Sicily

Overview:

The culture, traditions, and history of Sicily are intensely rich. Its fertile terrain is just as varied with rugged mountains (including Europe’s highest volcano, Mount Etna), flatland lined with endless citrus groves, spectacular coastlines, and 16 unique islands. The classic tour takes you to Palermo, Segesta’s temple and amphitheatre, medieval Erice, the Greek ruins at seaside Selinunte, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Roman villa and mosaics at Piazza Armerina, Syracuse, and the resort town of Taormina. Other areas worth visiting are the town of Cefalù on the northern coast, the ceramic center at Santo Stefano, Marsala and the Egadi Isles on the western coast, and the Madonie Mountains with their intact heritage. Gastronomic specialties: Fresh pastas made with a variety of Mediterranean vegetables; seafood combinations with sardines, tuna, and a range of local fish; rich desserts with ricotta and marzipan; and sweet wines including Moscato and Marsala, are all indicitive of this region.