Sicily Through the Artist’s Lens

This personally taylor small group journey takes you from ancient Greek temples to exquisite Roman mosaics, from Caravaggio’s masterpieces to spectacular Arab-Norman and Baroque architecture.  This is a journey that celebrates Sicily’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Led by Sicilian-Australian artist Eolo Paul Bottaro with a maximum of seven guests.  This tour promises an intimate and authentic exploration of the Island, beautifully complemented by charming accommodations, fresh Sicilian cuisine and enriching encounters with local people and much more.

Journey across Sicily, you will be immersed in 3,000 years of history shaped by 13 different dominations. Staying in four unique accommodations, each reflecting the region’s authentic charm and serving as a comfortable base for your explorations.  Beginning in Sicily’s vibrant capital, Palermo, a cultural mosaic blending Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences.  Experience bustling markets, stunning artworks and mouthwatering street food that will set the tone for the journey.

Next, travel into the Sicilian Alps, the Madonie Mountains, dotted with medieval villages, rolling landscapes and rich local traditions. In Polizzi Generosa, you will experience genuine Sicilian hospitality amid breathtaking natural beauty.

Then travelling southeast to the Baroque jewel of Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its winding alleyways, ornate churches and elegant piazzas provide an enchanting atmosphere for cultural discovery.

Finally, you settle in Catania, known as the “Black City” for its volcanic stone architecture and framed by the majestic Mount Etna. Catania will serve as a base to explore the north east of Sicily.

Throughout this itinerary, you can choose to opt in or out of certain activities, ensuring a travel experience that perfectly suits your pace.

Hosts

Eolo Paul Bottaro

I am an Australian artist of Italian-Sicilian descent. My parents left Sicily in the late 1960s, and although I was born and raised in Australia, Sicily has always been a significant presence in my life and artistic work, deeply inspired by the Italian Masters. Over the past decade, I have traveled frequently between Australia and Sicily, where I have established both a studio and a home.  Throughout the years, I have explored Sicily deeply and extensively, yet this captivating island continues to surprise and inspire me. Today, alongside my artistic practice, I lead small groups of art enthusiasts on intimate tours of Sicily’s artistic masterpieces three to four times a year.

Serena Firera

I was born and raised in Sicily, in a small town called Modica, surrounded by Baroque architecture, vibrant traditions, and a warm, close-knit community. After
earning a master’s degree in psychology, I worked in publishing and education.  Meanwhile, I travelled whenever I could, seeking authentic experiences and
meaningful connections with people from diverse cultures. I was especially captivated by how different societies express themselves through art.  In my mid-30s, I realized my passion for exploring and sharing cultural experiences had to be more than a pastime, so I made the bold decision to quit my job and start Sicily Art Tours.

Itinerary

15 OCT – Welcome to Sicily
A private transfer will pick you up at Palermo Airport and after checking in at Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel—situated in the heart of Palermo’s historic center — you begin the journey with an enchanting evening passeggiata through the city’s vibrant streets.  Passing by the magnificent Cathedral of Palermo, the iconic “Fountain of Shame” and the striking Piazza Quattro Canti.  This evenign you  enjoy a welcome dinner with drinks at a rooftop restaurant, basking in the warm glow of the Sicilian sunset.

16 OCT – Discovering Palermo’s art, culture and flavours
Begin today at the Chiesa del Gesù, renowned for its exquisite Baroque décor. Next,  you are taken on a stroll through the vibrant Ballarò Market, a lively showcase of Palermo’s folklore and flavours.  After sampling some of the city’s beloved street food, it is to the Abatellis Museum to admire magnificent 15th-century masterpieces including the grand fresco Triumph of Death—said to have inspired Picasso’s Guernica—and the Annunciation by Antonello da Messina, the Sicilian artist who introduced oil painting to Italy. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure.

17OCT – From Majestic Mosaics to Mountain Villages
In the morning after checking out of the hotel, it is time to visit the Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its extraordinary Arab-Norman mosaics, making it a master piece of medieval art and architecture.  Following a light lunch at a small restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Palermo, you travel into the Madonie Mountains reaching your accommodation in the small village of Polizzi Generosa.   The day concludes with a stroll through town, accompanied by Nino, the custodian of Polizzi’s mother church.

18 OCT – Discovering the Seaside Village of Cefalù
This morning you have time to explore the town at your own pace, soaking in its narrow streets and captivating mountain views.  At 2 pm, you gather and depart for the picturesque seaside village of Cefalù.  Here you will visit the Duomo and the Mandralisca Museum, home to another of Antonello da Messina’s master pieces, Il Marinaio Ignoto.   The day ends with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, complete with a gorgeous sea view—the perfect backdrop for savoring Sicilian flavours.

19OCT – The Valley of the Temples
Today you embark on a day trip to explore the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological areas.  Together with the local guide, archaeologist Marco, you will delve into the history of seven ancient Greek temples, including the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Concordia and the evocative ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus—once among the largest Doric temples ever constructed.

20 OCT – Meet the Locals
On the final day in the Madonie Mountains, you will visit Verbumcaudo, a cooperative of young locals farmland confiscated from the Mafia. Dedicated to sustainable agriculture and community development, the group produces high-quality local goods, while championing social justice and economic growth in the area.   Learn of their mission, taste their products and discover how their work is helping to transform a once-tainted land into a source of pride for the community.

21 OCT – Ancient Roman Mosaics Unveil Fascinating Stories
Today bid farewell to the scenic Madonie Mountains and journey south-east to explore more of Sicily’s rich heritage.  On the way, you stop at Villa del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting 3,500 square meters of ancient Roman mosaics. A local guide will illuminate the captivating stories and symbolism woven into these remarkable artworks.  From here travel on to Ragusa Ibla, where your next accommodation awaits—a meticulously restored Sicilian palazzo right in the heart of this enchanting Baroque town.

22 OCT – Discover Local Flavours and Painting Techniques
In the morning enjoy some leisure time to wander through Ragusa Ibla at your own pace, taking in the town’s historic charms. At noon, you set off for Modica, where a traditional lunch awaits, showcasing freshly made ricotta ravioli.  Afterwards, you explore the fascinating Byzantine grotto church of San Nicolò Inferiore, renowned for its ancient frescoes before heading to the famous Dolceria Bonajuto for a chocolate-making demonstration and tasting.  Your day concludes our day at Eolo’s studio, where he will delve into and share with you the painting techniques of the Renaissance.

23 OCT – Exploring Siracusa’s Art and Architecture
Leaving Ragusa Ibla today you travel to Catania.  En route you will stop in Siracusa to explore the charming island of Ortigia and enjoy a stroll along its vibrant streets, lined with boutique shops, cafés, elegant palaces and piazzas. After lunch, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace.  Next stop is the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro, where you will have the opportunity to see Caravaggio’s masterpiece, “The Burial of Santa Lucia,” before continuing on to your next accommodation in the heart of Catania.

24 OCT – Exploring Catania and Taormina
Today it is time to explore Catania, the black pearl of the Mediterranean.  Discover the various layers of civilization that have shaped the city, visit its historic fish market and splendid Baroque palaces, learn about local folkloric traditions and sample its distinctive cuisine.  In the afternoon you will venture to Taormina, a picturesque gem perched on the hills overlooking the Mediterranean and Mount Etna.  Delight in a guided tour of the Ancient Theatre of Taormina followed by a night passeggiata and dinner.

25 OCT – Caravaggio’s Final Masterpieces & Riace Bronzes
This morning it is time to travel to Messina and visit the Regional Museum, home to are markable collection of artworks including two of Caravaggio’s last masterpieces—The Resurrection of Lazarus and The Adoration of the Shepherds. After that, it is across the Strait of Messina to visit the Bronzes of Riace in the Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria.  In the evening, you return to Catania for a heartfelt farewell dinner.

26 OCT – Goodbye Sicily
Your tour comes to an end and it is time to say goodbye!  Transfers are arranged to Catania Airport ensuring a smooth departure.

Included

• Accommodation staying in small boutique style
• Daily breakfast
• 2 x Lunches and 2 x Dinners
• Oil tasting
• Entry into all sites and museums mentioned in the itinerary
• Professional guided visits
• Private transportation
• Ferry to and from Reggio Calabria
• Airport transfers in Palermo and Catania
• City Taxes
• Personal guiding and hosting with Eolo & Serena