval towns crown towering mountains offering unparalleled views. Breathtaking Doric temples rise from valleys overlooking wild olive groves. Celebrated chocolate shops share with you their recipes passed down for hundreds of years. Cobblestone paths wind through antique buildings and into open elegant piazzas adorned with graceful churches. Your custom-tailored discover Sicily tour lets you explore Sicily like a local, relishing the thrill of adventure, the excitement of discovery, and the soothing calm of daily life.

Magnificent marble columns and powerful seaside castles inspire the entire family, keeping the kids engaged and creating unparalleled memories on your custom-tailored Sicily tour for families. Gold sand beaches line the shores. Vibrant markets fill the cities with the aroma of refreshing citrus. Ancient temples rise over olive trees. Baroque palaces decorate inviting squares. Mosaics create layers of opulence in chapel and cathedral naves, and the towering summit of Mount Etna is a constant promise of adventure. The family will feel inspired during your unforgettable time in the Mediterranean island charms of Sicily.

The ancient lives, modern wonders, and cultural pleasures of Malta and Sicily surpass all expectation. Your custom-tailored tour of Sicily and Malta immerses you in unparalleled splendor, from ancient Greek temples to medieval fortresses. The protective ramparts of small towns create a fairytale ambiance for you to enjoy. Baroque palaces frame charming cobblestone piazzas. You will experience the luxuries of country estates and the comforts of lavish hotels overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Traditions encompass millennia of settlers traveling from across the globe as the scent of fresh citrus lingers from wild orchards.

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Sicily Vacation Packages

Explore sicily.

The largest of all the Italian islands, Sicily is both a delightful and delicious destination. Encircled by the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea and full of charming local culture, its varied landscape and ever-present scent of lemon trees make it an alluring destination.

Treasured archaeological sites, charming villages, more than a dozen offshore islands, dramatic volcanoes and the exotic flavors of Sicilian food, make Sicily a stunning setting for an amazing stay. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance or an epicurean escape, this Mediterranean island has something for everyone.

As the centerpiece of Syracuse’s Piazza Archimede, this monumental fountain highlights the attributes of the Greek goddess of hunting.

Located on Sicily’s east coast, this famous hilltop resort town offers charming settings to take in sweeping Ionian seascapes and notable landmarks and ruins.

Sitting on the northern tip of Sicily, Palermo’s chaotic streets, unique culture and vibrant markets offer fun and adventure at every turn.

• Fountain of Diana Slide 1 of 3: As the centerpiece of Syracuse’s Piazza Archimede, this monumental fountain highlights the attributes of the Greek goddess of hunting.
• Taormina Slide 2 of 3: Located on Sicily’s east coast, this famous hilltop resort town offers charming settings to take in sweeping Ionian seascapes and notable landmarks and ruins.
• Palermo Slide 3 of 3: Sitting on the northern tip of Sicily, Palermo’s chaotic streets, unique culture and vibrant markets offer fun and adventure at every turn.

Two of Sicily’s most popular cities are Palermo and Catania. The capital city, Palermo is the perfect spot to experience genuine Sicilian city life. With Mount Etna as a backdrop, Catania is an energetic port city with baroque piazzas and two classic Roman amphitheaters.

The coastal city of Syracuse is a wonderland of ancient civilization, and one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily. The hilltop city, Agrigento, is home to seven sacred temples, including the well-preserved Temple of Hera. For nature lovers, Ragusa is a picturesque, seaside community with a delightful ambiance, and the cliff-side city of Taormina offers fantastic coastal views. If you’re looking to unwind from stress and daily life, Sciacca’s renowned thermal spas and wellness centers offer regenerating and therapeutic treatments.

If you like to shop, Sicily has the best places to find trinkets and treasures to bring home. Known for its handcrafted lava jewelry, colorful pottery and delicious tasty things like wine, almond pastries and honey, shopping for “Made in Sicily” products are lots of fun, especially if you enjoy bargaining.

The passion of Sicily is cooked into its cultivated food, including stuffed breads, pastas, cured meat, fish stews and distinct cheeses. Enjoy typical fresh-baked Sicilian pastries like cannoli or a traditional Palermo cassata (sponge cake).

Using farm to table ingredients like olives, sardines, grapes, tomatoes and lemons, Palermo celebrates its authentic roots at countless food fairs and festivals throughout the year. Don’t miss Catania’s famous fish market, La Pescheria, which is brimming with activity. Try a glass of one of Sicily’s full-bodied wines, ideal when paired with the wide array of supremely good food.

Delta Vacations flight + hotel packages include round-trip airfare aboard a Delta Partner Airline to Palermo's Falcone–Borsellino Airport (PMO) or the Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). Transfers between the airport and hotel are not included with your vacation package, but are available to purchase. To get between the airport and your hotel, a taxi is also recommended, depending on the location of your hotel.

Learn more about the official vacation provider of Delta Air Lines.

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Sicily Vacation Packages

Best Vacation Packages:

Palermo - Agrigento - Syracuse - Taormina (Self Drive)

Palermo - Agrigento - Taormina - Catania

Catania - Syracuse - Ragusa - Agrigento - Palermo (Self Drive)

Palermo - Agrigento - Syracuse - Taormina

• Rental Car for 10 days
• Hotel for 2 nights in Palermo
• Hotel for 2 nights in Agrigento
• Hotel for 2 nights in Siracusa
• Hotel for 2 nights in Taormina
• Hotel for 1 night in Palermo

• Hotel for 3 nights in Palermo
• Transfer from Hotel in Palermo to Hotel in Agrigento via Castello di Caccamo
• Transfer from Hotel in Agrigento to Hotel in Taormina
• Transfer from Hotel in Taormina to Hotel in Catania
• Hotel for 2 nights in Catania
• Rental car for 12 days
• Hotel for 3 nights in Catania
• Hotel for 2 nights in Syracuse
• Hotel for 2 nights in Ragusa
• Transfer from Hotel in Agrigento to Hotel in Syracuse via Piazza Armerina
• Transfer from Hotel in Syracuse to Hotel in Taormina via Necropolis of Pantalica
• Transfer from Hotel in Taormina to Catania Airport

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• Rome   
• close X Rome <b>Rome</b> is undeniably stunning, from its rich ancient culture, must try pizzas and coffees or just experience a touch of Europe. This city is packed full of sights, with thousands of years of history layered upon itself - you'll find everything here from Roman ruins to Renaissance art. It's also home to fantastic food, the Vatican City, and sights galore. <br /> <br /> Explore and discover the Roman Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine; Discover the Vatican, the smallest independent state in the world; Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain; Marvel at the Pantheon; Sit on the Spanish Steps; Wander the Piazzas; Eat the best Gelato in Rome; Climb Palatine Hill; Walk the Ancient Appian Way; Go to the Vatican Museums and so much more.
• Venice   
• close X Venice With sumptuous palaces and romantic waterways, <strong>Venice </strong> is straight out of an 18th-century Canaletto masterpiece. No matter how many times you have seen it in movies or TV commercials, the real thing is more surreal and dreamlike than you ever imagined. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale are exotic melanges of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. It is full of secrets, ineffably romantic, and - at times - given over entirely to pleasure. You must walk everywhere in Venice and where you cannot walk, you go by water. <br /> <br /> Explore Piazza San Marco, Stroll Across the Rialto Bridge, Get Lost in the Endless Canals, Admire the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute, Visit the San Giorgio dei Greci, Walk Around the Jewish Ghetto, Learn About Venice's Musical History, Tour Venice's Unique Architecture at Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Celebrate One of Venice' Many Festivals, Go Window Shopping, and so much more.
• Florence   
• close X Florence The Italian city of <b>Florence</b> sits nestled among the rolling Tuscan hills, with an unmistakable skyline dominated by the fabulous Duomo. With so much Renaissance art and culture, shopping opportunities, and of course incredible gastronomy, you will be spoiled for choices in what to do and see in this exciting capital city of Tuscany. Florence's museums, palaces, and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world. The most popular and important sites in Florence include the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Accademia. Spend a day at the Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience an enchanting view of Florence, Italy. <br /> <br /> Visit The Duomo Complex, Church of Santa Croce, The Cathedral, The Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and so much more.
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Southern Italy and Sicily

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10-Day Italy Tour of Rome, Sorrento, Capri and Sicily

10 days, 1 country and 9 cities

Accommodation

9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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The sun-kissed south and Sicily are the star attractions on this mesmerizing southern Italy trip from Rome to Palermo. Taste local Sicilian wine on the slopes of snow-capped Mount Etna, learn about the ancient Greek heritage of Agrigento and get lost in the medieval cobbled streets of Erice.

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Day by day itinerary

10 days itinerary trip from Rome to Palermo visiting 1 country and 9 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Pompeii, Capri, Taormina, Agrigento and Palermo with a Local Specialist

Visit the excavations at Pompeii, the ruins of the ancient Greek theater at Taormina, the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, Erice, Monreale Cathedral

View the fortress town of Enna and Palermo Cathedral

Scenic Cruise to the Isle of Capri

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return cruise to the Isle of Capri

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Vacations in Sicily

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Sicily and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $368; Family vacation $349; Romantic vacation $386; Luxury vacation $459; Budget vacation $415.

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Sicily vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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What? Tour Aeolian Islands Agrigento Catania Cefalù Favignana Marsala Monreale Mount Etna Tour – Etna Excursions Palermo Tour Ragusa Tour Syracuse Tour Taormina Tour – Etna Tours From Taormina

Bespoke Travel Packages to Sicily, Italy

Book custom sicilian tours with us let our experts design an unforgettable trip to sicily, classic regional tours by bellarome travel provides customized trips to sicily, italy. we offer complete and bespoke tour deals for the italian regions..

Our passion for travel shows in the quality of the tours we consistently deliver, with many customers returning to us to plan their next vacation. This is because we are more than a travel agent, but rather a travel consultant. We delve deep to uncover your travel desires and preferences and combine this with our intimate knowledge of Sicily to design the perfect vacation which leaves no stone unturned.

Visit our Other Regional Microsites

Our Reviews

Why Travel to Sicily?

A trip to Sicily is a must! Yes, ask any Italian and they will tell you that Sicily is an island which must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Whether you are a history buff, an art and architecture enthusiast, a foodie, passionate about hiking and nature, or a beach lover – there is definitely something for you and more.

Did we mention Sicily’s geological wonders? Aside from its stunning coastline of clear blue waters and Mediterranean vegetation, Sicily is home to some of the most prominent volcanoes which can be visited on our many unforgettable Sicilian tours. Sicily also has a fascinating history, which can be witnessed through the varied architecture and cuisine owing to the different occupations over the centuries. Let our qualified Sicily travel guides take you on a journey back in time on our many history trips to Sicily, which include the most ancient monuments. Check out our tailor-made Sicily travel deals, which suit all your needs, whether you are a history lover, a food lover, a wine lover, or a culture lover. We have created travel deals keeping everyone’s interests in mind

Book Your Dream Trip to Sicily With Us

A beautiful region located in Italy, Sicily is one of the best travel getaways to explore. There are several reasons you should plan a trip to Sicily sooner than you think. Right from its quaint architectural treasures, and gorgeous picturesque destinations to eclectic food, Sicily just has it all.

The beautiful trips to Sicily will leave you impressed and craving for more and more. As far as accommodation is concerned, you will find everything here from the best hotels as well as enjoyable farm stays. There is absolutely no dearth of choices. And with us, you can always book your staycation at affordable prices. Our team works hard so that you can instantly book and explore from a wide range of choices. We ensure that you always get value for your money and that’s what makes us stand apart from other companies in the market. We are well known for being the best Sicilian tourism company. You can check out testimonials for full satisfaction. We are always here to help!!

Sicily Tours & Vacation Packages All Inclusive

Use our popular itineraries as inspiration for your own tailor-made sicily (italy) vacation. get the best sicily travel package itinerary with us, benefits of using classic sicily .

Why travelers choose us:

1. Expert Itineraries

• With our Sicily tour and vacation packages, you get expertly crafted itineraries that showcase the best of Sicily. Plan your vacation with top travel Specialists.

2. Local Knowledge

• Classic Sicily travel experts know Sicily well, helping you enjoy  real  Sicilian culture, food, and hidden spots  that you  might miss on your own.

3. Travel worry-free and hassle-free

• Enjoy a stress-free vacation with all logistics handled, including accommodations, transportation, and guided tours,  allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the  experience.

4. Personalized Service

• Our Sicily tour and vacation packages are customizable to fit your interests and preferences, offering a tailor-made itinerary experience that meets your unique needs and desires.

Food Tour of Sicily – 10 Days

Eat your way through Sicily. Tasting all her most iconic regional dishes, on this delectable 11-day tour put together by a local. Have a look at our Sicily, Italy, all-inclusive vacation packages for 2024 and enjoy the taste of Sicily.

Treasure Sicily – 18 Nights

Immerse yourself in Sicily and the Aeolian Islands with this travel package to Sicily, Italy. This travel package covers Palermo, Agrigento, Catania, and their surrounding towns. End your Sicilian vacations on a relaxing note in Lipari and Panarea with boat trips to other islands.

Sicilian Discovery – 8 Days

This Sicily tour package covers the most iconic destinations and hidden gems. This carefully crafted tour combines history, architecture, and cuisine. This is the best place to come for small group tours in Sicily.

Complete Sicily Private Tour: 12 Nights

In this Sicily vacation package, enjoy the unique and sublime local culture and hidden gems. This exploration of Southern Italy’s most beautiful region ensures you won't miss a thing.

Mainland Italy to Sicily – 14 Nights

Plan your trip to Sicily and get the chance to experience some of mainland Italy’s most popular destinations. In this Sicily travel deal, we visit Rome and the Amalfi Coast before enjoying the best that Sicily has to offer.

Sicily Grand Tour – 14 Days Itinerary

Explore the most popular Sicily vacation packages. With this itinerary, you can take your time to meander down the beautiful roads of southern Italy, missing nothing along the way. Choose this all-inclusive Sicily vacation package for 2024.

Aeolian Islands Tour Sicily – 7 days

A whirlwind Aeolian island-hopping adventure in Sicily. Start in Messina and tour the best of the Aeolian islands. This travel package has natural wonders and the ultimate laid-back lifestyle.

Wine Tour of Sicily – 12 Days

A comprehensive wine tour of Sicily taken at a relaxed pace to allow time for city tours and unwinding on the beach. Learn all about Sicilian wine production and taste the best varieties at the source.

Cultural Sicily – 6 Days

A short and sweet tour covering the East of Sicily starting in Taormina, then to Syracuse and finishing in Catania with an excursion to Ragusa in between. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history that has shaped Sicily's culture over the years.

Sicily Family Tour – 9 Days Itinerary

A rich and varied tour of Sicily perfect for families, small groups or couples. Immerse yourself in the colorful history of Sicily’s past by visiting archeological sites.

Book Your Sicily Vacation Packages With Us at The Best Prices

Sicily is the perfect destination for your next vacation. From hikes in the rolling hills of the lush Mount Etna National Park to picture-perfect tours of the ancient ruins of Agrigento, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. You might also experience the vibrant nightlife in a seaside city such as Syracuse or Taormina, while sipping delicious local wines. The culinary delights at Sicily will simply make you fall in love with them. Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo journey, Sicily vacation packages are the perfect way to explore this beautiful island and make the most out of your trip.

From all-inclusive deals and budget-friendly Sicily tour packages to customisable Sicily vacation packages, you can find something to suit your style and budget. Get ready to embrace a luxurious and unforgettable experience. A Sicilian tour guarantees the beauty of popular Sicilian destinations like Mt. Etna and the Valley of the Temples. Explore the mesmerizing coastline of the Ionian Sea. With its blend of past and present, culture and natural wonders, Sicily is a paradise waiting to be explored. Book a Sicily tour package with us and let Sicily show you its breathtaking beauty and fascinating culture.

Tailor-make Your Sicily Dream Vacations

Let us handle the hassle

View some of our popular Sicilian tours destinations below or visit our 'Destinations' page to explore the entirety of Sicily using our interactive map

Aeolian Islands

Mount Etna Tour – Etna Excursions

Palermo Tour

Ragusa Tour

Faq about sicily, what are the best places to visit while i am on my sicilian tour.

Sicily is an exciting option for your yearly travel getaway. So, if you book trips to Sicily with us then some of the top places to visit in Sicily would be Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Syracuse, and the Aeolian Islands. There are many more places to explore in Sicily but the charm of these places will simply sweep you off your feet.

What Are The Driving Conditions Over There?

If you are planning to travel to Sicily it is important to know about roads. Mostly, the roads are in good condition. However, in some parts, it can be a bit of a challenge to drive like in Palermo and Catania.

Are The Palermo and Catania Airports Efficient?

Yes, you won’t find any difficulty when it comes to the efficiency of the airports. The airports are in good condition and fairly well maintained for tourists and locals to use and catch flights.

What Activities and Experiences Can I Expect From Sicily Vacation Packages?

Sicily vacation packages offer a wide range of activities and experiences, including guided tours of historical sites, and culinary tours to taste Sicilian cuisine. Visits to wineries and vineyards, exploring charming coastal towns, and opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking and snorkeling. Your stay accommodation will be arranged at 5-star luxury hotels and much more.

What Is The Best Way To Travel Within Sicily?

The best method to travel within Sicily is by road. For this, you can either rent a car or travel via buses or taxis.

How Is The Taxi Service In Sicily?

The taxi service in Sicily is fine as far as networking is concerned. However, booking a taxi in Sicily for travel can be a bit expensive. Beware of the taxi drivers, as they may try to charge you a little extra. Thus, it would be better to discuss and finalize the price before getting into the taxi itself. If you are planning a trip to Sicily, it is critical that you first research the area and reserve taxi services.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing Travel Packages to Sicily, Italy?

When choosing travel packages to Sicily, Italy, consider factors such as the duration of the package, including accommodations and meals, guided tours and activities, transportation arrangements, flexibility for customization, and the fact that you can easily reach the helpline desk because sometimes new places confuse you. Researching reviews and testimonials from previous travelers can also help in making an informed decision. If you have all these points met, then you can choose the travel packages to Sicily, Italy

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Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Welcome to Sicily - Transfer service from Catania airport to your hotel - Evening Taormina Food and Wine Tour experience
• Day 2 Discover Small Antique villages: Savoca & Forza d’Agro with lunch & Evening Taormina walking tour and Magnificent Greek Theatre visit
• Day 3 Mount Etna Adventure Trip - Panoramic Winery & Etna Winery and Lunch
• Day 4 Magnificent Noto walking tour - Sicilian fisherman's village Marzamemi with Lunch - Charming Syracuse
• Day 5 Walking tour of Island Ortigia, Syracuse’s old town - Apollo Temple
• Day 6 Agrigento guided visit in the UNESCO heritage site Temple Valley - Taverna fresh seasonal Lunch - Palermo the Sicilian Capital
• Day 7 Discover Palermo the Sicilian Capital - Authentic Palermitan area - Typical Palermo wine
• Day 8 Departure day and transfer service to Palermo airport

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Click Tours

Click Tours are a great company to travel with. They offer a selection of more than 200 itineraries that explore destinations across Europe and the Middle East. The experienced team provide carefully planned tours, as well as personalised tailor-made trips! See the wide selection of tours and start planning your next adventure.

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A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.6
• Itinerary Excellent 4.6
• Guide Excellent 4.9
• Transport Excellent 4.6
• Accommodation Excellent 4.3
• Food Excellent 4.6
• Tour Operator Click Tours 3.9
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• NK Nina · 16th April 2024 Lovely tour. Great guides, nice hotels, perfect itunerary. Trip date: April 2024

• AR Anita · 30th June 2023 I took the Best of Sicily Tour with TourRadar. We had a small group of 5. It was fantastic. We had a different tour guide each day but one. They were all very knowledgeable, well educated in their fields of study, and answered all our questions and... Show more Trip date: June 2023

• JS Joette · 29th May 2023 The tour was truly a taste to Sicily. The tour guides were knowledgeable and thorough from Taormina to Palermo. The hotels and the choice of meals were very good especially the wine tasting at Etna having the most inventive cuisine. Trip date: May 2023
• WN Walter · 24th May 2023 Automatically translated. View in English Rate this translation Automatic translation available in English. View in English We were a group of 3 couples who took this trip together. With the exception of problems with airport pickup and... Show more Trip date: May 2023
• DB David · 10th May 2023 This tour and company far exceeded expectations. The organized meals were some of the finest I've ever enjoyed. The guides were friendly and helpful and extremely knowledgeable about the history and culture. The accommodations were all great, some... Show more Trip date: April 2023
• A Anonymous · 9th May 2023 Great tour hotel in taoromina not senior citizen friendly though centrally placed Trip date: April 2023
• CH Chrystal · 8th May 2023 This was my first experience with a tour and this one was excellent. All planned events were interesting and tour guides were excellent. There was a good balance between planned activities and free time. Trip date: April 2023

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• Wednesday 22 May, 2024 Wednesday 29 May, 2024 English Sold Out €4,277 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Friday 24 May, 2024 Friday 31 May, 2024 English Sold Out €4,277 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 1 Other Unavailable Departure
• -34% Wednesday 29 May, 2024 Wednesday 5 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out In a private room €5,643 €3,724 Confirm Dates
• -34% Friday 31 May, 2024 Friday 7 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out Multiple Room Types €4,347 €2,869 Confirm Dates
• -34% Wednesday 5 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out In a private room €5,643 €3,724 Confirm Dates
• -34% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 7 Jun, 2024 Friday 14 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €4,098 €2,704 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -34% Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 19 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out In a private room €5,643 €3,724 Confirm Dates
• -34% Get Instant Confirmation Friday 14 Jun, 2024 Friday 21 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €3,985 €2,630 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• -34% Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 19 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 26 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,862 €2,549 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
• Friday 21 Jun, 2024 Friday 28 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out €3,985 See Similar Tours For These Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currency € Euro Italy

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 23rd July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 23rd July 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Click Tours. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Click Tours will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Click Tours" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Click Tours. Please familiarise yourself with the Click Tours payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Southern Italy & Sicily

About this tour.

Journey through a crossroads of civilizations in Sicily and on to the spectacular coastlines of Southern Italy. Uncover Sicily’s capital Palermo and its Moorish and Norman influences. Explore seaside Cefalù and Agrigento’s ancient Valley of the Temples. Travel to the historic hilltop town of Taormina. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and agriturismo dinner. Venture to the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. Explore Sorrento and stunning Positano, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in the excavated Pompeii. Allow the unique culture to capture your heart and get a glimpse into an age-old heritage composed of ancient monuments and cultivated lands.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

Your tour at a glance.

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $60.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour&#39;s activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel southern italy & sicily featuring taormina, matera and the amalfi coast.

While just about any month is great to visit Italy, there are a few prime times of the year for the Southern Italy & Sicily tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Throughout Italy, the most popular times to visit are April, May, June, September, and October. Along the coast, July and August are busy with locals and Europeans on summer holiday, while cities are usually less crowded.

Winter: Sicily is known for its mild winter climate, where almond trees bloom in February. Enjoy this tour in the winter season to experience Italy without the crowds.

Spring and Fall: Avoiding summer’s crowds, the spring or fall are great seasons to visit Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Despite occasionally rainy weather, the quieter time of year is very enjoyable for sightseeing and dining out at restaurants.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale's Cathedral.

Journey to the Sassi di Matera, known for its cave dwellings.

Experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii at the foothills of Mount Vesuvius.

Cultural Experiences:

Stand in awe before the ancient Greek theatre in Taormina.

• Experience seaside Cefalù and Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.

Journey to Positano village, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Indulge in a delicious regional dinner inside a winery's agriturismo restaurant.

Tour a vineyard and cellar located in the badlands of Basilicata, Matera’s region.

Savor freshly made mozzarella cheese during a visit to a buffalo dairy farm.

• Valley of the Temples
• Piazza Armerina
• Giardini Naxos
• Winery Tour & Tasting

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-MClub Lipari Sicily

In order to enhance your stay while in Sicily, you will now stay at hotel MClub Lipari in Sciacca, located in the Agrigento area. The new hotel offers more services and facilities, and it is located by the beach.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Extend your trip with a 2-night sojourn in the Eternal City. Your Extension includes a walkign tour of Rome's most iconic piazzas and fountains. Explore the oval-shaped, baroque Navona plaza and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain!. During an included tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's basilica, marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece: the Sistine Chapel. And enjoy ample free time to explore the charms of the Eternal City. Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Rome - Extension Begins
• Enjoy a guided walking tour of Classical Rome, leading you through the Eternal City’s most iconic monuments. Walk over cobblestone streets and weathered passageways to discover famous sights such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most breathtaking Baroque piazzas. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps you’ll wander through one of Rome’s many museums, such as the Capitoline or stroll the Avenue of the Imperial Forum for views of the Colosseum.
• Rome - Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
• Early this morning join an expert local guide for a visit of the Vatican Museums* and St. Peter’s Basilica, including the world-famous Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s Last Judgement fresco is situated. The afternoon is yours. Perhaps you’ll explore Rome’s bohemian Trastevere district and wander through its maze-like, ivy-clung streets.
• Rome - Depart for Home
• Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Hotel-NH Palermo

Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine.

See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend a half-day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks before returning to your hotel in Giardini Naxos.

Journey to Puglia, Italy’s bread-basket region. In the company of an expert local guide, explore fanciful Alberobello, a whimsical, UNESCO-protected city that hosts a collection of cone-shaped trulli homes. Enjoy some free time to meander through a labyrinth of these gnomish houses, sometimes featuring symbols with superstitious connotations before returning to Matera in the early evening.

Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale's Cathedral.

Experience seaside Cefalù and Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.

Indulge in a delicious regional dinner inside a winery's agriturismo restaurant.

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Una hotel naxos beach sicilia, unahotels mh matera, hotel michelangelo.

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Where to stay in Sicily

Palermo Historical Center

Palermo Historical Center is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Palermo Harbour and Piazza Pretoria, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Palermo.

Taormina City Centre

The picturesque gardens and beautiful seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Taormina City Centre. A stop by Corso Umberto or Piazza IX April might round out your trip.

Catania City Centre

Unique features of Catania City Centre include the historic sites and theaters. Make a stop by Manganelli Palace or Roman Amphitheater while you're exploring the area.

Travelers come to Ortigia for its seaside views, and you can see top attractions like Cathedral of Syracuse and Piazza del Duomo while you're in town.

Centro Storico

Stroll along the ancient Cassaro street, admiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Royal Palace and Cathedral. Enjoy the pedestrian stretch from the Cathedral to Quattro Canti, and hop on the free "Arancione" shuttle bus to explore further.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in sicily, mondello beach.

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Mondello Beach, a popular beach in Mondello. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

This tranquil city is in a stupendous position on the sea in front of Mount Etna, with a mild climate year round and marvellous scenery, where peace and quiet reign supreme. It's been world famous for centuries, which has brought an influx of noteworthy tourists, even today, thanks to the numerous holiday promotions for Taormina.

Valley of the Temples

You can learn about the history of Agrigento with a stop at Valley of the Temples. Wander the picturesque gardens and seaside in the area.

What to do in Sicily

Palermo: guided city walking tour w/customizable itinerary, palermo original street food walking tour by streaty, mount etna day trip from taormina, other vacations you might like.

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Italy: Highlights of Sicily

8 days | explore the heart of the mediterranean on this sicilian adventure.

Calling all sun-seeking adventurers. Dramatic cliffside villages, Sicilian sunshine, clear waters and delicious seafood are all waiting for you on an 8-day trip through this unique region of Italy. From the volcanic valleys of Mt Etna to the timeworn streets of Syracuse and the Baroque wonders Ragusa, get ready to discover the varied sides of Sicily. Plus, take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of the Valley of the temples, and learn of the rich anti-mafia history of Palermo. Get lost in the charm of Sicily; eat good food, soak up the Mediterranean sun, learn of the incredible history in this region and get closer to nature.

Trip overview

• Take a drive up the towering Mt. Etna, one of the greatest natural beauties of the Mediterranean and Europe’s largest active volcano and get a chance to walk into an extinct crater.
• Be swept away by Sicilian charm as you explore the backstreets and cobblestone alleys in the timeless old town of Syracuse, Noto and Ragusa.
• Take a step back in time with a guided tour of Temple of the Valleys which brings to life the full glory of ancient Greece and its myths, legends, gods and goddesses.
• Join a special tour that showcases the anti-mafia movement in Palermo, visiting sites and people who played an important part in the turbulent history of the city.
• Enjoy a perfect balance of free time and included activities on this trip for you to make your own discoveries, with our professional leader helping you make the most of it.
• Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many hotel rooms in Europe are not equipped with air-conditioning, and the cooling system on local trains can be broken on a regular basis. Note also that during peak holiday season beaches can be quite busy. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
• Hotel rooms in Europe can seem rather small by American or Australian standards and often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
• On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.
• If you have more time to explore the region you can extend your trip and see more of Italy by starting your travels in Rome. Check out our trip 'Rome to Sicily' (trip code ZMSFC). Most departure dates are designed to create this perfect combination trip.

Benvenuto! Welcome to Sicily. Your adventure will begin in the ancient port city of Catania on Sicily’s east coast. Your trip will officially kick off with a Welcome Meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and group leader. If you arrive early, why not take a wander around the city at your leisure. Catania sits at the foot of Mount Etna which can be seen from well over half of the city – truly a sight to see, you might just like to traverse the cobblestone laneways that give glimpses of the epic volcano towering above. And if you get time, be sure to take a visit to Catania’s wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, which features the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. You could even check out the weekday fish market that sits in the southwest corner of the square – it’s an entertaining yet rowdy spectacle to observe.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Once you arrive at the hotel, ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, it's a good idea to arrive a day early so you can attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Today it’s time to come face-to-face with the volcano that towered over you yesterday, we’re taking a day trip to drive up Mt Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Drive up the northern flank of the volcano and strap on your walking shoes for an easy walk through the spectacular Valle del Bove (Ox Valley), a valley formed when the original crater of Etna collapsed. This is Etna’s largest valley, where many lava flows can be seen, one on top of the other. At an altitude of approx 2,000 metres, you’ll walk into the centre of an extinct crater and visit a lava cave that can be explored with helmets and torches. Who else can say they’ve walked into the crater of a volcano? Walk among the cold lava streams of Piano Provenzana, a former ski resort that has been destroyed during the last big eruption of 2002. After we’re throughly explored Etna, we’ll hit the road to Syracuse where your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the most interesting parts of the city. The evening is yours to explore, or chill out, as you wish.

• Mt Etna - Day Trip
• Siracusa - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Today’s driving time from Mount Etna to Syracuse is approximately 1.5 hours.

Wake up without an alarm today, you’ve got the day at your leisure to explore Syracuse however you like. Perhaps, wander through the streets and check out the crumbling building facades and balconies supported for centuries by a host of stone lions, tigers, bears, dragons, moors, satyrs, devils, angels, kings, paupers, wenches and cherubs. Perhaps take a boat trip around the island of Ortigia for a scenic view of the walled off cityscape. Or, you may want to participate in an optional visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Site – known as one of the world’s finest. Alternately, we’re sure you could fill your whole day just wandering aimlessly through this fascinating city, stopping by cafes, restaurants and perhaps grabbing a granita in the afternoon.

• Siracusa - Castello Maniace - EUR4
• Siracusa - Cathedral - EUR2
• Siracusa - Archaeological Museum - EUR14
• Siracusa - Neapolis Archaeological Park - EUR13

After breakfast today we’re setting our sights for the city of Agrigento. But first, there’s one quick stop along the way that simply can’t be missed – Noto, a small slightly less-known town with limestone buildings that dazzle on a sunlit afternoon. Our next stop is the ‘new’ baroque city of Ragusa that was completely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, resulting in two vastly different sides to the same city. After exploring the tangled alleyways and baroque palazzi, travel on to the final destination for today, Agrigento. Arrive late in the afternoon and enjoy some free time. Maybe find the historic center that extends up the Colle di Girgenti hill including Via Atenea and Viale della Vittoria, where there’s a panoramic view over the valley (Valley of the Temples) and the sea for sunset. Plus, be sure to try the famous gelato pecorino in one of the local cafés and patisseries.

• Noto & Ragusa - Day Trip

Today’s travel time will be approximately 4-5 hours.

You’ll take a step back in time today as you explore the nearby Valley of the Temples. Your local guide will bring this classical Greek site to life as you visit the temples of Hera, Herakles, Zeus and Castor and Pollux. Try to nab a window seat today, along the way you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the sweeping landscape and Mediterranean Sea. After the guided tour in the Valley of the Temples, you’ll head on to Marsala a coastal town in the west of Sicily.

• Agrigento - Guided visit Valley of the Temples

Today’s driving time from the Valley of the Temples to Marsala is approximately 2.5 hours.

Today you’ll set your sights on Palermo, but not without a few scenic stops along the way. First up, we’ll explore the beautifully preserved medieval town of Erice (located more than 750 metres above sea level). Despite being handed from one ruling army to the next, there are plenty of beautiful buildings in this town, each showcasing architectural styles from a varied history. Before you get back on the road, be sure to pick yourself up a Genovesi – a traditional Sicilian pastry filled with custard or ricotta cream. With a belly full of sweets, we’re on our way to the capital of Sicily – Palermo. On arrival in Palermo the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. You might like to wander the labyrinth of small alleyways, buzzing colourful market squares and winding roads. Or, check out some of the main monuments like the 12th century cathedral in the old heart of the city.

• Erice - local sweets tasting

Today's driving time from Marsala to Palermo is approximately 3 hours.

Wake up excited and ready to explore the beautiful city of Palermo. In the morning, you’ll take part in a walking tour with a local guide where you’ll uncover symbolic places of rebellion and anti-mafia racketeering. Places such as the Teatro Massimo, Cape Market, Piazza della Memoria, Beati Paoli Square and more all have a rich history in civil mobilisation – plus, they are known to serve delicious street food. Dig in! You’ll get a chance to meet shop owners who have had the courage to denounce their extortionists. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to visit nearby Monreale, situated in a panoramic position above Palermo with fantastic views over the city and the sea. You’ll get a chance to visit the cathedral here, described as one of the ‘wonders of the medieval world’, and climb to its roof. Alternately, you might like to wander the city of Palermo at your own will. This evening, perhaps share a bite to eat and toast to the week that was with your group before the adventure comes to an end tomorrow.

• Palermo - Anti-Mafia Movement Tour
• Monreale - Cathedral & Cloister - EUR13

Your adventures come to an end today after breakfast. If you’d like to stay and explore more in Palermo we can arrange additional accommodation on request (subject to availability).

7 breakfasts

Public bus, Private vehicle

Hotel (7 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Explore the captivating island of Sicily through our carefully curated Sicily Package Tours . With expert local guides leading the way, you’ll uncover iconic landmarks like Agrigento’s ancient ruins and the enchanting beauty of Taormina, while also delving into hidden treasures that reveal Sicily’s true essence.

Experience Sicily’s culture, cuisine, and history with passionate local guides and thoughtfully planned itineraries. Select one of our Sicily Package Tours according to your interests, whether it’s exploring archaeological wonders or indulging in authentic Sicilian dishes. Book your Sicilian adventure today, and let us ensure your visit to this diverse island is a memorable and enriching experience.

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The Secret Tastes of Sicily Tour Package – 6 Days

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As a treasure trove of artistic and historical wonders, Italy offers timeless beauty and cultural richness. In the central Tuscany region, the streets of Florence are filled with Renaissance architecture, with a skyline dominated by the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, a Gothic art masterpiece. Within the northern Lombardy region, the fashion mecca, Milan, offers an abundance of art galleries and museums, with the most sought-after sight being The Last Supper, a mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea in the central Lazio region, Rome is home to the ancient Colosseum, an amphitheater that played host to gladiatorial games, and the Pantheon, a former Roman temple. Perched atop cliffs that overlook the Bay of Naples in the southwestern Campania region, the coastal town of Sorrento is known for its lemon groves, notably some of the best lemons in Italy, they are used to produce the splendor that is Limoncello, a lemon-flavored Italian liqueur. Take a gondola ride through the romantic canals of Venice to explore one of the most unique cities in the world, built on more than 100 islands in the northeastern Veneto region. Savor the sweet symphony of Italy's gastronomic legacy and culinary mastery that spans centuries, with authentic Italian gelato, pasta, and pizza.

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 54° to 55° (Winter)
• March through May: 62° to 76° (Spring)
• June through August: 84° to 89° (Summer)
• September through November: 81° to 61° (Autumn)

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7 of the best places to cruise in Italy

F ew countries can compete with Italy’s tourist appeal . Anyone who visits can enjoy fantastic cities, quaint villages, a string of picture-perfect coastlines, amazing cuisine and a fascinating history.

Alhough skiing , city breaks or a trip to one of the Italian lakes all have their own merits, there is a way to get a taste of several different parts of the country in one whirlwind trip.

Cruises around the Bel Paese give passengers the opportunity to see Italy ’s full range of sights. You can start with the romance of Venice and wind around to the rugged island beauty of Sicily and Sardinia, or begin surrounded by the stark coastal beauty of the Cinque Terre and end in hectic, characterful Naples , via the enchanting capital of Rome .

Whether you just want to see one destination or a handful, there’s likely a cruise to suit you; we’ve rounded up some of the best below.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast contains a little bit of everything that has made Italy so famous: beautiful coastlines, golden sands, picturesque towns, ancient historic sites and a hearty slice of la dolce vita .

The main towns along this coast include Amalfi, Sorrento and Positano , each renowned for offering a taste of the highlife in often luxurious surroundings, whether that be laid-back beaches or grandiose hotels. Pompeii lies close to these towns, offering an incredible insight into a famous bit of world history, while driving part of the Amalfi Coast’s winding roads is the best way to get amazing views while taking in some delightful towns.

How to do it

See both Sicily and the Amalfi Coast with the ‘ Amalfi & Sicily ’ seven-night package offered by Star Clippers. It starts in Civitavecchia, taking you to Amalfi and Sorrento before moving on to Messina and circling back to Rome.

Prices from £3,629pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and select entertainment. Departing 6 July 2024.

Read more on the best hotels on the Amalfi coast

The capital is a beautiful fusion of historic and contemporary Italian life, from the modern cuisine and nightlife of Monti to the old houses and trattorias of Trastevere or Parione.

The Eternal City is also Europe’s most landmark-filled destination , with everything from Roman ruins to 18th-century fountains. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon are the undoubtably highlights, as are the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. The Vatican City is also contained within Rome, and you don’t want to miss the Sistine Chapel or St Peter’s Basilica.

Most cruises to this part of the country actually dock at nearby Civitavecchia, which is roughly one hour from the capital. Rome is often a starting point for cruises too, as passengers can head north to the Cinque Terre, east to Sardinia and south to Naples and Sicily.

The  Italian Treasures  cruise offered by Atlas Ocean Voyages begins in Valletta , the historic Maltese capital, but after departing very much focuses on the eastern Italian coast. It stops for a night in both Syracuse and Giardini Naxos (on Sicily), before departing to the Amalfi Coast and Capri and then finishing in the capital, where you can explore at your leisure before flying home.

Prices from £2,946pp including eight nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and onshore excursions. The company is currently running a promotion where the ‘second guest sails free’, so it is possible to get the entire package for just £2,946. Departing 1 September 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Rome

Venice is perhaps the most beautiful of all Italian cities, situated on a vast lagoon and criss-crossed by dozens of bridges that hang over its canals. Its waterways are lined with the colourful facades of centuries-old buildings, many of which carry a Venetian style that is unique to the city, making for an eclectic cityscape.

A gondola trip, a stroll around St Mark’s Square, a walk over the Ponte Rialto and a visit to the Doge’s Palace are customary for those seeing the city for the first time, though for many the real attraction is getting lost in the sea of mazy alleys and historic bridges .

Many cruises start and end in Venice too, though due to its location at the top of the Adriatic, it can take a while to cruise down to other popular destinations like Bari, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast. If you’re visiting on a cruise, chances are it’ll be a longer one, or that it’ll stop in destinations in northern Croatia , Dubrovnik or northern Greece .

Azmara Cruises’ ‘ Italy Intensive Voyage ’ takes passengers all the way from Rome to Venice. It begins by going north to Florence , then turning back on itself and going south to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. After a brief stop in Kotor, Montenegro , you’ll finish in Venice, with the opportunity to explore at your leisure before flying home.

Prices from £2,060pp including 10 nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks, evening entertainment and select onshore excursions. Departing 10 April 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Venice

Sicily is another of Italy’s famous islands, sharing a part of the Mediterranean with neighbouring Sardinia. It is equally as charming as Sardinia, and filled with similarly beguiling towns, a variety of natural landscapes and some of the finest culture and history that the country has to offer.

Tradition is paramount here, something that is reflected in a proud local populace. It is also visible in towns and cities like Palermo, and the timeless beauty of Syracuse, as well as on the olive groves and vineyards that dot the slopes of Mount Etna. It makes Sicily a great place to come if you want to see modern-day Italian living with a dose of outdoor adventure, in places like the Parco dell’Etna, along with historic charm (such as that at Syracuse).

Windstar Cruises’ ‘ Sicilian Spendours ’ cruise begins and ends in the Italian capital, but as the name suggests, this trip very much focuses on the largest island in the Mediterranean. It begins by heading to the Amalfi Coast, but then moves on to three Sicilian towns – Trapani, Porto Empedocle and Catania, via Gozo and Malta .

Prices from £3,105pp including 10 nights’ accommodation, meals and onboard entertainment. Departing 28 May 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Sicily

Sardinia, which sits off the eastern coast around six hours from Civitavecchia by ferry, is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations. A favourite among both tourists and Italians, it is home to a slew of great beaches – including Cala Goloritzé and the Costa Smerelda – and so is a good choice for days spent flitting between water sports and lying in the sun.

Though it’s understandable if you want to spend most of your time here on the sands, it would be remiss not to visit some of the pastel-hued towns and verdant national parks that lie inland and on the coast. Places like Alghero, Bosa and San Teodoro contain plenty of history throughout their cobbled streets, while Asinara and Gennargentu are two of the most picturesque natural areas.

Sardinia’s southerly location means that cruises that stop here often carry on to Sicily and Malta, and may go further on to the Balearics, Greek islands or even Tunisia .

The ‘ Enchanting Italian Coastlines ’ tour from Emerald Cruises covers both Sardinia and the eastern coast over a period of seven nights. It begins in the capital, moving first to Sorrento and Amalfi and then crossing the Mediterranean to Sardinia and Corsica before looping back.

Prices from £3,379pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and airport transfers. Departing 27 April 2024.

Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre competes with the Amalfi Coast for the title of Italy’s most famous coastal area, but the Italian Riviera offers a different kind of beauty in its emerald waters and pastel-coloured towns. The region is part of Liguria, and consists of five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. 

Each one has an abundance of old Italian charm, from the faded colours that come alive at sunset to the mazes of alleys leading up from tiny harbours. Only Monterosso has a proper beach, but this village quintet isn’t the place for solely a beach holiday, despite the coastlines. Instead, wander aimlessly through the villages, enjoy a laid-back meal or take to any of the surrounding hiking paths.

These once isolated villages are now tourist hotspots in their own right, with the Cinque Terre Express one of the best ways to get between them. Most cruises dock at La Spezia, the province’s main city, which lies just 20 minutes from the nearest Cinque Terre village, Riomaggiore.

The Cinque Terre is a less frequented destination on longer cruises, so the best bet is to visit as part of a multi-country cruise. Celebrity Cruises offers one such option with their ‘ Italian Riviera & France ’ package, which departs from Rome and initially heads south to Naples before circling around to La Spezia and Santa Margherita. After some time spent enjoying the Italian Riviera, you move on to the French one, seeing Cannes and Marseille before finishing in Barcelona.

Prices from £1,209pp including nine nights’ accommodation, return flights, all meals, daily activities and entertainment. Departing 4 June 2024.

Naples is a fascinating city, buoyed by a vibrant and chaotic energy and blessed with beautiful surroundings – including Mount Vesuvius and an azure bay – and an eclectic blend of architecture.

The city itself has a wealth of culture and history, from the recent and immaterial – such as its devotion to pizza or its football club – to the ancient and pertinent, including the Duomo cathedral and a large collection of Greco-Roman artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum. Be sure to talk a walk around the Spanish Quarter, Centro Storico and Spaccanapoli (the city’s main thoroughfare) to get a real sense of how life is lived in this hectic city.

Naples is the closest major city to the Amalfi Coast, and as such many trips here are combined with a visit to towns like Sorrento or Positano.

You’re spoilt for choice when including Naples in a cruise itinerary, and many cruises that stop here also include visits to parts of Greece and Croatia. A seven-day Mediterranean cruise from Norwegian Cruise Line takes advantage of these stops, taking guests from Rome to Venice via Valletta, Split and Corfu. Nevertheless, the focus is still on Italy, taking in the historic capital, the romantic canals of Venice and all of Naples’ characterful chaos (with an added stop in Messina, Sicily).

Prices from £1,573pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and onboard entertainment. Departing 14 August 2024.

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The 25 Essential Pasta Dishes to Eat in Italy

Two chefs, one cookbook author, a culinary historian and a food writer made a list of the country’s most delicious meals, from carbonara in Rome to ravioli in Campania.

Credit... Enea Arienti

Supported by

By Deborah Dunn ,  Vicky Bennison ,  Marianna Cerini ,  Robyn Eckhardt ,  Laurel Evans ,  Kristina Gill ,  Andrew Sean Greer ,  Lee Marshall ,  Elizabeth Minchilli ,  Marina O’Loughlin ,  Katie Parla ,  Rachel Roddy ,  Eric Sylvers and Laura May Todd

Photographs by Enea Arienti

• May 17, 2024

For a food that begins with just flour, water or sometimes eggs, there are infinite variations of pasta. So what happens when you convene a panel of five Italian cuisine experts and ask them to determine the 25 most essential pasta dishes throughout Italy? “I’m sweating,” said Davide Palluda, the chef and owner of All’Enoteca restaurant and osteria in the Piedmont region. “This is too heavy,” he joked during the two-hour video call that I convened to debate his nominations and those of the four other panelists: Stefano Secchi, the chef and a co-owner of New York City’s Rezdôra ; the Tuscany-based cookbook author Emiko Davies ; the Umbria-based culinary historian Karima Moyer-Nocchi ; and the food writer and novelist Roberta Corradin, who lives in Florence, Sicily and Boston. A week before our call, I’d asked each to make their own list of 10 standouts (since he was a panelist, Palluda’s restaurants were automatically excluded); after an energetic debate and several more phone calls, emails and WhatsApp messages, we whittled that list in half. The final picks appear below in unranked alphabetical order, along with the ideal wine to drink with each pasta dish, as recommended by the chosen restaurants and reviewed by Davies’s husband, the sommelier Marco Lami.

This list is the latest in our T 25 series , which highlights significant achievements in the worlds of design, literature , fashion, architecture and food . Previous debates about where to eat right now were confined to major cities like Paris and Mexico City , but this time around, we wanted to see what we might learn if we surveyed the culinary landscape across an entire food-crazed country. We chose pasta because it’s the food most associated with Italy, and because it’s the subject of T’s new Travel issue . It’s also the staple that reveals just how much Italian cooking, even in 2024, remains firmly anchored to a specific place. While most countries have regional fare, Italy is particularly fixated on a recipe’s exact provenance — the town, the valley, the strip of coastline — which is why you’ll often find different pasta shapes or sauces, even over the span of just a few miles.

This culinary diversity informed many of the panelists’ decisions: sometimes, they opted to include a dish because it’s rarely made beyond its birthplace (see Lombardy’s pizzoccheri, No. 12); other times, they chose a favorite sauce (for example, carbonara) or simply a type of pasta like strangozzi (typical of Umbria) since it, like so many local specialties found in the countryside, is paired with different ingredients depending on the time of year.

Only two specific dishes were nominated by more than one panelist: the agnolotti del plin at Madonna della Neve in the Piedmont and the vincisgrassi at Osteria dei Fiori in the Marche region, both centuries-old dishes served at decades-old restaurants. The classics, in general, came up again and again. Even the more idiosyncratic dishes that merited inclusion were riffs on familiar fare: Secchi, for example, made an impassioned plea for the dish called the Crunchy Part of the Lasagna, the chef Massimo Bottura’s technical take on the beloved casserole, offered at his Francescana restaurant at Maria Luigia in Modena, Emilia-Romagna. “If we’re talking about transcendent pasta experiences, that’s it,” Secchi said. (Lasagna, in fact, made a strong showing on this list, which features three varieties.) Secchi suggested one reason the old favorites took primacy: relentless demand.

Northern and central Italy are also overrepresented, perhaps because that’s where most of the participants are based, though Corradin argued that she could easily make an entire list dedicated to any region. And Palluda worried about omitting gnocchi, though there was some disagreement about whether the dumplings usually made with potato and flour are even considered pasta. But Corradin had the final word: “No. Gnocchi is gnocchi. It’s a different chapter. Next time.” — Deborah Dunn

The interview portion has been edited and condensed.

1. The Agnolotti del Plin at Ristorante Madonna Della Neve

Cessole, piedmont.

Overlooking the Bormida valley, Ristorante Madonna della Neve sits opposite the 16th-century chapel for which it’s named. With large windows framing bucolic views, its classic osteria ambience is echoed in its menu of time-honored dishes. While agnolotti is a term used for many kinds of stuffed pasta, especially in Italy’s northwestern Piedmont region, it’s the agnolotti del plin — penny-size filled pasta that’s named for the pinch with which it’s sealed (“pinch” is plin in the Piedmontese dialect) — that are the real star. The manager, Piermassimo Cirio, whose grandparents opened Ristorante Madonna della Neve in 1952 and who sometimes heads up the kitchen, says that meeting the demand for agnolotti del plin requires a full day of filling and folding each week from a crew of staff and family members. And for many guests, the pasta — which is filled with a mixture of ground veal, pork and rabbit, Parmigiano-Reggiano, rosemary and borage — is, in itself, a multicourse meal. Start with the version served al tovagliolo, meaning on a linen napkin without sauce, allowing the gentle sweetness of the filling’s leafy greens to shine. Follow with agnolotti with sage and butter or, more bracingly, sage and lemon juice (Cirio’s invention). Next, try them with a sauce of Bolognese-ish ragù or, as an alternative, the juices and tender scraps of a beef roast (arrosto). For a final course, order a small bowl of agnolotti doused with Barbera wine. Suggested wine pairing: Isolabella della Croce Maria Teresa Barbera d’Asti 2022. — Robyn Eckhardt

2 Reg. Madonna della Neve

Roberta Corradin: I grew up in Piedmont and homemade agnolotti with a roasted meat filling is mandatory.

Karima Moyer-Nocchi: Madonna della Neve is an incredible experience.

Stefano Secchi : I was just there last year and it’s fantastic.

Davide Palluda: I took a picture with the almost 90-year-old [Piera Cirio, Piermassimo’s mother] a few years ago, and I asked her how many agnolotti she’s made in her life. I think a million. She has the forearms! She’s the one that [reminds] all the young chefs in Piedmont why we have to respect [the traditions]. The nicest way to have it is just boiled and naked, without sauce.

Moyer-Nocchi: Oh, yeah, that’s gorgeous. It’s homey and nurturing, and that humble way that it’s served makes it a transformative experience.

2. The Busiate at Duomo

Ragusa ibla, sicily.

The Sicilian chef Ciccio Sultano calls the busiate, an elegant but sturdy corkscrew pasta shape that was historically formed by wrapping the dough around knitting needles (or the stem of a local grass) , “matriarchal.” It’s a specialty of Trapani, on Sicily’s west coast, and usually served with pesto Trapanese: almonds, basil, garlic, tomatoes, pecorino, perhaps a touch of fresh mint. But at Duomo, a gastronomic institution in Ragusa Ibla, on the southern end of the island, Sultano goes much further, imbuing the pasta (always made in-house from heritage grains such as tumminia and perciasacchi) with intense local flavors. The busiate on the current menu features fragrant wild fennel and saffron and a ragù of glittering anchovies and mackerel. And to finish: grated red tuna heart. Another longtime favorite version, which resurfaces from time to time, is the busiate kneaded with rosewater and topped with plump, sweet Mazara prawns (pictured above). Opened nearly 24 years ago, Duomo, as the name suggests, sits in a handsome townhouse down the street from Ragusa Ibla’s dramatic Baroque cathedral, less than an hour from where Sultano took his first job in a kitchen, at a pastry shop, when he was just 13. Eating this dish, he suggests, evokes the island life, culinary influences via Sicily’s many centuries of invaders, from the Greeks and Arabs to the Normans, and the voluptuousness of a cuisine born of the sea. Suggested wine pairing: Pietradolce Archineri Etna Bianco 2018. — Marina O’Loughlin

31 Via Capitano Bocchieri

Corradin: Busiate are Sicily’s version of fusilli. In the western part of Sicily, they make long busiate, which are difficult to eat. If you’re a gentleman, the busiate will slap your tie. That’s the kind that Ciccio Sultano at Duomo makes. The rosewater he puts in the dough gives a hint of the region’s past, when it was under Arab domination. It bounces you back to another time.

3. The Cacio e Pepe at Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina

Made with only pasta, cheese and pepper, cacio e pepe seems downright simple, yet this classic Roman dish is mired with potential pitfalls: cooks know to beware the dreaded clumping. Not only does Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina make a perfect version, they’re unafraid to tweak it when necessary: If the pecorino is fresher, and so less intensely salty, the chefs use only that. If it’s older, they’ll perhaps add some Parmesan to temper the ferocity. Their special blend of ground black peppercorns — including the perfumed, potent Sarawak — makes this simple dish, prepared with tonnarelli (a spaghetti-like egg pasta), memorable. This, at a mere 20 years old, is one of the newer additions to the small Roscioli group of restaurants and bakeries in Rome (a pasticceria also opened 10 years ago). All are popular among tourists, but escaping the chaos of Campo dei Fiori for a seat at the counter here, a glass of red wine in hand, the cacio e pepe in front of you, feels like the real Rome. Suggested wine pairing: Damiano Ciolli Podere Ciriolino Cesanese di Olevano 2022. — M.O.

21 Via dei Giubbonari

Palluda: Cacio e pepe is easy to prepare but it’s not easy to make a good one. Roscioli cooks it the right way, with the right ingredients. If I have the chance I always go when I’m in Rome — if I can get in, it’s a small restaurant — and I always eat the cacio e pepe.

4. The Carbonara at Ristorante l’Arcangelo

Though Rome is the Italian city most often associated with antiquity, carbonara — arguably the most popular of its classic pastas, which also include cacio e pepe, amatriciana and alla gricia — is actually a 20th-century innovation. The dish’s creator and exact place of origin are unknown, but an often-told story involves the arrival of Allied troops in Rome in 1944: The soldiers, or someone cooking for them, allegedly mixed eggs, powdered milk and bacon with pasta. Today, carbonara is usually made with eggs, guanciale (cured pork jowl), pecorino cheese, black pepper and spaghetti. Some chefs use only yolks while others add the whole egg. Some stick to pecorino while others mix in parmigiano. Some pair the sauce with rigatoni instead of spaghetti. Every chef in the city likely believes they make the best version, but the rigatoni alla carbonara at Ristorante l’Arcangelo — a white-tableclothed establishment near Vatican City — has earned its place among the essential dishes of Rome. The silky sauce, salty but not overpowering, evenly coats the rigatoni, pooling just enough in the bottom of the plate so you can dip a piece of bread at the end. The fresh eggs give the dish a vivid yellow hue, and the hefty, crisp pieces of guanciale are doled out with precision; it’s said that the chef personally counts the seven pieces allotted to each plate. Suggested wine pairing: Tenute Filippi Ipazia 2022. — Kristina Gill

59 Via Giuseppe Gioachino Belli

Moyer-Nocchi: I was really torn between including [head chef of Ristorante l’Arcangelo] Arcangelo Dandini’s carbonara or Nabil Hadj Hassen’s. When Nabil was the chef at Salumeria Roscioli, he won a national competition, in 2008, for the best carbonara in Rome. He left Roscioli after 18 years and now he’s at Baccano [also in Rome]. It was a close call between Dandini and Hassen. Post-Covid, when everyone was sitting around thinking about what they were going to do with their lives, Arcangelo made adjustments to the cheeses he uses in the dish. He now uses 80 percent Pecorino Romano sourced locally, from a particular milking. And he’s added 20 percent smoked pecorino di Gavoi from Sardinia, which for him recalls the time when smoking was one of the ways of preserving foods. And he uses these eggs — you’re going to have to trust me — these are just outstanding eggs with the creamiest egg yolks ever. He’s a miraculously inventive chef in the way that he pulls history into his modern iterations of dishes.

Corradin: The carbonara is very good at Arcangelo, and it’s in Prati, a nice bourgeois neighborhood that I believe is also home to several kosher restaurants. It isn’t a place for tourists. Well, in Rome tourists are everywhere, but this is a classic location for real Roman families.

5. The Crunchy Part of the Lasagna at Francescana at Maria Luigia

San damaso, emilia-romagna.

Though it’s served with a fork and spoon, it’s hard to keep your hands off the chef Massimo Bottura’s famous recreation of the coveted corner slice of lasagna. The crispy tower begs to be broken apart with your fingers, the rich ragù and aerated béchamel scooped up, nacho-like, from the plate. To make the dish, Bottura boils spaghetti and then purées it to form a dough, which is divided into three parts, each mixed with a different sauce: basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano or tomato. After being rolled out, the pasta sheets are fried, smoked, and, finally, lightly charred with a torch. The result is somehow both familiar and disorienting: “It’s about feeding people with emotions,” Bottura says. Originally, he served his postmodern take on the homey favorite at his Osteria Francescana , which opened in 1995, but these days it’s available only at Francescana at Maria Luigia , one of the restaurants at Casa Maria Luigia, the guesthouse he opened with his wife, Lara Gilmore, in 2019 in San Damaso, just outside the city of Modena. Here, the sole offering is a nine-course tasting menu comprising Bottura’s well-known dishes, served at communal tables facing an open kitchen. Suggested wine pairing: Comte Lafond Sancerre 2022. — Laurel Evans

56 Stradello Bonaghino

Secchi: I’m biased because I worked at Francescana and I know what it takes [to prepare this lasagna]. It takes three or four days to make. That ragù alone isn’t just made with traditional beef: There’s cheek and side, tongue and a special ingredient I can’t name because Massimo [Bottura] would kill me.

Palluda: Especially in the last 15 years, Massimo Bottura never stops talking about his region, Emilia-Romagna. One of the things he always says is to make good food in Italy, you have to stay with your feet on the land and your brain in the clouds. In his dishes with ragù, you can feel this point of view. Like a lot of guys in Emilia, he probably grew up with the smell of [the sauce] in the house. It’s very important that someone as famous as Bottura still talks about his ingredients and his history — it makes the people and the producers of that region really proud of their home.

6. The Culurgiones at Hotel Ristorante Ispinigoli

Dorgali, sardinia.

From April until October, Hotel Ristorante Ispinigoli serves reimagined Sardinian classics overlooking a patchwork of terraced vineyards, olive groves and fruit orchards that descend toward the Gulf of Orosei on the east coast of Italy’s second-largest island. Among the restaurant’s specialties are culurgiones, fresh pasta parcels filled with a blend of potato, cheese, garlic and mint that are pinched closed, the seams resembling ears of wheat. Native to the Ogliastra subregion of Sardinia that’s about a 90-minute drive south, culurgiones have transcended their hyperlocal origins and are now served across the island, though the filling proportions change from cook to cook. At Hotel Ristorante Ispinigoli, the chef Giovanni Cossu, along with the chef Gian Nicola Mula, leads a multigenerational family-run kitchen that plates them in a novel way: They don’t toss and coat their culurgiones with tomato sauce in the rustic fashion but rather crown each with a spoonful, then top with a dusting of pecorino. Suggested wine pairing: Cantina Tani Taerra Vermentino di Gallura 2022. — Katie Parla

125 Strada Statale

Secchi: This restaurant has been in the family for three generations. It’s about an hour and a half from where my family is from and it has one of the best views in Sardinia. One of the chefs [the nephew of the head chef Cossu] used to work at Osteria Francescana [see No. 5]. He’s cooking traditional pasta, but also doing contemporary things because of his time at high-end restaurants on mainland Italy. I thought he’d go chase the stars, but it’s just the opposite — he wanted to bring everything he learned back home.

7. The Mezzanelli Alla Genovese at Coco Loco

Genoa, the city that lends its name to this meaty pasta sauce, is a good 400 miles from Naples, the place best known for it. Every local seems to have a different origin story for the dish, including the tale that credits Swiss mercenaries for bringing this slow-cooked beef and onion sauce to the southern Italian city sometime around 1495. Though it’s commonly ladled onto short cylindrical pasta shapes such as paccheri or rigatoni, at Coco Loco, which opened in the middle of Naples’s historic center in 1995, the chef and owner, Diego Nuzzo, prefers to use mezzanelli, a longer, skinnier version of ziti. He models his Genovese after the recipe used by monzù, private cooks to the city’s aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries who applied French culinary techniques to regional ingredients. Like the monzù, Nuzzo braises the beef shank and lots of red onions in lard rather than olive oil, intensifying the flavor of both ingredients. He then adds white wine, a few cubes of pork and simmers the sauce for up to five hours, adding a little tomato paste toward the end “just to give a touch of color.” But the real secret to the dish, he says, is to choose a dried pasta that doesn’t release too much starch (he prefers the Garofalo brand) to keep the sauce from getting too gluey. Suggested wine pairing: Quintodecimo Terra d’Eclano Irpinia Aglianico 2015. — Lee Marshall

4 Vicoletto Cappella Vecchia

Palluda: It’s difficult to explain to people that this is a [Neapolitan] dish and the name Genovese only refers to the people who moved from Genoa to Napoli. In Genoa, you usually get a pesto condimento [sauce]. Here, it’s a lot of meat and the protagonist of this recipe is the onions. You just color the onion with tomatoes.

Corradin: It’s one of the many geographically confusing dishes in Italian cuisine — like zuppa inglese; inglese means “English” and it’s not English at all. And it’s not a soup at all, it’s dessert. [We call them] false friends.

Moyer-Nocchi: It’s a fabulous dish. That five-hour braise renders something that tastes like a sweet, beef-flavored onion butter that loses whatever negative connotations onions have and becomes a larger-than-the-sum-of-its-parts dish. Diego Nuzzo is the most renowned for [pasta alla Genovese] and [he serves it] in a really elegant setting.

Corradin: And unlike most pastas, in Napoli, pasta alla Genovese is served as a main course.

8. The Minestra di Pasta Mista With Shellfish and Rockfish at La Torre del Saracino

Vico equense, campania.

A meal at La Torre del Saracino, in the seaside town of Vico Equense, is something of a ceremony. It begins in a Medieval watchtower overlooking the Bay of Naples where you’re welcomed with an aperitif (a sparkling Franciacorta, for example) and small bites (perhaps a free range-chicken cacciatora panino) while listening to music chosen by guests from the chef Gennaro Esposito’s vinyl collection, with plenty of 20th-century Neapolitan pop and jazz. Then you’re led down a winding stone staircase to a 20-seat main dining room with high arched windows overlooking the sea. The minestra di pasta mista con crostacei e pesci di scoglio, one of Esposito’s signature dishes, is a nod to the fish soup that the 54-year-old chef, a native of Vico Equense, grew up eating. In those days, it was made mostly with the catch that couldn’t be sold at the markets and typically took hours to prepare. Now, at La Torre del Saracino, it’s a symbol of gleeful abundance: Esposito uses more than a pound and a half of Mediterranean rockfish, shrimps, squid and prawns to make one portion. Still one of the more time-consuming dishes in his repertoire, it involves slow-cooking the rockfish in a light fish stock, then squeezing them in a French duck press to retain the juices. Once all the seafood and San Marzano tomatoes are left to simmer on the stove top, for several hours, he adds a mix of as many as 15 different pasta shapes, both tubes and spirals (families traditionally made minestre like this to use up those annoying bottom-of-the-package leftovers). The pasta is left to cook in the soup so that, in Esposito’s words, “it absorbs all its goodness.” Suggested wine pairing: Mastroberardino Stilema Fiano di Avellino 2015. — L.M.

9 Via Torretta

Palluda: Gennaro Esposito is one of the new generation of chefs from Campania, from Napoli. Twenty-five years ago, it wasn’t so easy to introduce new ideas in Campania — it seemed like you were fighting with tradition, but that’s not why he did it. He learned a lot of new techniques in France [and elsewhere] and then used products that were close to him. He made new recipes without losing the identity of the original one. A lot of young chefs followed him. His minestra pasta is a very interesting dish. You mix in a lot of types of pasta. Every spoonful is different. Like chocolate, you never know what you’re going to get. It’s a very rustic dish, but very technical.

9. The Orecchiette With Broccoli at Ricci Osteria

If you find yourself wandering the whitewashed back streets of a Pugliese town, you’ll likely encounter women gathered near the stoops of their houses, forming semolina flour dough into quarter-size orecchiette, which they leave to dry on netted boxes balanced atop wooden stands. Shaped vaguely like an earlobe (the name translates to little ear) orecchiette is often served with ragù or turnip greens, but among the most beloved variations is one made with broccoli. In Milan, some 550 miles to the north of Italy’s heel, the chefs Antonella Ricci and Vinod Sookar have created their own version of the recipe at the Pugliese-inflected mainstay Ricci Osteria, which opened in 2022. Usually, the dish is made by sautéing parboiled broccoli with garlic, anchovies and mildly spicy pepperoncini in extra virgin olive oil; theirs also includes sweet, soft confit tomatoes. The finishing flourish is a generous sprinkling of crunchy toasted bread crumbs, which serve as the ideal foil to the orecchiette’s chewy texture. Suggested wine pairing: a 2020 negroamaro from Agricola Felline. — Laura May Todd

27 Via Pasquale Sottocorno

Moyer-Nocchi.: Antonella Ricci is from Puglia and her husband and partner in the restaurant [Vinod Sookar] is from Mauritius. And together they really represent Milan. [The city] is a micro-melting pot in Italy that since the end of World War II has pulled in a great exodus from the rural south, because that’s where the jobs were, and then later, a great influx of people of Sri Lankan and Indian origin. It’s good to see a person of color in the position of chef as well, because Italy’s restaurants would not go on without this population.

Palluda : It’s a dish made with briciole [breadcrumbs], which is something you usually throw away. They call it the poor man’s Parmesan. And with these scraps, they’ve built this amazing dish.

10. The Paccheri Alla Vittorio at Da Vittorio

Brusaporto, lombardy.

What happens when a restaurant with such fine-dining pedigree takes on pasta with tomato sauce, one of the simplest of all the primi? You get a creamy, almost velvety rendition that’s become the calling card for Da Vittorio, a luxurious fixture of the northern city of Bergamo since 1966. In the early 2000s, Vittorio Cerea and his family, including his son, the current head chef, Enrico “Chicco” Cerea, moved the restaurant from the historic core of the city to a villa surrounded by parkland, less than five miles outside of town. From there, Enrico expanded the menu, offering innovative dishes like scampi with fermented miso and tempura sardines with a lemon sauce. But diners who come from Milan — about 30 miles to the southwest — and much farther (there’s a heliport and a hotel on the property) often have just one item on their mind: the paccheri alla Vittorio. A cork-size tubular pasta, paccheri are served here slightly al dente and swimming in a sauce made with three types of tomatoes, basil, olive oil and sautéed garlic, thickened at the end with butter and Parmesan. The dish, offered as part of an eight-course tasting menu, also comes with a bib — you’re invited to mop up the sauce with freshly baked farro bread. Suggested wine pairing: Vie di Romans Chardonnay 2020. — Eric Sylvers

17 Via Cantalupa

Palluda: It’s cooked like risotto, meaning that you cook it for just 80 percent of the time in the water, and then you finish the dish directly in the [sauce], and they do that at the table in front of the people.

Secchi: [They serve] it convivio, family-style, which is a beautiful way to do it.

Moyer-Nocchi: What makes the dish so worthy of this list is the sauce. My advice: Opt for the bib.

11. The Pasta con le Sarde at Trattoria Ferro di Cavallo

Palermo, sicily.

When your massive portion of pasta con le sarde at Trattoria Ferro di Cavallo in Palermo is set in front of you, your first thought is likely, “What is this mess of gloopy spaghetti covered with greenish-brown sauce?” But it’s precisely the dish’s aggressively ugly appearance that makes the first bite — and smell — so surprising. The rustic recipe is full of all the contradictions and complexities inherent to Sicilian cooking: High-end ingredients like plump sweet raisins and resinous pine nuts mix with sardines, the poorest of fish, barely boned, to form more of a stew than a pasta sauce; it’s also redolent of wild fennel. The warm, chaotic Trattoria Ferro di Cavallo, which opened in 1944 and is in the heart of the old city, doesn’t take reservations, but with the two big rooms inside, and the large covered terrace outside, you’ll rarely have to wait long. Suggested wine pairing: Tasca d’Almerita Regaleali Bianco 2022. — Elizabeth Minchilli

20 Via Venezia

Moyer-Nocchi: Pasta con le sarde doesn’t get as much attention as it should. Ferro di Cavallo puts a lot of care into it. They have an investment in the tradition of this dish. It’s a very colorful, classic trattoria.

12. The Pizzoccheri at Ristorante Quattro Stagioni

Mantello, lombardy.

Some pasta dishes demand you put aside restraint. Pizzoccheri certainly qualify — the fettuccine-like buckwheat pasta is typically tossed together with copious amounts of Valtellina Casera cheese and butter, potatoes and a vegetable (usually cabbage). Said to be born at least 200 years ago at the foot of the Alps in Valtellina — a valley that runs east from the northern shores of Lake Como — the hearty dish is still the perfect thing to eat at Quattro Stagioni, with its exposed beams, simple wooden chairs and stone fountain in the middle of the main dining room. The restaurant is part of the La Fiorida agriturismo, a working farm that doubles as a country inn, with 29 guest rooms, some 500 animals (mainly cows, goats and sheep), a cheese-making facility and 150 acres of cultivated fields. While the buckwheat is sourced from a nearby farm, nearly everything else used in the pizzoccheri comes from on site. This means that, depending on the time of year, you might find spinach or Swiss chard in your pizzoccheri. “There is no exact recipe because it’s always changing,” says the head chef, Gianni Tarabini. Suggested wine pairing: Nino Negri Inferno Valtellina Superiore 2019. — E.S.

12 Via Lungo Adda

Moyer-Nocchi: Very few pasta dishes use non-wheat flours but the pizzoccheri of Valtellina, made with mostly buckwheat, has been awarded European Union P.G.I. [Protected Geographical Indication] certification, bringing it into the panoply of Italy’s most highly valued traditional dishes. It’s a deeply comforting pasta.

Davies: I love pizzoccheri.

Palluda: I just don’t know if American people know about pizzoccheri.

Davies: Maybe that’s why it should be on the list.

Moyer-Nocchi: La Fiorida makes an excellent pizzoccheri, and it’s a beautiful agriturismo. Very small, local everything.

13. The Rasnal Soup at Maggese

San miniato, tuscany.

The faded grocery store sign still hangs above the door of Maggese in the ancient Tuscan hill town of San Miniato. Step into the small retro-modern interior, glance to the right and there, behind a two-seater counter, you’ll usually find Fabrizio Marino, fielding orders and greeting clients. Opening a vegetarian restaurant in meat-oriented Tuscany back in 2019 was a risk, Marino admits. But he needn’t have worried: Maggese books out days in advance. Rasnal — which he says means “of the Etruscans” — is a soup that’s been a fixture on the Maggese menu from the beginning. It pairs slow-braised seasonal vegetables — some foraged, some cultivated — like wild asparagus and artichoke with a sauce of local red heirloom beans. The dish’s pasta component consists of just four simple, bite-size eggless-pasta parcels made from heirloom flour. Their fillings can change with the seasons — they might be celeriac or chickpeas, pumpkin or carrot — but they always deliver a sweet note to balance the broth’s bitterness. Suggested wine pairing: Il Borghetto Montigiano Sangiovese 2019. — L.M.

29 Via IV Novembre

Davies : I love everything that they do at this restaurant. It’s in my town, San Miniato. We’re in the middle of a place that is very, very well known for red meat. They used to have seven butcher shops in this small town.

Palluda: They eat the vegans there.

Davies: When Maggese opened, it was like this breath of fresh air because everything they do is vegetarian. The owner and head chef [Marino] is from a nearby town and there are a few Japanese chefs [in his kitchen], and they often use ingredients like miso within their dishes. Not in a really obvious way; you just get this little kick of umami. This minestra [reminds me] of pasta e fagioli. When it arrives at the table, the pasta and the soup are separate so you can tip the pasta into the soup or you can eat them separately. It’s a joy.

14. The Ravioli With Ricotta, Walnuts and Burnt Garlic at Oasis Sapori Antichi

Vallesaccarda, campania.

Since the day it opened in 1988, Oasis Sapori Antichi, in the rural town of Vallesaccarda, a two-hour drive east of the Amalfi Coast, has had ravioli with ricotta, walnuts and burnt garlic on the menu. It’s a dish of happenstance: Founder Giuseppina Fischetti neglected a pan on the stovetop and a sauce was born. This could so easily be another accidental origin story, charming but entirely forgettable; but, more than three decades later, it’s become the cornerstone of an exceptional kitchen. Now in the hands of Giuseppina’s five children and grandchildren (both in the kitchen and front of house), Oasis Sapori Antichi focuses primarily on the ingredients grown just outside town, in the territory of Irpinia with its great natural resources. The garlic used in their sauce — toasted, rather than burnt, until it has a savory toffee-like flavor — is blended with the area’s malizia walnuts and olive oil produced by the Fischetti family less than a mile from the front door. The ravioli is also made daily and filled with local cow’s milk ricotta and flecks of minced parsley. The restaurant itself looks like a slightly theatrical living room, with its scattering of Persian rugs and tall candlesticks. But while the service is formal and elegant, the family’s natural ease warms the room. Suggested wine pairing: Boccella Rosa Taurasi Aglianico 2015. — Rachel Roddy

8/10 Via Provinciale

Corradin: The garlic tastes more smoky than burnt. I first had it 14 years ago, and I spent part of my life thinking about when I could go back. I’ve been back several times since.

Palluda: No one has said that to me in my life.

Corradin: The dream of each and every chef.

15. The Spaghetti all’Assassina at Al Sorso Preferito

Bari, puglia.

A few years ago, if you had asked anyone outside of Bari about spaghetti all’Assassina they’d have given you a blank stare. The dish was so specific to the capital of Puglia that only one or two restaurants served it. The method, which was handed down to Pierino Lonigro, the owner of the town’s Al Sorso Preferito, by the supposed inventor of this dish, in the 1960s, involves cooking the spaghetti into a tomato sauce filled with pepperoncini until the mixture forms a crust that’s spicy and slightly crispy. It’s a difficult technique to get right, but Lonigro credits his well-seasoned cast-iron pan that he’s been using for decades. He bought the restaurant in 1974; that same year, he moved it to its current location in the elegant Murat neighborhood. Most locals start with the mixed antipasto, an array of raw and cooked seafood, before having the Assassina. Legend has it that the name of this dish came from the fact that the spiciness of the sauce almost killed customers, though Lonigro’s version, a nice balance of sweetness and mild heat, presents very little danger. Suggested wine pairing: Paololeo Alture Susumaniello 2020. — E.M.

40 Via Vito Nicola De Nicolò

Moyer-Nocchi: While the concept is easy enough, it takes an experienced hand to produce the desired effect: crispy, fiery spaghetti. Al Sorso Preferito may be an unassuming, few-frills restaurant, but it’s the mecca for this dish.

16. The Spaghettone all’Amatriciana at Santo Palato

When you order spaghettone all’amatriciana at Santo Palato near the Basilica di San Giovanni in Rome, the servers tell you that it will take at least 15 minutes. This is both a courtesy and reassurance that the thick spaghetti will be boiled to order, not always the case in a city where, more often than you might imagine, the reliance on precooked pasta keeps service swift, but means the dishes can often lack texture. Santo Palato is a small trattoria, simply furnished and decorated with Futurist-style posters, the daily specials chalked-up on a blackboard. The chef and owner, Sarah Cicolini, sources the spaghettone from a Roman pasta maker called Pastificio Lagano, and the jarred cherry tomatoes from Agricola Paglione, a farm in Puglia. The pigs’ cheek guanciale and the sheep’s milk Pecorino Romano cheese she chooses are also from small producers. One of the four canonical Roman pasta dishes, amatriciana is the sum of these four parts, which Cicolini — often visible through an opening into the kitchen — brings together expertly. Suggested wine pairing: Cantina Ribelà Saittole 2020. — R.R.

4 A/B Piazza Tarquinia

Secchi: When I first went there, about seven years ago, Sarah was one of the very few women in this new avant-garde of Roman chefs, and she was cooking offal, which had always been butch men territory.

Moyer-Nocchi: Santo Palato is a seamless combination of an old trattoria and modern design and it reflects Sarah’s approach to the way she reconceptualizes traditional Roman food.

Secchi: She cooks all the four classic Roman pastas and she does it damn well.

17. The Squash Tortelli at Dal Pescatore Santini

Runate, lombardy.

Tortelli di zucca, a winter squash stuffed pasta, is made a little differently throughout Lombardy but perfected at Dal Pescatore, outside of Mantova (the dish’s supposed birthplace), in the village of Runate. Much can go wrong with this seasonal pasta (at its best in autumn), from the inclusion of amaretti cookies at some places to the addition of strange, mustardy candied fruits at others; it can be too sweet, too spicy, too sour or otherwise unbalanced. Perhaps worst of all, the dish can be oversauced, with a creamy topping drowning out the flavor and texture of the pasta. But at Dal Pescatore, the chefs Nadia and Giovanni Santini have made tortelli the centerpiece: from the slight bite of the outer rim to the tender interior that encloses the filling. The five pieces they provide — which aren’t so much coated with as touched by butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano — are just enough. Suggested wine pairing: Ca’ del Bosco Annamaria Clementi Franciacorta 2015. — Andrew Sean Greer

15 Riserva del Parco Oglio Sud

Secchi: It’s in the middle of nowhere, but they have a helicopter pad there, so people from Milano fly in and have dinner. That place is an institution.

Corradin: The first time I went to Dal Pescatore, Nadia realized I was sick and she cooked me tortellini en brodo [tortellini in broth]; after that, I could’ve eaten a 25-course meal. But I agree with Stefano that the iconic dish there is tortelli di zucca.

18. The Strangozzi at Enoteca L’Alchimista

Montefalco, umbria.

At first glance, strangozzi looks like spaghetti. But unlike that more ubiquitous pasta, which tends to originate in factories, the slightly chubbier strangozzi are hand-rolled, hand-pulled and mostly found in central Italy. At L’Alchimista, established in 2001 in the medieval Umbrian hill town of Montefalco, the chef and co-owner Patrizia Moretti makes it the old-fashioned way: with just water and extra-fine “00” wheat flour, which makes them pleasantly chewy. Go in the warm weather and you’ll likely be seated at an outdoor table in what might be one of Italy’s prettiest piazzas. This, too, is the time of year Moretti serves the pasta with tender greens foraged from nearby fields or with a pesto, made from two of the greens and wild garlic. If you come in summer, you might find your plate of strangozzi tossed with zucchini and in fall, topped with black truffles. Suggested wine pairing: a young trebbiano Spoletino from Tenuta Bellafonte. — E.M.

14 Piazza del Comune

Davies: When I was last there, there was a strangozzi with wild herbs — [ones] no one will have ever heard of that you collect in the Umbrian countryside. It’s just a very simple dish but it’s special . One is called strigoli and another is vitalba, whose English names are not very appetizing (bladder campion and old man’s beard). They’re herbs that need to be picked young and have been foraged for centuries — it’s a really ancient sort of dish.

19. The Tagliolino Cacio e Burro at Cibrèo Caffè

Cibrèo Caffè, the more informal outpost of a small, influential group of restaurants near Mercato Sant’Ambrogio (the locals’ preferred traditional food market), opened in 1983, and it’s still one of Florence’s most inviting places to stop in for a negroni and a snack (say, a pizzetta). But those in the know head straight for the cacio e burro. Here, the ultimate comfort food — pasta doused in melted butter and cheese — is approached with the same earnestness you might expect of fussier fare: Butter, Parmigiano-Reggiano and hot milk are blended together with enough force that it forms a paste, which melts into a cream on contact with the hot pasta — at Cibrèo, it’s tagliolini, the narrower, more delicate sibling of tagliatelle. Its yolk-yellow color, and faint sweetness, comes from the unlikely addition of boiled carrots into the purée. Suggested wine pairing: Podere Erica l’Erica Rosé Sangiovese 2022‌. — M.O.

5r Via Andrea del Verrocchio

Corradin: If we mention Cibrèo, we have to mention the tagliolino cacio e burro.

Secchi: Oh, I agree.

Emiko Davies: Cibrèo is my go-to restaurant in Florence. My husband worked there, as the head sommelier, but he doesn’t anymore. The cacio e burro is still one of my favorite dishes there. Fabio Picchi [the founder of Cibrèo who died in 2022] cheekily called it “rubato,” stolen, because it’s a revisitation of another iconic Florentine dish, the taglierini gratinati from Harry’s Bar, a favorite since the 1950s.

20. The Tagliolini With Lobster at Ristorante Cecio

Corniglia, liguria.

Set atop a steep hill on a particularly dramatic stretch of Italian coastline, Corniglia is considered the quietest of the touristy Cinque Terre villages. When you finally reach town, after climbing a 382-step brick stairway up a rocky cliff from the train station (or taking the shuttle bus), you’ll be ready for a large plate of pasta. Ristorante Cecio in Corniglia — which has been family owned and operated since 1976 — is the place to find it. The menu revolves around local seafood that’s sourced daily and pasta dishes by the head chef, Gabriele Pittavini, who’s honed his craft over the 20 years he spent operating a fresh pasta shop. One favorite is the tagliolini all’astice, a thin, homemade egg pasta with lobster, available for a minimum of two people. At first glance, it’s a flamboyant dish: a cherry-red claw reaches straight up from the ribbons of pasta, adorned with fat morsels of pink meat and a sprinkling of parsley. Half a lobster fills one side of the plate. Upon tasting it, however, you’ll find it showcases the fresh ingredients without overembellishing them. Be sure to reserve a table outside: The view from the veranda alone justifies a visit. Suggested wine pairing: Cinque Terre DOC 2023. — L.E.

58 Via Serra

Davies: I’ve been going here with my family for well over a decade — we love the Cinque Terre but it’s changed a lot and this trattoria has always stayed the same. The seafood is incredibly fresh. There’s nothing like a summertime dinner there.

21. The Tajarin al Ragù at Osteria da Gemma

Roddino, piedmont.

Gemma Boeri has been hand-rolling and cutting tajarin pasta for the locals in Roddino, a small town in southern Piedmont, for almost four decades. “Why would I stop? This is what I know how to do,” she says. The large glass window connecting the dining area of her hilltop trattoria with the prep room affords a view of Boeri and her helpers preparing the long, skinny strands of egg pasta (similar to spaghetti but with a golden hue), while the outside-facing windows overlook the Langhe hills known for producing quality food and wine, including Barolo. Boeri serves the tajarin (the Piedmontese word for tagliolini, a thinner version of tagliatelle) with a thick beef ragù sauce, which she says has won over diners because it reminds them of the comfort food they enjoyed when they were kids. “There’s no secret, I just prepare the food like nonna used to,” she says. It can take several months to get a reservation. Yet da Gemma has nonetheless remained relaxed and unpretentious: its walls lined with photos dating back to when Boeri first started serving customers in 1986. She serves only a single fixed menu that, in addition to the tajarin, includes Piedmontese classics, such as beef tartare and agnolotti del plin, the area’s signature stuffed pasta (see No. 1). Suggested wine pairing: Agricola Gianpiero Marrone La Pantalera Barbera d’Alba Superiore 2020. — E.S.

6 Via Guglielmo Marconi

Palluda: Every month I go see Gemma just to kiss her hand. It’s true, I’m not joking. She’s our pope.

Secchi: Her place is in the mountains. It’s very hard to get to, and it’s very blue-collar. When you sit down to eat, everything is served family-style, and the amount of food that comes to your table is … I mean, completely unnecessary. Gemma is like the original nonna. A few times a week, all the nonnas in the village come to roll pasta with her, and then they all sit down together for lunch. How does that tradition carry on when her time passes? There’s got to be a way.

22. The Tortelloni With Ricotta, Parmesan and Butter at Hosteria Giusti

Modena, emilia-romagna.

Salumeria Giusti , in operation since at least 1605, is reported to be the world’s oldest delicatessen, but that’s not its only claim to fame. Beyond the antique wood and marble counter a hallway leads to a tiny dining room with only four tables. Reservations here are among Modena’s most coveted, especially after the restaurant, a favorite of locals for decades, was featured on the Netflix series “Master of None” in 2017. Daniele Morandi, whose grandparents opened Hosteria in 1989, is in charge of the pasta making. He rolls out each sheet of dough by hand with a long wooden pin and shapes every raviolo and tortellino with skill and speed he learned from his grandmother. Among his most popular offerings are tortelloni — pillowy larger versions of typical Modenese tortellini — filled with a mix of local ricotta, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, spinach and freshly grated nutmeg. Bathed in an emulsion of pasta water and unpasteurized French butter, the dish is a study in simplicity. (Lunch only, though dinner can be prearranged for groups of 12 or more.) Suggested wine pairing: Corte d’Aibo Spungola Sauvignon Blanc 2022. — L.E.

75 Via Luigi Carlo Farini

Secchi: I worked there when I first moved to Modena, but only after I went to 30 different places to taste fresh pasta. In terms of technique and ambience, Giusti blew my mind. And that tortelloni? I think the ricotta is still warm when it’s delivered to the kitchen. It just disintegrates in your mouth.

23. The Traditional Lasagna at Al Cambio

Bologna, emilia-romagna.

In a bland, busy neighborhood not far from Bologna’s exhibition center, Al Cambio has been drawing a business crowd during weekday lunches and couples and families for dinner and on weekends for the past three decades. After booking weeks in advance, they file into the spare, white and beige dining room, debate the offerings on the extensive wine list (dominated by varieties from the Emilia-Romagna region) and settle in for a long lunch or dinner of local specialties, from breaded veal cutlets and mortadella to sformatino (a type of potato soufflé). But the most ordered — and scrutinized — dish is the one that bears the city’s name: lasagna alla Bolognese. Like most places in town, Al Cambio offers a seven-layer lasagna made with jade-green spinach noodles sandwiched between coats of béchamel and ragù. But Al Cambio’s ragù is meatier than most, made with beef minced together with prosciutto and pork sausage, and then topped with a thick layer of the ragù, the “final flourish,” as the manager Piero Pompili says: “It’s our way of symbolizing Bologna’s food heritage.” Suggested wine pairing: San Patrignano Avi Sangiovese di Romagna Superiore Riserva 2019. — Vicky Bennison

150 Via Stalingrado

Stefano Secchi: People are going to have a lot of opinions about where to find the best [lasagna alla Bolognese in Bologna], but for me, this is it. It has the perfect amount of crispness and gooeyness.

24. The Trofie With Pesto at Antica Osteria di Vico Palla

Pesto alla Genovese — the pungent bright green sauce made from basil, extra-virgin olive oil, Parmigiano-Reggiano, pecorino, pine nuts, garlic and salt — can be tossed with almost any shape of pasta, from spaghetti to fusilli. Its most authentic pairing, however, is trofie, a short, hand-twisted noodle typical of Recco , just down the coast from Genoa. It’s here that the most commonly known pesto originated (what’s thought to be the earliest printed recipe appeared in the 1863 book “La Cuciniera Genovese”), and at Antica Osteria di Vico Palla the dish is served at its most elemental. The rustic restaurant — where patrons sit at simple wooden tables laid with brown paper place mats under vaulted brick ceilings that date back to the 1500s — serves its trofie pesto mixed with boiled potatoes and green beans, as local families have for generations. The menu changes daily; ask for this dish if you don’t see it. Suggested wine pairing: a young vermentino di Albenga from the Ligurian coast. — Marianna Cerini

15/r Vico Palla

Palluda: You can’t have a list of Italian dishes without pesto. It’s the most popular condimento in the world. It’s very light, it’s modern, and it’s easy to make. If you want to blend it, instead of making it with a mortar, and you want to make a good, lively pesto, you really should have cold ingredients.

Corradin : In Genoa, poor people added potatoes and green beans to their pasta with pesto to make it a piatto unico, richer in nutrients but still affordable. [It’s common] to eat it scarpetta, the Italian ritual of scraping up the remaining sauce with bread. But here you use potatoes instead of bread. The beauty of this kind of dish and this kind of trattoria is that they’re both reminders that, in Italy, you don’t have to be rich to enjoy a good meal.

25. The Vincisgrassi at Osteria Dei Fiori

Macerata, marche.

Tourists tend to flock to Macerata, a small hilltop city in the eastern part of the Marche region, for two reasons: The summer opera festival and the decidedly unsummery seven-layer baked pasta dish known as vincisgrassi. Letizia Carducci, one of the three siblings who have been running the 30-seat Osteria Dei Fiori, which opened in 1980 on a cobblestone street close to the main square, says the dish evolved from princisgras, a pasta casserole made with black truffles and prosciutto that was served to the local nobility in the 18th century. In the Marcerate province, resourceful housewives made a ragù using meat from various farmyard animals, including bones and offal; that’s the recipe that Iginia and her brother, Paolo (they cook; their sister Letizia is the maitre’d), have built on to make their vincisgrassi, which consists of duck, chicken, rabbit and a little pork. Dessert wine, vino cotto, also plays a key role: It’s added to the dough that the Carduccis knead into silk-thin pasta sheets, then used to saute the chicken and duck livers, which are stirred into the sauce at the very end. The meaty ragù covers the four bottom layers, while the top one is reserved for the nutmeg-inflected béchamel sauce. Baked in an oven, the whole thing is both earthy and luxurious, with subtle hints of smoke. Suggested wine pairing: Gàjole Verdicchio di Matelica 2021. — V.B.

61 Via Lauro Rossi

Secchi: What is vincisgrassi? I’ve never had it.

Corradin: It’s Macerata’s ancestral lasagna. One story says that it’s named for an Austrian officer named Windisch-Graetz who was stationed in Macerata province around the early 1800s.

Moyer-Nocchi: Lasagna has become a specific dish, associated with a specific place. The Maceratese prefer not to call their dish a lasagna, even though it, too, is a rich, layered pasta dish.

Palluda: When these dishes were born, there were no computers [people didn’t sit all day] and no radiators. They stayed warm with a fire, but with the food also. They expended calories to stay warm. People ate just one meal every day.

Moyer-Nocchi: Historically, you’d only eat these things once or twice a year. It’s not like you’d be picking these dishes off a menu every day. In the meantime, you’d be eating much more frugally: cabbage, beans, leafy greens.

Palluda: Somebody said to me, “Why don’t you make some of these traditional pastas lighter?” But that’s not the right way to respect the dishes. We can make the portions smaller, but you need to keep the flavor.

Photo editor: Lauren Poggi

Research editor: Alexis Sottile

Copy editor: Magnus Schaefer

An earlier version of this article misidentified the restaurant where Nabil Hadj Hassen was the chef in 2008; it was Salumeria Roscioli, not Antico Forno Roscioli.

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