Book Early and Save $200 Per Person ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/1%20Meals%20%28red%29.png) 32 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/2%20Small%20Group%20%28red%29.png) Small Group ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29.png) CT Rating 3/5 - Moderate ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/4%20Leader%20%28red%29.png) Led by Janet Williams **Mediterranean Treasures in Bloom** Experience Malta and Sicily at their springtime best, when wildflowers carpet the countryside, citrus groves fill the air with fragrance, and the Mediterranean shines under warm, comfortable skies. At the crossroads of centuries of history, these islands reveal a fascinating tapestry of cultures—from ancient temples older than the pyramids to magnificent cathedrals and elegant Baroque towns. Beyond the landmarks, discover colourful fishing villages, dramatic coastlines, and some of the Mediterranean’s finest food and wine. Savour authentic local flavours, enjoy memorable cultural encounters, and explore at a relaxed pace with ample free time to soak in the unique character of these remarkable islands. **Sold out! Join the waitlist or explore other departures.** [Join the Waitlist]() [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/mcirPq1/MaltaSicilyAPR2027) [![Malta Sicily map](/sites/default/files/2026-06/map_Malta_Sicily_2027.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/map_Malta_Sicily_2027.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Visit the Ggantija Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site), megalithic temples that predate both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids - See St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, one of Europe’s finest Baroque churches, renowned for its magnificent marble floors and richly decorated interior - Explore the Valley of the Temples, home to one of the largest and best-preserved collections of ancient Greek temples in the world - Discover Taormina, one of Sicily’s most picturesque hilltop towns, with sweeping views across the Strait of Messina - Enjoy an up-close encounter with Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active and iconic volcanoes, accompanied by an expert volcanologist - Explore the remarkable architectural legacy of Palermo and its unique Arab-Norman heritage - Spend a memorable afternoon retracing the filming locations of The Godfather ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare between Canada and Europe with Turkish Airlines - Ferry between Malta and Sicily - Carefully selected comfortable and first-class hotels as indicated or similar - 32 meals as indicated (B - 15 breakfasts, L - 10 lunches, D - 7 dinners) - Travel by deluxe coach throughout and fast ferry from Malta to Pozzallo, Sicily - All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for included services - Services of your journey leader and experienced professional guides - Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with the purchase of group airfare ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA April 7, 2027 We gather for our overnight flights to Malta. VALLETTA, MALTA April 8, 2027 Our journey starts this evening as we arrive in Malta, an island whose story spans more than eight millennia. The islands were first settled in prehistoric times by seafarers from nearby Sicily. The name Malta is believed to be derived from the Greek word meli (“honey”), a nod to the island’s long tradition of beekeeping and honey production. Valletta, the capital, was founded by the Order of St. John following the Great Siege of 1565 and became the Knights’ new fortified city after their loss of Rhodes to the Ottoman Empire in 1522. Our home for the next five nights is a waterfront hotel in the heart of Sliema. **The Waterfront Hotel** (5 nights) Dinner VALLETTA April 9, 2027 We begin our morning at the Malta Experience, an immersive audio-visual journey through the island’s dramatic history. Afterward, a walking tour guides us through the historic streets, winding alleys, and vibrant squares of Valletta. Along the way, we’ll step into the Co-Cathedral of St John to marvel at its magnificent marble floors and lapis lazuli altar, followed by a visit of the Grand Master’s Palace. After a special lunch at Muza (or similar), the afternoon is yours to explore independently or visit the National Museum of Archaeology inside the spectacular Auberge de Provence. Breakfast, Lunch ISLAND OF GOZO April 10, 2027 Today's excursion takes us to Malta's sister island, Gozo, known for its quaint fishing villages, rural charm, and dramatic landscapes. Highlights of the day include the Citadel in Victoria, the Ggantija megalithic temples (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the beautiful Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, and the viewpoint at Calypso’s Cave, associated with Homer’s odyssey. Along the northern coast, we also stop at the Xwejni Salt Pans to learn about the centuries-old tradition of salt harvesting. We then enjoy lunch in Victoria, followed by free time to explore the town at leisure and walk up to the historic Citadel for panoramic views across the island. Breakfast, Lunch MDINA / RABAT April 11, 2027 Journey to the central hills for a leisurely walk through the fortified Saracen city of Mdina, the island's ancient capital—a peaceful citadel filled with graceful palaces, churches, and piazzas. The arrival of Christianity dates from 60 AD, when St. Paul is believed to have arrived on Malta. Visit the Cathedral of St. Paul before we move on to Rabat and visit the Wignacourt Museum to explore St Paul's Grotto, plus sections of the catacombs. Enjoy a hands-on Maltese cooking experience: after a short introduction to traditional breadmaking, we learn how to prepare ftira dough, a Maltese sourdough flatbread often compared to a pizza. Add toppings to create your own lunch cooked in a traditional wood-burning oven. Finally, enjoy a special opportunity to meet local residents as we explore a small, seldom-visited village and learn about everyday life in Malta. Breakfast, Lunch ANCIENT & MODERN MALTA April 12, 2027 This morning introduces us to the long history of the island as we visit the megalithic temple complex of Ħaġar Qim, dating back over 5,000 years and older than the pyramids of Egypt. Visit the Blue Grotto and enjoy a boat cruise (weather permitting) through this spectacular series of sea caves, renowned for their vivid blue reflections and dramatic limestone arches. At the Marsovin Cellars, we will tour the historic cellars followed by a premium wine tasting. The balance of the day is at leisure, followed by our final dinner in Malta. Breakfast, Dinner MALTA / NOTO, SICILY / SIRACUSA April 13, 2027 Early this morning, we catch the fast ferry to Pozzallo on the southern tip of Sicily, where we will meet our Sicilian guide and coach. It was along these southern shores that Canadians entered the war as part of the Italian Campaign in 1943. We follow the route of the army as it made its way into the hills to the town of Ragusa, where we will have time to explore the medieval centre and enjoy lunch. We then visit the Baroque town of Noto, famed for its 18th-century architecture rebuilt after a devastating 1693 earthquake. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features golden limestone buildings, grand palaces like Palazzo Ducezio, and the majestic Noto Cathedral. Later, we continue to historic Siracusa and the island of Ortygia. **Grand Hotel Villa Politi** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SIRACUSA April 14, 2027 Our morning is dedicated to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis—discover the grandeur of ancient Syracuse as we explore the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the awe-inspiring Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave shrouded in myth and history. Visit the colourful market for a lunch of local delicacies before exploring the ancient streets of Ortygia to see the exquisite Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square), and its majestic cathedral, which houses the shrine of the city’s patron saint, Santa Lucia. The balance of the day is at leisure. Breakfast, Lunch SIRACUSA / TAORMINA April 15, 2027 We begin our day in the Sicilian countryside at a charming private villa, joining our host for a hands-on cooking class. Using the freshest seasonal ingredients, we will craft authentic Sicilian dishes before sitting down to enjoy the fruits of our labour, beautifully paired with regional wines. Afterward, we journey to Mt Etna, where an expert volcanologist provides fascinating insights into one of Europe’s few active volcanoes—known locally as Mongibello, a name reflecting the mountain’s layered linguistic heritage. Later, we travel to the coast to check into our hotel for the next two nights, located just below the magical hilltop town of Taormina. **Sant Alphio Garden Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner TAORMINA April 16, 2027 Spend the morning exploring Taormina, beginning with its Greek Theatre and a walk along the Corso Umberto, the pedestrian-only main street. Taormina is often described as one of the most beautiful hilltop towns in all of Italy. This afternoon, we step back in time to relive scenes from The Godfather. In Forza D’Agrò, a hidden medieval gem, we enjoy a delicious lunch in a family-run trattoria. We then continue into the hills to Savoca to walk the cobbled alleys and visit the Church of San Nicolò, where Michael Corleone was wed. Before heading back, cool off with a local treat: a refreshing Sicilian granita. Breakfast, Lunch TAORMINA / AGRIGENTO April 17, 2027 We visit the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the 4th century CE that houses the world’s most extensive collection of vivid Roman mosaics. Relax over lunch in the charming medieval town of Piazza Armerina. Later, we travel to Agrigento, one of the greatest ancient Greek cities of the Mediterranean and home to the Valley of the Temples, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. **Hotel Della Valle** (1 night) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES April 18, 2027 We spend the morning at the archaeological park, exploring the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site features an extraordinary collection of ancient Greek ruins, including one of the astonishing telamons—colossal, 8-metre-tall human figures carved from stone that were once used to support the massive Temple of Olympian Zeus. After a relaxing break for lunch, we will make our way across the island to Palermo, Sicily’s diverse capital. Palermo is renowned for its unique Arab-Norman architecture, bustling open-air markets, delicious street food, and fascinating mix of cultures. **Hotel Plaza Opera** (3 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PALERMO April 19, 2027 This morning, our coach takes us to the grand Palazzo dei Normanni and its mosaic-covered Cappella Palatina. Nearby, we visit the historic Palermo Cathedral and Chiesa della Martorana, the tiny church founded by the grand admiral of the Norman fleet. Explore the lively Mercato Ballaro, where our lunch will be a delightful sampling of the traditional street food delicacies for which Palermo is famously known. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, exploring the downtown streets, unique local churches, and vibrant piazzas on your own. Breakfast, Lunch MONREALE April 20, 2027 Visit La Zisa Palace, the 12th-century summer residence and hunting lodge built for the Norman kings. Then, continue up into the hills to Monreale to admire its great Duomo, a cathedral celebrated worldwide for its exquisite golden mosaics. After free time to explore and have lunch in the local market, we will spend time in the magical Benedictine Cloisters. Also dating from the 12th century, these cloisters feature a stunning Arab-Norman design adorned with truly ornate stone carvings. Breakfast, Dinner CEFALU April 21, 2027 Follow the coast to the enchanting seaside town of Cefalù, where the medieval cathedral stands proudly by the sea. Stroll along the waterfront and explore the town’s charming narrow streets before visiting the renowned Duca di Salaparuta winery. Founded in 1824, this historic estate boasts over two centuries of exceptional wine-making heritage. Here, we savour our farewell lunch paired with the estate’s finest wines, before enjoying an afternoon at leisure. Breakfast, Lunch TO CANADA April 22, 2027 Early this morning we gather for our flights back to Canada. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/brx_TEU070427_Malta-and-Sicily-REV17JUN26.pdf) [![Mediterranean treasures in bloom](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Malta%20and%20Sicily%20journey%202027.gif?h=2c9f97a4&itok=HtVMIevE "Mediterranean treasures in bloom")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Malta%20and%20Sicily%20journey%202027.gif) [![Visit charming Noto in Sicily, Italy](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Italy%2C%20Sicily%20-%20Noto.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=YoUrE__K "Visit charming Noto in Sicily, Italy")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Italy%2C%20Sicily%20-%20Noto.jpg) [![Cefalu, Sicily](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Cefalu%2C%20Sicity%20Italy.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=pWkyN-eE "Cefalu, Sicily")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Cefalu%2C%20Sicity%20Italy.jpg) [![Blue Grotto in Malta](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Blue%20Grotto%20malta.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=vHyvZxFP "Blue Grotto in Malta")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Blue%20Grotto%20malta.jpg) [![Ggantija megalithic temples](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Ggantija%20megalithic%20temples.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=yEDVNlOA "Ggantija megalithic temples")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Ggantija%20megalithic%20temples.jpg) [![The Co-Catheral of S. John, where every glance upward reveals a masterpiece](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Co-Cathedral%20St%20John%20Malta%20Valletta.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=w4WUTbiv "The Co-Catheral of S. John, where every glance upward reveals a masterpiece")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Co-Cathedral%20St%20John%20Malta%20Valletta.jpg) [![Taormina, Italy](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-06/Taormina%20Italy.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=IJJ4U34M "Taormina, Italy")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-06/Taormina%20Italy.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Stacey at sharper \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land Only* (Join / Leave at hotel) $9,505 Toronto $11,125 Ottawa / Montreal $11,325 Halifax $11,455 St John’s / Winnipeg $11,525 Vancouver / Calgary / Edmonton $11,525 Victoria / Regina / Saskatoon $11,555 Single Supplement $1,595 [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TME070427:20270407) #### [Join our CT Match Program](https://www.craigtravel.com/craig-travel-match) Find a like-minded traveller to share your cabin and enhance your journey with shared experiences, fostering the potential for future travel companionship. ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$900 per person** Final payment is due **December 17, 2026** **SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE** **LIMITED TO 25 MEMBERS** **Important Travel Information: ETIAS Authorization:** Canadian citizens travelling to Europe must complete an online application for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This is not a visa but a pre-travel screening for visa-exempt visitors entering the Schengen Area. The authorization costs about €20 and is each traveller’s responsibility. For details and to apply, visit the official ETIAS website well before departure. Land-only price is based on joining at the hotel in Valletta and departing from the hotel in Palermo and excludes international flights and airport transfers. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Air inclusive prices are estimated and subject to confirmation before final payment. Refer to inclusive features for details. Tour price is based on sharing a twin room at hotels and on a minimum of 20 members, based on rates, taxes and fees effective June 2026 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Group to be escorted from Canada with a minimum of 20 group members. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) for more details. #### CT Rating **3/5 - MODERATE** This itinerary features a number of longer walks (up to 3 hours duration), often exploring historic sites with uneven terrain. This tour is in a hot climate and will take members to remote regions on each island. As with a journey of this type, members should be physically active to fully enjoy this tour. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us](mailto:sharper@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Malta%20and%20Sicily%202027) #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Janet Williams](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-03/Picture1255.png?h=d7d0001a&itok=NLSEwr00) Janet Williams - a retired educator and vice principal, will be leading this thrilling journey. According to her, being a tour guide is the perfect retirement activity! It combines her passion for travel and love of new experiences and cultures with the enjoyment of sharing all of this with passengers from all across Canada. She has done extensive personal travelling and has also led successful trips on our behalf to many parts of the world. 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