Dec 14 - Dec 21, 2024
Starting at
2,199
Italy
Winter in Italy: Taormina & Sicily’s Culture & Cuisine
Program No. 22850RSBLOG
There’s no better time to experience Sicily than winter! Delight in local cuisine, discover Mount Etna and learn about the Roman and Greek history of Taormina.
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800-454-5768
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Jan 11 - Jan 18, 2025
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2,449Feb 23 - Mar 2, 2025
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Dec 14 - Dec 21, 2024
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2,569Jan 11 - Jan 18, 2025
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8 days
7 nights
14 meals
6B 4L 4D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
6
Mt. Etna, Zafferana, Free Time
Taormina
7
Catania, Local Market
Taormina
8
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
Sicily’s idyllic location on the Mediterranean Sea has long made it a place of inspiration and respite for multiple cultures. In the heart of Taormina, experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Sicily as you explore this historic island during the quieter months, and learn how the Byzantines, Greeks, Romans and others influenced Sicilian life through the years. Marvel in the views of Mount Etna as you enjoy a field trip to a local market, sample ricotta cheese at a local family-run caseificio, try your hand at creating traditional cuisine and much more!
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 3 to 4 miles on uneven terrain, standing for at least one hour, and stairs without railings.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Savor traditional Sicilian cuisine during a hands-on cooking class with Chef Massimo Tomarchio.
- Get a taste of Sicily and learn all about ricotta cheese production during an exploration of a local family-run caseificio, and enjoy a full Sicilian lunch.
- Ride the southeastern side of Mount Etna, learning about one of the world’s most active volcanoes and taking in views of lava fields.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Massimo Tomarchio
Massimo was a curious child. He spent hours in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother as a child, preparing typical Sicilian foods. “My fondest memories are those hours passed in the kitchen with my grandmother,” says Massimo. He is inspired by Sicilian cuisine not only because of the variety of ingredients offered from the land but also “by the love that is cooked up behind the stove when cooking for loved ones.” Today Massimo is a private chef and teaches cooking classes in Sicily.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Massimo Tomarchio
View biography
Massimo was a curious child. He spent hours in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother as a child, preparing typical Sicilian foods. “My fondest memories are those hours passed in the kitchen with my grandmother,” says Massimo. He is inspired by Sicilian cuisine not only because of the variety of ingredients offered from the land but also “by the love that is cooked up behind the stove when cooking for loved ones.” Today Massimo is a private chef and teaches cooking classes in Sicily.
Rosa Rizza
View biography
Rosa Rizza was born in Palazzolo Acreide in the province of Syracuse in Sicily. She emigrated with her parents to the U.S. in 1967. After earning her high school diploma, she returned to Sicily in 1978 and made her home there. Rosa became a certified group leader in 1995, and has been working with Italian Exclusive Vacations ever since. She is passionate about her native island, art, culture, food, and wine.
Boris Behncke
View biography
Boris Behncke is a volcanologist at the Osservatorio Etneo of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV-OE). He works predominantly on Sicilian volcanoes: their histories, eruptions, and their impact on nearby populations. He is coordinator of the working area “Observation of volcanic phenomena” and key contact person for Communication and Information during volcanic emergencies via Internet and social media. Boris is also part of the Communications and Public Outreach group at the INGV-OE that organizes events and activities with schools and the general public.
Rita Tarantino
View biography
Rita Tarantino has worked in the travel industry since 2002, first as a MICE (Meeting, Incentive Travel, Conferences and Exhibitions) and event organizer then as a consultant in Palermo. She has been a group leader since 2016, accompanying groups in Sicily and in other countries. Her greatest passion is to travel and to discover all of the heritage that a place offers. She loves the idea of being able to share the emotions and the experiences of traveling with others.
Suggested Reading List
(7 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Winter in Italy: Taormina & Sicily’s Culture & Cuisine
Program Number: 22850
Sicily: Three Thousand Years of Human History
Blue Guide Sicily
Sicilia in Cucina: The Flavours of Sicily
Cucina Siciliana: Authentic Recipes and Culinary Secrets from Sicily
Seeking Sicily: A Cultural Journey Through Myth and Reality in the Heart of the Mediterranean
Sicily: An Island at the Crossroads of History
Sicily: Art, History and Culture
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Taormina
Program Concludes
Taormina
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
14
| 6B |
4L |
4D |
Activity Level
Sicily’s idyllic location on the Mediterranean Sea has long made it a place of inspiration and respite for multiple cultures. In the heart of Taormina, experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Sicily as you explore this historic island during the quieter months, and learn how the Byzantines, Greeks, Romans and others influenced Sicilian life through the years. Marvel in the views of Mount Etna as you enjoy a field trip to a local market, sample ricotta cheese at a local family-run caseificio, try your hand at creating traditional cuisine and much more!)
Best of all, you'll...
- Savor traditional Sicilian cuisine during a hands-on cooking class with Chef Massimo Tomarchio.
- Get a taste of Sicily and learn all about ricotta cheese production during an exploration of a local family-run caseificio, and enjoy a full Sicilian lunch.
- Ride the southeastern side of Mount Etna, learning about one of the world’s most active volcanoes and taking in views of lava fields.
Featured Expert
Massimo Tomarchio
Massimo was a curious child. He spent hours in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother as a child, preparing typical Sicilian foods. “My fondest memories are those hours passed in the kitchen with my grandmother,” says Massimo. He is inspired by Sicilian cuisine not only because of the variety of ingredients offered from the land but also “by the love that is cooked up behind the stove when cooking for loved ones.” Today Massimo is a private chef and teaches cooking classes in Sicily.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Rita Tarantino
Rita Tarantino has worked in the travel industry since 2002, first as a MICE (Meeting, Incentive Travel, Conferences and Exhibitions) and event organizer then as a consultant in Palermo. She has been a group leader since 2016, accompanying groups in Sicily and in other countries. Her greatest passion is to travel and to discover all of the heritage that a place offers. She loves the idea of being able to share the emotions and the experiences of traveling with others.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 3 to 4 miles on uneven terrain, standing for at least one hour, and stairs without railings.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(7 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
8 days
7 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 6B | 4L | 4D |
2 expert-led lectures
8 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
2 performances
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Catania, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
After arriving at the hotel, check in and get your room, then take some time to unpack, freshen up, and relax. Orientation: 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from our Group Leader and local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. All transportation will be provided by motorcoach unless specified otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. During the winter months, some stores are closed during the afternoon hours. Please note there are 5 sets of stairs for a total of 104 stairs, spaced by terraces, from the Continental Hotel to the Duomo square in Taormina. You will need to manage these steps on Day 3 when we visit Taormina, in the evenings when we go to dinners, and during free time. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/weather conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Before dinner, we’ll enjoy a welcome cocktail together.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know each other, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.
Day
3
Walking Ancient Taormina, Free Time, Concert
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles on uneven terrain, approximately 3 hours; steps to climb at the theater. In the evening, for the dinner we will use approximately 104 short, wide steps from the hotel to the main square. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Leaving the hotel, we will set out on a walking field trip exploring Taormina with our Group Leader. Walking through the city, we will head from the first main square to the Piazza Duomo, down Taormina’s elegant Corso Umberto, and ending with an on-site lecture at the ancient Greek theater. In order to properly experience the Greek theater, we will follow our expert halfway up the steps so that our on-site lecture can be enjoyed in the heart of the theater taking advantage of its spectacular acoustics. At the end of our field trip, we will have time to explore the theater or Corso Umberto on our own. As a Greek and Roman colony, Taormina was one of Sicily’s most important towns and remained so until being conquered by the Normans in 1078. One of the city’s highlights is the ancient theater, beautifully preserved with views of Mt. Etna and blue water of the Mediterranean. Taormina has attracted people with its pleasant climate and remarkable setting for centuries.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
We will walk and use the stairs to dine at a local restaurant.
Evening:
We will attend an opera performance at the Nazarena Theater. Our program was planned far in advance when details of performances were not available. The detailed information about the concert will be presented during the orientation session. We will return to the hotel in the late evening.
Day
4
Cooking Lessons, Mount Etna Lecture
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a minivan. Walking about 1 mile, approximately 1/2 hour.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Leaving the hotel, we will walk through the city to meet our chef who will accompany us for the morning. Together, we will walk to the little outdoor food market of Taormina to learn what to look for when buying fresh ingredients including fish, meat, and produce. During our visit, the chef will purchase the ingredients that we will use in our cooking lesson. We will ride by minivan to the cooking school. We’ll be organized like a “brigata di cucina,” or a kitchen’s staff, with the aim of preparing a complete menu, including serving. In our small groups, we’ll be assigned particular dishes to prepare.
Lunch:
At the cooking school, we will enjoy the results of our cooking lesson along with other dishes prepared by the chef himself.
Afternoon:
Returning to the hotel, a local volcanologist will join us for a lecture on Mount Etna which will prepare us for our visit there later in the week.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Syracuse, Isle of Ortigia, Free Time
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus and motorcoach; driving about 60 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day on uneven terrain. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice. To get to dinner, we will use approximately 104 short, wide steps from the hotel to the main square.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Departing the hotel, we will board a bus that will take us to our motorcoach for the day for our field trip to Syracuse. A city with a long and storied history, Syracuse (Siracusa) was a Greek colony settled in the 8th century BCE and the most important of the colonial region of Magna Graecia; the area of Greek settlements along the coasts of Sicily and southern Italy. Arriving in Syracuse, we will visit the archaeological park Neapolis with a local expert. We will then return to the motorcoach and continue on to the island of Ortigia. Our day continues with an exploration of the island of Ortigia, the oldest part of Syracuse. We'll walk through the beautiful back streets of the island and stroll our way up to Piazza Duomo, one of the highlights of the island and we will visit the Duomo.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Ortigia.
Afternoon:
We will return to the hotel in Taormina for the remainder of the afternoon to explore on your own to see and do what interests you most.
Dinner:
We will walk and use the stairs at a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Mt. Etna, Zafferana, Free Time
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus and motorcoach; driving about 50 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking about 2 miles on uneven terrain, approximately 1.5 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and ascend the south-eastern side of Mount Etna. As we ride, we will gain an understanding of the volcanoes’ vast terrain and its importance for Sicilian agriculture. We will stop at the Sapienza refuge, at 2000 meters above sea level where the lush tree line of the forest of Mount Etna ends. We will get used to the high elevation. We will then continue our ride to the Silvestri Craters, which they formed during an 1892 eruption. They are spent but they are positioned under the southeast crater which is alive and active. We will descent back down to Zafferana Etna, which the highest community of Mount Etna. We will visit a family of beekeepers that have kept bees for three generations. We will see how honey is extracted from the honeycombs and taste their production. We will continue our ride to a small family-owned farmhouse (caseificio) that produce ricotta cheese. With an expert, we will learn how to make ricotta!
Lunch:
At the small family-owned caseificio, we will enjoy some of the regional cuisine.
Afternoon:
Afterwards, the motorcoach will be waiting for us for our return to the hotel, and the afternoon will be free time.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Taormina.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Catania, Local Market
Location:
Taormina
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Continental
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus, driving about 35 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will ride to the Catania, Sicily’s prominent eastern port on the southern foot of Mt. Etna. In Catania, we will visit the Teatro Bellini and the Piscaria, the famous open-air fish market located in the center of the city. With our local expert, we will explore the city market that has been in the same exact place in the exact same way since the 900s. In addition to the diverse options brought to the market by local fishermen, there are also a variety of local meats, fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and prepared foods.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Catania.
Afternoon:
We’ll return to the hotel and the remainder of the afternoon is on your own to enjoy what you like.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant with folk music. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
8
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on departure time. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
14 Meals
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 25, 2026
- Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 21, 2024
- Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 18, 2025
- Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 25, 2025
- Feb 09, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025
- Feb 23, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
- Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
- Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
- Mar 23, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
- Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
- Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025
- Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025
- Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 14, 2025
- Jan 11, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026
- Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 25, 2026
- Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 09, 2026
- Feb 09, 2026 - Feb 16, 2026
- Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 02, 2026
- Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 16, 2026
- Mar 16, 2026 - Mar 23, 2026
- Mar 23, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
- Oct 28, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
- Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 05, 2026
- Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 13, 2026
Participant Reviews
Based on 56 Reviews
Sort By:
There's a lot to learn about the culture, history, and foods of Sicily. This program goes a long way in fullfilling that quest for knowledge. The food was great and the field trips educational. The group leader was knowledgeable and willing to share it with the participants. The stunning scenery of the coastline of Sicily made the program complete. I highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about this part of the world.
— Review left March 30, 2024
Altogether one of the most memorable trips I've ever taken. The historic background was so much appreciated, and beautifully presented by our guide Rosa. I wanted to see Sicily precisely for the Greek history; she taught us about all the other cultures that have dominated the island in centuries past. Rosa was an outstanding guide and very accessible, and my fellow Scholars were all people I would love to know in "real life"!
— Review left March 30, 2024
A charming part of the world where our visit included wonderful food, fascinating history, and a looming volcano that was always there. We were fortunate to have had a wonderful guide whose interpretation and management were flawless.
— Review left March 25, 2024
The Winter in Italy trip was well-run, reasonably priced and action packed. We enjoyed the outings (tho pace was frenetic!) and especially liked the cooking experience. Our guide was knowledgeable if a bit of a drill sergeant! This was our first RS trip and we will definitely consider others in the future.
— Review left March 21, 2024
Visiting Sicily in March was magical. We had the most magnificent guide in Rosa Rizza! We saw and learned so much--but it wasn't overwhelming. It was just right. We will definitely recommend this specific trip to others. We loved every minute of it.
— Review left March 21, 2024
This week in Taormina and surrounding area was amazing. The food was wonderful and the cooking class was the highlight. I would highly recommend this adventure. It's the perfect time to go to Sicily (November).
— Review left March 14, 2024
You won't go wrong if you attend this program. The leader, Rosa, is incredible. Just be prepared for a full week of learning.
— Review left March 8, 2024
The program is everything they say it's is.you also will be very lucky if you do the winter in Italy tour,and your guide be the amazing Rosa rizza.
— Review left March 4, 2024
Great program in Sicily, well-designed and executed but the guide made it extraordinary!
— Review left February 6, 2024
Wonderful trip.... Rosa the guide had an excellent knowledge of the country and relayed it in an interesting and comprehensible way. The activities were varied and very interesting. The places we visited were beautiful.
The hotel was wonderful. The view was wonderful and they were very accommodating when a few meals had to be moved. Very clean and had everything I needed.
I thought Rosa, worked hard to ensure everyone who wanted to get to an activity, were able. A few people were physically limited and needed to be cabbed instead of walking to a place.
The food was excellent except for the last night. There the fish was dry and overcooked.
I highly recommend this tour.
— Review left January 26, 2024
This was the most amazing group tour! Tour guide Rosa Rizza is absolutely fantastic. No matter what trip you take with her it will be a wonderful experience. Sicily is an interesting, lively, warm place. I plan to go back.
— Review left January 19, 2024
This trip was my first Road Scholar adventure; it exceeded my wildest dreams. I fell in love with Sicily and plan to continue learning and travelling with Road Scholar. Our guide Rosa, shared her passion for the history of her country. Each of the adventures in Catania, Syracuse, Taormina and Mt. Etna were filled with amazing sights and ancient history. We ate at fantastic restaurants and also enjoyed the cooking lessons with Chef Massimo. Under his guidance we cooked and then enjoyed the fruits of our labor. This was a perfect introduction to Sicily and Italy. The only thing I would change would be to extend my visit a few extra days.
— Review left January 4, 2024
A wonderful introduction to part of Sicily's ancient and contemporary history, its unique experience living near Mt Etna and the beautiful people, their cuisine and even a taste of their love of opera...made this trip a gem to remember!
— Review left December 26, 2023
This was a wonderful program! Traveling off season was a great idea. The weather was pleasant, sites were not crowded, streets were decorated for the holidays and shopkeepers were happy to see us. The selected hotel had a terrific, walkable in-town location, with a spectacular Mt Etna view. The included tours were a good balance of history, natural sights, and culture.
The food was delicious & generous! Our tour guide, Rosa Rizza, was wonderful, enthusiastic, informative & fun. A very enjoyable week!!
— Review left December 16, 2023
Sicily is FANTASTIC! The off-season is the time to go - no crowds and it's cooler. We had a bonus as Mt. Etna was mildly active. The Group Leader was really excellent. Just be aware there are a lot of steps.
— Review left December 5, 2023
Amazing, exceeded expectations!
— Review left December 5, 2023
A GREAT experience that lived up to the high standards we have come to expect on all RS trips. Sicily is an amazing place that comes alive due to the knowledge of our trip leader and the experiences RS has arranged such as cooking class and meeting with sheep farmer family. And great job by RS travel helping us rebook when our flights were cancelled due to weather and airline was overwhelmed trying to accommodate stranded passengers.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Under the guidance of a guide who is knowledgeable and passionate about Sicily, we learned the history of this place and how it has influenced the history of Europe (and Vice versa) and the USA. Taormina (and many of the historical sites) is a steep hilly place and to see it, one must be able to navigate stair steps - lots of them - some of which are over a 1000 years old! While there, our airline canceled the flight from Rome to Washington DC area. The 24 hour emergency Road Scholar phone number works at midnight in Sicily when we were helped to reschedule another flight on an airline (United) with whom the Italian airline did not have a reciprocal relationship. We have been on a number to RS trips and this was the first we had to use it and the person answered and was extremely helpful making that stressful situation much less so. The leader, Rosa, was extraordinary in her passion and knowledge. This trip is paced very well and the subject matter is a delightful blend of the culture today and history.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Our experience in Taormina was excellent. The location of the hotel, quality of presentations by the group leader, Rosa, field trips and experiences were all excellent. The pacing of the program worked very well, and the physical exertion required was somewhat intense on certain days, but managed very well with appropriate breaks. A very enjoyable and memorable trip. In addition, we had our first experience with the Road Scholar 24 hour emergency number when our return flight from Rome was cancelled. The person who answered my call was courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Our problem was resolved quickly, satisfactorily and the resolution made the rest of our trip more enjoyable. Excellent experience, excellent service.
— Review left December 3, 2023
Wonderful introduction to Sicily. Taormina is so much more than "White Lotus" and is not only a beautiful town but a great jumping-off location for day trips to Mt. Etna, Siracusa, and Catania. Diversity of program activities is a big plus. And our group leader, Katarina, was exceptional. Highly recommend this program!
— Review left November 12, 2023
The best trip ever, Katerna was a terrific guide, great with all translation, restaurants, help with lost belongings on the bus!!! So energetic!!
If you choose to take the trip, watch "white lotus" because thats where your
going. The hotel was roomy, good showers, lovely breakfast. You will be soo overwhelmed with the food, so don't consider a diet, but the gluten free and vegetarian had all their request fulfilled. Every town was wonderful great Mercedes bus with AC. We had spectacular weather, not too hot or rainy.
Massimo is a great teacher, technique, and why you do what you do. No butter in Sicilian cooking, only on your toast. I was in heaven with the coffee, cappuccino etc. Now I have coffee here and its awful, no matter was establishment.
I met the nicest people, enjoyed everyone, also went alone and met a couple new gals that I could travel with. The couple were great as well, the vino flowed
and here I am reviewing the photos wanting to go back for more.
Jewels
— Review left November 9, 2023
I had a wonderful time and met some wonderful people. Rosa, our guide, expertly answered any and all questions. I will be travelling with the some of the same people to Madeira in February.
— Review left May 8, 2023
This is an essential place to visit! Not to be missed.
— Review left March 18, 2023
Since finding Road Scholar, I like that really want to make you trip enjoyable.
— Review left March 18, 2023
Wonderful trip! Tour guide Rosa is a gem and fountain of knowledge not only about the academics but the culture. Highly recommend!
— Review left March 8, 2023
Road Scholar can be counted on to provide high quality programs with outstanding local guides. This was no exception. It was a wonderful experience in a gorgeous setting that made for a memorable trip.
— Review left February 27, 2023
Not the usual time to visit Italy, but so worth it. Less crowds made it more enjoyable. Our guide, Rosa, went out of her way to give us a welcoming experience to the area. After one of the Road Scholars mentioned he liked opera, she arranged for a special performance just for us. Preparing lunch at Chef Massimo's home was so special.
— Review left February 23, 2023
Sicily is a dream, made more fantastic by our wonderful guide, Rosa, and her knowledgeable explanation of our wonderful tours to Etna, Siracusa, and Taormina, which was a wonderful vantage point to see Mt. Etna, to shop (lots of great ceramics and pastries), and to eat!
— Review left January 25, 2023
One of the best ways to experience travel to a foreign country! If you love to learn & explore different cuisines, I definately recommend this program. Meeting different people while learning the culture is worth it.
— Review left January 22, 2023
Rosa is a passionate and skilled storyteller. She is the reason the trip was fantastic. She brought context to the beauty by weaving centuries of ancient mythology, history, multiple cultures, religions and art. Although time only allowed for a broad telling--she managed to touch upon many of these complex ideas and elements and root them to the very soil and island and, most importantly, to the living volcano which is the heart of the place and touches the hearts of all inhabitants. She brought the ideas to life as we saw/tasted/smelled/heard the physical traces of the history of Sicily.
— Review left January 16, 2023
Great food, great guide and great value! I had a wonderful time.
— Review left December 30, 2022
This trip was everything I'd hoped it would be, and more! Learning about Sicilian culture, history, and cuisine from our warm and wonderful group leader, Rosa, we experienced amazing meals, beautiful historical sites, festive town centers and markets, and the majestic Mt. Etna. I now feel connected to my Sicilian roots, and have new memories for a lifetime.
— Review left December 27, 2022
Winter in Sicily was a great experience. Food was great and guide was even greater.
— Review left March 28, 2022
This tour was wonderful in every way. Our leader, Moshe, was exceptionally skilled, organized and personable. He made everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Sicily exceeded my expectations--fascinating history, beautiful scenery, delicious food, amazing culture, offering a completely different perspective of mainland Italy. Our hotel was well-situated, clean and comfortable, and the breakfast was excellent. There was a perfect balance of planned activities and free time. All planned excursions were interesting, fun and educational. I highly recommend this tour--but be aware that the journey to Sicily is long. From Florida, it took over 24 hours of travel and layovers to reach our destination in Taormina. However, I would do it again because we had such a wonderful time! This was our first RS tour and will definitely plan another RS tour--very pleased with our experience.
— Review left March 23, 2022
A super program with a great Group Leader. Traveling to Sicily was more of an unknown destination for me---now I realize the history, culture and archeology is so very interesting. All the food was super. The cooking class was fabulous. Traveling in March was a bit chilly but an advantage as a time when there were fewer tourists. Go...
— Review left March 21, 2022
This program to Sicily exceeded our expectations, and I expected a lot as I'd been on two previous and fabulous tours, one in Greece, the other in Puglia, Italy. Our guide, Rosa Rizza, had such passion and depth of knowledge of Sicily--and of art, history, and past and present cultures with true excitement--that she made every day special. We went during the Omicron surge, and yet it was safe and the crowds, minimal. We had an experience the likes of which we may never see again.
— Review left February 1, 2022
Exceptional program and exceptional value. I will participate in another tour without hesitation.
— Review left November 14, 2021
Amazing program!
— Review left November 14, 2021
When the pandemic is over, visit Sicily with this program. If your group leader is Moshe Ben Simon that trip will be even more delightful. The "plated meals" were excellent.
— Review left March 14, 2020
Great trip, Katerina was an outstanding group leader. She has vast knowledge of Sicily in general and of the history and culture of the Taormina-Catania-Syracuse region. She's a very friendly and patient person.
The most interesting side trips were Mt Etna and the Greek/Roman amphitheater sites at Syracuse.
This turned out to be a very nice time of the year to visit Sicily as the weather was fairly warm (about 60F during the day). Clear views of Etna's summit most days.
We took a side trip to another region of Sicily (Ragussa region) and Katerina gave us a list of things to see in that area.
— Review left March 7, 2020
Our February prorgram in Sicily was wonderful. Our guide was excellent, informative, and fun! The location beautiful and the group quite congenial. What a lovely winter adventure!
— Review left February 27, 2020
I heartily recommend this trip! Sicily in winter proved to be a wonderful adventure. Our group leader was outstanding in his knowledge, experience and ability to communicate a world perspective. The weather, stunning visas, culture, history and people, plus the trip itinerary made this one of my favorite Road Scholar trips.
— Review left February 27, 2020
What a terrific trip! The country is even more beautiful than I imagined, and I learned so much about the variety of cultures who settled there over the centuries, making it what it is today. Our guide was unbelievably knowledgeable as well as a wonderful human being. I won’t forget my experiences here.
— Review left February 23, 2020
What an exceptional combination - breathtaking scenery (including an active volcano), fascinating history, and phenomenal food!
— Review left February 22, 2020
As a new solo traveler and stepping out of my comfort zone, I was pleased at the warmth of the group, the group leader including me in and my ability to accept and grow.
— Review left January 27, 2020
This was my first Roadscholar trip and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Rosa, our tour guide, was wonderful and I learned so much about Sicily, its food, people, and culture. I also enjoyed meeting some interesting people on the tour. I hope to do another tour soon.
— Review left December 25, 2019
Winter in Sicily is the way to go! Beautiful destination, minus the crowds and the heat of summer and fall. You get this jewel to yourself and experience the best Taormina has to offer.
— Review left December 16, 2019
This RS trip is a wonderful adventure with a professional guide. Highly recommended educational experience.
— Review left December 2, 2019
Sicily is a fascinating multicultural place that our fabulous leader, Rosa, brought to life for us. History, culture, markets full of local color, Mt. Etna, and a cooking lesson are all part of this Road Scholar program. I highly recommend this program to others. You will experience a feast for the senses and come home with an appetite to know more.
— Review left November 21, 2019
I originally chose this program because of the value pricing and timing and not necessarily out of a lifetime desire to see Sicily. I was blown away by the quality of the food and the fascinating Greek and Roman ruins. Rosa brought it all to life. This has moved to one of my favorite Road Scholar trips
— Review left March 31, 2019
This was a great way to experience the East Coast of Sicily. The food and wine were delicious. Our group leader was wonderful and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this experience. It was short (5 days and 6 nights), but a lot was included in the itinerary.
— Review left March 15, 2019
All I can say is “Go”. Going off season was wonderful. Not crowded or rushed. Rosa, the leader, is what really made this trip all that it was. She is fun and entertaining and knows SO much about Sicily and its history. Sicily is different than other European countries - like stepping back in time. The hotel is a fantastic place to stay. We had a great group that had fun together. One tip - there are lots of steps without railings. You have to watch where you are going, I brought and used a hiking pole some of the time. I cannot say enough good things about Rosa and Winter in Sicily.
— Review left March 9, 2019
Excellent and very enjoyable program! Our guide Rosa was very informative about the history and culture of Sicily, important archeological sites and Mt. Etna. The hotel was nice and had a wonderful breakfast buffet. The cooking class and wine tasting were also fun and informative. All meals were beyond delicious.
— Review left March 3, 2019
The Road Scholar Winter in Sicily trip so far exceeded my expectations!!! Outstanding knowledgable personable and fun! She skillfully guided our group makingI everyone welcome and included. I had a medical emergency and she took care of everything for me. I learned so much and met wonderful people!
— Review left February 26, 2019
Taormina is incredibly beautiful, historical and very walkable. Worth the trip!!!
— Review left February 14, 2019
Road Scholar experiences are a wonderful way to fulfill your travel dreams and feed your soul. The people - staff and local leaders - work hard to create an easy, enjoyable and fulfilling journey.
— Review left January 31, 2019
