This trip begins in Catania (CTA) and ends in Palermo (PMO). The main gateway cities to reach Sicily are Rome and Milan, with connections also available through major European hubs such as London Gatwick, Istanbul, and other cities.
For detailed flight routes and to check connections from your departure city, visit FlightsFrom: FlightsFrom.com.
Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights. If assistance with flights is required, please contact Laura Marchese at Travel Central: Travel Central - Laura Marchese.
Arrival Day:
On the first day, our tour operator will provide one group airport bus pickup at 1:00 PM from Catania Airport (CTA). If your flight arrives after this time, you can arrange for your own transfer via shuttle or taxi, which costs approximately €120.
Departure Day:
On the last day, you will need to make your way to Palermo Airport (PMO) for your departure. If you prefer a private transfer, you can book one for 1 to 3 people at a cost of €120 (one way). Payment is made directly to the driver. To book a private transfer, please contact Mr. Carlo Giambrone at [email protected] or call +39 3388909619 with your flight details.
The official currency in Sicily is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available throughout the island, and major credit cards are accepted at most establishments.
To get the latest exchange rates, visit XE.com or download their app.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area (six months validity is recommended).
Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State travel website.
Italy uses the following plug types:
Type C: Two round pins
Type F: Two round pins with two earth clips
Type L: Three round pins
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
If you need an adapter, you can purchase one here or check other travel accessories: Adapter/Converter for Italy.
A Happy Ambassador will contact you prior to your trip regarding tipping. You should plan to budget around $100-$150 for tips to local guides.
Note: Happy Ambassadors are already compensated, so the tips will go directly to local guides.
Average Temperatures in October: Lows in the mid-50°F (13°C) and highs around 78°F (25-26°C).
What to Pack:
Layers are essential due to varying temperatures during the day and night.
A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking tours, particularly when visiting places like Mount Etna.
Dress Code: In churches, shorts must be knee-length and sleeveless tops are prohibited for both men and women.
Swimsuit: If you're planning to swim, pack a swimsuit as well.
Sicilians dress nicely, even in casual settings. The evening passeggiata (stroll) is a significant cultural activity, and many people wear their best attire during this time.
For Mount Etna, wear warm clothing and sturdy hiking shoes for exploring the high altitudes and lava caves.
We will stay at a selection of unique, locally-owned 4-star properties throughout the trip to provide a comfortable and authentic experience.
Sicilian cuisine is known for its rich history and diverse flavors, combining influences from Arab, Greek, and Spanish cooking traditions. You’ll enjoy classic dishes such as:
Caponata: Eggplant-based dish with sweet and sour flavors
Cannoli: A famous Sicilian dessert filled with sweet ricotta
Bucatini con le Sarde: Pasta with sardines, fennel, pine nuts, and raisins
Arancini: Fried rice balls filled with various fillings
Street food is a must-try, especially in Palermo's markets, where you can sample small bites like Panelle (chickpea pancakes) and grilled sausages. You can also try Torrone (honey-covered nougat) for a sweet treat.
Don’t miss the local specialty: Granita served inside a sweet brioche bun—a popular Sicilian breakfast.
Whether you're dining at a pizzeria, osteria, or trattoria, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes at affordable prices. Seafood lovers will enjoy pesce azzurro (blue fish), including swordfish and sardines.
Taxis are readily available at the airports, and Uber operates in Sicily, though only Uber Black (a more upscale version) is available.
Sicily is generally safe during the day, but always use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Pickpockets can be an issue in places like Palermo and Catania—keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items.
When traveling at night, it’s best to avoid city centers, train stations, and bus terminals.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this trip. We suggest looking into comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, baggage loss, and other unforeseen circumstances. For more information on travel insurance options, click here: Travel Insurance.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please review the Terms and Conditions for your trip to ensure a smooth experience. You can find detailed information on our website: Terms and Conditions.
HAPPY COMMANDMENTS
Our Happy Commandments guide us throughout our travels, ensuring a positive and joyful journey. Please take a moment to review them here: Happy Commandments.
Sicily is an island rich in history, having been inhabited by various civilizations including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. Its unique blend of cultures has resulted in a fascinating mix of architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, is one of Sicily’s most prominent landmarks.
Palermo, the island's largest city, has a long and varied history, with stunning Arab-Norman architecture.
Agrigento, home to the famous Valley of the Temples, is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Sicily’s landscape is as diverse as its history, ranging from rugged mountains and fertile valleys to beautiful coastlines. You’ll visit Taormina, a charming town perched on a cliff, and explore Erice, a historic village atop a mountain.
Driving: Sicily’s roads are generally in good condition, and renting a car is an option for greater flexibility. However, some areas, particularly in historical towns, can be challenging to navigate.
Public Transportation: Trains and buses are available for intercity travel, though having a car will offer more freedom and access to remote areas.
Sicily has a strong sense of local pride, and residents are known for their hospitality.
While crime can occur, it is often petty theft in crowded areas. Use caution, especially when using public transport or in tourist-heavy spots.
The Mafia has played a significant role in Sicily's history, but recent efforts from local organizations are making it a safer place for both residents and tourists.
Kelly Pregont
It will be my utmost privilege to be your, Can't Steal my Happy Ambassador! My name is Kelly Pregont and I will be dedicated to ensuring an amazing travel experience. My mantra is "Smile it increases your FACE value" As we travel the vast world together, remember a smile is understood in all languages and its free to give and worth its weight in gold to receive!
Travel is an intricate thread woven into my soul which gives me life! This genuine passion for adventure has lead me to a professional career for several decades in the commercial airline industry and has enabled me the ability to travel the world. I've been blessed to see my passion for travel experiences radiate into my five children's world as well. Perhaps, while raising them in the Midwest during the school cancellation snow days became a "let's get in the SUV, were heading to the airport" we'd adventure to New York City, Chicago, ski trip a domestic or international destination.
Instilling the fact, let your feet wander to liberating, adventurous and life changing experiences! Travel is a blessing to be shared!I learned through my childrens eyes, their is no age boundaries when inspired by the history, beauty and education through scenery, customs and culture. These experiences can and will inspire and ignite your soul!
Please join me on one of our many adventures! We love seeing our numerous repeat "happy" travelers on Can't Steal My Happy! Come and join our family as "We travel not to escape life but, for life not to escape us" See you soon! bye, adios, addio, adieu, ciao, auf Wiedersehn and sayonara............
Thank you for joining our amazing adventure!
The class typically lasts around 4 hours, including time for lunch. It generally begins at approximately 10:00 am, allowing the guests to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Some venues do offer the option to visit the local food markets as part of the experience. However, please note that this may extend the overall duration of the activity and could increase the cost slightly, as market visits are often organized for smaller groups due to logistical reasons.
Requires a minimum of 10 people.
Sicily 
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