Tour Introduction
Discover the magic of Malta and Sicily on a journey where ancient history, stunning coastlines and vibrant culture come together. From Malta’s sun-drenched villages and the peaceful charm of Gozo to Sicily’s dramatic landscapes beneath Mount Etna, every day brings something new to discover. Wander through timeless cities like Valletta and Palermo, explore UNESCO-listed treasures, and soak up the beauty of coastal gems including Cefalù and Taormina. Along the way, enjoy local flavours, rich traditions and those special moments that make travel so memorable. This is a journey filled with culture, connection and unforgettable experiences—shared with a wonderful group of like-minded women… friends for company!Highlights
Fabulous 4-night stay in Malta, the jewel of the Mediterranean
Discover the charm of Gozo, exploring ancient temples, coastal bays, and village life
Step back in time in Mdina before uncovering the rich history of Valletta
Free time to explore Valletta and its surroundings
Explore southern Malta’s highlights from the Blue Grotto to ancient temples and seaside villages
Fly to Sicily and settle into vibrant Catania at the foot of Mount Etna
Discover Catania’s baroque beauty, bustling markets, and lively local culture
Experience Mount Etna’s dramatic landscapes before wine tasting en route to Siracusa
Explore Siracusa and Noto, rich in ancient history and Sicilian baroque elegance
Enjoy a free day to soak up the magic of Siracusa at your own pace
Wander through Modica and Ragusa, uncovering Sicily’s most enchanting baroque towns
Discover Caltagirone’s ceramics and the stunning Roman mosaics of Piazza Armerina
Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture with a hands-on cooking class and a visit to the Valley of the Temples
Explore Selinunte’s ancient ruins before arriving in charming Marsala
Journey through Erice and Segesta en route to vibrant Palermo
Discover Palermo’s rich history, grand architecture and unique cultural blend
Visit Monreale’s breathtaking mosaics and explore Palermo’s historic streets
Enjoy coastal beauty and medieval charm in picturesque Cefalù
Explore Messina before arriving in the stunning hilltop town of Taormina
Step into The Godfather with a tour through Sicily’s iconic filming locations
Discover Taormina’s highlights, from its Greek theatre to elegant streets and views
Enjoy a free day in Taormina to shop, relax, and embrace la dolce vita
Friends for Company!
Inclusions
Fully escorted from Australia, with a Sisterhood tour hostess on hand for support and to help make your holiday truly memorable
Return economy airfares and taxes from Melbourne (other cities and classes of travel available on request)
Comfortable, well-located hotels
Specialist local hop-on-hop-off guides
All transportation as detailed in our itinerary
All sightseeing and activities as detailed in our itinerary
All meals as detailed in our itinerary
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Zoom Meet and Greet
Friends for company!
Notice
Moderate Fitness Level Required
A moderate level of fitness will be required for this tour due to the itinerary's length and overall physical demands. You can expect to walk more than 10,000 steps a day on more challenging terrain and for longer periods. You must be capable of boarding and disembarking coaches, trains and boats unaided and, at times, handle your own luggage. For more information on our physical ratings, please click here
Tipping - In Malta and Sicily, although tipping is not compulsory, it is appreciated. Sisterhood Women's Travel's tipping system for all group tours involves passengers contributing to a kitty, with payments made directly to the Hostess upon departure. Your Hostess will then distribute appropriately to the service providers as required. This system avoids the need for you to consider individual tipping situations daily throughout the trip. This suggested amount will be confirmed with your tour documentation.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Friday 28 May 2027
Melbourne - Malta (Meals Inflight)
Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel. Meet your hostess and fellow travellers at the Melbourne Airport for your flight to Malta. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight entertainment as we head towards our next adventure.
Day 2 - Saturday 29 May 2027
Malta (D)
Welcome to Malta! Malta is a blend of Morocco, Greece and Italy, yet totally unique in its own right, making sense given its location in the Mediterranean Sea. With its Mediterranean Sea and endless sunshine, not to mention historic cities rich in history, fascinating culture, old fishing villages, and ancient temples, Malta is an interesting blend of old and new, with a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere.
Upon arrival, we'll be transferred to our accommodation, with the rest of the day at leisure.
Tonight we'll enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight - 66 St Pauls, Valletta (or similar)
Day 3 - Sunday 30 May 2027
Malta Sightseeing (B)
After breakfast, we set out with our guide for a full day exploring the timeless beauty of Mdina and the vibrant capital of Valletta.
We journey through the heart of the island to Rabat before stepping back in time as we walk into the “Silent City” of Mdina. Wandering its narrow, atmospheric streets, we admire a blend of Norman, Gothic and Baroque architecture, visit St Paul’s Cathedral, and take in breathtaking views from the bastions overlooking the island.
Continuing on, we arrive back in Valletta, where we pause for free time to enjoy a relaxed lunch (at your own expense). We then begin our walking tour at the stunning Upper Barrakka Gardens, soaking up sweeping views across the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.
From here, we explore the city’s rich history, including a visit to St John's Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio's The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist (museum visit included if open). We then stroll along Republic Street, passing key landmarks before arriving at St George’s Square to admire the Grand Master’s Palace.
After a day rich in history, culture and breathtaking views, we return to our hotel.
Dinner at leisure tonight. Your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - 66 St Pauls, Valletta (or similar)
Day 4 - Monday 31 May 2027
Malta - Gozo Island (B)
Today, we set off on a beautiful island escape to Gozo, just a short ferry ride from Malta, where a slower pace and untouched charm instantly welcome us. Arriving in the picturesque port of Mgarr, we begin to feel Gozo’s unique rhythm as we explore this enchanting island together. With our guide leading the way, we step back in time at the remarkable Ggantija Temples, the oldest free-standing monuments in the world, even older than Egypt's pyramids.
We continue on to the medieval heart of the island, Victoria, where we wander through the historic Citadel and visit its beautiful Cathedral, soaking in sweeping views across the island. From here, we take in the natural beauty of the fjord-like Xlendi Bay before heading to Dwejra to witness the dramatic inland sea. Weather permitting, we can take an optional boat ride (EUR 5.00pp) through the narrow creek that opens onto the vast Mediterranean.
Along the way, we’ll pause for a relaxed lunch stop (at your own expense), giving us time to savour the local flavours and atmosphere. Gozo is also renowned for its traditional crafts, especially delicate handmade lace and beautifully knitted garments, both of which make perfect special keepsakes.
As we travel across the island, we’ll be captivated by its lush countryside, peaceful energy, and the sense that life moves just that little bit slower here—a refreshing contrast to the main island of Malta.
We return to our hotel late afternoon, with time to unwind before enjoying dinner at leisure this evening. Your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - 66 St Pauls, Valletta (or similar)
Day 5 - Tuesday 1 June 2027
Malta - Blue Grotto - South Malta - Catania (B)
This morning, after breakfast, we'll check out and enjoy a full day exploring the southern highlights of Malta, including the stunning Blue Grotto, where we can take a boat ride into its crystal-clear caves at our own expense (EUR12.00pp), weather permitting. We then step back thousands of years to the remarkable Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, extraordinary UNESCO-listed sites that showcase Malta’s ancient Neolithic history.
Continuing through scenic countryside, we arrive at the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where we enjoy free time to wander the waterfront, browse the local market, and admire the colourful traditional “luzzu” boats.
We then visit the fascinating Tarxien Temples, known for their intricate stone carvings and rich archaeological significance.
Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Catania, where we are met on arrival and transferred to our hotel, ready for the next chapter of our journey.
Dinner at leisure - Your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Romano House Catania (or similar)
Day 6 - Wednesday 2 June 2027
Catania Sightseeing (B, D)
After breakfast, we'll enjoy a half-day guided tour of Catania.
Catania, the second largest Sicilian city, lies on the Ionian coast at the feet of majestic Mount Etna. It is a lively city, with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops. Strolling through the Centro Storico with its artful baroque buildings, you should not miss visiting the grand Piazza Duomo with the huge Baroque cathedral devoted to St. Agata and the Fontana dell’Elefante, symbol of Catania, the prestigious avenue Via Etnea with its elegant shops and neat café-bars and the Roman Odeon.
Just a few steps from the elegant Piazza Duomo, we'll experience the noisy but colourful fish market, La Pescheria, where a lot of people go shopping every day, not only for fish but also for fruits, vegetables and cheeses.
Lunch and afternoon at leisure.
Dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
Overnight - Hotel Romano House (or similar)
Day 7 - Thursday 3 June 2027
Catania - Mt Etna - Siracusa (B, L)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and local guide before heading to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Travelling by coach, we ascend to 1,800 metres to explore the Crateri Silvestri on a guided walk through Etna’s dramatic volcanic landscape. For those wanting to go higher, there is an optional ascent to 3,000 metres (at own expense, booked and payable direct), where the scenery becomes almost lunar, with incredible views across Sicily and beyond.
We then descend to a local winery to enjoy a relaxed wine tasting and lunch before continuing on to Syracusa.
Dinner is at leisure this evening. Your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Palazzo Cavalieri Siracusa (or similar)
Day 8 - Friday 4 June 2027
Siracusa - Noto - Siracusa Sightseeing (B, D)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and local guide for a fascinating day exploring the ancient treasures of Siracusa, one of the world’s oldest cities. Wander through the charming island of Ortygia with its stunning Piazza Duomo, magnificent Cathedral and beautiful Baroque architecture before visiting the impressive Archaeological Park featuring the Greek Theatre, Ear of Dionysius, Roman Amphitheatre and ancient stone quarries. After free time for lunch, we continue to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Noto, renowned as the capital of Sicilian Baroque, rebuilt in spectacular style following the devastating 1693 earthquake. Admire its elegant streets, grand architecture, and beautifully restored Cathedral before returning to Siracusa for dinner and our overnight stay.
Later, we return to Syracusa for dinner together and an overnight stay.
Overnight - Hotel Palazzo Cavalieri (or similar)
Day 9 - Saturday 5 June 2027
Free Day in Siracusa (B, D)
Today is ours to soak up the magic of Siracusa at our own pace, whether that’s wandering the charming laneways of Ortygia, enjoying a long, leisurely lunch by the sea, discovering hidden boutiques, or simply pausing with a gelato and watching the world go by.
This evening, we come back together to share stories and laughter over dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating another beautiful day in Sicily.
Overnight - Hotel Palazzo Cavalieri (or similar)
Day 10 - Sunday 6 June 2027
Siracusa - Modica - Ragusa (B, D)
After breakfast, we check out and set off with our luggage for a beautiful day exploring the Baroque treasures of southern Sicily.
We begin in Modica, where we meet our local guide and wander through its steep, atmospheric streets, layered with history and crowned by the magnificent Chiesa di San Giorgio. Known for its rich heritage and irresistible chocolate, Sicily is a place to indulge in a tasting at a traditional local pasticceria—one of life’s simple Sicilian pleasures.
We then continue to the enchanting hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece and the heart of Sicilian Baroque. With our guide, we explore its maze of winding alleyways, elegant stone houses and ornate palazzi, soaking up the charm of this cinematic setting—famous as a backdrop for Inspector Montalbano.
After a day rich in culture, beauty and local flavour, we check into our hotel, enjoy dinner together, and settle in for the evening.
Overnight - Hotel De Stefano Palace, Ragusa (or similar)
Day 11 - Monday 7 June 2027
Visit to Caltagirone (B, D)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and travel to Caltagirone, a UNESCO-listed town renowned for its rich history and centuries-old ceramic tradition. With our local guide, we make our way into the charming centre, where we explore its Baroque streets, visit a traditional pottery workshop, and admire the town’s iconic majolica-tiled staircase.
We then continue to Piazza Armerina to visit the remarkable Villa Romana del Casale, home to some of the world’s most beautifully preserved Roman mosaics—an extraordinary glimpse into life during the 3rd and 4th centuries.
After a day of culture, history and local craftsmanship, we return to Ragusa for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Overnight - Hotel De Stefano Palace, Ragusa (or similar)
Day 12 - Tuesday 8 June 2027
Ragusa - Favara - Agrigento (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and set off for a truly immersive Sicilian experience.
We begin in Favara, where we meet our local chef and enjoy a hands-on cooking class, learning the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine before sitting down to savour our creations for lunch.
We then continue to Agrigento, where we meet our local guide and step back in time at the magnificent Valley of the Temples. Once described as the “fairest city inhabited by mortals,” this ancient Greek site features impressive ruins, including the Temple of Concord, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Heracles.
Our visit also includes the Archaeological Museum, offering a fascinating insight into the history and life of this once-great civilisation.
After a day rich in culture, history and flavour, we enjoy dinner together and settle in for the evening.
Overnight - Hotel Della Valle, Agrigento (or similar)
Day 13 - Wednesday 9 June 2027
Agrigento - Selinunte - Marsala (B, D)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and set off for another day of discovery across Sicily.
We travel to Selinunte, where we meet our local guide and explore one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean—home to vast temple ruins set against a stunning coastal backdrop.
We then continue to Marsala, where we wander through its charming historic centre before checking into our hotel in the countryside.
This evening, we will enjoy dinner together and relax after a day rich in history and scenic beauty.
Overnight - Hotel Best Western Stella D'Italia, Marsala (or similar)
Day 14 - Thursday 10 June 2027
Marsala - Palermo (B, D)
We begin our day along the coastline, exploring the beautiful salt pans of Marsala, a protected WWF oasis where migratory birds gather and traditional salt-harvesting methods are still practised.
We then continue to the hilltop town of Erice, perched high above the sea. Here, we wander its enchanting cobblestone streets, visit the historic Matrice Church, and indulge in some of the region’s famous almond, pistachio and marzipan sweets.
Our journey continues to Segesta, where we explore the magnificent Doric Temple and ancient Greek theatre, remarkably preserved and set within a breathtaking natural landscape.
We end our day in Palermo, where we check into our hotel, enjoy dinner together, and settle in for the evening.
Overnight - Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Palermo (or similar)
Day 15 - Friday 11 June 2027
Palermo (B, D)
Today, after breakfast, we'll enjoy a full-day tour of Palermo, known as the capital of the "Kingdom of Sicily" for centuries. Founded by the Phoenicians, who named it Ziz. Greeks called it Panormos, meaning "all port. "Invaded by Saracen Arabs ("Moors"), who turned many churches into mosques and then became one of the Muslim world's most splendid cities, surpassed only by Baghdad. Mixture of Moorish, Norman and Spanish Baroque styles. Rich in monuments, royal palaces and churches: Cathedral, the Norman Palace with the Palatine Chapel in Norman-Arab style, the "Quattro Canti" and Piazza Pretoria.
We then continue to the Marionette Museum and the Capuchini catacombs.
Return to the hotel with time to freshen up before dinner.
Overnight - Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Palermo (or similar)
Day 16 - Saturday 12 June 2027
Palermo – Monreale – Palermo (B,D)
After breakfast, we meet our driver and local guide and enjoy a short drive to Monreale, perched above the stunning Conca d’Oro valley. Here, we visit the magnificent cathedral, renowned for its breathtaking mosaics—among the most impressive in the world—and explore the serene Benedictine cloister, with its beautifully carved columns and peaceful gardens.
We then return to Palermo for a guided walking tour through the city’s vibrant historic centre, taking in highlights such as Piazza San Francesco, Corso Vittorio, Piazza Marina and Porta Felice.
After a day rich in culture and history, we return to our hotel to enjoy dinner together and relax for the evening.
Overnight - Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Palermo (or similar)
Day 17 - Sunday 13 June 2027
Palermo - Cefalu (B, D)
This morning, we check out and set off with our driver for the coastal gem of Cefalù, a charming medieval town nestled on Sicily’s northern shores.
Arriving in Cefalù, we explore its picturesque streets, where history and seaside beauty blend effortlessly. Backed by a dramatic mountain once home to ancient settlements, the town invites us to wander its lively main street and hidden laneways, filled with inviting cafés, boutiques and local charm. We visit the stunning Cathedral, built by King Roger II, renowned for its striking Romanesque architecture and shimmering golden mosaics, and take in sights such as the medieval washhouse and the historic Osterio Magno palace.
With its long sandy beach just steps away, there’s also the option to relax by the sea and soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
The afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure before we come together for dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight - Hotel Baia del Capitano, Cefalu (or similar)
Day 18 - Monday 14 June 2027
Cefalu - Messina - Taormina (B, D)
After breakfast, we check out and depart with our luggage for a day of discovery as we journey to Messina.
On arrival, we meet our local guide and explore some of the city’s highlights, including the beautiful Fontana di Orione and Fontana del Nettuno, before visiting the impressive Messina Cathedral, famed for its iconic astronomical clock tower.
After some free time to enjoy lunch at leisure, we continue along the coast to the stunning hilltop town of Taormina.
On arrival, we check into our hotel and later come together to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, soaking up the charm of this beautiful Sicilian setting.
Overnight - Hotel Eurostars Montetauro, Taormina (or similar)
Day 19 - Tuesday 15 June 2027
Taormina (B, D)
This morning, we'll enjoy a “Godfather” tour, featuring the authentic villages chosen by Francis Ford Coppola for the Sicilian scenes of his world-famous movie. The tour allows us to explore the real untouched Sicilian countryside, local lifestyle and culture. The first stop is Forza d’Agrò, a very nice village still with its medieval layout, overlooking the most incredible views. Here Coppola recreated some glimpses of his fictional Corleone, filming the main square, the small SS. Trinità church, the belvedere.
Another “piece” of Corleone is to be found in Savoca, a very ancient village dating from the 12th century. Following the steps of the cast, we’ll see the picturesque spots shown in the movie, such as the Bar Vitelli, one of Coppola’s favourite places, which was filmed several times.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste their delicious and refreshing lemon granita.
We make our way to the church of St. Lucy, where the scene of the wedding between Apollonia and Michael Cor leone was shot.
Returning to Taormina in the afternoon with dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight - Hotel Eurostars Montetauro, Taormina (or similar)
Day 20 - Wednesday 16 June 2027
Taormina (B)
This morning, after breakfast, we'll enjoy a half-day tour of Taormina. Its narrow, stone-paved streets are lined with elegant shops and cafés; spending some time in Taormina is an unforgettable experience amid natural beauty, shores bathed in crystal-blue sea, and the island's deep culture. We'll visit San Nicola Church and the beautiful Greek theatre.
Free time for lunch and afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Eurostars Montetauro, Taormina (or similar)
Day 21 - Thursday 17 June 2027
Free Day in Taormina (B, D)
Today is ours to enjoy the magic of Taormina. Stroll along Corso Umberto, browse the boutiques, and pause for a spritz or gelato as we soak up the charm of this beautiful hilltop town. Visit the breathtaking Teatro Antico di Taormina for sweeping coastal views, or take the cable car down to Isola Bella for a relaxing swim. Whether it’s a long lunch, a little shopping, or simply watching the world go by, today is all about embracing la dolce vita… with friends for company!
We'll regroup tonight for a farewell dinner to celebrate fun times!
Overnight - Hotel Eurostars Montetauro, Taormina (or similar)
Day 22 - Friday 18 June 2027
Taormina - Home (B)
Today, we farewell Sicily as we head towards home. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight entertainment on our flight as we begin our journey back to Melbourne.
Day 23 - Saturday 19 June 2027
Welcome Home
Thank you for joining Sistterhood Womens Travel for your latest adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you to your next adventure.