EPICUREAN ESCAPADE: SICILY & SALINA

April 22 – May 5, 2025

Gastronomic Getaway: Sisterhood Travels' Sicily & Salina Adventure

Dive into an immersive journey of taste, tradition, and togetherness in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Ladies, get ready to indulge your senses on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Mediterranean with Sisterhood Travels’ latest offering – our “Epicurean Escapade: Sicily & Salina” odyssey. This unique adventure is more than just a trip; it’s a celebration of exquisite flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and enduring friendships. Imagine savoring the rich, authentic tastes of Sicilian cuisine, from aromatic street food in bustling markets to gourmet dishes on a sunset cruise around the awe-inspiring Stromboli Volcano. Every meal is a story, every bite a memory in the making.

As we weave through the charming streets of Sicily and the serene beauty of Salina, you’ll not only be a traveler but a connoisseur of culture and cuisine. Picture yourself sipping on fine local wines under the Sicilian sun and toasting to new friendships under starlit skies. The heart of this journey is about connection – with the land, its people, and, most importantly, each other. Our shared dining experiences will be the perfect backdrop for stories to unfold and bonds to strengthen.

Sicilia

But that’s not all. We’ve curated a series of exclusive cultural exchanges that will take you behind the scenes of Sicily’s rich heritage. From private tours of ancient ruins to meetings with anti-Mafia activists, each encounter is designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this magnificent region. Whether you’re exploring the Baroque marvels of Modica or wandering through the vibrant markets of Palermo, every moment is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the soul of Sicily.

With Sisterhood Travels, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re signing up for an experience that will tantalize your taste buds, enrich your soul, and create bonds that last a lifetime. So, are you ready to join us on this epicurean escapade? Let’s discover the magic of Sicily and Salina together!

OUR ITINERARY

April 22, 2025

Welcome to Sicily! Once you pass through immigration and customs, you’ll meet your driver in the Arrivals Hall and be transported to our hotel. Today is yours to rest, rejuvenate, and relax. Perhaps this evening, you’ll join your Sisters for an informal get-together in the hotel. No meals are included today.

Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo

Sicily Pano

April 23, 2025

Today is yours to rest, relax, or independently explore with your Sisters. Don’t forget to come back for our Welcome Dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo

sicily streets women

April 24, 2025

We’ll begin our adventure tasting our way through Palermo’s lively markets on a walking tour unveiling the city’s historical center, which will introduce you to traditional Sicilian street food, which layers Oriental and Norman influences with local produce such as wild fennel, olives and spices. This afternoon, we’ll head to Monreale Cathedral, ascending on foot to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Then, it’s your choice! Explore the cathedral’s cloisters, taking in their serene atmosphere of the monastic complex -OR- ascend the southern tower to the panoramic terraces for a bird’s-eye view over Palermo. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo

April 25, 2025

Today, we’ll experience an impactful exchange with Addiopizzo, an anti-Mafia nonprofit that supports locals who refuse to pay the Mafia’s protection fees. We’ll visit Capaci, the site of a terrorist act led by the Mafia, and pay tribute to fallen activists. You’ll have an opportunity to chat with locals for a personal perspective and learn how they overcame the Mafia’s reign. Later this afternoon, we’ll settle into our hotel in coastal Trapani for a two-night stay. This evening, watch the sunset fade against the crashing waves and whirling windmills as you dine independently with your Sisters. (Breakfast)

Hotel: I Mulini Resort, Trapani

April 26, 2025

Today, we’ll discover the ancient craft of sea-salt harvesting during a guided visit to the salt pans of Trapani. Then, we’ll continue to Marsala, heading down into a cellar for a taste of its renowned wine paired with traditional bites. This afternoon, we’ll journey to the enchanted hilltop village of Erice before returning to our hotel for dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: I Mulini Resort, Trapani

April 27, 2025

This morning, we’ll head to an award-winning olive grove and learn about the Slow Food movement, which supports local cultures and preserves traditions. You’ll be able to try their unique olive oil at lunch before departing for Agrigento, where ancient roots and medieval buildings blend into modernity. Later this afternoon, we’ll wander through the imposing Greek ruins of the Valley of the Temples (UNESCO) in the company of our expert guide. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Hotel: Baia di Ulisse, Agrigento

April 28 2025

Today, we’ll make our way to Ragusa (UNESCO), an ancient city perched upon a hill. We’ll meander through its Baroque neighborhood with an expert guide, passing by winding lanes, cobblestone streets, and wrought iron balconies. Make the most of a free afternoon to explore with your Sisters. As the sun sets, we’ll retreat to our countryside resort just outside the city. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: Poggio del Sole Hotel, Ragusa

April 29, 2025

Today, we’ll journey to Sicily’s Baroque Valley, known for its ornate historic architecture where we’ll discover UNESCO World Heritage sites in Scicli and Modica. The town of Scicli dates back to the 3rd century BC, home to a number of centuries-old churches. We’ll visit a local farm for brunch to learn about two local specialties: ricotta cheese and sausage. The hilly city of Modica, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is renowned for its baroque architecture and breathtakingly detailed facades. We’ll taste Modica’s historically rooted artisanal chocolate, based on flavorful Aztec recipes of millennia ago. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Hotel: Poggio del Sole Hotel, Ragusa

April 30, 2025

Today, we’ll grab our bags and hop on a ferry in Milazzo. We’ll sail by Vulcano and Lipari on our way to Salina, a far-flung isle surrounded by vibrant blue waters and dark volcanic rock. Somewhat off the beaten path, Salina is one of the less-traveled Aeolian Islands, preserved as a vacation getaway for Italians. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into the hamlet of Lingua for a 2-night stay. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: Mamma Santina Hotel, Salina

May 1, 2025

This morning, dramatic landscapes of rocky cliffs and vibrant vineyards pass by on our way to nearby Pollara, famous for its traditional caper cultivation. Wander through the fields, tasting the salted flower buds accompanied by a glass of Malvasia, a locally produced dessert wine. This afternoon, Take in the sights on a leisurely sunset sail around the legendary Stromboli Volcano, called “the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” Our private boat will anchor for an opportunity to swim in beautiful waters (weather permitting). Watch the skyline for puffs of smoke, emitting from the island’s active volcano. In the intimate dining space, we’ll indulge in a rustic dinner of local Aeolian specialties and regional wines. As the sun sets, be on the lookout for glowing hues of red and orange and perhaps some small lava flows in the drama of the dusk sky. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: Mamma Santina Hotel, Salina

May 2, 2025

After a relaxing morning, we’ll ferry back to mainland Sicilia. Then, we’ll journey along the Ionian Coast to Taormina, a seaside hub of ancient Greek theaters and hilly walkways. Settle into your new home for the next three nights and enjoy a free evening to explore and dine with your Sisters. (Breakfast)

Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina

Taormina gardens and Theater

May 3, 2025

This morning, we’ll discover Taormina with a local guide, leading us to the city’s Duomo, public gardens, and the well-preserved Greek theater. Walk in the footsteps of ancient attendees and take in an unparalleled viewpoint of the adjacent ocean. Spend your free afternoon and evening with your Sisters. (Breakfast)

Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina

Taormina theater

May 4, 2025

We’re going to 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 the day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks. This evening, we’ll toast to our Sicilian sojourn at our Farewell Dinner, surrounded by local musicians. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina

May 5, 2025

Sadly, our exploration of beautiful Sicily comes to a close today. We’ll transfer back to the Catania airport for our flights home. (Breakfast)

Trip Inclusions

pricing

PRICING

Double Occupancy
$ 6999
00
per person
  • EPICUREAN ESCAPADE:
    SICILY & SALINA

PRICING

Single Occupancy
$ 8199
00
per person
  • EPICUREAN ESCAPADE:
    SICILY & SALINA

important information

PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY

  • There will be a maximum of 24 Sisters on this tour, including your Sisterhood Travels Group Leader
  • Airfare is not included in your pricing.
  • You will fly into Palermo (PMO) and depart from Catania (CTA)
  • You can arrive at any time on April 22, 2025, and depart at any time on May 5, 2025.
  • Check-in time at your arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
  • All flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before December 23, 2024. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
  • Arrival transfers are provided only on April 22nd from the Palermo airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on May 5th from our hotel to the Catania airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and/or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
  • When reserving single accommodations, be advised that single rooms in Europe are often smaller in size.
  • You are responsible for handling your own luggage when getting on and off the ferry. You will have the option of storing your larger suitcase on the bus for 3 days until you return to Sicily mainland, and just bringing a small carry-on with you on the island.
  • Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motor coaches, especially in historic areas such as Palermo, Erice, Ragusa and Taormina, which all require the ability to walk up and down hill on narrow, cobblestoned streets and stairs.
  • Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip, as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
  • Individual gratuities for your Tour Director and coach driver are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip.
  • Optional Travel Insurance is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
  • We cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on this trip.
  • There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
  • Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational or logistical reasons.
  • In the case of adverse sea conditions, the ferry to the isle of Salina may be delayed or cancelled resulting in partial reduction of our time on the isle (or cancellation of the visit). In case of this event, there will be a replacement accommodation arranged and a comparable program on the mainland.
  • Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.

Need a Roommate?

Cancellation & Refunds

Activity Level 4

Activity Level:

Busy

This is a consistently robust itinerary that is likely to be filled with a combination of long, active days, several early hotel departures and some long journeys by coach. There may be limited time for rest and rejuvenation as you explore these amazing destinations. There may be multiple flights and travel by non-traditional means such as safari vehicles, rickshaws/pedicabs, etc. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be capable of walking 1-2 miles over time over potentially difficult terrain which may include hills. Guests should be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.