Italy with Lea Black

Dates

Apr 19–25, 2026

Group Size

10–23 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Experience the vibrant charm of Sicily on a journey that blends culture, flavor, and natural beauty. In Catania, stroll through historic streets and bustling markets, where savory street foods offer an authentic taste of local life. Explore the picturesque town of Taormina, then ascend the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, to sample wines grown in its rich volcanic soil. Cap off your adventure with a relaxing boat tour along the Sicilian coast, soaking in stunning views of cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear waters. This unforgettable journey through Sicily promises rich history, breathtaking scenery, and delicious moments at every turn! *Please note that only vegetarian and gluten-free options are available; Vegan options unavailable.
$3,690USD
$3,890USD
Apr 19–25, 2026
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Lea Black
Lea Black

My name is Lea Black and I split my time between Italy and Albania. I am in the process of getting my dual Italian citizenship which has given me the chance to spend a lot of time exploring Europe. Travel and culture have become a big part of my life and I love sharing those experiences with others.

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Trip Activities

  • Catania City Tour

  • Catania Food Tour

  • Visit of Taormina

  • Mt Etna Hike

  • Wine Tasting

  • Ortigia Boat Tour

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (no single rooms available)

  • Local guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips & Gratuity

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA).

dinner

Welcome dinner dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 3-course menu which includes a first course, second course, dessert, and one non-alcoholic drink, subject to change. *Vegetarian and gluten free options are available; Vegan options unavailable.

NH Catania Centro (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Catania.

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Day 2

Info

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Catania and enjoy a guided morning tour of the city, beginning in Piazza Duomo with its iconic Elephant Fountain and the impressive Cathedral of Saint Agatha. Discover more of Catania’s baroque beauty, rich history, and vibrant street life, then continue on to stroll through lively markets where you’ll sample local specialties. After the visit, transfer to your new hotel in the Taormina area. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a small bag with water, a hat, and other personal items.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

Catania City Tour

2 Hours

In the morning, take a walking tour of Catania, one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily filled with rich history. Led by a local guide, begin your exploration in the central Piazza Duomo, the heart of Catania’s historic center. Here, you’ll find the iconic Elephant Fountain, known locally as "Liotru," which has become a symbol of the city. This intriguing statue, made from black lava stone, dates back to the Roman era and is shrouded in legend and myth. Nearby, visit the awe-inspiring Catania Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Agatha, the city's patron saint. The Cathedral's baroque façade and opulent interior, with its exquisite frescoes and relics, reflect Catania’s rich artistic heritage. Across the city tour and food tour, expect to walk 1.5 - 2 miles on paved and cobblestone streets.

Catania Food Tour

1 Hour

Continue on foot towards the markets. Here you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling some of Catania’s famous street foods. The city’s vibrant markets and lively alleys are filled with the enticing aromas of arancini, cannoli, and fresh seafood. You’ll enjoy three different foods which will vary depending on seasonality and availability. Some options include Arancini (fried rice balls), fried fish, local cured meats and/or local cheeses, focaccia, cannolo (sweet), and ice cream. Across the city tour and food tour, expect to walk 1.5 - 2 miles on paved and cobblestone streets.

Transfer to Letojanni

1 Hour

Take a private transfer to Letojanni. Stops for bathrooms/snacks will be made along the way as needed.

dinner

Dinner at the hotel is included. Your meal will typically be a 3-course menu which includes a first course, second course, dessert, and one non-alcoholic drink, subject to change. *Vegetarian and gluten free options are available; Vegan options unavailable.

Albatros Beach Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Letojanni.

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Day 3

Info

Wake up to the sea breeze and fill up on breakfast. Today you will head to Taormina in the morning for a guided visit of its highlights, including the stunning Greek-Roman Theatre, the Villa Comunale's lush gardens, and landmarks like the Cathedral and Piazza 9 Aprile. After the tour, you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy lunch on your own in Taormina and explore this charming town. In the late afternoon, you’ll take a private transfer back to your hotel. Today we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes if you plan on going to the beach in Taormina.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

Visit of Taormina

2 Hours

After breakfast, take a 30 minute private transfer to Taormina to embark on a private guided tour of its crown jewel: the Greek-Roman Theatre - renowned for its breathtaking views and historical significance. Stroll down Via Teatro Greco to the Villa Comunale, where your tour leader will introduce you to a diverse array of botanical wonders. Continue exploring the village center, including the Cathedral, Corso Umberto I, and Piazza 9 Aprile with its charming Clock Tower and Church of S. Giuseppe. After the guided tour, you’ll enjoy time at leisure in Taormina for lunch (on your own) and in the late afternoon you’ll take a private transfer back to your hotel.

Transfer to the Hotel

30 Mins

In the late afternoon, meet your driver and bus and return to your accommodations.

Albatros Beach Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Letojanni.

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Day 4

Info

Enjoy breakfast this morning then prepare to head toward the southeastern coastal town of Syracuse. En route stop at Mt. Etna where you’ll enjoy an easy hike around its craters, explore scenic off-road paths. After the hike, you’ll have time to get lunch on your own, then continue to a local winery for a wine tasting. After wine tasting, you’ll transfer to Syracuse. Today we recommend wearing comfortable athletic (or hiking) shoes, and carry a bag with water and other personal items.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

Transfer to Mt Etna

1 Hour 15 Mins

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and take a private transfer to Mt. Etna, Europe's most active volcano.

Mt Etna Hike

2 Hours

Led by a local guide, enjoy an easy hike at the base of the volcano. You’ll hike past surrounding craters, marvel at the contrast between the black lava and vibrant vegetation, and explore off-road tracks through pine forests. At the end of the hike time at leisure for lunch (on your own). Hike Distance: 2.5 miles / Elevation Gain: 330 feet / Duration: 1-2 hours / Difficulty: Easy.

Transfer to a Local Wine Estate

1 Hour

In the afternoon take a private transfer to a local wine estate.

Wine Tasting

45 Mins

Visit a local winery to taste wines enriched by the volcanic soil’s minerals. Here you’ll enjoy 3 tastings of wines, each unique to the region.

Transfer to Syracuse

1 Hour 30 Mins

After the wine tasting continue your private transfer to Syracuse.

UnaHotels One Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Syracuse

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Day 5

Info

After breakfast today, join a half-day boat excursion to discover the coastal beauty of Syracuse, starting with the sea caves and striking rock formations along its northern shore. Sail through the Plemmirio Nature Reserve and around Ortigia Island, admiring iconic landmarks such as Maniace Castle, the Aretusa Spring, and the Spanish walls. Enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters (weather permitting) and a light snack-lunch on board for a truly relaxing experience. After the tour, you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

Ortigia Boat Tour

4 Hours

Take a 15 minute transfer to begin your boat tour. Today you’ll embark on a private half-day excursion and explore the maritime wonders of Syracuse while enjoying a completely relaxing experience. Depending on the size of the group, you may be split into two small boats fitting 12 people per boat. Begin by exploring the northern coast of Syracuse, renowned for its fascinating sea caves and rock formations sculpted by nature into shapes resembling animals. Next, we will sail towards the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, passing through the picturesque Gulf of Pillirina, a pristine corner of nature. The navigation will continue around the island of Ortigia, where you can admire its most iconic historical sites, such as the former Bourbon prison, Forte Vigliena, the ancient Spanish walls, Maniace Castle, the Levante waterfront, the Alfeo waterfront, the Aretusa Spring, and the majestic Grand Harbor of Syracuse. The tour also includes a stop for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters along the route (weather permitting) and a light snack-lunch on board. *Please note that the activity could be changed or canceled for safety reasons due to the sea/weather conditions. Life jackets are not provided on the boat, however safety equipment is provided on board as per national law.

snack

Your snack lunch consists of a selection of cold cuts and cheeses, paired with bread, focaccia, other snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, subject to change.

UnaHotels One Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Syracuse

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Day 6

Info

Today is an entire day free at your leisure to enjoy Syracuse on your own. In the evening, join your group one last time for dinner and toast to the memories made!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

dinner

Farewell dinner at the hotel is included. Dinner will be a 3-course set menu which includes first course, second course, and dessert, 1 non-alcoholic drink included. Alcoholic drinks are not included.

UnaHotels One Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Syracuse

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Hotel breakfasts typically offer continental, full/American, or buffet-style options. The specific breakfast menu will be determined by your confirmed hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.