Show all 19 photos About this trip
Discover the Soul of Sicily | Mount Etna, Taormina & Hidden Gems!
]
Identity
Verified
Phone
Verified
7 Days30 Days!
Extra cancellation days
only for the first TripMate
Foodie trip What's special?
Small group of like-minded travelers
Slow Travel Experience
Highlights & Hidden Gems
Details about this trip
Sicily is much more than beautiful beaches and famous landmarks - it's a way of life. On this 8-day small-group journey, we'll discover the true soul of eastern Sicily together. From the majestic slopes of Mount Etna and the charming streets of Taormina to one of Sicily's best-kept natural secrets and the timeless beauty of Syracuse, this trip combines spectacular scenery, incredible food and genuine local experiences. We'll also discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming coastal towns, and the rich history that makes eastern Sicily one of Italy's most fascinating regions. But this journey isn't about rushing from one attraction to the next. It's about slowing down, sharing meals, enjoying sunset aperitivos, discovering hidden gems and creating genuine connections with like-minded travelers. Whether we're hiking on Europe's highest active volcano, tasting local wines, wandering through picturesque villages or simply enjoying an evening together, my goal is for you to experience Sicily the way I have come to love it. Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of time to explore, enjoy long meals, and truly experience each destination instead of rushing from one attraction to the next. Perfect for you if... you love authentic travel experiences you enjoy good food and local culture you prefer quality over rushing from one attraction to the next you're open to meeting like-minded travellers you're looking for a relaxed, small-group experience This trip might not be the best fit if... you're looking for nightlife every evening you prefer large organised coach tours you expect luxury hotel service instead of a shared villa experience Can couples or friends join together? Absolutely! Although the trip is primarily designed for solo travellers looking to meet like-minded people, couples or friends are very welcome as well. The villa offers double rooms, making it easy to accommodate guests travelling together.
Hi, I'm Raphy from Germany. Over the past several years I've worked in guest experience and luxury travel, creating unforgettable journeys for travelers from all over the world. Sicily has become one of my favorite places, not only because of its breathtaking landscapes, but because of its people, culture and incredible food. I believe that the people you travel with shape the experience just as much as the destination itself. That's why I personally take the time to create a group of curious, open-minded travelers who enjoy discovering new places together.
For the week, we'll call a beautiful private Mediterranean villa our home, ideally located between Catania and Syracuse, the perfect base for exploring eastern Sicily. Reserved exclusively for our group throughout the entire trip, the villa is surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens and features a large private pool, spacious terraces and inviting outdoor dining areas. Whether we're sharing breakfast together, unwinding by the pool after a day of adventure or enjoying a glass of wine under the stars, this will be much more than just a place to sleep – it will be our home away from home. The villa offers spacious, air-conditioned bedrooms, modern comforts including high-speed Wi-Fi, and plenty of space to relax, connect and fully embrace the Sicilian way of life. The rooms are allocated as follows for my trip mates: 3 bedrooms with one double beds 1 bedroom with two single beds 2 indoor bathrooms 1 outdoor bathroom by the pool Rooms can be shared on request, and a discount for a shared room is applicable. The rooms will be allocated as fairly as possible before the trip. If you're looking for meaningful travel, genuine experiences, and a small group that values curiosity, openness, and connection, I'd love to welcome you to Sicily. My goal is not simply to show you the island's most beautiful places, but to create an unforgettable journey where strangers become friends, authentic moments become lasting memories, and everyone feels welcome from the very beginning. 📩 I'd love to answer any questions you may have before booking. Feel free to reach out anytime, and I'll be happy to help you prepare for an unforgettable Sicilian adventure
What's included?
Private accommodation for 7 nightsPrivate airport transferPrivate transfer throughout the tripWelcome Dinner at local restaurantBreakfast at the Villa (self-prepared)Private guided Mount Etna experienceWinery visit with lunch & wine tastingPrivate cooking class & dinner at VillaWhat's excluded?
Flights to and from CataniaPersonal travel insuranceLunches and dinners not listed as includOptional activities during the free dayPersonal expenses
Trip Cover
Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations.Learn more
Gallery
Your trip itinerary![]()
8 days trip
Catania, Taormina & 6 more
Accommodation
Other
Transportation
Car
Catania
Day 1-8
Benvenuti in Sicilia! Your Sicilian adventure begins as you arrive at Catania Airport, where I'll personally welcome you before we head to our beautiful villa overlooking the sea. To make the most of our first day together, I recommend arriving around midday. This gives everyone plenty of time to settle into their rooms, unpack, relax by the pool and get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. We'll have some light snacks and refreshments waiting, so you can unwind after your journey. As the afternoon turns into evening, we'll head into the vibrant streets of Catania, where you'll experience your very first taste of Sicily. Together we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic centre, soak up the lively atmosphere and start embracing the famous Sicilian dolce vita. We'll stop for a traditional aperitivo, enjoy our first Sicilian gelato, before ending the evening with a delicious welcome dinner at one of my favourite local restaurants. Over delicious Sicilian food and a glass of local wine, we'll toast to the week ahead, get to know each other and share our excitement for the adventures waiting for us.
2
2
Taormina
Day 8
Dolce Vita in Taormina: After a relaxed breakfast at the villa, we'll make our way to Taormina, often referred to as Sicily's timeless jewel. Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina has enchanted travellers for centuries with its elegant atmosphere, colourful streets and breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coastline. This is the moment when many visitors truly realise they've arrived in Sicily. Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, we'll take our time to discover Taormina at a relaxed pace, leaving plenty of opportunities to browse charming boutiques, enjoy a coffee with a view, taste a refreshing granita or simply wander wherever the beautiful streets lead us. We'll also take time to enjoy a relaxed lunch together before, if the weather is on our side, visiting the stunning Isola Bella, a picturesque nature reserve famous for its crystal-clear waters and one of Sicily's most beautiful coastal spots. After a day of soaking up the atmosphere, we'll return towards our villa and enjoy another relaxed evening together over dinner at a local restaurant.
3
3
Ätna
Day 8
The Power of Nature: Today we'll experience one of Sicily's greatest natural wonders: Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. We will get to experience two very different sides of Mount Etna: its rich culinary traditions and its raw volcanic power. After breakfast, we'll make our way to a local winery on the fertile slopes of the volcano. Here we'll enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring regional dishes, accompanied by a tasting of four carefully selected wines that express the unique character of Etna's volcanic soil. It will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and discover why this extraordinary landscape produces some of Sicily's most distinctive wines. Later in the afternoon, the atmosphere changes as we set out on our guided Mount Etna adventure. Starting at an altitude of around 1,900 metres, we'll cross dramatic lava fields and rocky terrain that feels almost lunar, explore impressive craters and discover traces left behind by past eruptions. Along the way, we'll also visit a fascinating volcanic cave. As daylight begins to fade, we'll reach a panoramic viewpoint and watch the sun set over the extraordinary volcanic landscape. A truly unforgettable way to experience the raw power and beauty of Mount Etna. Afterwards, we'll return to the villa and enjoy a relaxed evening together, reflecting on one of the highlights of our Sicilian journey.
4
4
Costa Saracena-Castelluccio
Day 8
Slow Sicily: Nothing is mandatory. This day is yours to enjoy. After three unforgettable days of exploring Sicily, today is all about slowing down and enjoying the island at your own pace. After all, travel isn't about rushing from one highlight to the next; it's about creating space to truly experience a destination. Whether you'd like to spend the morning relaxing by the pool with a good book, unwind at the beach, explore the nearby town of Augusta or simply enjoy a slow start to the day, the choice is entirely yours. For anyone interested, I'll also be happy to offer a gentle morning yoga session to start the day feeling refreshed. In the afternoon, we'll come back together for a true Sicilian tradition: an authentic Arancini cooking experience. Together we'll learn how to prepare Sicily's famous stuffed rice balls, and the famous sicilian cannoli for desert, before sitting down to enjoy the meal we've created together. It's a relaxed and memorable evening celebrating good food, great company and one of Sicily's most beloved culinary traditions. One of the things I love most about Sicily is how food brings people together, and I can't think of a better way to end the day than preparing, sharing and enjoying a meal together.
5
5
Syrakus
Day 8
History & Mediterranean Life: Today we'll step back in time as we discover Syracuse, one of the most fascinating and historically significant cities in the Mediterranean. Our day begins with a visit to the impressive Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to remarkable ancient Greek and Roman monuments, including the famous Greek Theatre and the impressive Ear of Dionysius. Walking through these centuries-old ruins offers a glimpse into the rich history that has shaped Sicily for thousands of years. Later, we'll make our way to the enchanting island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse. Rather than following a strict schedule, we'll wander through its charming streets and elegant piazzas, discovering hidden corners, local cafés and beautiful sea views along the way. As the sun begins to set, we'll take a stroll along Ortigia's waterfront before ending the day with a relaxed dinner and delicious Sicilian cuisine.
6
6
Syrakus
Day 8
My Hidden Gem: By now, you've experienced some of Sicily's most famous highlights. Today, I'd like to share one of my personal favourite place on the island; one that many visitors never get to discover. Rather than revealing every detail in advance, I'd like to keep today's destination as a small surprise. Some places are simply best discovered in person rather than through photos, and this is one of them. Hidden away from the busy tourist routes, it's a place that has become one of my personal favourites and one I'm excited to share with you. Together we'll enjoy a gentle hike through breathtaking natural scenery, taking time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings at a relaxed pace. If the weather and water levels allow, we'll also have the opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim in crystal-clear natural pools.
7
7
Noto
Day 8
The Perfect Last Day: As our unforgettable week in Sicily draws to a close, I'll choose the destination that promises the best experience for our final day, taking into account the weather and the spirit of the week we've shared together. We may wander through the elegant Baroque streets of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture, or spend the day in the charming fishing village of Marzamemi, where colourful streets, seaside cafés and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere invite us to slow down and simply enjoy the moment. Whichever destination we choose, the focus won't be on rushing from one attraction to the next, but on soaking up the atmosphere, enjoying one last stroll and celebrating the incredible memories we've created together throughout the week. To end our Sicilian adventure in the best possible way, we'll share one final dinner together; a chance to raise a glass, reflect on an unforgettable journey before saying goodbye.
8
8
Catania
Day 8
Arrivederci - Until Next Time: After one last breakfast together at the villa, it will be time to say goodbye. I'll take you to Catania Airport, where our journey comes to an end. More than anything, I hope you'll leave Sicily with unforgettable memories, new friendships and a little piece of the island in your heart. Thank you for trusting me to share this incredible place with you. Arrivederci, and I hope to welcome you on another adventure someday.
Stop dreaming
Start traveling together
Join group trips or plan your own with like-minded TripMates
7 Days30 Days!
Extra cancellation days
only for the first TripMate
Total price
Join with just 20% deposit
€1,915