Springtime in Sicily

Sicily, the Mediterranean’s largest island with around five million residents, boasts a fascinating and extensive railway network. Most lines remain active, though some face closure, while at least one is slated to reopen.

Our late February/early March visit offers mild weather and a chance to explore Sicily’s rich cultural heritage shaped by Greeks, Romans, Normans, and others, evident in its cuisine and architecture.

The tour covers many active standard and narrow-gauge railways, with opportunities to ride trams in Palermo and Messina and the Catania metro.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1, Sunday, 23 March - Travel to Rome via overland rail (includes free UK travel) or fly direct from several UK airports. Overnight at Hotel Mediterraneo, near Termini. Meet Alessandra this evening.

Day 2, Monday, 24 March (B) - Depart Rome by intercity train to Messina, including a rare train ferry crossing. Overnight near Messina Centrale. Alternatively, fly to Catania and transfer to Messina.

Day 3, Tuesday, 25 March (B, D) - Morning walking tour of Messina, including the cathedral and famous clock. Afternoon train along the scenic north coast to Palermo. Welcome Dinner.

Day 4, Wednesday, 26 March (B) - Morning guided tour of Monreale and its Norman cathedral. Afternoon tour of Palermo’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Free time to explore or ride the city’s tram networks.

Day 5, Thursday, 27 March (B) - Train to Agrigento for a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO site. Return to Palermo mid-afternoon.

Day 6, Friday, 28 March (B) - Coach to Trapani and guided tour. Visit Erice via cable car (weather permitting). Optional scenic rail detour to Trapani for enthusiasts. Return to Palermo by coach.

Day 7, Saturday, 29 March (B) - Train through central Sicily to Catania. Afternoon walking tour of the city or optional scenic rail trip to Caltagirone. Stay in Catania for five nights.

Day 8, Sunday, 30 March (B, L) - Coach to Villarosa for the Treno Museo and lunch. Visit the Roman Villa del Casale at Piazza Armerina. Return to Catania.

Day 9, Monday, 31 March (B) - Excursion to Taormina with guided tour of the Greco-Roman theatre. Free afternoon. Optional rail extension to Messina for enthusiasts.

Day 10, Tuesday, 1 April (B) - Day trip to Syracuse for a full guided tour. Optional rural rail loop via Ragusa and Canicatti, returning to Catania (partly by bus due to works).

Day 11, Wednesday, 2 April (B, L) - Coach up Mount Etna with a guided volcanic hike. Farewell lunch and wine tasting at Gambino Winery. Return to Catania.

Day 12, Thursday, 3 April (B) - Return to the UK by rail (via Rome) or fly from Catania to various UK airports.