A Circumnavigation of Sicily

from Smithsonian Journeys Travel Catalog (Apr. 2023)

by smithsonianenterprises

Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys

Round-trip from Valletta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise oﬀering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $6,500*

Apr. 14–22, 2024

Step into antiquity as you cruise all the way around Sicily, discovering the extraordinary ruins of cities that flourished in the Greco-Roman era. On a voyage that begins and ends in Malta’s walled capital, explore ﬁve World Heritage sites, including the ancient Greek cities of Agrigento and Syracuse. Sample Sicilian wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and enjoy a range of excursions to choose from along the way.

Highlights Include

Valletta and Gozo, Malta: Sail out of and into one of Europe’s most stunning harbors, the fortiﬁed city of Valletta. On the island of Gozo, encounter megalithic sites that predate Stonehenge, or visit the town of Xewkija before sampling island vintages at a local winery.

Sicily, Italy: Encounter captivating towns and important archaeological sites as you circumnavigate Sicily. Explore the ancient temples of Agrigento, a powerful city in antiquity and now a World Heritage site. See the impressive ruins at Segesta, visit medieval Erice, and admire the mosaics in Palermo’s Norman cathedral. Delve into the lively bustle of Taormina, or sample local wines on the slopes of Mount Etna. Make a ﬁnal stop in Syracuse to stroll amid the stunning architecture of Ortigia.

Lipari and Stromboli, Italy: Tour the Aeolian Island of Lipari, and visit the Aeolian Archaeological Museum to see an excellent exhibit of ancient artifacts. Then cruise by Stromboli in the evening, watching for activity from its active volcano.

Add a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reﬂects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Allan Langdale, an art and architectural historian. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Inside Sicily

12 days from $5,674

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 7–18, Apr. 25–May 6, Sept. 8–19, Oct. 10–21, 2024

Blanketed in orchards and scattered with vestiges from antiquity, Sicily is home to seven World Heritage sites and one of Europe’s largest active volcanos. Explore the island’s north, south, east, and west, discovering the legacies of the many cultures that ruled here, from the ancient Greeks to the Normans. Encounter unique cuisine and architecture in Palermo, and meander among Doric ruins in the Valley of the Temples. See the breathtaking frescos of the Villa Romana del Casale and cruise the Ionian Sea, admiring views of Ortigia. Sample wines at a family farm on Mount Etna before ending your sojourn in enchanting Taormina.

Palermo: Take guided tours of the World Heritage-listed palaces and cathedrals of Palermo, known for their unique Arab-Norman architectural style, and admire gold-drenched mosaics in the cathedral in Monreale. Visit local markets to experience Palermo’s famous street food scene and enjoy a lunch of local specialties.

Erice and Trapani: Explore the delightful hilltop town of Erice, taking in sweeping views of the coast and the sea beyond. Then descend to the salt pans of Trapani to learn how salt is still harvested using centuries-old techniques.

Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale: Enjoy a wine tasting and a home-cooked meal at a farm on the way to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. Take an in-depth tour of the legendary Valley of the Temples and cap off the visit at the Museum of Agrigento. Then journey to Villa Romana del Casale to see the stunning decor of this well-preserved 4th-century home.

Syracuse and Ortigia: Discover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Ancient Syracuse, home to both a Greek and a Roman theater as well as the gem-like isle of Ortigia, laden with monuments from antiquity. Set sail on the Ionian Sea, cruising along the tiny islands and caves that dot Sicily’s western coast and taking in views of Ortigia from the sea.

Mount Etna and Taormina: Ascend Mount Etna to see its simmering crater and the evocative lava formations on its slopes. Stop on the way down to enjoy a meal at a family farm accompanied by excellent Sicilian wines. Continue to Taormina for a city tour and free time to explore on your own.