A Tale of Two Islands: Malta and Sicily

Overview

From Malta’s honey-hued cities, prehistoric temples and Grand Harbour views to Sicily’s Baroque towns, volcanic landscapes and sun-kissed shores, this journey unites two islands in an irresistibly enticing Mediterranean pairing. Begin in Valletta, exploring this storied city and island beyond, before crossing the water to Sicily, where historic splendour mingles with time-honoured traditions and iconic sights. Refined luxury hotels provide the perfect base throughout, while thoughtfully curated experiences bring your time on both islands vividly to life.

Day 1 Accommodation

Valletta, Malta

Arrive in Malta and transfer to your hotel overlooking Valletta’s Grand Harbour. This evening, enjoy an unforgettable VIP experience at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, including an optional tour and an intimate Valletta Resounds performance inspired by Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist, bringing the drama, emotion, and history of this iconic artwork vividly to life.

Day 2 Accommodation

Valletta, Malta

Today, a private tour of Malta’s capital introduces you to the treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s famous painting, “The Beheading of St John the Baptist”. With a lavish interior of intricate marble floors, gilded walls, and rich frescoes, it stands as one of Malta’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. Then, sail the Grand Harbour on a traditional boat and explore the three cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua - historic fortified towns steeped in maritime heritage.

Day 3 Accommodation

Valletta/Mdina, Malta

Your day begins at the prehistoric temple of Hagar Qim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 3,200 B.C. After exploring this spectacular hilltop site, discover the Blue Grotto in the Żurrieq Valley on a traditional boat trip. The Great Hypogeum is the last stop on your tour, its network of chambers and burial spaces offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into prehistoric island life. Later, a vintage car transfer delivers you to Mdina, home to beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Enjoy an exclusive aperitivo experience in a private palace and soak up the atmospheric beauty of Malta’s old capital city by night.

Day 4 Accommodation

Valletta, Malta/ Pozzallo and Siracusa, Sicily

Take a transfer to the port for the two-hour ferry ride to Sicily. On arrival, meet your transfer to Siracusa, renowned for its ancient ruins and baroque streets. Spend four nights at Grand Hotel Des Étrangers, located on Ortigia, the historic island at the heart of the city.

Day 5 Accommodation

Siracusa, Sicily

Tour the Ortigia island by tuk-tuk, stopping to admire age-old sights, including the Cathedral of Siracusa, the Maniace Castle, the Aretusa Spring, and the Temple of Apollo. Then, take in its historic shores from the water as you cruise through the crystal-clear sea, sampling freshly prepared Sicilian food and drink as you glide along.

Day 6 Accommodation

Noto/Modica, Sicily

After travelling to Noto, enjoy a walking tour of this Baroque wonder. Rebuilt almost from scratch after a devastating earthquake in the second half of the seventeenth century, its opulent cityscape is a truly breathtaking sight. Next, visit Modica, famed for its time-honoured chocolate-making traditions, where you’ll learn the techniques before making your own bar. The day concludes with a walking tour – the perfect way to experience the city’s storied streets.

Day 7 Accommodation

Siracusa, Sicily

Journey into the countryside surrounding Siracusa to spend time on a local farm. Tour its grounds and meet the animals before an interactive cooking class. Prepare a three-course meal and then feast on the freshly prepared dishes, savouring the authentic flavours of Sicilian cuisine made from ingredients harvested on the farm.

Day 8 Accommodation

Taormina, Sicily

A private transfer takes you to Taormina, where spectacular views of the sea and Mount Etna greet you. Your home for the next three nights is the luxurious Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel. Positioned overlooking the impressive ruins of Taormina’s Greek Theatre, this elegant retreat immediately immerses you in the magic of this enchanting city.

Day 9 Accommodation

Taormina, Sicily

A half-day tour introduces you to Taormina’s attractions, the highlight of which is undoubtedly a visit to the Greek Theatre. Perched on a hillside above the city, it combines ancient architecture with a mesmerising backdrop, framing views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.

Day 10 Accommodation

Taormina and Mount Etna, Sicily

Today offers the chance to get close to one of Sicily’s most iconic natural landmarks. A 4x4 jeep tour is a thrilling way to explore Europe’s highest and most active volcano, passing through authentic villages and some of the island’s most famous wine-growing regions en route. Marvel at the unique landscape on a short hike and explore a lava cave alongside your guide. A typical Sicilian lunch offers a delicious interlude during your full-day tour.