Sicily Food & Wine Tour
JOIN THIS NEW EDITION OF A TRANSFORMATIVE TRIP
DATES: 22 SEP - 01 OCT, 2026
DATES: 06 OCT -15 OCT, 2026
Sicily, where chaos is harmony
The Valfers invites you to join this new and amazing 10-day Sicily Food & Wine Tour. Already in the 4th century BC the Sicilian Greek poet Archestratus wrote The Life of Luxury, one of the earliest pieces of food writing, and its verses were meant to be recited during a banquet. to this indulgent communal feast!
Nowadays, Sicilian cuisine, enriched by the use of local produce, is a melting pot of different cultures where Greeks, Romans, Normans, Byzantines, Muslims, Spanish, French and Italians have left their mark over the course of time resulting in a colorful patchwork you are about to discover.
By the hand of The Valfers team and the best local guides you’ll learn all about this biggest Mediterranean island
– with nearly 650 miles of coastline – and its world-famous cuisine embracing the Mediterranean Diet with fun cooking classes, interacting with locals and touring around Sicilian markets and picturesque towns.
This nine-day adventure takes from Palermo to the best of the east of the island. She looks calm, untouched, uninhabited from afar but inside, she is palpitating and full of determination.
will take us from its capital Palermo, a colorful port city where the old center is Sicilian decadence with remnants of palaces and centuries-old street markets. We will cross the island literally and stop at Vila Romana del Casale, listed UNESCO World Heritage Site for showcasing the finest mosaics in situ anywhere in the Roman world. Then will come the Golden Baroque Triangle before heading to the lovely and chic Ortigia island. We won’t miss a stop at the glamorous Taormina before our final destination, the extreme Etna region.
Let us feed your epic appetite! Limited to 20 participants.
At a Glance
Day 1
Palermo, arrival
Day 2
Palermo - Monreale - Palermo
Day 3
Palermo - Villa Romana del Casale - Ragusa Ibla
Day 4
Ragusa Ibla - Noto - Ragusa Ibla
Day 5
Ragusa - Modica - Ortigia
Day 6
Ortigia
Day 7
Ortigia - Sirucasa - Ortigia
Day 8
Ortigia - Taormina - Etna
Day 9
Etna
Day 10
Etna, end of journey
itinerary
Welcome to a culinary adventure in the idyllic island! Join us for a 10-day Sicily Food & Wine Tour where you’ll experience show-cooking, intimate visits, and connecting with local professionals who will offer their expertise. With the guidance of our team, you’ll embark on a journey that takes you through the heart of Mediterranean culture, where you’ll discover the secrets of authentic dishes and explore the local roots that shape them.
This dream program in Sicily is designed to allow you glimpses into the oldest foundations and techniques of ancestral gastronomic culture, leaving you with unbeatable memories and a newfound appreciation for Mediterranean cuisine.
DAY 1 | Palermo
WELCOME TO SICILY
Sicily can be defined as a strange and divine museum of architecture and culinary heritage. Sicily is is the land of a vibrant food scene with a dominance of Greek taste in the eastern area as opposed to the greater influence of Arab flavors in the western region. From Greece, Sicilians have maintained a taste for Mediterranean vegetables, especially aubergine, the protagonist of dishes such as caponata or parmigiana, while oriental aromas can be sensed in the use of spices and nuts. Let the journey begin!
NOBLE WELCOME AT PALAZZO
Experience the quintessential Sicilian welcome by immersing yourself in the noble life of Sicily, where life revolves around exquisite food, wine and great hospitality. In the luxurious setting of a palazzo. Discover the secrets of traditional recipes during an unforgettable show cooking, or just relax. As the day culminates, savor an unexpected and glamorous first dinner, prepared by our skilled chef, providing a taste of Sicily’s culinary richness without having to lift a finger.
- Dinner
- Grand Hotel et Des Palmes 5*
DAY 2 | Palermo - Monreale - Palermo
PALERMO, SICILY'S CAPITAL
Let’s embark in private tour of Palermo led by a local expert. Palermo was the capital of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies and has always been the center of culture. It houses the third largest European opera house Teatro Massimo, countless palazzi, churches and piazzas, impressive Normand-Baroque architecture and a vibrant food scene. We’ll pass by iconic places such as Palermo Cathedral, Capo Market, where you can sample the city’s famous street food, Piazza Verdi, Piazza Pretoria, Piazza Bellini and Quattro Canti.
MONREALE
A short trip to the hilltop town of Monreale, just outside Palermo, offers the chance to explore some exceptional Norman-era church: Monreale Cathedral, one of the architectural marvels of the Middle Ages. A church built to impress.
Back to Palermo, enjoy a free evening in intriguing Palermo.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Grand Hotel et Des Palmes 5*
DAY 3 | Palermo - Villa Romana del Casale - Ragusa Ibla
VILLA ROMANA DEL CASALE
On our way to Ragusa we will drive across inland and take the opportunity to stop at Villa Romana del Casale, a few miles from Piazza Armerina. Excavations have gradually uncovered this super-luxury Roman villa, the best preserved in the Mediterranean.
Guided by an expert archaeologist we will get to understand the geometric and figurative mosaics that constitute a unique catalog of the most select imaginary in Late Antiquity. The motifs used reflect, in a symbolic, allegorical or descriptive way, the aspirations and power of an owner who spared no expense in decorating his residence with fashionable scenes among the late Roman elite. It’s listed UNESCO Heritage site since 1997.
We will enjoy a lovely lunch in a surf and turf style at one of the top restaurants in the heart of the island.
RAGUSA IBLA
We will continue by. the road that leads to Ragusa Ibla, our base for the next couple of days, where a good restorative dinner awaits us.
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- a.d. 1768 Boutique Hotel or Neropece Suites
DAY 4 | Ragusa - Noto - Ragusa
NOTO
Ragusa is our as a jumping off point to explore the Baroque Triangle and today’s stop will be Noto. Not only it is one of the most beautiful towns of Sicily, but in Noto we find what is probably the best granita on earth! Sampling it at Caffè Sicilia is a must: let’s order a small granita – almond and pistachio are our favorites – with a brioche while we keep strolling around. This is the way!
VAL DE NOTO WINES
It’s time for our first winery visit. In Noto Valley wines made from Nero d’Avola are qualified under Santa Cecilia DOC and those from Moscato Bianco as Passito di Noto DOC. The Nero d’Avola vinified in purity, the result of a careful selection of the best vineyards for the production of an excellent wine. Our tour and tasting will be followed by a rustic lunch.
Back to Ragusa Ibla, feel free to take the most of your time strolling around beautiful Ragusa Ibla.
- Breakfast, lunch
- a.d. 1768 Boutique Hotel or Neropece Suites
DAY 5 | Ragusa - Modica - Ortigia
MODICA
Delightful Modica was almost eradicated by the earthquake in 1693 and now presents an irregular urban layout consisting of upper and lower areas, joined together by steep, narrow roads and staircases. On top of its beauty, what Modica is internationally kwon for is the chocolate.
Here you’ll find chocolate created with ancient techniques, dating from the time of the Aztecs, and brought to the region by the Spaniards in the 16th century, period when Spain dominated the island.
We won’t leave Modica without enjoying another pleasant lunch.
After an exhilarating day, we’ll venture to our next destination, Ortigia, where everyone can savor the enchanting evening at their leisure, surrounded by the charming allure of Ortigia by night.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel des Étrangersc5*
DAY 6 | Ortigia
ORTIGIA & SYRACUSE, CITIES OF LEGENDS
Filled with timeless riches, the island of Ortigia is one of the most lively and charming towns in Sicily of incomparable beauty, and it is linked to Syracuse by a bridge. Considering Syracuse was founded by Greeks around 734 B.C. and was the capital of Sicily for around a thousand years, our walking tour will unveil all the secrets of the corner of paradise, a maze of narrow streets, ornate Baroque churches and centuries-old palazzi.
NEOPOLIS ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
As much of the ancient city has crumbled since ancient times, the ruins can still be explored in Syracuse’s celebrated archaeological park home to a spectacular 5th century BC Greek Theater – the largest in Sicily –, a Roman Amphitheater and the Ear of Dionysus, a surprising large cave with excellent acoustics and an interesting legend.
Back to Ortigia to sample some rich traditional food.
Free evening to fully enjoy a passegiatta along the Lungomare Alfeo waterside promenade.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel des Étrangers 5*
DAY 7 | Ortigia - Canicattini - Ortigia
ORTIGIA'S PULSING FOOD MARKET
Ortigia’s food market is a vibrant hub that encapsulates the essence of Sicilian cuisine and culture. The market is most vibrant in the morning when the freshest produce arrives, so let’s go!
Experience an intimate tour of the food market in Ortigia, guided by a friend and chef. Explore the vibrant stalls, discover the freshest local produce, aromatic spices, and delectable Sicilian specialties. Learn insider tips on selecting the best ingredients as you navigate the bustling, colorful market. Take your time exploring the market, interacting with vendors, and soaking up the atmosphere.
This exclusive experience is perfect for food lovers looking to immerse themselves in the culinary heart of Ortigia.
OLIVE OIL EXPERIENCE
Of course, no visit to Sicily would be completed without visiting an olive grove, its mill and having a closer look to the steps of production of the golden liquid. Let’s explore a farm producing Monti Iblei Dop Extra Virgin Olive Oil where olive trees produce varieties such asMoresca, Tonda Iblea and Nocellara Etnea or Verdese are grown.
COOKING CLASS
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sicily in a traditional Sicilian cooking class, where you’ll learn to create authentic dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the island, guided by our expert chef passionate about sharing her love for Sicilian cuisine.
Last evening in Ortigia, take the chance to do some fine shopping and explore some of the stylish cafés and bars.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel des Étrangers 5*
DAY 8 | Ortigia - Taormina - Etna
TAORMINA
Taormina is a gorgeous seaside town perched on a hilltop, it is the pearl at the foot of the Etna. Hollywood stars, scientists, philosophers, musicians and writers could not resist her charms and found peace here in this idyllic setting.
If the Grand Tour in the 17th century can be considered the prelude to modern tourism, Taormina has emerged, since the beginning of the 20th century, as the capital of what could already be called a true “influencer phenomenon”: Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein, Truman Capote, D.H Lawrence, Liz Taylor, Richard Burton and Greta Garb to mention just a few did all adored Taormina.
Despite the actual mass tourism, there are still hidden corners and many stories to tell. Of course, we cannot miss the the jewel of Taormina: the Greco-Roman theater facing the Ionian sea.
SICILIAN MEAT DELIGHTS
Then, we will venture to the northern Etna region, anticipating a delightful feast featuring some of the best meats the island has to offer. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch that promises to highlight the rich flavors and exceptional quality of Sicily’s renowned culinary treasures. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Etna’s gastronomic delights.
The evening will be free to do as you please at the hotel, from enjoying a cocktail at the bar, being pampered at the spa or sampling a gastronomic dinner.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges
DAY 9 | Etna Area
ETNA WINES
One of the main reasons to visit Sicily is discovering everything about the wines from Etna, grown around Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Let’s understand Etna wines unique traits, the grape varieties, the soil and the different categories. We will visit a lovely winery and discover the power of the terroir in this volcanic unique territory.
FAREWELL DINNER
In the evening, we’ll be treated to a special surprise farewell dinner, details of which we can’t reveal!
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges
DAY 10 | Linguaglossa
END OF JOURNEY
Today, private transfer to Catania airport at your appointed time.
- Breakfast
Dates & Prices
2026
DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
AVAILABLE SPOTS
2025
DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
AVAILABLE SPOTS
INCLUDED:
- 9-Night accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
- 8 lunches and 3 dinners
- Private deluxe transportation throughout
- Private Palermo & Catania Airport transfers in and out
- Two tour leaders throughout
- Limited to 20 guests
NOT INCLUDED:
- International flight
- Travel insurance
- Personal purchases and expenses
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
PRICE:
- Rates above are in Euros per person, on double occupancy basis
BOOKING DEPOSIT:
- At the time of reservation: 25% of journey cost per person
- 90 days before departure: Balance due
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
- Payment method: Bank transfer or major credit cards are accepted (Visa, American Express, Mastercard).
Optional Tours Suggested
The experts
VALESKA IDARRAGA
Valeska brings a rich gastronomic heritage, inherited from her French father’s love of culinary culture and her Basque grandmother, a well-regarded chef of her time. After studying Economics and Journalism in Barcelona, she moved to Switzerland to pursue hotel management, working at some of the most prestigious hotels in the industry. Fluent in five languages, Valeska is a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advanced Expert and holds a WSET Level 3 certification with merit. As co-founder of Paladar y Tomar in 2014, she serves as Marketing Manager, overseeing client relationships and operations at The Valfers. With her unique combination of cultural insight, business acumen, and wine expertise, Valeska crafts unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
FERNANDO PAREDES
Fernando is the CEO, financial director, and lead wine consultant at Paladar y Tomar and The Valfers. A Barcelona native with a background in economics and business management, he transitioned from a corporate career to the world of luxury travel, food, and wine. With extensive experience as General Manager of a bespoke travel company, Fernando excels in strategic planning, operations, and financial oversight. His expertise in wine is equally impressive—he is a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advanced Expert, holds a WSET Level 3 certification with merit, and advises on wine programs and cellar selections. His deep connections in the wine and hospitality industries allow The Valfers to offer unparalleled insider experiences.
Hand-picked Accommodations
The Valfers benefit from the expertise of Paladar y Tomar curating every hotel in search of the most unique nature of each location. This allows us to cater for every different type of personality and taste and have selected for this occasion singular hotels with immense value that enhance every moment. Our stories start from the moment you arrive.
PALERMO
Grand Hotel et Des Palmes, 5*
Imagined as a private residence in 1856 and converted into a hotel in 1874, it reopened as five-star in June 2021 after two years of meticulous renovations. A stone’s throw from the 19th-century Teatro Massimo, still one of the largest opera houses in Europe. The pièce de résistance is the hotel’s cocktail bar and breakfast room, an Art Nouveau masterpiece that transports you back to the grandeur of Palermo’s belle epoque.
ORTIGIA
Grand Hotel des Étrangers, 5*
Stay in an art-deco icon in the very heart of Ortigia island, Syracuse. Live a unique-inviting ambience in an historical nineteenth century Palace. Admire the spectacular views over the harbour of Siracuse from the rooftop terrace and restaurant at any moment of the day.
RAGUSA IBLA
a.d. 1768
A boutique hotel occupying the oldest palazzo in Ragusa Ibla – dating back to 1768 – in a wonderful location overlooking the central Piazza Duomo. With its modern interior design and minimalism, it represents a break in the rich Late Baroque style of the Val de Noto region.
RAGUSA IBLA
Neropece Suites
Intensively renovated from an ancient Iblean palace, this small boutique hotel is situated in an absolutely unique location, just a few dozen meters from the Cathedral, overlooking its dome from various terraces. Ideal for travelers who have long abandoned conformity.
CARRUBA DI RIPOSTO
Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges
Step into Donna Carmela’s lush gardens, where nature steals the spotlight. Amongst the Mediterranean scents, discover your retreat nestled in the greenery—a perfect base to explore eastern Sicily, the Etna and the Ionian Coast. From sea to mountain views, each unique room offers tailored relaxation, all complemented by a gastronomic offer that delights the senses. Making it a getaway for both body and mind.
