“Experience Sicilian culture, food, and people”
(No availability) 16 Day Savour Sicily: Gastronomical, Food, Wine, and Culture Tour in Italy
Catania, Sicily, Italy
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Authentic Sicilian Culinary Tour in Italy
This tour is fully escorted by Chef Domonique Rizzo, with over 10 years of experience in touring Sicily. Savour Sicily will give you a taste of the history of Sicily where you will see, taste, and feel the influences of the Arabs, Normans, Greek, and Spanish along with many others who left a rich imprint of foreign cultures evident in Sicily's art, design, architecture, and cuisine.
Meet the instructors
Dominique
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Highlights
- 3 cooking classes
- Cheese, wine, and olive oil tastings
- Palermo street food tasting and visit to Villa Romana del Casale
- Enjoy a Sicilian Pupi concert and a Pallazzo visit
- Visit and tasting in the Catania markets and dolce tasting
- Admission to all historical sites, galleries, and museums
- 15 nights accommodation
- Airport pick up and drop off
15 days with instruction in English
The organizer also speaks: German, Italian, Spanish
Group size: 10-14 participants
Airport transfer included:
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport
Accommodation
Check-in Time:
14:00
Check-out Time:
11:00
4 and 5-star hotels, resorts, and country-style accommodations are also personally selected for not only their quality but also their location, services, hospitality, and the relationships they have built over the years. They want to ensure you are not only very comfortable and relaxed but also get to experience all aspects of a region's terrain and lifestyle.
Pure Food Cooking Tours is not about racing you around the country. They prefer to stay in each of the accommodations for a minimum of 2-4 nights giving you an opportunity to unpack and settle in.
Program
Day 1: Arrival in Catania
We recommend you arrive a day before the tour starts so we can make the most of your first day on tour.
This morning is all about Catania as we embark on a full day Catania walking tour introducing you to the history of Sicily. We visit some of the city’s main sights such as Piazza del Duomo, The Elephant’s Fountain (fontana dell’ elefante, Fontana dell’Amenano, The Cathedral, Palazzo Municipio, Piazza Università, Greek Ruins, Castel Ursino. We stop for lunch at one of the famous cafes in the main square to sample some of Catania local home cooking.
We continue our tour, giving you some free time before we meet for our short walk to dinner and a delicious meal of local seafood.
Overnight in Catania (B/L/D)
Day 2: Catania / Cooking Class
We kick off today with a visit to one of Catania’s most beautiful Palazzo, then head for a market tour and tasting of the real food markets in Catania - where the locals shop.
Our afternoon is a guided tour to Acireale / Acitezza and Acicastello then onwards to Cooking class and dinner with passionate local foodie who mother was a catalyst in the slow food movement in Sicily. We visit her home and enjoy a relaxed cooking class and dinner.
Overnight in Catania. (B/ Light Lunch Tasting/ Cooking class Dinner)
Day 3: Taormina
Fans of Italian inspired movies/series such as “The White Lotus” and “The God Father” to name just a few will love our walking tour and our day in Taormina. We visit the incredible historic Greek Theatre, the Villa Comunale, Duomo and wander the famous Corso Umberto. You have free time to wander, do a spot of shopping and to have lunch before we head higher in the clouds to visit Castlemola and the famous Bar Turissi. We return to Catania and then meet for our degustation dinner celebrating Sicilian fusion and a modern take on some Sicilian classics.
Overnight in Catania (B/D)
Day 4: Caltagirone Ceramics - Cooking class and Food Experience
Checking out of Catania, our first stop is Caltagirone – derives from an Arabic word meaning the Castle or Fortress of the vases. Here you are free to wander through the many artisan workshops, do a spot of shopping, visit the Regional Museum of Ceramics and tackle the 142-step monumental Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, built from 1608 in the old part of the town.
We meet up with our passionate chef and enjoy an afternoon of food, wine, laughter and a food experience celebrating a Sicilian country menu ending in an early dinner. We check into our Borgo in Syracuse and give you the rest of the evening to relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Overnight in Catania (B/D)
Day 5: Ragusa / Baroque Modica
The cities of Ragusa and Modica are the pearls of rare beauty. Here extraordinary Baroque churches were born from stone and show living evidence of periods of ancient splendour. We enjoy a light walking tour through Ragusa Ibla (the old town) stopping to admire San Giorgio, Santa Maria delle Scale and marvel at the historic blue majolica tiles that adorn the dome of the church Santa Maria dell’Idria.
Our cooking class is at an old water flour mill where ancient grains are being bought back to life producing traditional breads, pastas and biscuits. We enjoy lunch in the cave of the mill finishing the day with a visit to Modica where we take a short tour and taste Modica chocolate and the unchanged recipe of Mpanatigghi spiced chocolate filled biscuits made with minced meat.
We return to Syracuse and the tranquillity of our accommodation. The evening is free for you to relax in the grounds, or venture into Ortigia to enjoy Ortigia by night.
Overnight in Syracuse (B/L)
Day 6 Marzamemme / Wine Tasting / Noto
We start the day driving to the seaside town of Marzamemi, famous for its world class tuna, anchovy, sardine and fish products that can be purchased and tasted in one of the many shops throughout the town. We give you free time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this quaint town. The fertile Valley of Noto lies the Eloro doc zone, one of the best suited to the cultivation of the Nero d’Avola and Moscato di Noto grapes. We head to a historical family estate for a wonderful wine tasting and bbq lunch, Sicilian style.
Our afternoon is spent in Noto for a relaxed tour admiring the baroque style of architecture and to taste some of Sicily’s gelato from an iconic gelateria, or try their coffee with almond granita. Returning to our Borgo, your evening is free.
Overnight in Syracuse. (B/L
Day 7: Sunset Boat Tour around Ortigia
Today we give you the morning off to relax in our beautiful Borgo. Relax by the pool, book a massage or take a bike ride to the beach. You can also take a hotel transfer into Ortigia for some shopping or to do some exploration on your own.
In the afternoon, we meet at the hotel to head into Ortigia for a Sunset boat tour around the island with drinks and light dinner on board, those of you who are keen can go for an afternoon swim - well worth the experience! The rest of the night is yours.
Overnight in Syracuse (B/Light Dinner)
Day 8: Syracuse / Greek Ruins / Ortigia
After breakfast we make our way to Syracuse with a guided cultural visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park which encompasses outstanding examples of Roman and Greek theatres, including one of the most celebrated theatres in Syracuse with a stunning and captivating display of history, architecture and design. We then drive to the island of Ortigia with our guide to wander the narrow cobble-stone streets, chance upon elegant Baroque piazzas and enjoy the character and charm of this beautiful living museum of a town.
We enjoy the famous granita and brioche in a local cafe in the heart of Ortigia overlooking the stunning Duomo, a spectacular backdrop to a beautiful day. We give you the rest of the day free to enjoy Ortigia and further explore the narrow cobbled streets, venture out for a some shopping, a bit to eat or just relax in a local cafe and people watch. Returning to the hotel you have time to relax before dinner at the Borgo.
Overnight in Syracuse (B/D)
Day 9: Villa Romana Del Casale / Agrigento - Valley of the Temples
We head off this morning for a day of delving into the History of Sicily with two incredible UNESCO stops. Our first is the Villa Romana del Casale. Villa Romana del Casale is a Roman archaeological renowned for its incredibly well-preserved mosaics that depict scenes of ancient life, including vibrant portrayals of daily activities, mythological tales, and intricate details of the Roman lifestyle.
We then drive to just outside of Agrigento and a guided tour to the Valley of the Temples, a must when visiting Sicily. The archaeological area of Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples, is on the southern coast of Sicily and covers the vast territory of the ancient polis. Founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century BCE, Agrigento became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean region. Its supremacy and pride are demonstrated by the remains of the magnificent Doric temples that dominate the ancient town, much of which still lies intact under today's fields and orchards. Lunch is free and you can pick up something light in the cafe on the grounds of the temples.
We then stop at the white cliffs of the Scala dei Turchi, a rocky wall (cliff) that rises above the sea along the coast of Realmonte. There will be plenty of photo opportunities as we continue our journey to Western Sicily and our stunning Baglio wine resort set in the countryside of Marsala. After checking in, we meet in the evening for wine tasting and dinner enjoying our Baglios' harvest.
Overnight in Marsala. (B/D
Day 10: Salt Pans / Marsala Tour and Tasting
After a later start to the day we head to the famous Salt Pans of Marsala for boat ride to the Island of Mozia and a Tour of the island. We then visit the Salt mill with a tour of the salt mill, tasting and lunch. We return to our hotel and meet for the evening for an evening of Marsala tasting and light dinner in the historical center of Marsala in one of the local taverna.
Overnight in Marsala (B/L/Light D)
Day 11: Erice - Sweet Tasting / Cooking Class / Wine Tasting
Our morning starts with a drive to the mountain town of “Erice”, known to the locals as “umunti” as it is usually shrouded in a cool mist called “the veil of Venus”. Here you will sample traditional handmade “dolce”, where recipes have been handed down for generations, and made famous by the nuns and some of Sicily’s famous chefs and artisans.
Wander up to the Castello where you will be taken back in time in the 12th century Norman fortress with its spectacular, panoramic views, wander the cobblestone streets of Erice for a spot of shopping, practice your photography or to just lose yourself in the 14th Century Baroque architecture. Lunch is spent with a wonderful local chef and his family as they open up their house for a cooking class of rustic flavours and traditional cous cous - the local dish of Trapani.
In the afternoon, those of you who love photography, history or have a sweet tooth will be excited as we We return to our Wine resort giving you time for a siesta. We meet in the evening for a wine and olive oil tasting and light dinner, the evening is then free to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of our resort.
Overnight in Marsala (B/L/ Wine Tasting and Light D)
Day 12: Scopello / Monreale / Palermo
On our way to Palermo, we stop into Scopello, a fascinating little village centered around a fortified baglio. Scopello’s coastline is rocky, craggy and dramatic. In a small bay amongst all this natural beauty sits the tonnara, a tuna fishery dating back to the 13th century. We have a tour of the Tonnara learning the history of “La Mattanza”, a traditional tuna fishing technique that uses a series of large nets to trap and exhaust the fish.
Heading towards Palermo, we visit Monreale, a town located on the slope of Monte Caputo, overlooking the very fertile valley called "La Conca d'oro" (the Golden Shell), famed for its orange, olive, and almond trees. We visit the stunning Norman-Byzantine cathedral, one of the most exquisitely gold mosaiced churches in Italy. After our tour we stop for lunch and give you some free time before we drive to Palermo and check into our accommodation. We meet in the evening to walk to dinner in one of the local restaurants.
Over night in Palermo ( B/D)
Day 13: Palermo
Today we discover Palermo city taking you on a walking guided tour where we visit some of the most notable churches, monuments and sites which are iconic to this capital city. We enjoy a street food lunch sampling some of the popular and historical dishes of Palermo. After lunch the rest of the day is free for you to further explore this wonderful city.
Overnight in Palermo (B/L)
Day 14: Cefalu / Castlebuono
After finishing breakfast, we drive to Cefalu for a walking guided tour. Noted as one of Sicily’s most beautiful seaside towns, famous for its beaches and a top holiday hotspot. Here we explore the history of the town, visit the Duomo, and the interesting ancient laundry. We give you free time to wander the cobbled streets, do some shopping, and we meet for lunch is one of the local restaurants with cliff views of Cefalu.
We then head to Castlebuono a charming medieval town known for its historic castle and two local specialties, Manna & Pannettone. Manna is a sweet sap extracted from ash trees in the Madonie Mountains near the town of Castlebuono. It has a unique flavor and is often used in traditional Sicilian cuisine, especially in desserts and pastries. The extraction of manna is a centuries-old practice, and the substance is valued for its natural sweetness. We return to Palermo giving you the evening free to explore the radiant city of Palermo.
Overnight in Palermo (B/L)
Day 15: Slow Food Cheese and I Pupi
We meet at the hotel in the late morning to drive to our slow food cheese experience. We have a wonderful cheese making demonstration as well as a rustic country cheese tasting and lunch. Our afternoon entertainment showcases the history and importance of the Sicilian aristocrats with a performance by the significant Sicilian Pupi. To celebrate an incredible tour, our final dinner in one of Palermo's local restaurants close to the hotel.
Overnight in Palermo (B/L/D)
Day 16: Saying Good Bye to Sicily
Today we say goodbye to you and to Sicily. We hope you have enjoyed your Sicilian experience and leave with wonderful memories. We assist you with your transfers, and thank you for travelling with us, wishing you well for your onward journey. (B)
Included excursions
Guided walking tours and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Palermo, Catania, Randazzo, Taormina, Erice
- Monreale and the Duomo, Syracuse, and Ortigia, Cefalu
- UNESCO-listed Norman monuments, the city center in Palermo
- UNESCO-listed mosaics of Villa Romana
- UNESCO-listed archaeological park and theatre of Syracuse and old Ortigia
- UNESCO-listed baroque monuments of Val di Noto
- UNESCO Valley of the Temples, Segeste
Instructors
Dominique Rizzo
As a chef, restaurateur, author, and TV presenter, Dominique's aim is to inspire people to cook with fresh, seasonal, local produce. Dominique aims to improve health and build confidence in the kitchen. She inspires creative cooking to bring vitality onto people’s plates. She loves sharing her passion for all things world food, with like-minded foodies and travelers. Apart from designing and hosting these amazing food tours of Europe and beyond, Dominique is a chef, food writer and presenter. She currently owns and runs “Putia Pure Food Kitchen” a restaurant and cooking school in Brisbane.
Location
During this tour, you will be traveling to Catania, Piazza Armerina, Caltagirone, Taormina, Randazzo, Syracuse, Ortigia, Noto, Marzamemi, Segesta, Modica, Ragusa, Agrigento, Erice, Trapani, Marsala, Scopello, Monreale, Palermo, Cefalù, Valley of The Temples, etc.
This tour of Sicily includes some of Sicily’s historic and well-noted cities and sights. This includes Palermo where the Arabs, Normans, Greek, and Spanish among many others left Palermo with a rich imprint of foreign cultures evident in its art, design, architecture, and cuisine. Other popular cities on tour include Catania, Ortigia, Randazzo, Taormina, and Syracuse to name a few.
In this tour of Sicily, Pure Food Cooking Tours offers you a wonderful introduction to Sicily. You will visit some of the most popular historical sites, galleries, and museums in Sicily. They also take you to places that are a little off the beaten track and not listed in travel books. This gives you the opportunity to further engage with Sicily and immerse yourself in the Sicilian culture, gastronomy, and people.
During the tour, you will visit bustling food markets and towns which are famous for their old techniques and artistry in ceramic and jewelry making. You will also visit the stunning photographic hilltop town of Erice, a picturesque medieval town where you will indulge in specialty pastries and desserts with recipes handed down through the ages.
Apart from that, you will also taste the real Marsala, visit ancient theatres, enjoy cooking classes with passionate chefs and foodies and discover the history of music with an incredibly talented maestro. You wander through cobbled streets to find hidden treasures, and bustling markets and dine on local fresh produce, seafood, and meats in slow food restaurants, agriturismo, cantinas, enotecas, and more. All specialize in showcasing true Sicilian fare.
Food
Full breakfast every day, lunch and dinners as per the itinerary, some morning and afternoon teas and aperitives are provided as stated– where lunches/dinners are not provided, the listed multi course meals are of ample abundance including a combination of fine dining, long lunches and street food.
All beverages with meals including wine, beer, juice, soft drink, tea, and coffee are provided.
Menus' selected restaurants and dining experiences are hand-chosen to give you a variety of tastes and flavors allowing you to experience foods from the land, sea, city, and mountain. This tour consciously includes zero-kilometer venues and restaurants with slow food accolades that support sustainability, preservation of tradition, and local produce.
Pure Food Cooking Tours can certainly cater to dietary intolerances and can accommodate coeliac, dairy-free, vegans, and vegetarians. This is not just a cooking tour, although cooking classes are for everyone from the novice cook to the budding chef and are fun and informative giving you an opportunity to pick up some new skills and learn about the cuisine.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Snacks
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
- Alcoholic beverages
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Other dietary requirements on request
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
Things to do (optional)
- 10 days/9 nights - "Salina and The Aeolian Islands Tour"
What's included
- 16-day fully-escorted tour in the beautiful scenic surrounds of Sicily
- 15 nights of accommodation (4 and 5-star hotels, spa resorts, and country-style accommodations selected for their personalized service, amenities, locations, and hospitality)
- Specialized escorted service of Chef Dominique Rizzo, the director and curator of Pure Food, Wine Culture Tours
- Private Italian guide for 16 days
- Pick-up transfer from Catania airport or your hotel in Catania on the tour start date
- Transfer to Palermo airport/train station or hotel in Palermo on the tour finish date
- Air-conditioned private bus and transport with your own private driver
- All private escorted visits and tastings
- Daily breakfast and most lunches and dinners
- Beverages (All beverages with meals including wine, beer, juice, soft drink, tea, and coffee)
- All guided tours as specified
- All transfers by boat, bus, car, and taxi (as specified)
- Admission to all historical sites, galleries, and museums mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips for restaurants and guides
What's not included
- Airfares to and from Sicily
- Tips for the bus driver (it is customary to tip the bus driver after the tour if you have been happy with the service)
- Entry fees to places other than those specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional excursions or activities that may be available but not included in the tour price
- Extra services (It is your responsibility to ensure personal settlement of any extra charges is made to the hotel or provider of any service not included in the inclusions)
- Everything not included in the itinerary
- General expenses (Phone calls, laundry, etc)
- Transfers outside of the tour dates, personal transport outside the tour dates, excess baggage, security and government taxes outside the tour dates, travel and medical insurance, etc
- Beverages and meals outside of described meal inclusions
- Room service beverages and meals when not participating in the scheduled meals
- Tourist taxes (where applicable in hotels)
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Mt. Etna private tour (Price available upon request)
- Room upgrades are available upon request (Prices to be quoted upon booking)
How to get there
Recommended Airports
CTA
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport
4 km
Transfer included
Airport: Catania–Fontanarossa Airport
Airport transfer included: Catania–Fontanarossa Airport
No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 15% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
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