Top Sicily Historical Tours

Palermo is a city rich in culture and art with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But, if you don’t know where to go, there’s a risk you might leave with the wrong impression. So opt for a Palermo walking tour with a passionate local guide, and orient yourself around the city’s historical attractions such as La Martorana church and Palermo Cathedral. Even better: a Sicilian cannolo or granita is included.

See Syracuse through the eyes of a local on this walking tour, and make sure you don’t skip any of the city’s hidden gems that most tourists miss out on. Cross a range of the big highlight attractions off your bucket list too, including the Temple of Apollo, the Statue of Archimedes, the Fountain of Diana, and lots more.

History buffs in Syracuse are in for a treat with this small-group tour of Neapolis Archaeological Park. See the latomie, the cave of the Cordari, the ear of Dionysius, the Greek theater, and more, all while your guide shares the stories behind the sights that you’d easily miss if you tried exploring alone instead.

Explore Palermo’s key sights on foot on this walking tour of the Sicilian capital. Meet your guide in a convenient location in central Palermo, and set off. Visit popular landmarks ranging from the Palermo Cathedral and Palazzo Pretorio to the Massimo Theater. Learn about the city’s long entanglement with the mafia, and meet the shopkeepers and other individuals who have pioneered a local anti-mafia movement.

Discover Syracuse and Ortigia in a unique way aboard a colorful bee! An exciting journey through history, culture and breathtaking views. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

Marvel over the geological wonders of Mount Etna on this action-packed small-group tour from Catania. Soak up the dramatic scenery of Europe’s highest active volcano as you trek along its paths, explore a cave formed by lava, and taste local products. Then, spend the afternoon enjoying your free time in Taormina, among medieval churches, ancient Greek theater, and a lively shopping district.

Skip the large tour groups in Sicily, and opt for an intimate, private day trip instead. With a private driver whose focus is your personal group, see ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, stroll through Ortigia's small streets to shop for Sicilian products, and discover UNESCO-listed baroque architecture in Noto. Even better: A hotel or port pickup and drop-off service is also covered.

Discover the essence of eastern Sicily on a 6-hour guided tour from Catania, showcasing the stunning charm of Taormina and the hilltop village of Castelmola. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive along the Ionian coast, featuring panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna. In Taormina, explore elegant streets filled with history, boutique shops, and cafes while learning about the town's rich cultural influences. Enjoy free time for a refreshing granita or local shopping before heading to Castelmola for breathtaking vistas and a taste of traditional almond wine. This tour offers a deep dive into Sicilian culture and an unforgettable experience of its landscapes and warmth. - 6-hour guided tour from Catania to Taormina and Castelmola - Scenic drive along the Ionian coast with views of Mount Etna - Stroll through Taormina's historic streets and enjoy free time - Visit Castelmola for stunning panoramas and local almond wine tasting

Your first destination is the legendary Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. In this unique UNESCO site, where the imposing Doric columns stand out against the intense blue sky, you will have maximum freedom to stroll along the Via Sacra. You'll be able to admire immortal monuments such as the Temple of Concord, breathing in the atmosphere of ancient Greece and taking unforgettable photos in a place where time seems to stand still. From the golden stones of Agrigento, the tour will take you inland, among the lush hills surrounding Piazza Armerina. Here you will discover the Villa Romana del Casale, an imperial residence that houses the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in existence. You'll have time to explore the ornate rooms on your own, enchanted by the vivid details of the mosaics that tell myths, hunting scenes and everyday life of the Roman Empire. Relax on the return journey to Palermo.

Delve into ancient Roman and Greek history on a visit to both Neapolis Archaeological Park and Ortygia Island in Syracuse. Neapolis is home to some of Syracuse's most notable ruins, including a massive Greek amphitheater that is still used for performances during the summer months. Marvel at age-old quarries and a Roman amphitheater where gladiators fought each other to the death. Afterward, head over to Ortygia Island―a small island that serves as Syracuse's historic center―and nearby Noto, a stunning town filled with exquisite, photo-worthy baroque architecture.

Discover the best of Taormina, all in one excursion—and enjoy a fully personalized sightseeing experience—on this private walking tour. Pick your own start time, meet your guide in the city center, and set off on foot. You can look forward to seeing landmarks like the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, strolling the Corso Umberto, admiring fountains and churches, and soaking in the dramatic views, all while learning about the city’s history.

Discover Syracuse and Ortigia in a unique way aboard a colorful bee! An exciting journey through history, culture and breathtaking views. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

Palazzo Conte Federico is one of the oldest buildings in the city of Palermo and filled with museum-worthy relics. But, unlike a typical museum, the prestigious palazzo is still inhabited by the aristocratic descendants of its original owner, Count Federico who lead private tours of their home for a unparalleled personal experience.

Avoid the midday heat and crowds and visit the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples in the cooler and quieter evening hours with this sunset tour. Learn about the history and architecture of the Temple of Hera, Temple of Concordia, Temple of Heracles, and Temple of Zeus from your guide as the sun dips below the horizon, bathing these ancient Greek wonders in the golden light of dusk.

Spend a day exploring the ancient sights of the Valley of the Temples with this day trip from Palermo. Travel to Agrigento for a quick coffee break (own expense) before visiting the fascinating site for a 1-hour tour. See the temples of Hera, Concordia and Apollo. Take a midday break for lunch (own expense) before stopping at the archaeology museum for a 1-hour self-guided visit.

Experience Rome your way with this exclusive private and fully customizable tour, featuring a licensed guide and chauffeur in a Mercedes van or golf cart. Visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Trevi Fountain, with your guide providing in-depth insights at each stop. Perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, this tour can be tailored to your interests and includes hotel, train station, airport, or port pickup.

Discover Sicily’s second-largest city the way you want on this customizable private tour. Choose your tour length duration upon booking and tell your guide what interests you most. Then set off for a day of authentic exploring as you experience the city through the eyes of a local. Discover hidden gems, learn about Sicilian history, gain insights into local eateries, and much more.

Indulge all your senses on a walking tour of Palermo's rich street food traditions. Join a knowledgeable guide for a walk through the historic part of the city and its vibrant outdoor markets. Start at one of Palermo's puppet theaters and visit a street market, a street food shop, and landmarks in the historic center. Watch the lively scenes around you, observing what seems like another time.

UNESCO–listed Syracuse, Ortigia Island, and Noto are three of eastern Sicily’s most beautiful coastal settlements, with a history dating back to the days of the ancient Greeks. This full-day tour takes you to all three sites in one day, with round-trip travel from Catania, Taormina, and surrounding areas included. Discover Roman ruins in Neapolis, and admire beautiful baroque architecture in Noto—with your guide on hand to bring Sicily’s history to life.

Compare the unforgettable storyline of "The Godfather" saga with real-life Mafia history during this in-depth guided tour of two Sicilian villages. See filming locations, like the church where Micheal Corleone married his young bride, Apollonia. You’ll also hear true stories from Sicilian Mafia clans and learn about their grip on southern Italy. The small-group tour is limited to eight and concludes with a tasty pasta buffet at a typical trattoria.

Explore Rome—without the stress of planning—on a full-day private tour from your city center hotel or from Civitavecchia Port. In addition to round-trip transport, the day’s fully customizable itinerary can include private tours of the Vatican and Colosseum (if desired), as well as free time to explore. Unlike group trips, this private tour ensures a completely personal experience.

Discover an excavated Roman villa and UNESCO-listed temples on this full-day tour of Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. After leaving Palermo with your driver, you’ll travel to Piazza Armerina to explore the famous mosaic-embellished Roman villa. Then, continue to the Valley of the Temples to discover a world of Greek mythology, tyrannical rulers, and ruins—guide included.

Get up close and personal with some of Sicily’s best-preserved ancient ruins—and learn all about Syracuse and its history from your guide—when you embark on this private walking tour of the Neapolis Archaeological Park (entrance own expense). Choose from morning or afternoon departure times, and enjoy several hours to explore. You’ll see the ruins of the Greek Theatre, the Altar of Hieron, the Ear of Dionysus cave, and more.