A Circumnavigation of Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Valletta -> Porto Empedocle -> Tunis -> Trapani, Sicily -> Palermo -> Lipari -> Taormina -> Siracuse, Sicily -> Valletta
Nights
8
Departing
Valletta
Returning
Valletta

A Journey Through Sicily's Timeless Heritage with Ponant

Ponant, in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys, offers a distinctive eight-night expedition titled "A Circumnavigation of Sicily" aboard the luxurious vessel Le Bougainville. This meticulously curated journey is designed for English-speaking travellers who seek to deeply engage with diverse cultures and histories. Commencing from Valletta, this voyage delves into the heart of the Mediterranean, tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations ranging from the Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and Normans. Each port of call is thoughtfully selected, offering shore excursions that immerse guests in local environments and traditions, enhancing the rich tapestry of history explored along the way.

Departing from the fortified city of Valletta, participants experience the majestic Greek temples of Agrigento via Porto Empedocle, before crossing to Tunis to explore the ancient remnants of Carthage. The expedition continues to Sicily’s Trapani, Palermo, and Lipari, allowing travellers to discover architectural marvels and vibrant cultures, each bearing the imprint of past empires. Iconic sites such as the Cappella Palatina in Palermo and the Norman castle in Lipari evoke awe. The journey culminates with visits to the imposing Mount Etna and the historically pivotal city of Syracuse. This immersive expedition concludes back in Valletta, leaving participants enriched by the Sicily's unparalleled legacy and scenic beauty.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: Malta's capital, the petite city of Valletta, boasts ornate palaces and museums safeguarded by substantial honey-coloured limestone fortifications. Houses along the narrow streets feature overhanging wooden balconies, ideal for observing the world from indoors. Historically, these balconies allowed housebound women to watch the street below. The main entrance to the city, through the City Gate (the terminus for all bus routes), leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the grid-pattern city's main thoroughfare and shopping street. Parallel to Repubblika is Triq Mercante (Merchant Street), another excellent spot for a leisurely walk. Valletta's compact nature makes it perfect for exploration on foot. The City Gate area is seeing extensive redevelopment, including a new Parliament Building and an open-air performance venue. When setting out along Republic Street, it's advisable to stop by the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.

Day 2 - Porto Empedocle

Porto Empedocle, Italy: This charming port town in Sicily acts as a gateway to the famous Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, offering exquisite coastal views and an authentic Italian atmosphere. The town features vibrant markets, quaint cafes, and a relaxed vibe that makes for a delightful exploration as visitors appreciate its blend of historical ambience and coastal charm.

Day 3 - Tunis

Tunis, Tunisia: South of the Tunisian capital, Tunis, Sousse presents itself as an ancient city filled with culture and beauty. It has become a lively resort for travellers with expansive sandy beaches, historic catacombs, and traditional souqs offering shopping delights. The city blends tradition with contemporary flair to present an enticing destination for all who visit.

Day 4 - Trapani

Trapani, Sicily, Italy: The most vital town on Sicily's west coast, Trapani is nestled below Mount Erice's headland, offering breathtaking views of the Egadi Islands on clear days. The Old District lies on a scimitar-shaped promontory, flanked by open sea and revived ancient salt marsh industries, highlighted in the Museo delle Saline. Beyond the salt marshes, Trapani's surroundings include the hill town of Erice, the Capo San Vito promontory, the serene island of Motya, and the town of Marsala. Excursions further afield open up visits to the magnificent Segesta site or the Egadi Islands accessible by boat or hydrofoil from Trapani Port.

Day 5 - Palermo

Palermo, Italy: As the former intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo stands at the crossroads of civilisation. Set on a crescent-shaped bay beneath Monte Pellegrino, the city has absorbed diverse cultures over the centuries, creating a unique identity that is both Arab and Christian, Byzantine and Roman, Norman and Italian. Its heritage reflects Sicily's varied epochs, especially the Arab-Norman identity interwoven with Byzantine, Jewish, and Norman influences creating resplendent art. Palermo thrives with chaotic vitality in its outdoor markets, public squares, street bazaars, and food vendors, culminating in the grand spectacle of Passeggiata—Italy's most spectacular social stroll along the city’s principal thoroughfare.

Day 6 - Lipari

Lipari, Italy: Lipari, the largest and most developed of the Aeolian Islands, welcomes visitors with its distinctive pastel-hued houses. Fields of agave plants adorn the northern Acquacalda area, home to pumice and obsidian quarries. The western side features San Calogero, known for its hot springs and mud baths. From a red-lava base, a plateau arises crowned by a 16th-century castle and a 17th-century cathedral.

Day 6 - (Alternative)

Lipari, Italy: On this day, enjoy additional leisure activities such as exploring the town's charming narrow streets, soaking up the sun on local beaches, or taking a leisurely boat trip around the archipelago, relishing Lipari's natural beauty and tranquillity.

Day 7 - Taormina

Taormina, Italy: The enchanting medieval town of Taormina, perched on cliffs, is famed for its natural beauty. The panorama of the sea and Mount Etna from jagged, cactus-covered cliffs is breathtaking. The town has captivated writers ever since its founding in the 6th century BC by Greeks. The boutique-lined streets may become tiresome quickly, but the spectacular hiking paths clinging to Taormina's surrounding hills offer timeless adventure. A visit to the picturesque Castelmola, whether by foot or car, is indispensable.

Day 8 - Syracuse

Siracusa, Sicily, Italy: Known as Syracuse in English, Siracusa is a magnificent example of ancient grandeur. Once a rival to Athens, this city founded in 734 BC became the wealthiest city-state in the West. Famed for its Baroque architecture and Greco-Roman ruins, its cultural treasures include a legendary Duomo—a microcosm of its storied history. Siracusa is split into two areas: the Archaeological Zone on the mainland and the island of Ortygia. The latter's compact old town is an excellent area for exploration. Mainland Siracusa yields a grid of avenues leading to the Parco Archeologico and sites such as the archaeological museum and the catacombs of San Giovanni. Ortygia, connected by two small bridges, offers a fascinating glimpse of ancient grandeur meeting contemporary appeal.

Day 9 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: The capital city of Malta, Valletta, is a jewel with ornate palaces and museums residing behind imposing fortifications of honey-coloured limestone. Its narrow streets showcase overhanging wooden balconies, perfect for observing street life. Enter the city through the City Gate, leading to Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the main street lined with shops forming the grid-pattern layout. Parallel Merchant Street is also superb for strolls. Valletta's compact size makes it ideal for exploration on foot. Ongoing redevelopment at City Gate includes a Parliament Building and an open-air venue. Begin your journey from the tourist information office on Merchant Street to collect necessary maps and materials for your tour.

We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.

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A Circumnavigation of Sicily with Smithsonian Journeys

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