Dive in Sicily
Details
Dive into Sicily and discover the island through its most fascinating contrasts: Baroque cities, ancient Greek heritage, volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear seas — all within a welcoming and gay-friendly atmosphere.
Begin in Eastern Sicily, where art and history meet at every corner. Explore Siracusa, birthplace of Archimedes and one of the great centers of the ancient Greek world, then stroll through the honey-colored streets of Noto, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture. Continue to Catania, lively and full of character, shaped by the power of Mount Etna and rebuilt in stunning baroque style.
The journey also embraces Sicily’s iconic coastlines and authentic villages, including the breathtaking scenery of Scopello, where dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and slow Mediterranean rhythms create the perfect setting to unwind.
Sicily’s queer history adds another unique layer to this experience. In Taormina, you’ll discover the story of Wilhelm von Gloeden, the German photographer who settled here in the late 19th century and became famous for his bold and sensual portraits of young male models. His presence contributed to making Taormina a discreet yet celebrated destination for cultured, wealthy travelers — including many gay men — during the era of the Grand Tour.
The tour ends in Palermo, where cultures, religions and identities have intertwined for centuries. Its markets, architecture and vibrant energy reveal a Sicily that is complex, inclusive and unforgettable.
A journey designed for travelers who want to experience Sicily beyond the classics — with beauty, depth and hidden stories.
Dive into Sicily and discover the island through its most fascinating contrasts: Baroque cities, ancient Greek heritage, volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear seas — all within a welcoming and gay-friendly atmosphere.
Begin in Eastern Sicily, where art and history meet at every corner. Explore Siracusa, birthplace of Archimedes and one of the great centers of the ancient Greek world, then stroll through the honey-colored streets of Noto, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture. Continue to Catania, lively and full of character, shaped by the power of Mount Etna and rebuilt in stunning baroque style.
The journey also embraces Sicily’s iconic coastlines and authentic villages, including the breathtaking scenery of Scopello, where dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and slow Mediterranean rhythms create the perfect setting to unwind.
Sicily’s queer history adds another unique layer to this experience. In Taormina, you’ll discover the story of Wilhelm von Gloeden, the German photographer who settled here in the late 19th century and became famous for his bold and sensual portraits of young male models. His presence contributed to making Taormina a discreet yet celebrated destination for cultured, wealthy travelers — including many gay men — during the era of the Grand Tour.
The tour ends in Palermo, where cultures, religions and identities have intertwined for centuries. Its markets, architecture and vibrant energy reveal a Sicily that is complex, inclusive and unforgettable.
A journey designed for travelers who want to experience Sicily beyond the classics — with beauty, depth and hidden stories.
Itinerary
Day 01 – Catania | Arrival
Arrival in Catania and check-in at your hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure — a perfect first taste of Sicily’s vibrant energy, baroque atmosphere and local life.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner, an excellent opportunity to relax and start discovering Sicilian flavors.
Overnight in Catania.
Day 02 – Catania | LGBTQ+ Untold History & Street Food
After breakfast, meet your local gay/gay-friendly guide in the hotel lobby and begin a walking tour dedicated to the LGBTQ+ history of Catania, one of the most open and vibrant cities in Sicily.
The itinerary includes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Duomo and the Elephant Fountain in the historic center, the impressive Ursino Castle, the monumental Benedictine Monastery, and Alessi’s Staircase, a place deeply connected to the city’s hidden stories and queer past.
At midday, enjoy a delicious street food lunch, the perfect way to taste authentic local flavors.
In the afternoon, the tour continues, unveiling more places and episodes that shaped Catania’s social history and identity.
Overnight in Catania.
Day 03 – Taormina | Von Gloeden & Isola Bella Cruise
After breakfast, meet your driver and head to Taormina, one of Sicily’s most iconic towns, where history, beauty and queer heritage have long intertwined.
Upon arrival, meet your guide for a short introduction to the city. Enjoy the outdoor view of the ancient Greek Theatreand some of Taormina’s most charming corners. For centuries, Taormina has attracted writers, artists and cultural icons — from Oscar Wilde to the legendary actress Eleonora Duse, often associated with Gabriele D’Annunzio.
The tour then continues to Casa Cuseni, a refined historic residence connected to the artistic soul of Taormina, where you will visit the atelier linked to Wilhelm von Gloeden.
Von Gloeden was a German photographer who settled in Taormina and became internationally known for his provocative and poetic imagery, including carefully staged portraits of young Sicilian male models, inspired by classical antiquity. His presence marked nearly half a century of Taormina’s cultural history, shaping the town’s reputation as an unconventional and discreet destination for cultured travelers.
After the visit, enjoy a short transfer to Giardini Naxos, where you will board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the coast. The experience includes an aperitif on board and a stop near the iconic Isola Bella, one of the most beautiful bays in Sicily.
Return to Catania. Evening at leisure.
Overnight in Catania.
Day 04 – Noto & Siracusa | Baroque Beauty & Ancient Greece
After breakfast, meet your driver and head south to Noto, the jewel of Sicilian Baroque and one of the most elegant historic towns on the island.
Upon arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a walking tour through the golden streets of Noto, where architecture becomes pure theatre. Admire the spectacular Cathedral, the harmonious squares and façades carved in local stone, and discover why Noto is considered one of the finest Baroque masterpieces in Italy. Along the way, enjoy a sweet break with typical Sicilian delicacies such as cannoli and cassata.
The journey continues to Siracusa, one of the most important cities of the ancient Mediterranean. After free time for lunch, visit the impressive Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre and the legendary Ear of Dionysius, surrounded by dramatic limestone quarries.
In the afternoon, reach Ortigia Island, Siracusa’s historic heart, connected to the mainland by two bridges. Stroll through its timeless streets and discover the traces of ancient temples that still shape the city’s atmosphere, including the Temple of Apollo and the remains connected to the sacred area of Athena.
Return to Catania. The evening is at leisure.
Overnight in Catania.
Day 05 – Catania | Leisure Day
Today is a free day in Catania.
You can relax, explore the city at your own pace, enjoy shopping, baroque architecture, local markets, or simply take time to unwind before the next part of the journey.
Overnight in Catania.
Day 06 – Palermo | Agrigento & Valley of the Temples
After breakfast, check out and meet your driver for the journey to Palermo, crossing the dramatic landscapes of central Sicily.
Along the way, stop in Agrigento to visit the extraordinary Valley of the Temples, one of the most impressive and best-preserved archaeological sites of the ancient Greek world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the visit, enjoy free time for lunch before continuing to Palermo.
Arrival in Palermo and check-in at your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight in Palermo.
Day 07 – Palermo | Old Town, Markets & LGBTQ+ Untold Stories
After breakfast, meet your guide and start a guided walking tour through Palermo, a crossroads of cultures shaped by centuries of Arab, Norman and Mediterranean influences.
The itinerary includes the exterior visit of the Norman Palace and the extraordinary Palatine Chapel, famous for its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, among the finest in Europe. Along the way, your guide will also share untold stories and anecdotes related to Palermo’s LGBTQ+ history and the characters who have contributed to the city’s identity through the decades.
A highlight of the experience is the immersion into Palermo’s vibrant street life with a visit to the legendary open-air markets of Ballarò and Vucciria, where you will enjoy a lunch based on typical Sicilian street food specialties.
The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Overnight in Palermo.
Day 08 – Scopello | Sea Views, Cinema & Nature
Meet your driver and depart for Scopello, one of the most picturesque seaside corners in Western Sicily, where history and nature blend into dramatic coastal scenery.
With your guide, explore the village and its most iconic site: the historic tuna fishery (Tonnara di Scopello), a timeless place overlooking crystal waters. You will also admire the famous Faraglioni, the towering sea rocks that became an international film backdrop — including scenes from Ocean’s Twelve starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
If you wish, you can also enjoy time surrounded by nature in the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve, one of Sicily’s most beautiful protected areas, known for its wild landscape and breathtaking coastline.
After lunch featuring local specialties, return to Palermo.
Overnight in Palermo.
Day 09 – Palermo | Leisure Day
Today is a free day in Palermo.
Take your time to explore the city at your own pace — from historic streets and architectural landmarks to lively markets, cafés and hidden corners. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Palermo’s authentic atmosphere, local flavours and vibrant energy.
Overnight in Palermo.
Day 10 - End of Services
After breakfast, check out from your hotel.
End of services.

Taormina

Catania

Palermo
What's Included
What's Excluded
Additional Information
- Accommodation in a 4-star hotel, in a standard double/twin room, breakfast included.
- Please check whether your driving license is valid in Italy or if an International Driving Permit is required.
- This itinerary is fully customizable and can be adapted to your travel style, interests and pace.
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Departure:
Dive in Sicily
From € 2,950
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