Day 3

Taormina & Mount Etna Region

The day is spent exploring the character and setting of Taormina, including its historic streets and the renowned ancient theatre overlooking the sea.

Later, travel into the landscapes surrounding Mount Etna where volcanic terrain and fertile vineyards create one of Sicily’s most distinctive environments. Time in the region offers insight into the island’s relationship with Europe’s most active volcano, accompanied by a relaxed lunch highlighting local wines and cuisine.

Overnight Taormina (B, L)

Day 4

Across Sicily to Cefalù

Depart Taormina and travel west across Sicily, revealing the island’s varied landscapes of hills, farmland, and small villages.

Along the way visit the Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves one of the most extraordinary collections of Roman mosaics ever discovered. Intricate scenes depicting mythology, hunting, athletics, and daily life remain remarkably vivid after nearly two millennia.

Continuing north, arrive in the seaside town of Cefalù. Framed by a dramatic rocky headland and the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Cefalù offers a relaxed atmosphere where medieval streets lead toward golden beaches and historic squares.

Overnight Cefalù (B)

Day 5

Cefalù

A walk through Cefalù’s historic center provides insight into the town’s medieval heritage, including its Norman cathedral and narrow streets that reflect centuries of Sicilian life along the coast.

The afternoon allows time to enjoy the relaxed rhythm of this seaside town, whether exploring the historic streets, enjoying the waterfront promenade, or simply taking in the views along the coast.

Overnight Cefalù (B)

Day 6

Palermo

Travel to Palermo, Sicily’s historic capital. Over the centuries the city has developed a distinctive character shaped by a blend of Arab, Norman, and European influences.

Exploration of the city introduces its historic squares, architectural landmarks, and lively markets that reflect Palermo’s rich cultural heritage.

Return to Cefalù later in the day.

Overnight Cefalù (B, D)

Day 7

Valley of the Temples

Today’s excursion leads to Agrigento where the Valley of the Temples presents one of the Mediterranean’s most remarkable archaeological landscapes. The site preserves the remains of an important ancient Greek city whose temples still rise dramatically above the surrounding countryside.

Later return to Cefalù for the final evening in Sicily.

Overnight Cefalù (B, D)

Day 8

Sicily to Malta | Valletta

Transfer to Palermo Airport for a short flight across the Mediterranean to Malta.

Upon arrival, continue to Valletta where centuries-old fortifications, grand architecture, and sweeping harbor views reveal the strategic importance of this historic island nation.

An introduction to Valletta offers an opportunity to experience the atmosphere and setting of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Overnight Valletta (B, D)

Day 9

Malta Highlights

Today explores additional perspectives of Malta’s history and landscape. The medieval hilltop city of Mdina provides a glimpse into the island’s earlier centuries, while nearby Rabat and coastal viewpoints reveal further layers of Malta’s cultural and natural heritage.

The evening provides an opportunity to reflect on the journey while enjoying a final dinner together.

Overnight Valletta (B, D)

Day 10

Depart Malta

Transfer to Malta International Airport for return flights home.

(B)

April 5-14, 2027

Early Reservation Rate: $6,299 per person/double for reservations made on or before October 7, 2026.

Standard Rate: $6,599 per person/double for reservations made after October 7, 2026, based on availability.

+$1,200 Single Supplement (Limited)

• Includes Roundtrip Air (PDX)

• Own Air Reduction: $1,200 per person

*Airfare option must be selected at time of booking

• Deposit due ($500) with reservation to secure space.

• Final payment is due 120 days before departure

• IMPORTANT CONDITIONS/NOTES

  - Travel Protection is not included and HIGHLY ENCOURAGED

  - The included airfare is group economy class airfare. Upgrades are limited within the group flight schedule. 

  - Tour Manager, Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.

  - Airline checked luggage fees are not included.

  Please Note: When traveling outside the United States, a passport is required for U.S. citizens & some countries require a visa. Valid traveler documentation is the responsibility of each passenger.

Who is this tour designed for?
This program is designed for travelers who enjoy exploring historic destinations, experiencing local culture, and traveling with a group in a well-organized and comfortable setting.

How active is the tour?
Travelers should be comfortable walking through historic towns, archaeological sites, and city centers where streets may be uneven. Touring days include periods of walking balanced with breaks and time to enjoy each destination.

What is included in the tour package?
The program includes RT air, hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, select group meals, guided sightseeing, private transportation during touring days, and the services of a Meridian Guided Travel Tour Director along with local guides.

How large is the group?
Group size is generally planned for approximately 25–30 travelers to provide a comfortable travel experience.

How do I reserve my space?
Complete online reservation form and deposit are required to confirm participation. Because space is limited, registrations are accepted on a first-come basis.

When is final payment due?
Final payment is typically due approximately 120 days prior to departure. Full payment details are included with the registration materials.

Can I arrange my own airfare?
Yes. Travelers may choose to participate in group air arrangements if offered, or make their own flight plans based on the tour’s arrival and departure guidelines.

Is travel insurance recommended?
Travel insurance is strongly encouraged to help protect your investment and provide coverage for unexpected travel interruptions.

Refunds & Cancellation Fees

For cancellation purposes, the Round-Trip Air Package and Land Program are considered separate components and are subject to their own terms.

Round-Trip Air Package

The round-trip air package (including air tickets, on-tour (in destination) arrival and departure transfers, taxes, and fees) is non-refundable once final payment is made.

Land Program

Payments are fully refundable until 150 days before departure. Cancellations must be submitted in writing by certified mail or email to Meridian Guided Travel. After that point, cancellation fees apply according to the fee schedule. If you do not purchase travel protection, the below fees will apply in full. If you do purchase travel protection but cancel for a reason that is not covered by your provider, the same fees will apply.

Days before Departure / Refund Amount:

Outside of 150 days – Payments are fully refundable, 149-120 days – Deposit amount is retained, 119–90 days – 50% of total land price is refunded, 89-60 days – 30% of total land price is refunded, Less than 60 days – No refund

Any applicable refunds apply to the land portion only and exclude the round-trip air package once final payment has been made.

RESPONSIBILITY: Meridian Guided Travel and its affiliated entities and its employees, shareholders, officers, directors, successors, agents, and assigns (MGT) neither owns nor operates any person or entity which provides goods or services for these trips or tours. Because MGT does not maintain any control over the personnel, equipment, or operations of these suppliers, MGT assumes no responsibility for and shall not be held liable for any personal injury, death, property damage, or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience, or irregularity which may occur by reason of (1) any wrongful, negligent, willful, or unauthorized acts or omissions on the part of any of the tour suppliers, or other employees or agents, (2) any defect in or failure of any vehicle, equipment, instrument owned, operated or otherwise by any of these suppliers, or (3) any wrongful, willful, or negligent act or omissions on any part of any other party not under the supervision or control of MGT. MGT reserves the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a participant of a tour at its discretion. MGT and/or its Tour Staff retain the right to require any participant to withdraw from a tour at any time, if determined to be in the best interests of health, safety and general welfare of the tour group or of the individual participant. MGT monitors security conditions around the world as well as government travel advisories. Conditions may require MGT to change or even cancel trips.  You accept the risks involved in travel, both foreign and domestic, and accept responsibility for your own travel decisions.  Guests may be required to review and sign a participation agreement prior to engaging in certain activities on the trip. Each client is responsible for proper documentation and inoculations that may be required and/or recommended to participate on tour. Please contact your local travel clinic or personal physician for specific details on the destinations you are traveling to and from. If you decide to make a reservation, you acknowledge and agree that you are physically well enough to travel and understand that medical facilities may not be similar to what you are accustomed to at home. Hotels and itinerary are subject to change. Payment of the deposit for this tour program constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions. CST #2137150-40