18 Day Italy, Sicily & Malta Premium Small Group Tour

This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.

Escorted Type
Fully Escorted

This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5

 

Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!

 

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.

Pace
Active

Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.

Group Size
Small Group

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Cooling Off Period
7 Days
Small Group Tour
763 people have travelled to this destination

✓ Intimate small group tour with a maximum of 24 passengers 
✓ Incredible sightseeing including a guided tour of Pompeii, a delightful lunch at a winery nestled on Mt Vesuvius' slopes, a day excursion to the enchanting island of Capri, guided exploration of Valletta and the historic capital of Mdina, and a plethora of other exciting experiences! 
✓ 16 nights in central 4-star accommodation 
✓ Overnight ferry from Naples to Palermo
✓ Ferry from Pozzallo to Malta
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches & 5 dinners 
✓ Fully escorted by a professional English-speaking Tour Director (except for ferry transfers) 
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout 
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary 
✓ Hotel porterage included for your convenience 

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

What we love about this tour

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Itinerary

Hotel
Hotel NH Carpegna or Similar

Welcome to Rome!

You have the option to book transfers for added convenience.

This evening is free for you to explore Rome at your leisure.

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

 

Hotel
Hotel Poseidon or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning before we leave the bustling capital of Rome for Southern Italy. We head to Pompeii, arguably the most famous archeological site of the Roman era. While there are some exemplary remains of the Roman Empire left behind, Pompeii is unique in that almost a whole town has been preserved, rather than a standalone villa or temple, but at the cost of tragic circumstances. In AD79, nearby Mount Vesuvius, had a major eruption completely destroying surrounding towns and cities in metres of volcanic ash, wiping Pompeii off the map. But while Pompeii ceased to exist, the volcanic ash that now blanketed the town acted as a preservation for the city. What remains is a striking insight into the daily life and social structure of the Roman Empire. 

You will enjoy a guided tour through the ancient ruins, which includes multiple villas, an amphitheatre, intact frescoes and probably the world’s oldest take-away restaurant.

Following the tour, we will indulge in a wine tasting and lunch at Cantine del Vesuvio, situated on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. This visit promises both pleasure and discovery, including a tour of the cellars to understand the unique production methods of Lacryma Christi Vesuvian wines, a stroll through the vineyard and gardens, and lunch set against a panoramic backdrop. Concluding the meal, we drive to the still-active Vesuvius, reaching an elevation of 1277 metres. From 1000 metres above sea level, we embark on a short hike to the crater's rim, where smoking solfataras on the steep slopes of the 200-metre-deep crater create an impressive spectacle.

Afterwards, we proceed to nearby Torre Del Greco, on the outskirts of Naples, where we will spend the next two nights. Dinner in the hotel.

Please note: depending on your departure date the order of the itinerary on this day might slightly change. 

Hotel
Hotel Poseidon or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

We leave the Italian mainland behind and set course for one of its renowned islands, Capri. This island is a true gem, boasting breathtaking beauty at every turn. Capri's allure dates back to Roman times, with Tiberius himself constructing a remarkable 12 villas on the island, designating it as his primary residence. In the present day, Capri has become synonymous with luxury, attracting the elite with its opulent hotels and streets adorned with high-end designer boutiques.

During today's excursion, you'll have the opportunity to embark on a day trip, including the chance to visit to the Blue Grotto (optional) and a tour of Villa San Michele, one of Capri's most exquisite residences.

We return to Torre Del Greco in the early evening, where you can enjoy an overnight stay and dinner at the hotel.

Hotel
Overnight Ferry or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we embark on a journey to Naples, often described as the 'true Italy.' As a major cosmopolitan hub in Southern Italy, Naples stands out, particularly for its culinary delights. Whether you're savoring a meal at a charming curbside café or indulging in the offerings of high-end restaurants, Naples is hailed as the capital of Italian cuisine, boasting some of the finest food and wine in Europe.

Naples invites us to delve into its rich history, featuring two royal palaces, three castles, and ancient ruins that will captivate us throughout our tour. Today, we'll have the opportunity to relish fantastic local cuisine during lunch at a nearby restaurant and enjoy some leisure time for exploration.

Later, we'll board an overnight ferry for the next leg of our journey, venturing towards the enchanting island of Sicily.

Special information:
The cabin category allocated on the ferry is an internal double cabin: cosy upper deck cabin, equipped with two single or double beds, with or without porthole, ensuite facilities, bedside table with a lamp, international plugs, laundry and bathroom supplies. External cabin with sea view can be requested (subject to availability).

Hotel
Hotel Plaza Opera or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

The charming island of Sicily is strategically nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Its shores bear witness to the passage of major civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines.

Today, the island encapsulates a rich tapestry of its intricate historical legacy, making it one of the most captivating destinations in Europe. Our journey brings us to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. 

Upon checking in, you'll have the entire day and evening to discover the city at your own pace.

Hotel
Della Vale or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Time to escape the hustle of the capital and immerse ourselves in the authentic beauty of Sicily. Our journey takes us to Agrigento, renowned for its iconic Greek temples, with delightful stops along the way to explore some Sicilian gems. First on the list is the medieval village of Erice, perched atop a hill, adorned with striking medieval fortifications. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets before we continue our journey to the coastal town of Marsala.

Our final destination is Agrigento, a picturesque city nestled on a hilltop with a profound historical legacy. The highlight of our visit is the Valley of the Temples, home to one of the world's best-preserved Greek Doric temples—the Temple of Concordia. We'll marvel at these magnificent structures before relishing dinner at our hotel and spending the night in the charming town of Agrigento.

Hotel
Delta Marriott RG Naxos or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

We bid farewell to the southern part of the island and set our course toward the enchanting east coast, reaching the picturesque seaside village of Taormina. Along our journey, we make a captivating stop at Piazza Armerina.

Piazza Armerina is home to the renowned Villa Romana del Casale, constructed in the 4th century AD as a hunting lodge. This villa boasts some of the best-preserved and extensive examples of Roman mosaics.

Our visit to the villa precedes our onward journey to the hotel, conveniently situated near Taormina, in the beachside town of Giardini di Naxos.

Hotel
Delta Marriott RG Naxos or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Following breakfast, we embark on an early journey to explore one of the island's natural marvels, Mount Etna (approx. excursion duration is 3 hours). Boasting over 400 craters, it stands as the largest active volcano in Europe, consistently in a state of perpetual activity. We will drive up to 1,900 meters and stop for a coffee break whilst enjoying the views. Follow an easy walk to the lateral craters to explore this amazing site.

After our Etna adventure, we return to Taormina, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure—whether you choose to relax or explore at your own pace.

Special Information:

For the adventurous, there is the possibility to go up to the peaks of the mountain at 2,900 meters (not included in the tour, to be paid locally). This tour must be booked in advance and organised with your tour leader the day prior. It is advisable to wear hiking shoes and appropriate clothing.

Hotel
20 Miglia Boutique or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive north of Toarmina to the quaint villages of Savoca and Forza D’Agro, known for being the filming locations for Francis Ford Coppolla’s The Godfather. After some time to explore the hilltop towns on foot, we then drive south towards Catania, the other major city on the east coast of the island.

A rich history in itself, Catania is the major entry point for visitors into Sicily, a cosmopolitan hub, Catania boasts large piazzas, countless restaurants, bars and shopping to explore. Highlights include the mediaeval Castello Ursino, the Roman theatre dating back to the 2nd century AD and the Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena, the second largest Benedictine monastery in Europe.

Hotel
Grand Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today we say arrivederci to Sicily and bongu (hello) to Malta. Before we depart Italy, we drive to Syracuse for a quick visit. Syracuse is one of the oldest and historical towns in Sicily. At its peak, it was the largest city in the ancient world, once bigger than Athens and Corinth. Now, it is a beautiful seaside city with an old town located on the fortified island, Isola di Ortigia. We will have some time to explore on foot and visit the Archaelogical museum of Neapolis before we drive to Pozzallo to board our ferry.

Our destination is Malta, one of the most fascinating countries in Europe. One of the smallest countries in the world, it is often referred to as a city-state. However, its influence on history and global diaspora is impressive for a tiny island positioned in the middle of the Mediterranean. Over the next week, we will be spending time on its two main islands – Gozo and Malta itself.

A country that is completely unique, with its own culture, cuisine, and incredibly distinct language, Malta has charmed civilisations for centuries. With historical sites aplenty, all the while wrapped with the magnificent coast of the Mediterranean, Malta has it all. Our first few days are spent on the smaller island of Gozo. 

Once arriving into Malta, we have another short ferry journey to Gozo, where we will be transferred over to our hotel to check in where we have an evening at leisure.

Hotel
Grand Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

We begin our exploration of Gozo today. We drive to Xagħra, where our first stop is the Dream of Horses Farm, a multi-purpose Equestrian farm where we will enjoy lunch.  Afterwards, we will visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience.

After trying local wine, we will drive to the picturesque area of Sannat where we will stop by the famous Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs, a long stretch of 150 metre high cliffs dominating the south coast of Gozo where you will get the chance to get a photo of this incredible natural wonder of Malta.

Hotel
Grand Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

We start with a morning drive to the renowned Saltpans of Xwejni Bay, a historical site dedicated to salt production before we arrive at the iconic Citadella. With records of occupation since the Bronze Age, and the site of the acropolis of the Roman city of Gaulos, the Cittadella has had a long history of human settlement. 

What you see today was mostly developed when the ancient acropolis was converted into a fortress during the medieval period. For centuries the citadel was a refuge for the population of Gozo, and held strong until it was conquered in the 16th century by the Ottoman Empire. Today, the entire citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Next up is a visit to Ta' Pinu, one of the most important religious sites in the country. We then drive to Dwejra Bay, where we will take a refreshing stroll to see Fungus Rock, known for its fungus which for centuries has been used for medicinal purposes. We will have the opportunity to taste some local delicacy at a local bakery where we will enjoy the famous Maltese ftira. 

In the evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before returning back to our hotel.

Hotel
Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

We say addiju (farewell) to the island of Gozo as we are transferred back to the island of Malta. On the way to our hotel in Malta, we make a brief stop at Popeye Village to capture some memorable photos.

The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore the local area.

Hotel
Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

Today is spent exploring Malta’s capital and largest city, Valletta.

A guided walking tour will get us acquainted with this truly unique city. With the entire of the fortified old town being of unique historical significance, the entire city has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will visit the Upper Barakka - Saluting Battery, St John’s Cathedral and the Sacra Infermeria.

Following our visit, we head to a nearby eatery for lunch, situated in the vibrant heart of Valletta. This restaurant is nestled within the National Community Art Museum at Auberge d’Italie.

After lunch, enjoy some free time in the afternoon. 

Return to the hotel in the early evening for time at leisure.

Hotel
Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We continue our exploration of Malta after breakfast, when we visit the Mosta Rotunda. Modelled on the Pantheon in Rome, it features the third-largest unsupported dome in the world. The Maltese miracle happened here, when a German aerial bomb pierced the dome during World War II and fell into the church during mass, but did not explode.

We then enjoy a visit to Dingli cliffs, followed by the Buskett Gardens whose history goes back to pre-Christian times where Pagan rituals would take place. Our day is highlighted by a visit to Mdina, whose striking fortified hilltop location will take your breath away. The city was founded by the ancient trading civilisation known as the Phoenicians, and was later taken over by the Romans.  Mdina was the capital of Malta throughout the Middle Ages, when some magnificent buildings were built. We enjoy a guided tour of the city before enjoying a local cheese making experience and lunch. 

Return to the hotel. In the evening we will head to a local restaurant for dinner and a traditional folklore show.

Hotel
Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After breakfast, we visit one of the most important archeological sites in the region, Hagar Qim. 

A megalithic temple complex, dating back to approximately 3600-3200 BC, these are among the most ancient religious sites on Earth. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex is thought to be older than sites in Mesopotamia, Egypt and Greece. 

Afterwards, we visit the nearby Tal-Hamrija coastal tower, built in the 17th century. We will then drive through the village of Birżebbuġa to go see the nearby Blue Grotto. Weather permitting, you can take a short boat trip to get a closer look (paid locally). 

We then return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Hotel
Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

We venture out for a final day of touring with a tour fondly known as the ‘three cities tour’: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Marsaxlokk. The tour itself is of three neighbouring areas to the south of Valletta’s old town, and offers travellers a more off-the-beaten-track experience. One of the first settlements in the modern-day Grand Harbour, settlers in Valletta used the many harbour inlets from Phoenician times, resulting in locals identifying the three cities as the cradle of Maltese history. The area is known also for being the original settlement for Knights of St. John in the 16th century. 

Afterwards visiting Vittoriosa and Senglea, we will discover the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk and enjoy a local lunch.

Meals
Breakfast

Today your tour concludes upon checking out of your hotel. We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey. 

At the appropriate time. You have the option to book transfers for added convenience, or to extend your stay with an additional night in Malta. 

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Inclusions

  • Small, intimate group experience – no more than 24 people
  • Fully escorted by an English-speaking Tour Director 
  • 16 nights’ accommodation in selected 4-star hotels 
  • Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 5 dinners 
  • Overnight ferry from Naples to Palermo 
  • Ferry from Pozzallo to Malta 
  • Incredible sightseeing including tours of ancient archaeological sites Pompeii, Syracuse, Agrigento and Hagar Qim
  • Guided tours including Naples, and day trips to local villages throughout Sicily and Malta 
  • Entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
  • Porterage

  • Pompeii – Enjoy a guided tour of the ruins of the famous city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD79, dramatically preserving the town and giving an insight into the daily life of the Roman Empire.
  • Capri – Participate in a full-day tour of the renowned island, cherished by Roman Emperors; Capri has been enchanting its visitors for centuries.
  • Naples – Join a walking tour of the city including lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Palermo – Embark on a day-long excursion through the picturesque Sicilian countryside, featuring stops at the medieval town of Erice and the impeccably preserved Greek temples in Agrigento.
  • Sicily – Visit the Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best-preserved villas from the late Roman Period.
  • Taormina – Join an incredible excursion to Mt Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe.
  • Gozo – Embark on day excursions to explore the island, visiting landmarks such as the Basilica of Ta Pinu and the Citadella, while indulging in local tastings that showcase the richness of regional food and wine.
  • Malta – Visit the Hagar Qim temples, which pre-date the great pyramids of Giza by about a 1000 years. 
  • Mdina – Explore the breathtaking Mosta Church and Dingli Cliffs before embarking on a guided tour of Malta's historic capital, Mdina. Immerse yourself in a local cheese-making experience and cap off the day with a folklore show during dinner.
  • Valletta – Explore the vibrant capital city through a guided tour that encompasses a visit to the Barracca Gardens and St. John's Cathedral.

Fine Print

Secure your trip with a ₹3,999.00 deposit per person.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Instalment Schedule:

  1. At the time of booking pay a ₹3,999.00 deposit per person.
  2. Pay a 1st installment of ₹109,249.00 per person within 7 days.
  3. Pay a 2nd installment of ₹109,249.00 per person within 90 days.
  4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

  • Your booking is confirmed
  • Your departure date is within 11 months
  • You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.

Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a”4”

Lively:  This is considered a fast-paced tour. In order to explore as much as possible, this tour may require early starts and long travel days. One to two nights at one destination is standard. While some free time may be scheduled, most sightseeing is included throughout this tour. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage. To ensure this trip is right for you, any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aid, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional ₹121,245.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name

In order to keep our Single Supplement at a reduced cost, some hotels may allocate solo travellers with a dedicated Single Room. At times this may mean a single bed will be provided.

Triple Share
Not available.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

Group Size
Minimum of 10 and maximum 24 people

Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

  • Fully Escorted - This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Post Tour Accommodation

  • ₹14,240.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • ₹14,240.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

  • International airfares
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Departure airport transfer
  • Visas
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Tipping
  • Optional activities
  • Local Tourist Tax at some hotels
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Click HERE for more information on weather in Italy.

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