southern italy food tours

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Food & Culinary Tours & Trips in South Italy

Explore a wide diversity of food & culinary tours through South Italy. We have 42 adventures that vary from 3 days to 11 days. With the greatest number of departures in September, this is also the most popular time of the year.

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42 food & culinary south italy tours with 429 positive reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Food & Culinary
• Hiking & Trekking

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

We had the best time on this tour. It was an excellent itinerary that is very comprehensive visit to Sicily. We saw and did everything we wanted to do. The guides were great. They were extremely knowledgeable about the sites we were visiting. They answered all of our questions. We never felt rushed. The hotels were well located and made it easy to walk to most locations within the cities we visited. Graziana kept us up to date every day with what we were doing, when we were meeting, etc. Massimo was very quick to respond to any issues or questions, of which there were very few and very minor. If there was one criticism it would be the size of the vehicles. It was a bit tight for 8 people. A slightly larger van would have helped. I highly recommend this tour and Tourradar. They are well organized and detail oriented and run a great operation.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

I had the best experience with Sicily Activities. The tour was super fun and I don’t think I would have experienced everything without being in this tour. The tour guides were so friendly, especially Orozio, Antonio and Stefania. It was worth every penny, a trip I will remember forever ❤️

Taste of Salento-Authentic Culinary Experience

Emilio, Clara, Michael and Antonio were fantastic hosts. The food and the sights visited were fantastic. However, a more protein driven menu would have been appreciated. The Casa Clarita was nice, but needed little attentions such as water in the fridge upon our arrival without asking and napkins. The mattresses would need updating and extra blankets. Being North Americans, it would help paying attention to safe driving. These are only constructive criticism, as we truly enjoyed our week on the farm and highly recommend this tour.

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

What a terrific experience! Emilio was an outstanding guide and chef who helped us explore the entire Salento region- a different region each day! We then were treated to his culinary deilights each evening on the wonderful olive farm. He was extremely accommodating and very flexible throughout the stay. Matera was also a very enjoyable and interesting city, and Cosimo was the most knowledgeable guide! Omar did a wonderful job of organization and was very easy to contact and extremely helpful. What a wonderful trip. I would highly recommend this company!

• Wine tasting

Charming Sicily Food & Wine Small Group Tour - 8 days

I really enjoyed the tour!

Sicily Food Adventure

Well planned tour. Tour leader Rosario was the best. He made the tour very, very special. So very professional, caring and expert. Highly recommend this tour.

• Christmas & New Year

South Italy Campania Escape

Hotel room was large and comfortable = 5* Hotel location was difficult : NO buses, NO subway close by. We had to walk a LOT , even to reach meeting points for daily tours !! (2*) Staff was VERY friendly and helpful. (5*) TOUR to POMPEI / VESUVIO was excellent, considering the conditions... Excellent LUNCH and wine testing (5*) We did the VESUVIO hike, all the way to the TOP ! (5*) TOUR of NAPOLI was good. / We saw many more places, and took the subway (5*) Note : we had problems with the street food . Difficult to find good, relaxing places to have dinner in NAPOLI. ..Next time we will consult a TOUR GUIDE BOOK.

Sorrento Escape, Private Tour

Great tour, private guides and drivers are great.

Amalfi Coast: Pompeii & Pizza Family Holiday

I wouldn’t change a thing. This was our first overseas trip with kids (8 &11) so we were a little trepidatious. Exodus travel had everything planed out perfectly. It was the right blend of incredible activity and free time. Our guide Savy always had an amazing 6th sense for just when the kids needed an ice cream recharge. 2 Tori in Agerola was a great place to stay and beautiful. It’s just above all the craziness of the coast but still very convenient. Not having to drive in Naples and the Amalfi coast yourself is probably worth the cost lol.

A Taste of Italy - Walking in Puglia

The TourRadar trip to Puglia was wonderful. It was well planned, with a logical learning process along with wonderful adventures on each day.

Gourmet Rome, Sorrento & Capri

Grand Tour of Puglia-Basilicata, from Matera to Lecce

Grand Tour of Sicily, from Palermo to Taormina

Flavors of Sorrento and Rome

Campania Wine, Food & Heritage Experience

What people love about food & culinary tours in south italy.

The tour was wonderful. We had great guides, delicious food, and enjoyed the beauty of Sicily.

I can’t say enough good things about our experience in Sicily thanks to Mossimo and his team. Excellent, informative tour guides…Denise, Carlos, Antonio and Sem. The cooking class may have been the highlight, but all of the activities were fun and the pace of the tour, planned activities/free time mix was perfect. Will definitely recommend!

Continued.. Besides both Carla and Emilios own knowlege and history of each place they had Profesional guides to take you around to the other places. Nice to be in a private car. Great food like I said before. Emilio really takes care and you can see the passion in every dish he makes. Very well put together tour. Loved my stay at the farmhouse learning about the olive trees. Overall a Wonderful experience during my week in brindisi. Will visit again! Crystal

Travel Styles

Other regions in italy.

• Northern Italy (333)
• Central Italy (290)
• Sicily (232)
• Campania (179)
• Amalfi Coast (177)
• Tuscany (177)
• Puglia (126)
• Italian Alps (112)
• Apulia (110)
• Prosecco (110)
• Italian Lakes District (70)
• Veneto (69)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (64)
• South Tyrol (49)
• The Dolomites (48)
• Lombardy (47)

Wine tasting Tours

• Cooking classes (5)
• Wine tasting (5)

Other types in South Italy

• Luxury (12)
• Group (486)
• Fully Guided (348)
• Explorer (314)
• In-depth Cultural (258)
• Family (244)
• Historical (183)
• Partially Guided (175)
• Personalized (174)
• Private (110)
• Christmas & New Year (83)
• Coach / Bus (75)
• Self-Guided (71)
• Hiking & Trekking (60)
• Sightseeing (59)
• Bicycle (59)
• Active (40)
• 10 Best Food & Culinary Tours 2024/2025

International Versions

• Deutsch: Süditalien Kulinarikreisen
• Français: Circuits et voyages Culinaire – Sud de l'Italie
• Español: Comida y Culinaria circuitos en Sur de Italia
• Nederlands: Eten & Culinair Rondreizen in Zuid-Italië

Food & Wine: Southern Italy & Sicily

4.7 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Taste tradition, history, and TLC in every bite and sip.

Throughout history, southern Italy has served as a cultural crossroads, and a mashup of international influences remains evident in the region’s cuisines. On this small group Food & Wine Tour, explore tucked-away coastal towns, medieval villages, and hillside vineyards—and experience the flavors and culinary traditions that make Sicily, Calabria, Basilicata, and Campania so utterly and deliciously unique.

Your tour package includes

• 11 nights in handpicked hotels
• 11 breakfasts
• 5 dinners with beer or wine
• 3 wine tastings

Included highlights

• Baroque Noto
• Avola wine region
• Italian contessa dinner
• Sassi di Matera cave dwellings
• Campanian cooking lesson

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Catania today.

Welcome to Italy! Tonight, get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Catania. Savor the signature flavors of the city—along with local, Sicilian wine—and whet your appetite for more of Sicily’s culturally and historically rich cuisine still to come in the days ahead.

Head outside of the city of Catania today to explore the culinary traditions of southeastern Sicily.

• Join a local guide for a tour of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Baroque churches and palaces.
• Wander along Noto’s Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a long, pedestrian-friendly avenue lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
• Visit the Cathedral of San Nicolò, an imposing Baroque structure that was built in the 18th century and stands at the top of a wide, stone staircase.
• Stop in a local sweets shop to sample Sicilian pastries and chocolates, keeping an eye out for varieties made with almonds or pistachios—both types of nuts grow on the island and are commonly featured in Sicilian confections.
• Enjoy a pasta or seafood lunch on your own in one of Noto’s cafes, or treat your sweet tooth to a distinctly Sicilian dessert; local specialties include dense and creamy gelato, which you can enjoy atop a crunchy cone or sandwiched between two slices of buttery brioche.

Travel northeast to the Avola wine region. Its thick-skinned, namesake grape, the Nero d’Avola, has grown on Sicily for hundreds of years. It remains the most widely planted grape on the island—in its indigenous region and beyond—for the production of red wine.

• Visit a local winery for a behind-the-scenes look at its growing and production processes.
• Learn what factors contribute to Nero d’Avola’s fruit-forward flavor, full-bodied structure, and high acidity.
• Enjoy light snacks paired with a variety of vintages of Nero d’Avola wines.

After your winery visit, transfer to a historic countryside villa and the home of an Italian contessa.

• Enjoy wine with focaccia, olives, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and other antipasti, then sit down for a homemade, family-style dinner set in the villa’s former stables.
• Learn some of the contessa’s most-trusted cooking tips, which will help you recreate her rustic dishes—such as linguine with lemon, and rice with mushrooms—at home.

Meet your local guide and set out to discover Catania, an ancient port city that sits at the base of active Mount Etna volcano.

• Discover Catania’s historic city center, with its narrow, stone streets, busy Piazza del Duomo, and Baroque Catania Cathedral.
• Explore the city’s famous, open-air fish market, where you’re likely to spot whole branzino, tuna, and many other freshly caught delicacies neatly laid out on ice.
• Tour the Museo Storico dello Sbarco, a WWII museum focused on the allied invasion of Sicily.
• Try to spot ash from previous Mount Etna eruptions in Catania’s streets as you make your way through the city.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Catania or add an excursion.

Mount Etna Wine Region Tasting & Dinner

From $125 per person

Travel to Messina, Sicily’s third-largest city, then take a ferry across the Strait of Messina to Reggio Calabria. You’ll explore this coastal city in southern Italy alongside your Tour Director.

• Visit the National Museum of Magna Graecia to view the storied Riace Bronzes—two life-size, bronze statues of Greek warriors sculpted in Greece in the 5th century B.C. and pulled from the Ionian Sea in the 1970s.
• Enjoy free time to explore Reggio Calabria on your own.

Then, travel north to Tropea. The town is situated along the coast in Calabria, a southern Italian region whose culinary traditions are rooted in la cucina povera, or peasant food. This evening, sit down for an included dinner. Enjoy wine alongside dishes such as fried seafood and stuffed eggplant, which capture the spirit of Calabrian cooking.

Get to know Tropea on a sightseeing tour led by your Tour Director.

• View the spectacular Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery perched high above the sea in Tropea.
• Stop for a tasting of locally made pecorino sheep’s-milk cheese, salami, breads, roasted vegetable spreads, and cipolla rossa, the sweet red onions for which Tropea is known.
• Continue on to Pizzo for a taste of the coastal city’s famous tartufo di Pizzo—a ball or bombe of chocolate and hazelnut gelato shaped around a hidden center of melted chocolate and rolled in cocoa powder.

Sit down this evening for an included dinner served with wine. Traditional dishes to try might include baked spaghetti-and-eggplant involtini.

This morning, pass through the Calabrian countryside on your way to Matera. The ancient town is built on a rocky outcrop in Basilicata, a southern Italian region whose traditions of grain cultivation and baking have endured for centuries.

Explore Matera, known as the Subterranean City, with a local guide.

• Visit Sassi di Matera, the two districts that make up Matera, which are known for their 9,000-year-old cave dwellings.
• Stroll through the Old Town, passing Matera Cathedral and the ruins of the 16th-century Castello Tramontano.
• Admire the bell towers, mosaics, sculptures, and other architectural details of the 16th-century Palazzo del Sedile, or Palace of the Seat, which has served as the seat of the municipality of Matera as well as a music conservatory.
• Step inside Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see what life was like inside a typical cave dwelling.
• Explore the chiese rupestri, or rock churches.
• Visit a local shop to taste regional breads, such as highly regarded, sourdough-style Pane di Matera, and cheeses, like soft mozzarella and gooey stracciatella.

Enjoy a free evening in Matera or add an excursion.

Please note: Depending on the season, this may take place on the afternoon of day 7.

Puglia Wine Tasting & Dinner

From $119 per person

Today, venture to Sannio, a hilly and highly regarded wine-producing area and Domain of Controlled Origin, or DOC. In Sannio, regulations require that grapes—Aglianico, Falanghina, and other varietals among them—be sourced from hillside vineyards, where the climate is ideal for producing high-quality fruit.

• Walk along steep streets in the medieval town of Guardia Sanframondi, and take in views of its hilltop castle.
• Grab a seat at a local bar and enjoy a cocktail made with Falanghina wine and Strega—a saffron-infused, after-dinner liqueur that originated in Benevento in the late 1800s.
• Visit a sustainable winery co-operative that produces wines under the brand Janare.
• Sit down at the co-operative for an included lunch paired with Janare wines, which are produced from Falanghina and Aglianico grapes grown on Sannio vineyards.

Please note: The order of today’s activities is subject to change.

Today, make your way to San Marco dei Cavoti, located northeast of Naples. This mountain village in the province of Benevento is one of the best-known places in Italy for the production of toronne, a nut-and-nougat confection.

• Join a local chocolatier for an artisanal chocolate tasting and shop tour.
• Watch a chocolate-making demonstration and try a few different sweet treats, including Croccantino—a crunchy torrone covered in dark chocolate.

Later, settle in to your agriturismo in the Benevento countryside. Then, head to the nearby town of Telese Terme for a cooking class in the kitchen of a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative dishes that marry traditional and innovative techniques. Follow along as the restaurant’s world-class chefs teach you how to craft traditional Campanian dishes, such as tortellini Campagnola, and make note of tips and techniques to try out when you get back home. For dinner tonight, savor the fruits of your labor, along with wine, in the company of your fellow travelers.

Take a guided sightseeing tour of Benevento this morning.

• Marvel at the Arch of Trajan, a triumphal arch built by Emperor Trajan in the second century.
• Continue past the 10th-century Church of Saint Hilary, a stone structure that has served as a church, a convent, and a farmhouse.
• Enter the UNESCO-recognized Church of Santa Sofia, which was built in the eighth century and features an unusual, star-shaped structure and radial arrangement of columns and pillars.
• Cap off your guided tour with a taste of ice cream or chocolate infused with Benevento Strega liqueur.

Then, continue on to the Taurasi wine region. This is where the flagship red wine of southern Italy is produced from 100% local Aglianico grapes or, in some instances, a blend of Nebbiolo and Sangiovese grapes as well.

• Walk through a vineyard alongside a local wine expert to learn about the harvest and wine production processes.
• Enjoy light snacks and a taste of white and red wines—including Taurasi, the region’s signature red, which is known for its structure, complexity, and aging potential.

Continue on to Salerno, a lively port town steeped in cultural tradition. This evening, celebrate your trip over a farewell dinner served with wine. Menu items might include regional products such as seafood, prosciutto, sardines, zucchini, and other local specialties.

Explore the coastal area of Cilento today. This spot is known as the birthplace of the widely celebrated Mediterranean diet, which is a set of skills, rituals, symbols, and traditions centered around food production and consumption—and which UNESCO declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

• Tour a local, organic dairy farm, and savor freshly made mozzarella, ricotta, and buffalo-milk gelato during a light lunch and tasting served with wine.
• Travel to nearby Paestum for a guided tour of the ancient city’s Greek and Roman ruins.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Paestum to see the Tomb of the Diver, which was created around 470 B.C. and contains a rare Greek wall painting.

Raise a toast to your trip—and your fellow travelers—as you enjoy a farewell drink this evening.

Transfer to the Naples airport for your flight home or extend your stay to visit Naples.

After a short ride to Naples, set off on an afternoon tasting tour in the city with a local guide.

• Walk through Piazza del Gesù to view the Church of Gesù Nuovo.
• Stop at a local cafe to try a dark and dense espresso Napoletano.
• Enter the Basilica of Santa Chiara, the largest Gothic church in Naples, to see its beautifully tiled cloister.
• Step inside a shop to taste the famous Vesuvius chocolate.
• Walk along Via dei Tribunali and enjoy a cuoppo, or cone, filled with fried street foods such as arancini, polenta, croquettes, and vegetables.
• Sample sfogliatella, a flaky pastry, near the Church of San Domenico Maggiore.

Spend a free day in Naples or add excursions.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

A Naples Tradition: Neapolitan Pizza

From $79 per person

The Lost City of Herculaneum

From $75 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

A lot of care and thought went into the preparation and implementation of this tour. I know that Linda had a hand in every single detail. It means so much when a tour guide makes sure that everything goes smoothly and flawlessly. I became aware of how many hours Linda spent planning, verifying, a...

Hi David, Thank you so much for taking the time t...

This was my first time traveling out of the country and I was apprehensive about the idea of making so many major and minor decisions when I did not have previous experiences to call on and when I did not speak the language. EF GoAhead took care of everything at what I felt was a fair price. This to...

Hi Hayley, Thank you so much for sharing your exp...

The perfect pairing of food and wine with the historical significance of the various areas we visited. The accommodations were varied and often unique; our TD was always there to handle any issues, not to mention add q lot of fun to the trip. I definitely came away with an abundance of knowledge a...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This charming hotel is located on Catania, Italy’s famous Via Etnea. Guests enjoy Sicilian specialties for breakfast, Turkish bath, and gym. Nearby yo...

This elegant hotel is located in Maierato municipality of Calabria. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a restaurant. Nearby, you'll find C...

This recently renovated hotel is located in the center of Matera. Guests enjoy the quiet and comfortable rooms, the on-site restaurant, and compliment...

This charming hotel is located in the medieval village of Melizzano deep within the Benevento countryside. Guests enjoy the swimming pools, rural-styl...

This seaside hotel is located in the town of Vietri sul Mare. Guests enjoy a private beach, nightclub, and pool table. Nearby, you’ll find the Path of...

This modern hotel is located in the historical center of Naples. Guests enjoy a restaurant, a lounge bar, and meeting space. Nearby you’ll find Castel...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Italy, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code TSI.
• You will walk for at least 2 hours daily across uneven terrain, including cobblestone streets and paved roads, with some hills and stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of boats.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Catania and depart from Naples. A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• A ferry between Messina and Reggio Calabria is included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• The cuisine of Southern Italy is often what diners think of when imagining Italian flavors—pasta with tomato sauces, olives and olive oil, zucchini, veal, and fish are all featured prominently on menus throughout the region.
• Sicilian cuisine in particular is heavily influenced by Spanish, Greek, and Arab traditions. The Spanish brought New World influences to the region in the form of tomatoes, chocolate, and maize, while the Arab influence can be tasted in recipes that include rice, spinach, saffron, and citrus fruits. Regional specialties include arancini , cannoli , and granita .
• The incredible wine regions of Southern Italy and Sicily grow prized grapes thanks to volcanic soils. Try varietals or blends made with grapes such as nero d’Avola and anglianico.
• For more authentic meals, try local trattorias , small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello .
• Italy operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and use Types C, F, or L plugs with two or three small, round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in European hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotel may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Italy is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
• You will use the euro on this tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa or MasterCard as payment for optional excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

Compare similar tours

An immersive culinary food tour in Italy's south

SMALL INTIMATE GROUPS

SIGHTSEEING & COOKING

RUN BY AN ITALIAN LOCAL

BEHIND THE SCENES ACCESS

OPERATED BY AN ITALIAN LOCAL

A RESTAURATEUR TOUR GUIDE

Welcome to our food tours in Italy

Come and join one of the best food tours of Italy that is run and guided by a foodie. When we say ‘get immersed in Italian food and wine’ we mean flour on your hands, cheeks that are sore from laughing & a belt that needs to be loosened a notch or two after an indulgent day of eating Italian cuisine.

This is an intimate small group food and wine tour with up to twenty people. This means we can spend more time eating, relaxing and living like a local as we explore the best places to visit in Southern Italy around the island of Sicily. It is a culinary tour with a focus on local cuisines.

A million reasons to travel on our tours of Italy

Your experience starts from the very first website enquiry about a tour. Your tour guide Carmel provides a personal experience & makes it her mission to know each person by their first name & for you to feel like part of a family.

Come and learn why Italians are world famous as the masters of creating simple dishes that make every taste bud sing with flavour. Carmel helps you discover the secrets behind Sicily’s local cuisine that is hand crafted with abundance, using seasonally fresh produce, that is full of heart & satisfyingly authentic. It is no wonder this region has so many award winning dishes.

With inspiration from her Nonna’s kitchen, Carmel will surprise and delight you with opportunities to learn about her family’s authentic recipes that have been passed down by many generations.

It is a delicious mixture of stunning scenery, food, wine tasting and sun soaked locations that will leave you wanting more.

A food tour in Italy with sightseeing

The locations that we visit on our food tours include the flamboyant and feisty capital city of Palermo that is renowned for its architecture, pastry shops and street food.

We also venture to the medieval town of Erice with its historic castle, the gorgeous coastal town of Terrasini on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the historical 14th century town of Castelbuono (famous for its native Basilichi mushrooms and home to the world famous Fiasconaro Panettone) across to the region of Siracusa to explore the island of Ortigia and the 18th century towns of Baroque, Modica & Ragusa Ibla. 

It is a delicious mixture of stunning scenery, food, wine and sun soaked locations that will leave you wanting more.

A small group or private tour in italy

Pizza, pasta and seafood are just a sample of the diverse array of unforgettable food you’ll find on our tours that travel to some of the best places in Southern Italy.

As you will see from our reviews & Carmel’s social media profiles, her enthusiasm, passion and deep understanding of Italian culture is every bit as engaging as it is mouth watering. She is generous with her ideas and suggestions that are fuelled by a love of great food which makes life just that little bit more delicious. Her smile-inducing celebration of food connects people from all walks of life from around the world on a tour that feels like you are out with close friends. 

Our tours are not cooking classes, but you will get a chance to get your hands messy, create a dish and enjoy the fruits of your labour amongst friends & stunning backdrops. The recipes we create are uplifting, full of flavour using local seasonal ingredients and presented in a way that lets you play with them to suit your tastes. We love nothing more than seeing people get inspired to experiment with food and flavours.

7 DAY FOOD TOUR

1 day cooking tour, private tours, see why sicily is a great holiday destination..

Most people will go on vacation to Italy and travel to the top tourist destinations like Rome, Venice or Florence. Although for travellers who want a more authentic experience, Sicily is a relatively unknown holiday designation in Southern Italy.

Espcape all the typical tourist traps in Northern Italy and come experience life like the locals and have a relaxing holiday in the sun with pleny of food.

Fearlessly Italy

11 Best Southern Italy Tours: Sea, Food and Ancient History

South Italy is synonymous with sun, sea, and old-world culture. There is so much to do and see, from hiking and kayaking to trying Sicilian cuisine and tasting all kinds of authentic, scrumptious Italian food. There is so much to do, in fact, that it’s hard to know what to take in or even how to schedule one of the best southern Italy tours to catch just the highlights.

That’s why we recommend you book yourself a trip to South Italy. Tours take care of everything for you, including accommodations, activities, and meals. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the ride. To help you choose the right tour for your unique preferences, we put together a list of Southern Italy tours that will help you experience this beautiful country without the stress and difficulty of planning it all yourself.

Table of Contents

Best Southern Italy Tours to Soak in the Sun and Tuck into Local Food

Rome to southern italy by intrepid travel.

You’ll travel by train from Rome to Bari in Southern Italy when you book this tour by Intrepid Travel. The full Italian experience is waiting for you, from exploring historic sites like the Pantheon and the Vatican in Rome and the ruins of Pompeii to hiking through olive groves to staying in an authentic trulli, which is a dry stone hut. You’ll also see all kinds of gorgeous features in the countryside: rolling hills, vineyards, and sunlit villas.

Most of the traveling will take place on a train as you ride from city to city. This mode of transportation will give a lovely few of South Italy as you pass through it. Breakfast is provided for you in the mornings, and lunch and dinner are easy to come by as you’ll be stopping in cities that offer multiple dining options. When you stay in a hotel, you will likely share a room with a fellow tourist of the same sex, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling singly. But as long as you don’t mind sharing, you can enjoy the trip and everything the tour has to offer.

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Rome To Amalfi by Intrepid Travel

On this tour from Rome to Amalfi, you’ll see the sites of Rome and the clear blue South Italian coast. You’ll travel primarily by train, and receive 5 breakfasts and 7 nights in the hotel as part of the tour package. This is a short trip, only seven days, so it hits all the best highlights. You’ll explore famous cultural landmarks and Rome, such as the Colosseum, the Forum, and St. Peter’s Basilica. You’ll also visit Mt. Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii. Later, when you reach the coast, the glittering beaches and seaside towns are ready and waiting for you to explore.

When you stay in the hotel, you will likely have to share the room with a tourist of the same sex as you are. One of the best Italy guided tours , this trip is a great way to make friends because you’re going to see and do a lot in a short amount of time with a large group of people. And what better place to make friends than in the bright, friendly environs of South Italy?

Amalfi Coast: Hike, Bike & Kayak by Intrepid Travel

The best way to see South Italy is by walking. This Amalfi Coast tour by Intrepid Travel takes you hiking through the ruins of Pompeii, the Valley of the Mills, and the Path of the Gods. You’ll kayak to “secluded beaches” and visit the island of Capri. For eight days, you’ll experience South Italy the way it was meant to be experienced: through the sun, sand, and sea air.

A favorite biking tour in Italy , this trip includes 7 nights in a hotel and 7 breakfasts. You will have to share a room with another adult of the same sex as you. Keep in mind that there is a lot of physical activity on this tour. If hiking and kayaking are your jam, then it may be the perfect trip for you.

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights by Sicily Activities

Sicily is an island near the tip of the “boot” of South Italy. It has many famous cities and sites which you’ll get to experience when you group on the Small Group Tour of Sicily by Sicily Activities. You’ll travel from Catania to Palermo on a 7-day tour.

Along the way, you’ll embark on walks through cultural centers like the antique villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, the filming locations of The Godfather, Ortigia with its Apollo Temple and Archimede Fountain, the Temples Valley, and Palermo with its old churches and the Piazza Pretoria. You’ll go on food and wine tastings to sample authentic Sicilian flavor. Every step of your journey is planned and accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, so you can learn about the historical significance of your surroundings as well as experience it firsthand.

This small tour includes 7 nights in a hotel, 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 wine tasting, and 1 dinner. You’ll travel from town to town in a Mercedes Minivan, but there is still plenty of walking involved in the tour, so keep that in mind. This tour is a great option for people who want to take in as much of Sicily as they can in a short amount of time.

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour by Sicily Activities

If you love food and wine and love trying new cuisine, you should book the Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour by Sicily Activities. This tour will take you from Catania to Palermo in 7 days. During your stops in various locales along the way, including Mt. Etna Villages, Noto, Marzamemi, Ortigia, and Syracuse, you’ll go on food and wine tours to experience the local culture and cuisine. For example, in the traditional Sicilian fishing village of Marzamemi, you’ll eat a fish lunch by the sea. In Palermo, you’ll try Sicilian street food. You’ll be amazed at the color and variety of South Italy’s eats.

As part of the tour package, you’ll stay in a hotel for 7 nights and receive 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 wine tastings, 1 dinner, as well as all the other tastings in the itinerary. If you have food allergies, there are Vegetarian, Gluten-free, and Lactose-free options available. If you book this tour, keep an open mind and know that you’re going to be eating and drinking a lot of different foods and wines that are probably foreign to your palate. If a food and wine tour sounds right up your alley, then being able to try new cuisine will be a definite pro!

Explore Southern Italy by Intrepid Travel

South Italy’s historic Roman past comes back to life in this Explore Southern Italy Tour by Intrepid Travel. Beginning on the Amalfi coast with stunning sea views and a favorite destination to include in bucket list road trips , you’ll travel through several ancient towns and learn about the cultures and traditions that were once the law of the land.

You’ll explore the cathedral in the seaside town of Trani, the Roman ruins in Lecce, the olive trees and trullis of Ostuni and Alberobello, and the winding streets of the old cities of Matera and Bari. There is so much of old-world Italy to bear witness to on this tour. You’ll truly get a taste of the majesty of South Italy’s ancient history.

This 10-day tour includes 9 hotel stays, 9 breakfasts, and activities like city walking tours and an olive oil mill visit and tasting. You’ll take several different modes of transportation, including a train, a public bus, and a private car.

You can share a room with a fellow tourist of the same sex, or you can pay extra for private accommodations. Be sure you’re ready to stay active and alert, for there is a lot to do and see on this Explore Southern Italy Tour.

Rome To Sicily By Intrepid Travel

This tour takes you from Rome to Palermo in Sicily in 22 days. The length of time – three weeks – is perfect because there is so much you’re going to take in. You’ll need three weeks to process all of it in your mind. First, you’ll explore Rome and all its historic sites. Then you’ll travel down the Amalfi coast and experience South Italy’s wonders along the way, including Pompeii, Greek and Roman ruins, dormant volcanoes, scenic valleys and hiking trails, and picturesque villages. You’ll end your trip in Palermo on the island of Sicily.

This tour comes with 19 hotel stays, 2 nights in a guesthouse, and 19 breakfasts, as well as all the activities listed on the itinerary. This is a long tour compared to the ones we’ve viewed so far, and there is quite a bit of physical activity involved. If you don’t mind walking to see the beauty of South Italy, then this may be the perfect tour for you.

Taste Of Salento – Authentic Culinary Experience by Soleto Travel

Tour the delicious local food and drink of the Salento region in Italy on the Taste of Salento – Authentic Culinary Experience. At night, you’ll stay at a farmhouse, and during the day your guide will take you to different cities in the Salento region to sample authentic pizzerias, pasta, cheese, fish dishes, and more. All in the beautiful environs of coastal South Italy.

The tour package includes a 6-night stay at a farmhouse in Salento called Masseria, 6 breakfasts and 6 dinners done in traditional Salento style with locally sourced ingredients, 1 wine tasting, 1 oil tasting, 1 picnic lunch, and 1 cooking class taught by an Italian chef. If you have been dreaming about a food-themed Italy trip and your mouth is watering reading our description of the Taste of Salento Tour, you know it’s the right one for you.

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure by Intrepid Travel

Enjoy sailing, swimming, and snorkeling your way along the South Italy coast on the Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure by Intrepid Travel. You’ll love exploring the clear waters, beaches, coves, and national parks surrounding the Maddalena Archipelago. You will also enjoy the local food and culture in the coastal towns.

This 8-day tour takes place mainly on a yacht, so make sure you’re prepared for sea life before you book. You’ll likely have to share sleeping quarters aboard the ship with some of your fellow tourists. Meals are not included, but you can bring your own or head to town. For boat lovers, this is an incomparable tour of South Italy’s crystalline waters.

Local Living Italy – Sorrento by G Adventures

Taste the local South Italy life when you book your Local Living Italy tour in Sorrento by G Adventures. During this 7-day tour, you’ll stay at a lemon farm that’s close to the Amalfi Coast. You’ll experience the Italian farm life, including learning how to make limoncello liquor and pizza, hike the Path of the Gods, explore the ruins of Pompeii, and visit the island of Capri. This is a fantastic adventure if you are looking into immersing in local life and enjoying an Italy hiking tour .

This tour comes with 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners, and accommodations at the lemon farm. You can purchase your other meals in the local coastal towns. You’ll feel like you’re living the genuine South Italy life when you book this interactive tour.

Highlights of Calabria & Sicily by Intrepid Travel

Hit the high points of South Italy on the Calabria & Sicily tour by Intrepid Travel. You’ll experience rich history and view fantastic natural features on this tour. You’ll see the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands, sulfur springs, the old coastal cities of Sicily, and ancient ruins. Incomparable views, food, and culture await you.

This tour is 15 days long and comes with 14 breakfasts, 12 nights in a hotel, and 2 nights in a guesthouse. You’ll go on a lot of hikes on this trip, so don’t book it thinking you’re going to be able to sit on a beach chair all day. You won’t regret it, though, when you see all of what South Italy has to offer.

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Best of Sorrento and Naples Food Tour

Experience the beauty of southern Italy on this culinary vacation on the Amalfi Coast, featuring 4 nights in Sorrento and 2 nights in bustling Naples. Enjoy authentic Italian Mediterranean food, great wines, Naples food tours, and tons of sunshine—what more could you ask for?

• Trip Details

Accommodation Information

• Pricing & Tour Dates
• Culinary Vacations
• Cooking Vacations
• Best of Sorrento, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour

Naples Culinary Tours: A Gastronomic Journey in Sant'Agnello di Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

Uncover the Magic of Naples

Naples, the third-largest city in Italy, is a warm and friendly place full of life, local history, and a wonderful food scene. It lies on the Gulf of Naples, in the shadow of the infamous Mount Vesuvius, and offers a plethora of art, churches, and one of the finest archeological museums in the world, all located within its historic center. The culinary tour includes a pizza-making session, a gelato class, and tastings of Neapolitan cuisine featuring fresh seafood paired with fruity white wines, hearty pasta, and sauces served with local red wines. Whether you are visiting Naples on a walking tour, taking a small boat tour to the isle of Capri, or spending a day exploring Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, you will have the chance to meet the locals and experience authentic southern Italian life.

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Highlights of sorrento and naples gourmet tours.

Our Sorrento and Naples culinary vacation will show you the flavors of southern Italian cuisine and offer a variety of cultural and culinary excursions, such as:

• private boat tour to the isle of Capri
• foodie walking tour in the heart of Naples
• authentic pizza making
• winery visit on Mount Vesuvius
• visits to the towns of Amalfi and Positano
• guided visit of the ruins of Pompeii

Sorrento and Naples Italy Food Tours Itinerary

• 6 Night Itinerary

Day One – Sunday

• Transfer from the Naples airport or train station to your accommodations at a luxury hotel or a charming Bed and Breakfast located in Sorrento. Check in to your home for your Amalfi Coast culinary tour and free time to relax or explore.
• Dinner tonight at the hotel’s restaurant on the top floor, with a breathtaking view of the coast, or at a local restaurant in the city center (wine not included, paid locally).

Day Two – Monday

• Breakfast at the hotel followed by a leisurely morning. Take this time to unwind by the pool, do some shopping on your own. 
• Later in the morning, you will opt for a pizza demonstration by a “pizzaiuolo,” showcasing the art of crafting traditional wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Savor the customized pizzas for lunch.
• In the afternoon transfer to downtown Sorrento to meet your local guide for a 3 hour guided tour focussing on local food and arts. There will be many food tastings and much laughter!
• Dinner tonight on own with suggestion by the Hotel concierge.

Day Three – Tuesday

• Kickstart your day with a visit to the renowned Amalfi Coast, visiting famous town of Positano, followed by a trip to the town of Amalfi, famous for its distinctive cathedral and array of shops. 
• Enjoy lunch at your leisure during your explorations before journeying to the picturesque village of Montepertuso, nestled amidst lush green hills above Positano.
• Here, you will have the chance to meet Chef Salvatore at his restaurant for a hands-on cooking class centered around traditional Amalfi Coast dishes.
• Dinner to follow based on your efforts, along with a limoncello tasting!

Day Four – Wednesday

• After breakfast, head off on a private Gozzo (traditional Sorrentine boat) to the amazing island of Capri. Your full-day trip to this gorgeous island will include 3 hours on board and 3 hours on the island where you can explore on your own, as well as an aperitif on board. Capri has been inhabited since prehistoric times, was then a Greek colony, and also an Emperor’s resort at the beginning of the ancient Roman Empire. Capri was home to residences of the Emperors Augustus and Tiberius, including Tiberius’s excavated Villa Iovis. During the 10th century, the citizens of Capri transferred their settlements from the seaside to the safer locations they still inhabit high above the shore. Capri eventually became part of the Abbey of Montecassino and then of the Kingdom of Naples, and you can see its history through the ages in its ruins and monuments. ( Please note that if unavailable due to weather an alternate excursion will be proposed. Please note also that if you opt for the B&B accommodations, this will be a shared small-group boat excursion. )
• Return back to Sorrento in the afternoon.
• Dinner tonight is a 3-course tasting menu at the hotel’s restaurant, drinks included. 

Day Five – Thursday

• Breakfast, and check out.
• This morning, you are off to Naples! Enjoy an excursion on the way at Pompeii, where you will explore the ruins of the Ancient Roman city that was entombed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 BC and unearthed in 1748. You will have a  2-hourguided tour of this remarkably well-preserved site.
• Later, proceed on your culinary tour of Italy to a local wine estate at the foot of the Volcano Vesuvio for a wine tasting and light lunch.
• Continue to Naples and check in to your hotel.
• Your dinner tonight will be at a traditional Naples restaurant within walking distance of your hotel (wine included).

Day Six – Friday

• B reakfast.
• Meet your local guide this morning for a 6-hour Naples private food tour and cultural discovery. You will pass by some of the city’s most famous monuments such as the Royal Palace, the Teatro San Carlo, the Maschio Angioino, the Galleria Umberto, and Piazza del Peblescito.
• Continue along in the heart of the old city along the “Spaccanapoli” street, which was the east-west Roman road that splits the city in two. Your cultural discovery of Naples will include the Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, Santa Chiara, the Via di San Gregorio Armeno (where artisans craft the iconic presepi, or nativity scenes, of Naples), the Cattedrale di San Gennaro, and the Cappella San Severo, home of Giuseppe Sanmartino’s “Cristo Velato” (Veiled Christ), one of the Italy’s most famous sculptures.
• During your Naples food tour and cultural discovery, you will stop for tastings of typical Neapolitan street food such as “pizza a portafoglio,” “pizza fritta,” “cuoppo,” and the delicious dessert “sfogliatella.”
• Return to your hotel on your own (either on foot if you still want to explore or by taxi).
• Dinner on your own and overnight.

Day Seven – Saturday

• Breakfast and check out. Transfer either to the Naples train station or Naples airport.

Trip Details of Cooking Classes in Naples, Italy and Sorrento

• 6 Night Details

Included in the 6-Night Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour

Accommodations.

• Four nights accommodation in Romantic classic sea view room at the 5* Hotel Mediterraneo* (*Or a more affordable version of the tour – four nights accommodation in Sorrento at a B&B – please inquire!)
• Two nights accommodation in superior seaview room at 4* Naples hotel

Food & Beverages

• Daily breakfast
• Food tastings during Sorrento tour
• Food tastings during Naples tour
• 4 dinners (2 with wine included).

Classes & Instructors

Explore Italian cuisine and immerse yourself in the food culture of the region with a pizza-making class and a hands-on cooking class at a local restaurant up the hill from Positano. Gain local knowledge as you learn a variety of traditional Amalfi Coast and southern Italian specialities during your cooking classes. Your class will include a starter, first and second course, as well as a dessert, covering the breadth of this region’s rich culinary traditions.

• Full-day excursion to Capri by gozzo boat (Please note that if weather makes it impossible to go to Capri, an alternate excursion will be proposed.)
• Amalfi Coast excursion to Positano and Amalfi
• Guided tour of the archeological ruins of Pompeii
• Winery visit on Mount Vesuvius
• Private walking tour of Sorrento
• Private walking tour of Naples

Transfer Details

• Roundtrip transfers included from/to the Naples train station or airport.

Not Included

• Local tourist tax, payable locally
• Beverages and meals not indicated

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Amalfi Coast

Tour Dates:

Available April through November for a minimum of two people. Please review our complete pricing details .

Starting at

Your accommodations in Sorrento will be at the luxury seafront 5* Hotel Mediterraneo in Sant’Agnello di Sorrento, a neighboring village to Sorrento. Overlooking the Gulf of Sorrento, the Hotel Mediterraneo has a beautiful swimming pool, sea access, and luxury amenities. It is an easy 15-minute walk into the center of Sorrento, and there is also a shuttle service. Your room will feature a spectacular, full sea view.

Your accommodations in Naples will be at the Royal Continental Hotel. The hotel lies on the Gulf of Naples, right across from the Castel dell’Ovo in one of Naples’ best locations. The rooms and suites feature sea views, en suite baths, luxurious bedding, LCD TV, free WiFi, room safe, minibar, and air conditioning. The hotel also features a rooftop seawater pool, a restaurant, and exercise room.  

Alternatively, if you’re on a tighter budget, your stay in Sorrento may be accommodated at one of two charming B&B properties, both conveniently located a brief stroll from the heart of the beautiful city. The rooms, recently refurbished, come with private bathrooms, WiFi, a fresh, contemporary design, and room service. Additionally, some rooms feature balconies for an extra touch of comfort. Please inquire for details!

Sorrento and Naples Cooking Vacations Pricing & Tour Dates 2023-2024

Find pricing and dates for our Naples and Sorrento tours below, and contact us for availability or to customize your trip.

• 6 Night Pricing

6-Night Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour High Season Pricing: June 1-July 31; August 29-September 30

6-Night Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour Pricing

US$7590 per person based on double occupancy

30% deposit due to confirm booking.

Balance payment due 60 days prior to tour start date. Questions? Please contact us!

Upgrade costs and single supplement: please inquire. 

Alternatively, you can opt for a more budget-friendly rate with accommodations at a B&B in Sorrento. Please inquire! 

6-Night Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour Mid Season Pricing: May; August 1-28; October 1-14

US$6750 per person based on double occupancy

6-Night Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour Low Season Pricing: April; October 15 - November 2

US$5890 per person based on double occupancy

Best of Sorrento Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour Dates

Our Amalfi Coast culinary tour in Sorrento and Naples is available any week early April through November for a minimum of 2 people.

The program may be altered slightly due to weather, season, and opening and closing time of establishments.

2024 Offered April to November. Please inquire for available weeks.

Let Us Assist You in Crafting the Perfect Food Tours Naples

Need help with arranging flights, extending your stay with additional nights and tours, or anything else?

We're here to assist in creating the ultimate Naples culinary journey for you. Whether it's indulging in your favorite food, enjoying great company, or exploring beautiful Napoli, we've got you covered. Moreover, we can tailor-make a tour to match your preferences - just get in touch to begin the planning process!

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5 Best Cities in Which to Explore Southern Italian Food

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Bari, Italy

Southern Italian food features the delicious Mediterranean flavors many visitors associate with the country’s traditional cuisine that you can discover in the fives best cities for southern Italian food.

Cooking is a way in which northern, central, and southern Italian regions showcase their diversity. The food of southern Italy is often referred to as Cucina Povera, with frugal cooks relying on the sea’s bounty or the hard-fought harvest from tenacious farmers.

The warm Mediterranean climate supports a history of trade and conquest, revealing distinctive characteristics of unforgettable gastronomy, from Bari to Campobasso.

2. Catanzaro

4. the amalfi coast, 5. campobasso, explore the best southern italian food on vacation.

Burrata cheese

Bari is the capital of the Puglia region. The city is located on the Adriatic coastline, creating classic recipes steeped in its seafaring tradition and ingredients. Bari's strong connection with the landscape provides ingredients ranging from red and yellow peppers to orecchiette pasta.

Its popular dishes include sardines, tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and prosciutto. The high-quality olive oil of Bari is a feature in any celebrated local dish that you can indulge in during your time in the bustling city, while exploring the traditions thereof is among the top things to do in Italy .

Popular Dishes to Try in Bari: Orecchiette with turnip tops and sausage • Burrata cheese • Panzerotti • Focaccia Barese • Zucchine alla Poverella • Pasta al Forno

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Soppressata

Catanzaro is the capital of Calabria. The cuisine of Catanzaro uses olive oil and hot chili peppers as the base of authentic local cuisine. Classic ingredients also include tripe, fried eggs, figs, nuts, and cinnamon.

The city has a view over the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas, but does not typically use seafood, preferring ingredients like fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry for a hearty and rich culinary experience as you explore Italian food by region .

Popular Dishes to Try in Catanzaro: Provola cheese • Soppressata • Pasta with fried eggs and pecorino cheese • Anchovies al Cetrarese •  Bucatini with anchovy and bread sauce

Pizza margherita

Naples is the capital of the Campania region and one of the best cities to explore the food of Campania . The cuisine of Naples consists mainly of simple ingredients with big flavors, producing dishes like spaghetti with clams or risotto alla pescatora .

The gastronomic traditions of the city blend a variety of kingdoms, empires, and settlers from the last two millennia, resulting in a combination of seafood and earthenware cooking styles. The proximity to Mount Vesuvius results in vegetables and fruits that feed off the rich nutrients of the volcanic soil, producing robust flavors.

Popular Dishes to Try in Naples: Pasta a Fagioli • Neapolitan ragú • Pizza margherita • Mozzarella in carrozza • Babá

Learn more: 5 Dishes to Try on Your Trip to Naples

Scialatielli all'Amalfitana

The Amalfi Coast is a popular Campania shoreline that connects small coastal towns and serves some of the best dishes to try on your trip to Campania . The cuisine of the Amalfi Coast combines fresh seafood with sensational fresh produce grown along the cliffs of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The various microclimates along the seaside and high-altitude cliffs shape the distinctive flavors of the fruits and vegetables cultivated along the coast. The true pearls of Amalfi Coast cuisine stem from the sea, with dishes that reflect the bountiful seafood you can enjoy when exploring the local towns and flavors.

Popular Dishes to Try in the Amalfi Coast: Scialatielli • Ndunderi • Pignatiello all’amalfitana • Colatura di alici • Sfogliatella

Learn more: Top 8 Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast

Fusilli with Lamb Ragu

Campobasso is the capital of the Molise region. Its culinary creations consist of flavorful organic, local ingredients like zucchini, celery, and peppers.

Dishes of typical Campobasso cuisine include soups or seasoned sausages. The province is also an important area in which hunters can find precious truffles. The mountainous terrain hosts lakes, hills, and rivers that run to the Adriatic Sea, defining the city's culinary traditions and inherent culture, with hearty ingredients shaped by the rugged surroundings.

Popular Dishes to Try in Campobasso: Capicola • Torcinelli • Pork belly • Fusilli with lamb ragu • Cavatelli with broccoli and chili • Pizza e minestra

Naples, Italy

The different regions of southern Italy produce spicy oils, fleshy tomatoes, and large lemons, with heritage thriving around the table as you experience the best of the cuisine on southern Italy tours and vacations or curated Italy food tours .

Southern Italy brings a celebratory focus to the international dishes many already know, but within cuisine inherent to specific soils and seas. You can learn more in our southern Italy travel guide or Italy food and wine travel guide .

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Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily

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Learn the Secrets to Living 'la Dolce Vita' During This 2-Week Guided Tour of Italy

Indulge in Italy’s finest food and views during this 2-week guided tour. When in Rome, you will toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain during a walking tour with a Local Expert. At the Vatican Museums, get a behind-the-scenes look at the Bramante Staircase, a winding masterpiece normally closed to the public. In Sorrento, settle into a luxurious resort and take in the views of Mount Vesuvius, which buried Pompeii in a sea of lava in 79 A.D. A restaurant’s founder will share why he uses only organic ingredients that he grows himself — and you will indulge in those freshly picked vegetables during a farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh orecchiette pasta. In Palermo, a historian will take you through the old city, showing you its cathedral and the Palatine Chapel in the Palace of the Normans, where glittering 12th century mosaics will surely take your breath away.

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Start Rome, Italy. End Palermo, Italy.

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Southern Italy & Sicily

About this tour.

Journey through a crossroads of civilizations in Sicily and on to the spectacular coastlines of Southern Italy. Uncover Sicily’s capital Palermo and its Moorish and Norman influences. Explore seaside Cefalù and Agrigento’s ancient Valley of the Temples. Travel to the historic hilltop town of Taormina. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and agriturismo dinner. Venture to the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. Explore Sorrento and stunning Positano, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in the excavated Pompeii. Allow the unique culture to capture your heart and get a glimpse into an age-old heritage composed of ancient monuments and cultivated lands.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

Your tour at a glance.

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $60.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel southern italy & sicily featuring taormina, matera and the amalfi coast.

While just about any month is great to visit Italy, there are a few prime times of the year for the Southern Italy & Sicily tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Throughout Italy, the most popular times to visit are April, May, June, September, and October. Along the coast, July and August are busy with locals and Europeans on summer holiday, while cities are usually less crowded.

Winter: Sicily is known for its mild winter climate, where almond trees bloom in February. Enjoy this tour in the winter season to experience Italy without the crowds.

Spring and Fall: Avoiding summer’s crowds, the spring or fall are great seasons to visit Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Despite occasionally rainy weather, the quieter time of year is very enjoyable for sightseeing and dining out at restaurants.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale's Cathedral.

Journey to the Sassi di Matera, known for its cave dwellings.

Experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii at the foothills of Mount Vesuvius.

Cultural Experiences:

Stand in awe before the ancient Greek theatre in Taormina.

• Experience seaside Cefalù and Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.

Journey to Positano village, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Indulge in a delicious regional dinner inside a winery's agriturismo restaurant.

Tour a vineyard and cellar located in the badlands of Basilicata, Matera’s region.

Savor freshly made mozzarella cheese during a visit to a buffalo dairy farm.

• Valley of the Temples
• Piazza Armerina
• Giardini Naxos
• Winery Tour & Tasting

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-Baia di Ulisse

During your stay at the Baia di Ulisse Hotel, Agrigento you can choose to upgrade your room to a frontal Sea View providing the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Le Dune seaside. Upgrade available at the above cost per person, double. Please inquire at time of booking.

*Total for all passengers

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Extend your trip with a 2-night sojourn in the Eternal City. Your Extension includes a walkign tour of Rome's most iconic piazzas and fountains. Explore the oval-shaped, baroque Navona plaza and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain!. During an included tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's basilica, marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece: the Sistine Chapel. And enjoy ample free time to explore the charms of the Eternal City. Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Rome - Extension Begins
• Enjoy a guided walking tour of Classical Rome, leading you through the Eternal City’s most iconic monuments. Walk over cobblestone streets and weathered passageways to discover famous sights such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most breathtaking Baroque piazzas. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps you’ll wander through one of Rome’s many museums, such as the Capitoline or stroll the Avenue of the Imperial Forum for views of the Colosseum.
• Rome - Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
• Early this morning join an expert local guide for a visit of the Vatican Museums* and St. Peter’s Basilica, including the world-famous Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s Last Judgement fresco is situated. The afternoon is yours. Perhaps you’ll explore Rome’s bohemian Trastevere district and wander through its maze-like, ivy-clung streets.
• Rome - Depart for Home
• Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Hotel-NH Palermo

Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine.

See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend a half-day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks before returning to your hotel in Giardini Naxos.

Journey to Puglia, Italy’s bread-basket region. In the company of an expert local guide, explore fanciful Alberobello, a whimsical, UNESCO-protected city that hosts a collection of cone-shaped trulli homes. Enjoy some free time to meander through a labyrinth of these gnomish houses, sometimes featuring symbols with superstitious connotations before returning to Matera in the early evening.

Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale's Cathedral.

Experience seaside Cefalù and Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.

Indulge in a delicious regional dinner inside a winery's agriturismo restaurant.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: NH Palermo From $100 per night

Baia di Ulisse

Una hotel naxos beach sicilia, unahotels mh matera, hotel michelangelo.

Nights 9-10

Radisson Blu GHR

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Southern Italy & Sicily From $3,599 pp* Featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date below for more details.

• Exploration

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Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Southern Italy & Sicily featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

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Enhance your trip, optional excursions.

Add some more spice to your tour with this optional excursions.

Pre and Post Night Stays

Enjoy arriving early or checking out late with our Pre and Post night stays.

Tour Extensions

Extension style.

The extension style for this tour:

Independent

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

Traveler Reviews

From $3,599 pp *

12-13 Days • 16-20 Meals

Review on 12/30/2023

Review on 12/22/2023

Thank you for your review! We look forward to traveling with you again soon.

Thank you for sharing your review, we have passed along your feedback to our team.

Thank you for your review!

We are pleased to hear you had a great time on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, we hope to see you again soon!

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you experienced a flight cancellation in route to tour. All out of pocket expenses during the delay can be submitted to the travel insurance for reimbursement.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you were disappointed with your tour manager. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Fun trip lots of food

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very happy to hear you had a wonderful time on tour.

Southern Italy great - Rome not so much

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour with the Rome extension.We're sorry to hear you were disappointed with the Rome extension. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

a little bit a little bit of everything in Italy.

Packed with history and sceniery., nice trip, but some of the included were not very good.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you experienced issues with some of the included meals. Your feedback will be reviewed by our Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Sicily Southern Italy

No room for one girl, beautiful locations, difficult terrain., it was a wonderfully organized and executed tour with superior guides., great guide and great trip , extraordinary trip, all our hopes for this trip were answered..

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy and Sicily tour. We're very sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with your cancelled flights. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Collette provides exceptional service.

Great trip. was not impressed with palermo or hotel garibaldi., the sicily and southern italy trip is a delight everyday, sicily and southern italy in october.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with the some of the hotels and included meals. Your comments will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Spectacular vistas, great food, covered alot of Italy & Sicily.

I enjoy traveling with colette because they handle all the details.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very sorry for the issues you experienced with some of the hotels on tour. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Some of the hotels and food need to improve...

Beautiful southern italy & sicily trip, amazing sicily and southern italy explored., fabulous, rethinking booking collette tours for myself or my clients..

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. Thank you for taking the time provide us with your review of the tour. We're very sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with the itinerary and the hotels that were used for this departure. Your comments will be reviewed by our Product Design Team for Italy so that the overall touring experience can be improved. We did speak with your sister Amelia today as well regarding her experience on our Italy's Treasures tour.

The trip was a great and fun experience.

Our 3rd collette tour didn’t measure up to previous 2 tours.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very sorry to hear you had such a disappointing experience on tour with us. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Wonderful, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable combined holidays.

Beautiful, busy tour, the trip was ok. the next time i travel it will be on a more personal iten, it was a nice trip. quick views and visits of places., excellent organization for a memorable tour, very good/helpful customer service, tour guid was very good could have used more relaxing time.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. We're sorry to hear about the difficulties you experienced on tour. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

Best trip ever!

Southern italy and sicily, daniel was the best tour guide ever he took great care of all of us., we love collette.

Very good tour

Great tour, great tour guide, just what a bus tour should be., beautiful country and knowledgeable, wonderful tour manager, very enjoyable trip.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. Your feedback will be reviewed by our Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Italy. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to enhance the overall touring experience for our guests.

An amazing trip with beautiful scenery like The Amalfi Coast. Breath taking

Spectacular, our tour almost made me wish i was born italian, sicily is an interesting country and we saw the best of it., everything was superb, very good tour..

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Development Team.

Out of This World!

Tour needs refinement, collette is the best, professional, informative, delicious.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy and Sicily. A member of the Guest Relations Team will follow up with you.

Efforts should be made to negotiate early openings for breakfasts.

We saw all the things we were interested in, in scicily and the amalfi coas, so. italy, leave the driving to collette.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy and Sicily. Your feedback has been forwarded to our Product Development Team. They will use your comments to enhance this tour for our future guests.

Exceptionally one of the best vacations!!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Italy. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to you to discuss your feedback. 

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy & Sicily. All feedback is influential in addition to being an important means through which we work to improve our product, service and customer satisfaction. We are grateful for your business and hope to see you again on another Collette tour.

Try another tour group!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy & Sicily. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback. 

Excellent trip.

Well organized, try touring off season. it is a great experience., don't miss sicily and southern italy tour, outstanding in every way, great vacation - would tour with collette again, worth the trip, wonderful trip....can't wait to book another collette tour.

Hello, thank you for sharing this feedback with us about the pace of the tour.  We have passed this along to members of our team for review.  We appreciate you and value your insight as it helps us to improve our tours for future guests. We look forward to traveling with you again soon. 

Well organized tour -

Recommend the tour for others with a few changes., outstanding tour., would use collette again..

Hello, thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have shared your feedback with our team and they will review it and use it to improve the tour for future guests. If you'd like to share more about your experience, we'd be happy to set you up with a call with our guest relations team. 

Stressful, rushed and too much time on a bus

Hello Karen, Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  A member of our guest relations team will be reaching out to you to learn more about your experience. 

Hello Archie, thank you for bringing this to our attention.  We have forwarded your feedback to members of our product and tour management team for review.  They'll use your insight about the tour elements to improve the experience for future guests.   If there's anything else you'd like to share with us, we'd be happy to set up a call with our guest relations team.  Please let us know if you'd be interested in speaking with them. We appreciate your business and look forward to traveling with you again soon. 

Friendly tour director

Sicily and souther italy is a wonderful scenic tour with lots of history, a little disappointed.

Hello Cynthia, we appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We have passed along your feedback about your experience with the flights and other accommodations on tour to members of our team for review.  Your insight is valued and appreciated as it helps us to improve the tours for future guests. If there is anything else you wish to share about the tour, please feel free to reach out.  We look forward to traveling with you again soon!

We enjoyed the tour.

Hello, thank you for sharing this feedback with us about the tour manager. We have passed this along to members of our team for review.  We appreciate you and value your insight as it helps us to improve our tours for future guests. We look forward to traveling with you again soon.

I have booked 2 more trips with you and hope to see improvement.

Spectacular views of sciliy and so. italy., i would say the tour was just "okay." wouldn't recommend it..

Hello Bonnie, Thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have shared your feedback about the first part of your trip with our team for review.  They will use your insight to improve the tours for future guests.  

Overall very good holiday. very dissapointed with thw airline carrier

I have traveled on 7 (other companies) tours, but collette was the best, great tour guide. great itinerary. did not deal with office direct....ou..., good service by collette.

Hello Steven, Thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have sent your feedback over to our product team to make sure the info is correct for future guests.  We appreciate your business and hope to travel with you again soon. 

Excellent service by Collette US

Good customer service, but flight arrangements didn't allow enough time in ...

Pace of entire trip was excellent. older group was greatly considered. nice..., great trip, entertaining, informative, fun; good value., good service by collette us, very helpful service., enjoyable trip--could have had a little time on the bus, amazing tour. the tour guide, monica, was fantastic. very professional and..., wonderful trip, loved the experience., a great trip i would do it again in a minute..

Is there anything you would like us to pass along to our product team that you were not particularly satisfied with?

Collette's Sicily and Southern Italy tour is the best tour to see so much in 10 days!

The tour manager will make or break the trip, sicily and southern italy..

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IDENTIFICATION Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

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Southern Italy and Sicily

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10-Day Italy Tour of Rome, Sorrento, Capri and Sicily

10 days, 1 country and 9 cities

Accommodation

9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

The sun-kissed south and Sicily are the star attractions on this mesmerizing southern Italy trip from Rome to Palermo. Taste local Sicilian wine on the slopes of snow-capped Mount Etna, learn about the ancient Greek heritage of Agrigento and get lost in the medieval cobbled streets of Erice.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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Day by day itinerary

10 days itinerary trip from Rome to Palermo visiting 1 country and 9 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Pompeii, Capri, Taormina, Agrigento and Palermo with a Local Specialist

Visit the excavations at Pompeii, the ruins of the ancient Greek theater at Taormina, the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, Erice, Monreale Cathedral

View the fortress town of Enna and Palermo Cathedral

Scenic Cruise to the Isle of Capri

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return cruise to the Isle of Capri

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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7 delicious Southern Italian foods that’ll make you want to travel right now

If there’s one thing everyone knows about Italian culture , it’s the food . No matter where you go around the world, no matter the continent or country, you will inevitably find some version of pizza, pasta and espresso.

Of course, being an ancient country with a diverse population, there is no one true source of authentic Italian cuisine. In fact, each of the country’s regions are known simply by their specialties, such as risotto from Lombard, pasta carbonara from Rome, or traditional pizza from Naples.

And then, dominating southern Italy’s food for over 2,000 years, there’s Sicilian cuisine. As a major trading port for ancient Italy, the island boasts a unique blend of mainland Italian cooking with influences from Arabia, Spain and ancient Greece.

It’s here that seafood dominates, that the cannoli was born, that breakfast is a frozen coffee topped with whipped cream, that you’ll find the best eggplant pastas the country has to offer.

These are the essentials for any visit to Italy’s south.

1. Granita, plus brioche

Image by Gandolfo Cannatella

For a Sicilian, breakfast is served ice cold.

Granita is a mixture of ice, sugar and fresh fruit or nuts — think sorbet, only coarse and served in a glass with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The typical flavours include lemon, coffee, pistachio, almond, strawberry and black mulberries.

The Sicilian breakfast special is a granita al caffe served with a brioche bun. Tear the bun apart, dip its pieces in the creamy, icy mixture, and try not to think about your boring breakfasts back home.

RELATED: WHY ITALY IS AN AMAZING DESTINATION FOR VEGAN TRAVELLERS

Image by Wead

“Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.”

As the famous scene from The Godfather suggests, cannoli is an irresistible treat, for the locals and hardened Sicilian mobsters alike.

Traditional Sicilian cannoli consists of crunchy fried pastry dough curled into a tube, injected with a creamy ricotta filling and sprinkled with crushed pistachios or chocolate chips.

Avoid any pasticceria serving you pre-filled cannoli — the best cannoli is filled while you wait.

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3. Arancino

Image by funkyfrogstock

Despite being one of the most widespread street foods in Sicily, the locals still haven’t agreed on the official name. Typically, if you’re in Palermo or further west, you’ll see signs for “arancina”; for Catania and the east, it’s “arancino”.

Either way, no day spent exploring the sun-drenched streets of Sicily’s main towns is complete without one. A crumbed and deep-fried pyramid of rice, meat, tomato sauce, peas and melty mozzarella, arancino is essential Sicilian street food.

RELATED: 5 PERFECT DESTINATIONS IN ITALY FOR SOLO TRAVEL

4. Seafood with caponata

Image by Cliff Bielawski

Blessed with the Mediterranean at their doorstep, Sicily is obsessed with seafood and serving it fresh . Mussels, squid, octopus, sardines, tuna, anchovies, swordfish — these are the main courses for a significant chunk of restaurants on the island, often plucked fresh from the sea that morning. Don’t miss the swordfish: whopping steaks grilled for just a couple of minutes on each side for a tender, juicy centre.

A traditional side to a Sicilian seafood meal is the caponata; a sweet and sour stew of fried eggplants, sweet vinegar and celery. This dish can even double as a main course, where it’s served with squid, shellfish, olives, potatoes, raisins or pine nuts.

5. Pasta alla norma

The other Sicilian obsession is the eggplant. This ingredient is unique to Sicilian cuisine, featuring heavily on the island’s menu of antipasti, pizzas and, of course, pastas.

The pinnacle of Sicilian eggplant cooking is the pasta alla norma , a simple dish of fried eggplants cooked in tomato sauce and served with grated ricotta salata , a firm and salty cheese. As with most Italian dishes, the traditional pasta for this one is up for debate, although you’ll most likely find some version of penne or bucatini (hollowed-out spaghetti).

RELATED: 12 PHOTOS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT SICILY IMMEDIATELY

6. Pane cunzato

Naples has the market locked for traditional, deliciously authentic, incomparable Italian pizza. However, Sicily’s variation on the pizza, the pane cunzato, has long been a strong competitor.

The name roughly translates to “seasoned bread” and the recipe sits somewhere between pizza and bruschetta : a baked dough base topped with some combination of fresh tuna (or anchovies), tomatoes, basil, olives, capers, red onions, olive oil and oregano.

In the past, it has also been known as the “bread of misery”, as poorer Sicilians only had access to more miserable seasonings than those listed above. Now, the pane cunzato overflows with fresh, rich ingredients and has become a staple in most restaurants, cafes and bars — the perfect companion to your mid-afternoon cocktail.

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7. Limoncello di Sicilia

Image by youri

Where do you turn once you’ve overdone it on all of this swordfish, pasta alla norma and cannoli? Limoncello, that’s where. Second only to Campari on Italy’s list of favourite liqueurs, limoncello is a lemon-based digestivo (after dinner drink) that’s sweet and strong in equal measure.

While Sicily can’t make a definitive claim as the birthplace of limoncello, its particular version of the drink — made with lemons from the volcanic grounds of the nearby Mount Etna — has been enjoyed since at least the 1870s.

Enjoy a glass (or two or three) chilled or over ice.

Tummy rumbling? Satisfy your hunger on a small group adventure in Southern Italy now . 

Feature image by giuseppelombardo. 

Feeling inspired?

Sean Sebastian

Sean is a freelance writer born in Melbourne and based in London. The only thing he has consistently loved in his life is travel (sorry, family and friends) and looks forward to crossing off the enormous list of cities on his bucket list. He tweets from @seanjseabass

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