St. Agatha & Acireale Carnival

FRIDAY 05 FEBRUARY

Meet your tour leader at Malta International Airport at 1100hrs for your direct flight to Catania. Upon arrival, transfer to your 4* hotel nestled within easy reach of Acireale for check-in and room allocation. Later re-join the group and head into the heart of Catania to experience the Feast of Saint Agatha. Witness the spectacular Gran Finale along Via Etnea and the surrounding Baroque streets as the magnificent silver carriage, decorated with thousands of white carnations and carrying the Saint’s sacred relics, makes its solemn procession through the UNESCO-listed historic centre. Experience the unforgettable atmosphere as devoted pilgrims pull the heavy carriage up the steep Via San Giuliano amid chants, celebrations, traditional delicacies and a spectacular fireworks display.

SATURDAY 06 FEBRUARY

After breakfast, depart for an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Enjoy an easy walk around the rim of the Silvestri Craters, located opposite the parking area, where striking red and black volcanic landscapes provide exceptional photographic opportunities. Afterwards, enjoy free time to browse the traditional wooden chalets, sample the region’s famous Etna honey and discover locally crafted volcanic stone souvenirs. In the afternoon head back to Acireale for Sicily’s most famous Carnival. Spend the afternoon at leisure soaking up the festive atmosphere as the elegant Baroque streets come alive with elaborate artistic floats, colourful parades, music and lively street entertainment.

SUNDAY 07 FEBRUARY

Following buffet breakfast, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic centre just before a full day at leisure for Acireale’s carnival. Today marks the highlight of the Carnival, featuring the spectacular parade of beautifully decorated flower-covered floats, one of Sicily’s most cherished traditions.

MONDAY 08 FEBRUARY

After breakfast and check-out, travel to Castelmola, one of Sicily’s most picturesque medieval villages, perched high above Taormina and offering breathtaking views stretching from Mount Etna to the Ionian Sea. Continue to the elegant resort town of Taormina, where you will have free time to wander through its charming streets, browse its boutiques and admire the spectacular panoramic terraces overlooking Isola Bella. Later, enjoy some free time along the palm-lined seafront promenade of Giardini Naxos, where you may wish to savour a refreshing granita or authentic Sicilian pistachio gelato before making a final shopping stop before your late transfer to Catania Airport for your return flight to Malta.