Cultural Sardinia – 9 Nights
Cagliari (2 nights), Barumini (1 night), Orgosolo (3 nights), Dorgali (1 night), La Caletta (2 nights)
This is a sample itinerary which is completely customizable, ask us how.
Highlights
- 9 nights in high-end accommodation
- Tour the Roman ruins of Nora and the Su Nuraxi archaeological site
- Visit the Museum of Ethnography
- Explore the Grotta di Ispinigoli and Supramonte Mountains
- Visit a winery and sample of Sardinia's famous Cannonau wine
- Discover Siniscola, Capo Comino, and Montalbo
- Plus much more on request
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cagliari
Welcome to Cagliari
Arrive in Cagliari, the capital city of Sardinia. Spend the day exploring the city’s historic center, visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Roman Amphitheater, and the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari.
Overnight: Cagliari
Day 2: Day trip to Nora
Visit the ancient city of Nora
Take a day trip to the ancient city of Nora, located on the southern coast of Sardinia. Wander around the Roman ruins, including the amphitheater, public baths, and the Temple of Tanit. In the evening, return to Cagliari and enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Overnight: Cagliari
Day 3: Head north to Barumini
Welcome to Barumini
Head north and inland to the village of Barumini. Your private tour guide will take you to visit the Su Nuraxi archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site features a Nuragic fortress dating back to the Bronze Age which you will learn all about and see with your own eyes. Afterward, explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy a traditional Sardinian lunch.
Overnight: Barumini
Day 4: Road trip to Orgoloso
Transfer to Orgoloso with stop overs
After breakfast, your driver will collect you to start your journey to Orgoloso stopping in the coastal town of Oristano for some siteseeing and lunch. Visit the ancient ruins of Tharros and the nearby historic Basilica di Santa Giusta, a Romanesque church built in the 12th century. The church is home to an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts, including a Byzantine icon of the Madonna and Child and a 14th-century wooden crucifix.
Later continue on to Orgoloso where you will settle in for the night.
Overnight: Orgoloso
Day 5: Private tour of Orgosolo
Get top know Orgosolo
Take a private guided tour of Orgosolo, a small town famous for its murals, painted on the walls of its buildings. These murals depict scenes from Sardinian history and culture. Learn about the culture of the town to learn more about the meaning behind these colorful works of art.
Overnight: Orgosolo
Day 6: Excursion to Nuoro
Visit Nuoro and scenic mountains
Your private driver will take you to the nearby Nuoro, a city located in the central part of Sardinia. There you will explore the city and visit the Museum of Ethnography, which features exhibits on Sardinian traditions and customs. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the Gennargentu Mountains where you are free to hike and explore at your leisure before heading back to your accommodation.
Overnight: Orgoloso
Day 7: Wine tasting in Oliena
Wine and wander in Oliena
Check out of your hotel and commence your journey to Dorgali, stopping in Oliena, a town known for its traditional crafts and beautiful scenery. Take a tour of a local winery and sample some of Sardinia’s famous Cannonau wine. In the afternoon, stroll through the nearby mountains and enjoy the nature.
Later, head to Dorgali, a town located in the eastern part of Sardinia.
Overnight: Dorgali
Day 7: Private boat tour of Grotta di Ispinigoli
Explore geological caves
After breakfast you will take a private boat tour of the Grotta di Ispinigoli, a stunning cave with stalactites and stalagmites. You will then be free to hike in the nearby Supramonte Mountains, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Overnight: Dorgali
Day 8: Head to La Caletta
Lap up the coast of La Caletta
Head north east to the picturesque coastal town of La Caletta. With its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, this charming village is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, stroll along the beach promenade, or enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the local restaurants. In the evening, watch the sunset over the sea, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this idyllic destination.
Overnight: La Caletta
Day 9: Visit Siniscola, Capo Comino, and Montalbo
Venturing beyond La Caletta
Spend your last full day exploring the surrounding area of La Caletta. Your guide will take you to the nearby town of Siniscola, famous for its historic architecture and vibrant markets. Take a short drive to the stunning Capo Comino beach, where you can admire the unique sand dunes and turquoise waters. Alternatively, head inland to the rugged mountain range of Montalbo, and discover the traditional Sardinian way of life. The choice is yours, but no matter what you decide to do, Sardinia will leave a mark on your heart.
Overnight: La Caletta
Day 10: Farewell Sardinia
After one last breakfast and morning dip, your driver will collect you from your hotel and take you to the nearby port or airport to commence your journey home or elsewhere. Arrivaderci, Sardinia!
Palermo, Two Nights
Walking tour of PalermoDiscover the iconic sights of Palermo on a private guided tour with an expert guide. On this private VIP experience, our expert guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you on a journey of discovery through the most glorious parts of Palermo. As a part of this special day, you will have the chance to see all of Palermo’s main attractions and stunning Baroque architecture, including Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, the Quattro Canti, the Cathedral, the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria, the Palatine Chapel, the Norman Palace and the popular markets. During your cultural walk, there will be plenty of time to ask your private guide questions and learn more about the history of Palermo and its charming culture.Excursion to MonrealeOverlooking the Golden Valley (Conca d’Oro) on top of Mons Regalis, the medieval village of Monreale is known for its magnificent Cathedral, which features some of the most beautiful religious mosaics of the 12th century. The Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Norman architecture in Sicily and is a joy to discover on this small-group day trip from Palermo. As well as the Cathedral, you will have time to explore the abbey cloister, which boasts more than 200 intricate double columns decorated in glass mosaic.
Segesta, Erice, Marsala and Selinunte, Two Nights
Excursion to Segesta and EriceEnhance your sightseeing experience of Sicily on an enriching full-day excursion to Erice and Segesta. First, you can delight in the medieval majesty of Erice, a walled town that reigns over the picturesque harbor of Trapani, where you can delve into the historical wonders of one of Sicily’s most in-demand destinations. Through the eyes of your expert guide, you will become acquainted with the city and its key landmarks on an in-depth history tour with the chance to also hike along the coastal reserve.
Next, you will discover Segesta, one of the major cities of the ancient indigenous Elymian people. Here you can visit the Doric temple, which dates back to the late 5th century BC. It was built on a hilltop just outside of the ancient city and has a commanding view of the surrounding area. If anyone needed yet more proof that the Greeks had a good eye for where to build, Segesta would lay any doubts to rest once and for all! Indeed, the setting of the temple is simply beautiful as completely unspoiled rolling green countryside stretches right down to the glistening aquamarine sea.Wine tasting in Marsala and SelinunteOn this VIP excursion you will be picked up by our private driver at your hotel and leave for Marsala, which was once known as Lilibeo and was founded by refugees fleeing the destruction of Mozia. It was conquered by the Romans at the end of the First Punic War and became a luxurious town featuring glorious palaces and thermal baths. The Arabian settlers called the ancient city Mars-Alì (“the harbor of Alì” or “the big harbor”), but it is now known as Marsala. The modern city is known for its world-famous Marsala wine, as well as for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. On our private adventure, you will discover all the best sights, including the Archaeological Museum and the Salt Road with the Salt Pans. You will also stop in a winery for Marsala wine tasting before reaching Selinunte, an ancient Greek city in the widest archaeological park of Europe. It was founded in the 7th century BC but was destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians allied with Segesta, its eternal rival. The two most important areas you’ll visit are the Eastern Hill with the ruins of three temples, and the Acropolis where Greek and Punic ruins are still visible.
Agrigento, One Night
Valley of the Temples tourImmerse yourself in Sicily’s Greek past with this tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples (entry included).
The UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites and is a joy to discover if you have an interest in history or simply want to learn more about Sicily’s turbulent past. This tour experience takes you to the sacred site, where an expert guide will treat you to a guided walk through the Valley.
As a part of your tour, you will see the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Herakles, the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Chtonian Deities (Temple of Castor and Pollux). During the tour, your guide will discuss the temples’ construction and tell you about their on-going preservation.
Syracuse and Pantalica, Two Nights
Private walking tour of SyracuseEnjoy a private tour around the historical center of Syracuse with this VIP experience on the ancient island of Ortygia. This private walk begins at the ancient Greek Apollo Temple and leads you to Cathedral Square, which boasts beautiful limestone buildings and Baroque architecture. From here, you will visit the Arethusa Fountain, which is steeped in legend and mystery – your guide will tell you all its secrets! The tour concludes with a visit to the Jewish Quarter and Archimedes Square, where you can admire the Fountain of Diana, which was built in a Neoclassical style and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Ortygia.Naturalistic excursion to PantalicaOne of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the rocky necropolis of Pantalica, in eastern Sicily. This site is somewhat off the beaten track but certainly worth a visit on your complete Sicily vacation. Pantalica is a prehistoric site dating back to the late Bronze Age (from the 13th to the 8th century BC) and is famous for its necropolis, which features thousands of tombs dug into the overhanging walls of the Anapo Canyon. Pantalica is also famous for its breathtaking natural vistas and unusual wildlife. In fact, it is part of the revered Anapo Valley Nature Reserve, which is a paradise for trekking.
Taormina and Mount Etna, Two Nights
Full-day Mount Etna Jeep tour with wine tasting and lunchScale the slopes of Italy’s famously active Mount Etna on this full-day 4×4 Jeep tour from Taormina. As a part of this unique experience, you will travel up rugged mountain tracks in an off-road vehicle and trek by foot to a stunning lookout point with views of lava flow basins and cave tubes created by the 2002 eruption. After descending from the volcano, you will enjoy a decadent and authentic Sicilian lunch of handmade cheeses, cured meats, pasta and dessert served with local wine.VIP Taormina tour, featuring the Greek TheaterToday you will discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a two-hour private tour. This guided experience allows you to explore the highlights of this charming city, including Palazzo Corvaja, the Santa Caterina Church and Vicolo Stretto, which is the narrowest street in town. As a special addition to this Taormina tour, you will enjoy “skip the line” entry to the ancient Greek Theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos. There is no better way to discover this unassuming city’s treasured attractions!
Catania, Two Nights
VIP Catania walking tourThe scent of fresh lemons and oranges and the harmonized landscape of Mount Etna’s cliffs rolling into the glistening sea set the backdrop for the sublime city of Catania. And on this exclusive tour experience, you will have every opportunity to discover the best of Catania, including Piazza del Duomo, the Amenano Fountain, Castello Ursino, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo Biscari, Saint Agata Dome, Via Etnea, Piazza Stesicoro, which features a Roman Theater, and finally the Bellini Garden.Catania street food experienceWith our hand-selected local guide, who you can be sure knows where to find only the best Catania cuisine, you will begin this food-tasting experience with a historical overview of the city, including the intricate alleys and squares of Catania’s old town, the ancient central market of Catania, Piazza Duomo, Via Etnea (the main street) and Piazza Stesicoro. But, of course, the most important part of this Catania food tour will be the opportunity to taste no less than 15 popular street foods that the city is famous for: arancino, cipollina, pizzetta, fresh fish, meatballs, local cheese, olives, cannolo with ricotta, cassatella, granita and much more!Palermo, Two Nights
Walking tour of PalermoDiscover the iconic sights of Palermo on a private guided tour with an expert guide. On this private VIP experience, our expert guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you on a journey of discovery through the most glorious parts of Palermo. As a part of this special day, you will have the chance to see all of Palermo’s main attractions and stunning Baroque architecture, including Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, the Quattro Canti, the Cathedral, the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria, the Palatine Chapel, the Norman Palace and the popular markets. During your cultural walk, there will be plenty of time to ask your private guide questions and learn more about the history of Palermo and its charming culture.Excursion to MonrealeOverlooking the Golden Valley (Conca d’Oro) on top of Mons Regalis, the medieval village of Monreale is known for its magnificent Cathedral, which features some of the most beautiful religious mosaics of the 12th century. The Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Norman architecture in Sicily and is a joy to discover on this small-group day trip from Palermo. As well as the Cathedral, you will have time to explore the abbey cloister, which boasts more than 200 intricate double columns decorated in glass mosaic.Segesta, Erice, Marsala and Selinunte, Two Nights
Excursion to Segesta and EriceEnhance your sightseeing experience of Sicily on an enriching full-day excursion to Erice and Segesta. First, you can delight in the medieval majesty of Erice, a walled town that reigns over the picturesque harbor of Trapani, where you can delve into the historical wonders of one of Sicily’s most in-demand destinations. Through the eyes of your expert guide, you will become acquainted with the city and its key landmarks on an in-depth history tour with the chance to also hike along the coastal reserve.
Next, you will discover Segesta, one of the major cities of the ancient indigenous Elymian people. Here you can visit the Doric temple, which dates back to the late 5th century BC. It was built on a hilltop just outside of the ancient city and has a commanding view of the surrounding area. If anyone needed yet more proof that the Greeks had a good eye for where to build, Segesta would lay any doubts to rest once and for all! Indeed, the setting of the temple is simply beautiful as completely unspoiled rolling green countryside stretches right down to the glistening aquamarine sea.Wine tasting in Marsala and SelinunteOn this VIP excursion you will be picked up by our private driver at your hotel and leave for Marsala, which was once known as Lilibeo and was founded by refugees fleeing the destruction of Mozia. It was conquered by the Romans at the end of the First Punic War and became a luxurious town featuring glorious palaces and thermal baths. The Arabian settlers called the ancient city Mars-Alì (“the harbor of Alì” or “the big harbor”), but it is now known as Marsala. The modern city is known for its world-famous Marsala wine, as well as for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. On our private adventure, you will discover all the best sights, including the Archaeological Museum and the Salt Road with the Salt Pans. You will also stop in a winery for Marsala wine tasting before reaching Selinunte, an ancient Greek city in the widest archaeological park of Europe. It was founded in the 7th century BC but was destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians allied with Segesta, its eternal rival. The two most important areas you’ll visit are the Eastern Hill with the ruins of three temples, and the Acropolis where Greek and Punic ruins are still visible.Agrigento, One Night
Valley of the Temples tourImmerse yourself in Sicily’s Greek past with this tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples (entry included).
The UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites and is a joy to discover if you have an interest in history or simply want to learn more about Sicily’s turbulent past. This tour experience takes you to the sacred site, where an expert guide will treat you to a guided walk through the Valley.
As a part of your tour, you will see the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Herakles, the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Chtonian Deities (Temple of Castor and Pollux). During the tour, your guide will discuss the temples’ construction and tell you about their on-going preservation.Syracuse and Pantalica, Two Nights
Private walking tour of SyracuseEnjoy a private tour around the historical center of Syracuse with this VIP experience on the ancient island of Ortygia. This private walk begins at the ancient Greek Apollo Temple and leads you to Cathedral Square, which boasts beautiful limestone buildings and Baroque architecture. From here, you will visit the Arethusa Fountain, which is steeped in legend and mystery – your guide will tell you all its secrets! The tour concludes with a visit to the Jewish Quarter and Archimedes Square, where you can admire the Fountain of Diana, which was built in a Neoclassical style and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Ortygia.Naturalistic excursion to PantalicaOne of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the rocky necropolis of Pantalica, in eastern Sicily. This site is somewhat off the beaten track but certainly worth a visit on your complete Sicily vacation. Pantalica is a prehistoric site dating back to the late Bronze Age (from the 13th to the 8th century BC) and is famous for its necropolis, which features thousands of tombs dug into the overhanging walls of the Anapo Canyon. Pantalica is also famous for its breathtaking natural vistas and unusual wildlife. In fact, it is part of the revered Anapo Valley Nature Reserve, which is a paradise for trekking.Taormina and Mount Etna, Two Nights
Full-day Mount Etna Jeep tour with wine tasting and lunchScale the slopes of Italy’s famously active Mount Etna on this full-day 4×4 Jeep tour from Taormina. As a part of this unique experience, you will travel up rugged mountain tracks in an off-road vehicle and trek by foot to a stunning lookout point with views of lava flow basins and cave tubes created by the 2002 eruption. After descending from the volcano, you will enjoy a decadent and authentic Sicilian lunch of handmade cheeses, cured meats, pasta and dessert served with local wine.VIP Taormina tour, featuring the Greek TheaterToday you will discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a two-hour private tour. This guided experience allows you to explore the highlights of this charming city, including Palazzo Corvaja, the Santa Caterina Church and Vicolo Stretto, which is the narrowest street in town. As a special addition to this Taormina tour, you will enjoy “skip the line” entry to the ancient Greek Theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos. There is no better way to discover this unassuming city’s treasured attractions!Why Travel with Bellarome
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