Sicilian cooking lesson in Taormina

Pizza cookery class in Giardini Naxos

Meet your professional pizza chef Maurizio for your 2-hour pizza making lesson. Learn the tricks of the trade from the real deal, a Sicilian Pizzaiolo in a local pizzeria. Chef Maurizio will explain the magic involved in turning simple ingredients into a mouthwatering pizza, and at the end of the session you will sit down to enjoy your pizza with a glass of local wine.

Taormina and Mount Etna from Cefalù

Set off from Cefalù on a full-day tour to two of Sicily's must-see treasures – Mount Etna and Taormina. At Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, you can check out the Silvestri Craters, shops and cafes at 1,900 metres above sea level, or ride the cable car and 4x4 up to 2,900 metres for jaw-dropping views across the island. Then, it's off to Taormina, a charming hilltop town with winding Medieval streets, boutiques, cozy cafes and a historic Greek theatre overlooking the sea.

Mount Etna tour from Taormina

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and a true icon of Sicily. This is your chance to venture either 1,900 or 2,900 metres above sea level to check out the lunar-like landscapes of the volcano's craters. You'll be driven from Taormina to Rifugio Sapienza, where – if you've chosen to go up to 2,900 metres – you'll switch to a cable car and 4x4 vehicle to reach the main crater for a guided walk and some epic views. If you opt to stay at 1,900 metres, there's free time to explore the nature trails around the Silvestri Craters, along with souvenir shops, cafés and a small museum that tells the story of the mountain's past. Either way, you'll want your camera for this one.

Guided Corleone mafia resistance tour with lunch

Corleone was once a town once infamous for its mafia ties, but today it is a beacon of resistance and justice. The panoramic drive through the mountains sets the stage for an enlightening day ahead. Vincenzo, one of our expert local guides says, “This fascinating, insightful tour is designed to educate and debunk Hollywood's glamorised portrayal of mafia life, offering instead a genuine glimpse into the courageous fight against organised crime. This is an important tour for our town." First up is The Godfather's House Museum, a grand 19th-century residence that takes you on a journey through time, exploring the birth of both the mafia and anti-mafia movements. Next, delve deeper into this complex history at the CIDMA Antimafia Museum, home to an extensive collection of documents and exhibits chronicling the dark past and brave resistance against the mafia. After a walking tour of Corleone's historic streets, you'll be whisked off to a local restaurant near the Royal Palace of Ficuzza for a classic Italian lunch, surrounded by natural beauty. Finally, sit back and relax on your return journey to Cefalù, taking with you a deeper understanding of Corleone's transformation from a mafia stronghold to a place that local people are proud to call home, a place with a future free from the clutches of organized crime.

Evening transfer to Palermo from Cefalu

Hop aboard this transfer service and spend an evening in Palermo. Once you arrive, your guide will give you a quick orientation of the city, before sharing their favourite spots and recommendations. Then, you'll have three hours of free time in the Sicilian capital before your transfer back to your hotel – whether you fancy seeing the city's most iconic sights, sampling local dishes or soaking up the bustling atmosphere, there's something for everyone.You can head over to Vucciria Market, which comes alive with street food vendors, music, and dancing, offering a taste of local nightlife. Iconic squares like Piazza Rivoluzione and Piazza Sant'Anna buzz with activity, perfect for enjoying a drink and people-watching. The area around Teatro Massimo is filled with lively bars and cafés, making it a great spot to start your evening. For a more relaxed vibe, head to Mondello Beach and enjoy the serene seaside under the stars.

Pizza cooking class in Taormina

Make traditional Sicilian Pizza with a real 'pizzaiolo' - the Italian word for pizza chef. Learn the secrets of perfect pizza from an expert as you prepare the dough and the toppings for flash baking in a searing hot pizza oven. Take the skills and knowledge home with you to recreate authentic pizza whenever you like. You'll get a certificate and souvenir apron, too.

Arancino making class in Taormina

The classic Sicilian arancino is a plump croquette of rice coated in breadcrumbs and served hot and crisp. There are a number of traditional fillings such as ragu, mushrooms, prosciutto or spinach - but the most popular in Sicily is a meat sauce with peas and mozzarella. Join a professional chef to learn the secrets of making these perfect little Sicilian snacks.

Cannoli making class in Taormina

Sicily is reknowned for its sweet treats and indulgent desserts - none more famous than Cannoli. Under the supervision and guidance of a professional chef, you'll learn how to make these typical ricotta-stuffed pastries and add a bit of extra sweetness to your trip. Take new skills home and make Cannoli whenever you feel like a taste of Sicily.

Dolphin-watching sunset cruise with aperitif

Cruising by the iconic Isola Bella at sunset, with an aperitif in hand, you'll really take your holiday to the next level. And that's just the first part of the trip. Once you've admired the coastline, you'll be whisked further from the coast to the Isola Bella marine reserve. Here, we'll begin our search for dolphins - if we are lucky enough to spot a group, we will approach cautiously so we can observe them without disturbing them.

Sicilian cooking lesson in Taormina

The beautiful simplicity of Sicilian cuisine has made it one of the island's best attractions, right up there with Mt Etna, classical ruins and baroque architecture. This cookery class in Taormina is a chance to learn more about the island's cuisine, and sharpen your cooking skills at the same time.The fun begins at the local market, where you'll be given tips on how to shop for the best meat, fish and vegetables. Your guide will then take you on a short walk through the town, to a nearby restaurant. There, you'll enjoy a cooking lesson from an experienced local chef. He'll start by giving you a demonstration of how to prepare a Sicilian meal.Then, it's over to you to have a go at cooking it yourself. You'll get to judge your own culinary skills afterwards, as what you've prepared will be served for lunch. And what's more, you'll take home a branded apron and certificate alongside your new-found recipes.