Catanzaro’s 100,000 inhabitants are spread across three hills of an area that is historically famous for providing damask silk and velvet to the Vatican. In fact, Catanzaro’s velvet production was so celebrated that it earned the city the nickname “City of the Three V’s,” in honor of Velvet, San Vitaliano, Patron Saint of Catanzaro and Vento ... for the persistent breeze (or wind) that blows through the city. Catanzaro is slightly less famous for - but nevertheless just as proud of - the fact that it inspired the now famous, ever-persistent photographer label .... Paparazzi.

More info, as well as dining and shopping recs can  be found here.

Welcome to the Best of Calabria and Malta Tour, 2024!

Jenny - your driver and tour leader, Gianluca, will meet at 10:30am at your hotel.

Kathy and Kevin - we will meet you  shortly thereafter at your hotel at 10:45am,

Together, you will hit the ground running in nearby Maida (approx 30 min).

There, you’ll meet with our friend, Mariangela, and her crew consisting mainly of women, young adults, and disadvantaged people. She will give us an in-depth look into their family-run business known for its olive oil production. We’ll visit the olive fields, wander the orchards, and learn what they are doing to be more sustainable. Then, we will have our first group lunch, complete with delicious traditional Calabrian foods. 

Following lunch, you will drive to Catanzaro Lido (30 min) to check into Hotel Palace, located on the pretty Catanzaro Lido lungomare.

You’ll have a few hours to rest and recover, then we’ll meet in the evening for a tour of Scolacium (5 min), one of the most significant monuments in Medieval Calabria. We’ll explore the ruins they say may have been discovered by Ulysses and walk through time with the Greeks and Romans. 

We’ll follow that up with a Calabrese aperitivo, complete with spritzes, wines, local cheese, salamis, bread, and lots of snacks.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended.

Hotel Palace
Via Lungomare Stefano Pugliese, 221

Catanzaro 88100

Tel: +39 0931 464600

At 9:30am you will meet in the lobby of your hotel for an excursion to nearby San Floro (approx 20 min).

Here, you’ll take an in-depth look into Catanzaro’s ancient silk tradition. Since the 1600s, Catanzaro has been home to one of the most important silk industries in Europe, and once supplied tapestries to the Vatican. We’ll join our friends, Miriam and Domenico, who have brought new life to this dying tradition.  From their base nestled in a beautiful Mulberry Tree orchard, they breed silkworms and give visitors hands-on experiences at extracting silk.  

Following our visit, we will be their special guests for a delicious multi-course lunch, with wine. After lunch, we’ll return to Catanzaro Lido and you’ll have the evening on your own.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended.

You’ll have free time this morning to walk to the Catanzaro Lido mercatino - one of our very favorite experiences in southern Italy. 

Then, at 11:15am, you'll meet back in the lobby of your hotel for a day exploring Calabria's mosto cotto, wine, cave church, and iconic gelato. (approx 45 min)

Your first stop is a local winery where they produce mosto cotto, a traditional Italian condiment made from the reduced juice of unfermented grapes. It's not technically a wine (but don't worry - you'll try that, too1), rather it is sometimes used as a sweetener in cooking and can be added to certain dishes for flavor enhancement. You'll meet the 3rd generation of owners and have lunch at the vineyard, before driving to nearby Pizzo Calabro.

There, you'll see the enchanting Chiesetta di Piedigrotta cave church, a fascinating cave church that is carved entirely out of natural limestone. After your visit to this charming grotto, you'll finish the day with a delectable chocolate and hazelnut gelato truffle. 

Return to Catanzaro Lido and you’ll have the rest of the day on your own.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended. Since it's a longer day, you might want to consider layering.

At 9:00am, you'll meet in the lobby of your hotel to head into the La Sila Mountains. (approx 1 hr)

La Sila Mountains are divided into three areas – La Sila Grande (Big Sila), La Sila Piccola (Little Sila), and La Sila Greca (Greek Sila). Today we are heading into La Sila Piccola where we’ll explore the town of Taverna and learn more about its most iconic citizen – the world-famous Italian Baroque artist, Mattia Pretti. Born in this small mountain town in 1612, he became well-known for his Caravaggio-esque influence. His works can be seen all over the world and as we will discover later on in the tour, he has a strong connection to Malta where he was appointed as a member of the Order of Saint John!

Full of knowledge, but hungry for more, we will visit a local bottega for a sampling of products including provola cheese, potatoes from La Sila, salamis, soppressata, sausage, grilled vegetables, and wine. There will be wine.

After lunch, we’ll have an optional stroll through the park, then in the early evening we’ll return to Catanzaro Lido. Evening on your own.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or closed-toed, walking sandals are recommended, as is a sweater or light jacket. Weather in the mountains in May is quite unpredictable.

Sicily has experienced a rapid influx of tourists who have all arrived to witness its beauty. Sicily’s increased popularity comes as a result of its remarkable features, which have become more well-known in recent years. So what does Italy’s largest island have to offer, and what makes it so special? Sicily is known for landmarks like The Valley of Temples and Mount Etna, its sandy beaches, delicious wine, and mafia origins. Originally dominated by the Greeks, the island was passed on to the Romans and then the European powers during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. This rich Sicilian history results in a fascinating blend of cultures that influences every aspect of this uniquely magical Southern Italian region.

Sicily is the vacation spot on everyone’s travel bucket lists and for good reason. With so much to offer, it’s a one-stop shop for the ultimate Italian experience.

Read more info on Sicily here.

The island of Ortigia is home to the historic center of Siracusa. This beautiful island is where you will find many of Siracusa’s most important monuments. Take a stroll along the lungomare, then continue on around the whole island. There are little side streets waiting to be explored and you can happily get lost while knowing that - as Ortigia is only a shade over a square kilometer in area - you'll find yourself again easily.

More info, dining, and shopping recs here.

Today you will check out of your hotel and travel to Sicily. The total driving time is 4.5-5 hours, including the ferry to Sicily.

**

You’ll have breakfast, then at 9:00am will bid farewell to Catanzaro Lido. Just before crossing from the mainland, we’ll stop in the charming town of Scilla, the mythological home of Scylla. This seven-headed sea monster  was once a beautiful nymph who was transformed into a hideous and deadly monster by a jealous enchantress. She is said to live in a rocky outcrop on one side of a well-known strait – the Strait of Messina perhaps?

We’ll have a quick look at the town, then will head onto the ferry and cross the Straits to the island of Sicily, directly towards Charybdis, the voracious mythological monster who sits on the shores opposite Scylla where she would gulp the sea waters and then forcefully send it back three times stronger causing whirlpools that either swallowed ships or caused violent shipwrecks.

In Sicily, we will stop in Messina, self-proclaimed home of the best rustici in southern Italy. We’ll put that to the test, then we will drive to our new home for the next two nights - a hotel in Ortigia, the historical heart of Siracusa. This ancient Greek city, which is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of charming side streets that take you through the numerous important monuments and along the beautiful coastline.You’ll have the evening on your own. Overnight in Ortigia.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended. Have a sweater for the ferry crossing!

Grand Hotel Ortigia
V.le Mazzini, 12

 Siracusa SR, Italy 96100
Tel: +39 0931 464600

Gianluca will arrange a departure time for you each day.

You can sleep in, then we’ll meet up with a local culinary expert who will introduce you to the best foods in her hometown. You’ll visit the bustling market for a literal “eye-to-eye” meeting with the local catch of the day, then you’ll sample nuts, olives, breads, cheeses, cookies, and more. You’ll have a wine pairing with some of her favorite Sicilian wines and will polish it all off with Sicilian sweets.

Following this progress-style lunch, you’ll have the rest of the day on your own for resting, walking through the town, or shopping! (Shopping… the answer is always shopping!). Evening and overnight on your own in Ortigia.

With over 7,000 years of history, Malta is the ultimate holiday destination for any history buff! Home to some of the oldest free-standing temples in the world, the Islands have also played host to the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St. John, Napoleon and the British Empire. A jaunt to its phenomenal fortifications, and an open-mouthed-gape at its truly awe-inspiring architecture is a must.  

The guide below includes dining and local recommendations for our favorite towns.

More info here.

You will have breakfast, pack your bags and check out of the hotel (although you can leave your bags at the front desk!) Then, you'll head out to the archaeological park in Siracusa (10 min).

It is a true testament to the ancient past of this city with remnants of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. As we explore this impressive site, we’ll marvel at the idea that once upon a time epic plays were performed in the Greek Theatre, or that thrilling gladiator contests took place in the Roman Amphitheatre. We’ll pop into the Orecchio di Dionisio, a limestone cave with an ear-like shape and extraordinary acoustics.

After, we’ll have lunch nearby and will grab our bags before we say arrivederci to Italy as we make our way to Malta, an archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the North African coast.

We’ll get settled on the ferry, then following a 90-minute  ride, we’ll arrive in Valletta, the capital of Malta and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich history and culture. We will check into our hotel, Palais leBrun.

Overnight Valletta.

*This day could change, depending on the hours and availability of the ferry to Malta.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended. Have a sweater or jacket if want to sit outside on the ferry.

Palais le Brun

101 Old Bakery Street

Valletta, Malta
Tel: +356 2226 0300

At 9:00am, you will meet in the lobby of your hotel.

There, you will meet your local guide a  tour of Valletta, a peninsular masterpiece crafted  by the Knights of St John after the Great  Siege of 1565, stands as a UNESCO-graded  capital city. An enchanting journey through time awaits you, with its vibrant blend of history and contemporary culture, gridded street pattern, beautiful baroque architecture, and panoramic vistas from its gardens.

You'll visit St.John’s Co-Cathedral, the Baroque-style church that was built in the 17th Century and is one of the most important landmarks on the island. We’ll admire the work of Calabrian painter Mattia Preti, who was commissioned to paint the vaulted ceilings with images depicting the life of a St. John the Baptist, as well as other paintings on display in the cathedral. Along with Preti’s works of art, you’ll also find two masterpieces by Caravaggio.

Exiting the co-cathedral, you'll stop by the newly restored and majestically presiding over St George’s Square in Valletta's core, the Grand Master’s Palace beckons you to  explore its 450-year legacy as a beacon for the nation. Serving as the prestigious seat of the Office of The President, the palace also houses an extensive armory, a testament to the Order's illustrious past and enduring heritage.

You'll end the day in time for lunch on your own and will have the rest of the day for shopping, museums, or additional sight-seeing. Your guide and tour leader can help with ideas.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended. Please cover your shoulders for entrance into the Co-Cathedral.

At 9:00am you'll meet in the lobby of your hotel to make your way to the Northern region of Malta on the western coast for a day trip to Dingli Cliffs (30 min) - a stunning natural landmark, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from the highest point on the island.  

This long stretch of towering limestone cliffs on Malta’s western coast form one of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. The Dingli Cliffs mark the highest parts of the island at 253 meters above  sea-level. Here you will be treated to the  spectacular views of the open sea and Filfla – the small, uninhabited island used as target practice in the Second World War.

This is where we'll roll up our sleeves and learn how to make authentic Maltese dishes. We will move from farm to kitchen and learn about the traditional Maltese recipes that have been passed down over generations. In true family-style, we will be guided by our farmer/chef as he lets us in on some of his family recipes that are heavily inspired by his grandmother. We’ll feast on our home-cooked three-course meal and get a chance to truly savor the real taste of traditional Maltese family cuisine.

After lunch, we’ll return to Valletta and have the rest of the day on your own.

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended.

Your day will begin in the lobby of your hotel at 8:30am.

With your guide, you will meet with local artisans, where  each stop unveils a tapestry of Maltese traditions, from traditional crafts like carpet weaving, musical instruments and past time activities. Engage with skilled artisans as they demonstrate their craft, offering insights into centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. 

Your first stop is to meet Antoine - Weaving is one of the world’s oldest trades that hasn’t changed in over 9,000 years. Here in Malta, the first known piece of weaving dates back to around 800 BC, when the Phoenicians ruled the island. 

Then, it is on for a look at traditional Maltese instruments, that are a 

rarity these days. Thankfully, there are a few individuals that took a personal 

interest in safeguarding this heritage. One such person is Francesco, who is particularly proud of making the traditional bagpipe - literally made from a whole goat! You'll love hearing his story and the fascinating history behind these instruments.

Finally, you'll try your hand at Bocci,  a popular game in Malta that shares roots with Petanque, English Bowls, and Italian Bocce. In Malta, nearly every village boasts a Bocci Club. Whether played by seasoned competitors or casual enthusiasts, Bocci has woven itself into the fabric of Maltese leisure, providing a delightful way for locals and visitors alike to engage in friendly competition.

We will return to Valletta around 1:30pm and you will have time for lunch on your own and an afternoon stroll.

At 6:15pm we’ll reconvene in the hotel lobby and head to the marina, where we’ll enjoy a private sailing excursion through the harbors. We will have time to swim and snorkel and will also be treated to a very special Maltese “BBQ” dinner grilled by our skipper and served to us on the boat.  

*Dress is casual. Tennis shoes or walking sandals recommended for the morning.

For the evening boat excursion, you will likely want a jacket. Planning to take a dive? Don't forget your swimsuit!

At 9:00am you'll meet in the lobby of your hotel for a morning in Medieval Malta. (20 min)

Often referred to as the "Silent City," Mdina is a hilltop fortress which served as Malta’s old capital city. You will feel the power as you enter its honey-coloured limestone walls and navigate its winding roads. Its panoramic views and range of architecture will undoubtedly captivate you as much as the noble families who continue to live here. 

You'll also visit St Paul’s Catacombs , which served as a burial ground during Punic 

and Roman times and represent the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity and Judaism in Malta. 

Named after St Paul, who was shipwrecked in Malta in 60 AD, this underground labyrinth is located in the suburbs of Mdina, since Roman law prohibited burials within the city walls for sanitary purposes. 

You'll return to your hotel and have time to pack, shop, and explore, then in the evening, you'll meet in the lobby for a transfer to dinner in Marsaxlokk.

Overnight in Valletta.

Today you will bid farewell to your travel companions and will head to the airport. Transfers are scheduled for:

Jenny

4:30am

United Airlines 9279 (operated by Lufthansa)

departs at 5:55am

Kathy and Kevin
5:00pm

Turkish Airlines 1372

departs at 7:20pm

Let’s immerse ourselves in the enchanting world of Italy—a land where history, art, and culinary delights converge. Our seasoned travel hosts have meticulously curated exclusive guides that distill their collective wisdom into a treasure trove of insights.

Whether you’re sipping espresso in a sun-kissed piazza, marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, or indulging in gelato by the cobalt-blue sea, this guide is your passport to an unforgettable Italian adventure.

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In the charming eateries and bustling cafés of Italy, the art of tipping is as nuanced as a fine espresso. As we step into 2024, the tradition remains elegantly understated—tipping is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation. Unlike the American custom where gratuities are a societal must, in Italy, the act of leaving a tip is a spontaneous flourish, a subtle nod to service that exceeded expectations. Continue guide here.

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