SICILY: Between Fire and Sea

SICILY: Between Fire and Sea - Living Traditions, Timeless Flavors & Island Heritage

Introduction
SICILY: Between Fire and Sea - Living Traditions, Timeless Flavors & Island Heritage image

Sicily / 11-Day Journey

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INTRODUCTION

Join Cross Cultural Journeys CEO Cilla Utne and Jesús Noguera of Europa Careo on this pioneering joint-adventure across Sicily - a Mediterranean island that has long been an intersection of cultures, civilizations, and traditions. Together, we'll explore a land that often feels like a world unto itself, where volcanic landscapes, Baroque towns, countryside markets, and coastal villages form part of what has shaped Sicily through the centuries.

From the slopes of Mount Etna to the historic streets of Palermo, we'll experience Sicily through the people who call it home. We'll meet puppet masters preserving a UNESCO-recognized art form, ceramic artisans carrying on generations-old traditions, olive growers cultivating the land, and local families who welcome us to their tables. And we'll be very lucky to be there to experience the flower-filled streets of Noto during the Infiorata Festival!

A bit off the beaten tourist path, we will llearn about the rich heritage of Syracuse and Ortigia, and finally explore the remarkable Arab-Norman legacy that makes Palermo unlike any other city in Europe.

Sprinkled with local Sicilian city guides and story tellers along our route, food and wine are also woven throughout our journey. Taste the volcanic wines on the slopes of Etna, sample Modica's famous chocolate, pick lemons and learn the art of limoncello-making, savor farm-to-table meals in the countryside, and share down to Earth conversations over authentic Sicilian cuisine.

Join us to discover a Sicily that is always vibrant and welcoming - even surprising - while deeply rooted in tradition.

This journey is designed for travelers who enjoy meaningful cultural experiences, authentic local connections, and the opportunity to experience a destination at a relaxed pace, with curiosity, vivid conversations, and a sense of discovery.

ACTIVITY LEVEL 3
1= easy, wheel chair accessible
2 = some stairs and city walking
3 = shorter nature hikes, traveling on mountain roads, some uneven surfaces, high places
4 = may include more difficult off-road terrain, longer walks and hikes, high places
5 = may include very difficult terrain, mountaineering, climbing, high places and deep water

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Sicilian Highlights Overview

Sicilian Highlights Overview image

At a glance

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INTRODUCTION

Thursday, May 13, 2027

Friday, May 14, 2027

Saturday, May 15, 2027

Sunday, May 16, 2027

Monday, May 17, 2027

Tuesday, May 18, 2027

Wednesday, May 19, 2027

Thursday, May 20, 2027

Friday, May 21, 2027

Saturday, May 22, 2027

Sunday, May 23, 2027

Map of the trip locations

SICILY route

A. Catania

Catania, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy

B. Mount Etna

Mt Etna, 95012 Castiglione di Sicilia, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy

C. Syracuse

96100 Syracuse, Free municipal consortium of Syracuse, Italy

D. Island of Ortigia

Island of Ortigia, Italy

E. Modica

97015 Modica, Free municipal consortium of Ragusa, Italy

F. Noto

96017 Noto, Free municipal consortium of Syracuse, Italy

G. Caltagirone

95041 Caltagirone, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy

H. Palermo

Palermo, PA, Italy
Thursday, May 13, 2027

Day 1 - Welcome to Sicily: Arrival in Catania & Welcome Dinner

Day 1 - Welcome to Sicily: Arrival in Catania & Welcome Dinner image

Discover Catania's Baroque Charm and Cuisine

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Discover the vibrant city of Catania

Discover the vibrant city of Catania, where Baroque architecture, lively piazzas, and centuries of Sicilian history come together. Explore highlights such as Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, and the iconic Elephant Fountain while getting acquainted with the unique character of eastern Sicily.
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Explore historic Catania and Piazza del Duomo

DateThursday, May 13, 2027
Explore historic Catania and Piazza del Duomo.
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Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Agata and Elephant Fountain

DateThursday, May 13, 2027
Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Agata and Elephant Fountain.
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Learn about Sicily's rich cultural and architectural heritage

DateThursday, May 13, 2027
Learn about Sicily's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
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Welcome dinner featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine

DateThursday, May 13, 2027
Welcome dinner featuring fresh seafood and traditional regional cuisine, offering your first taste of Sicily's renowned culinary traditions.
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Explore historic Catania and Piazza del Duomo. Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Agata and Elephant Fountain. Learn about Sicily's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Welcome dinner featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine. First taste of Sicily's celebrated food culture.
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Catania (hotel to be confirmed)

Check inThursday, May 13, 2027
Sleep: Catania (hotel to be confirmed).
Friday, May 14, 2027

Day 2 - Mount Etna & Volcanic Wines

Day 2 - Mount Etna & Volcanic Wines image

Explore Mount Etna and Volcanic Wines

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Explore Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano

Today we explore Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano and one of Sicily's most extraordinary landscapes. Traveling along the volcano's southern slopes, we'll stop at volcanic craters and discover the geology, history, and natural forces that continue to shape the island.
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Visit volcanic craters and learn about Etna's geology

DateFriday, May 14, 2027
Visit volcanic craters and learn about Etna's geology.
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Discover the unique Etna DOC wine region

DateFriday, May 14, 2027
Discover the unique Etna DOC wine region.
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Wine tasting and lunch at Benanti Winery

DateFriday, May 14, 2027
Wine tasting and lunch at Benanti Winery.
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Lunch at Benanti Winery

DateFriday, May 14, 2027
Enjoy a guided tasting and leisurely lunch paired with local specialties while overlooking the vineyards of Etna.
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Explore Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. Visit volcanic craters and learn about Etna's geology. Discover the unique Etna DOC wine region. Wine tasting and lunch at Benanti Winery. Experience Sicily's volcanic landscape, cuisine, and wines.
Saturday, May 15, 2027

Day 3 - The Art of Sicily's Puppet Masters

Day 3 - The Art of Sicily's Puppet Masters image

Discover Sicily's Puppet Heritage and Traditions

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Private visit to the Napoli Brothers workshop

This morning, we'll step behind the scenes of one of Sicily's most beloved cultural traditions with a private visit to the workshop of the Napoli Brothers, a family that has preserved the art of Opera dei Pupi for generations. Learn how Sicily's famous puppets are carved, painted, and dressed while discovering the stories, craftsmanship, and traditions that earned this unique theater form UNESCO recognition.
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Discover the UNESCO-recognized Opera dei Pupi tradition

DateSaturday, May 15, 2027
Discover the UNESCO-recognized Opera dei Pupi tradition.
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Learn how traditional Sicilian puppets are created

DateSaturday, May 15, 2027
Learn how traditional Sicilian puppets are created.
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View historic puppets, costumes, and stage artifacts

DateSaturday, May 15, 2027
View historic puppets, costumes, and stage artifacts.
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Meet artisans preserving a centuries-old cultural heritage

DateSaturday, May 15, 2027
Meet artisans preserving a centuries-old cultural heritage.
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Breakfast

DateSaturday, May 15, 2027
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Private visit to the Napoli Brothers workshop. Discover the UNESCO-recognized Opera dei Pupi tradition. Learn how traditional Sicilian puppets are created. View historic puppets, costumes, and stage artifacts. Meet artisans preserving a centuries-old cultural heritage.
Sunday, May 16, 2027

Day 4 - Syracuse, Ortigia & Baroque Noto

Day 4 - Syracuse, Ortigia & Baroque Noto image

Explore Syracuse, Ortigia, and Baroque Noto

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Depart Catania and travel to Syracuse

Depart Catania and travel to Syracuse, once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world. Explore the historic island of Ortigia, including Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral of Syracuse, and the Fountain of Arethusa. After lunch, continue to Noto, Sicily's Baroque masterpiece and our home for the next three nights. Arriving during the final days of the celebrated Infiorata Festival, we'll enjoy the town's flower-covered streets and festive atmosphere.
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Guided walking tour of Ortigia

DateSunday, May 16, 2027
Guided walking tour of Ortigia.
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Visit the Cathedral of Syracuse and Piazza Duomo

DateSunday, May 16, 2027
Visit the Cathedral of Syracuse and Piazza Duomo.
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Lunch featuring local Sicilian specialties

DateSunday, May 16, 2027
Lunch featuring local Sicilian specialties.
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Explore the Baroque streets of Noto

DateSunday, May 16, 2027
Explore the Baroque streets of Noto.
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Experience the Infiorata Flower Festival

DateSunday, May 16, 2027
Experience the Infiorata Flower Festival.
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Guided walking tour of Ortigia. Visit the Cathedral of Syracuse and Piazza Duomo. Lunch featuring local Sicilian specialties. Explore the Baroque streets of Noto. Experience the Infiorata Flower Festival.
Monday, May 17, 2027

Day 5 - Modica & Sicily's Chocolate Tradition

Day 5 - Modica & Sicily's Chocolate Tradition image

Discover Modica's Chocolate and Baroque Landmarks

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Explore the UNESCO town of Modica

DateMonday, May 17, 2027
Explore the UNESCO town of Modica.
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Private chocolate experience at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto

DateMonday, May 17, 2027
Private chocolate experience at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto.
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Learn the history of Modica's chocolate tradition

DateMonday, May 17, 2027
Learn the history of Modica's chocolate tradition.
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Lunch showcasing contemporary Sicilian cuisine

DateMonday, May 17, 2027
Lunch showcasing contemporary Sicilian cuisine.
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Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio

DateMonday, May 17, 2027
Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio.
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Explore the UNESCO town of Modica. Private chocolate experience at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. Learn the history of Modica's chocolate tradition. Lunch showcasing contemporary Sicilian cuisine. Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio.
Tuesday, May 18, 2027

Day 6 - Olive Oil, Farm Life & Infiorata

Day 6 - Olive Oil, Farm Life & Infiorata image

Experience Sicilian Farm Life and Infiorata Festival

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Visit a regenerative olive and almond farm

DateTuesday, May 18, 2027
Spend the morning immersed in Sicily's agricultural traditions at Three Farms Island, a regenerative family farm near Noto.
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Learn about Sicilian olive oil production

DateTuesday, May 18, 2027
Walk among ancient olive trees and learn how extra virgin olive oil is produced.
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Olive oil tasting and rural farm experience

DateTuesday, May 18, 2027
Enjoy an olive oil tasting and rural farm experience at Three Farms Island.
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Farm-to-table lunch with local ingredients

DateTuesday, May 18, 2027
Farm-to-table lunch showcasing local ingredients.
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Time to enjoy Noto and the Infiorata Festival

DateTuesday, May 18, 2027
Return to Noto for time to explore the town and experience the final day of the spectacular Infiorata floral displays.
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Visit a regenerative olive and almond farm. Learn about Sicilian olive oil production. Olive oil tasting and rural farm experience. Farm-to-table lunch with local ingredients. Time to enjoy Noto and the Infiorata Festival.
Wednesday, May 19, 2027

Day 7 - Ceramics of Caltagirone & Arrival in Palermo

Day 7 - Ceramics of Caltagirone & Arrival in Palermo image

Ceramic Workshop in Caltagirone and Palermo Arrival

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Hands-on ceramic workshop in Caltagirone

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Enjoy a hands-on workshop with local artisans and create your own ceramic keepsake in Caltagirone, Sicily's capital of ceramics.
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Create and decorate your own ceramic piece

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Create and decorate your own ceramic piece during the workshop in Caltagirone.
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Visit the famous Scala di Santa Maria del Monte

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Visit the famous Scala di Santa Maria del Monte in Caltagirone.
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Explore Caltagirone's historic center

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Explore Caltagirone's historic center after the ceramic workshop.
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Arrive in Palermo

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Continue to Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, for your first evening on the island's north coast.
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Dinner at Ciurma Marina Yachting

DateWednesday, May 19, 2027
Dinner at Ciurma Marina Yachting.
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Hands-on ceramic workshop in Caltagirone. Create and decorate your own ceramic piece. Visit the famous Scala di Santa Maria del Monte. Explore Caltagirone's historic center. Arrive in Palermo.
Thursday, May 20, 2027

Day 8 - History, Street Food & Sicilian Family Life

Day 8 - History, Street Food & Sicilian Family Life image

Palermo Walking Tour and Home-Hosted Meal

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Historic Palermo walking tour

DateThursday, May 20, 2027
Discover the many civilizations that shaped Palermo on a guided walking tour through the city's historic center. Explore architectural treasures reflecting Arab, Norman, Byzantine, and European influences.
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Visit traditional street food markets

DateThursday, May 20, 2027
Visit traditional street food markets and taste Palermo's iconic local specialties.
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Home-hosted meal with a Sicilian family

DateThursday, May 20, 2027
Enjoy a special meal in the home of a Sicilian family, offering a unique opportunity to connect with local traditions and daily life.
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Historic Palermo walking tour. Learn about Sicily's diverse cultural heritage. Visit traditional street food markets. Taste Palermo's iconic local specialties. Home-hosted meal with a Sicilian family.
Friday, May 21, 2027

Day 9 - Limoncello, Sicilian Cooking & Opera

Day 9 - Limoncello, Sicilian Cooking & Opera image

Lemon Harvest, Countryside Lunch, and Palermo Opera

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Harvest lemons and make traditional limoncello

DateFriday, May 21, 2027
Experience life in the Sicilian countryside with a hands-on lemon harvest and limoncello-making experience. Learn how one of Sicily's most beloved liqueurs is produced.
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Learn about Sicily's agricultural traditions

DateFriday, May 21, 2027
Learn about Sicily's agricultural traditions during your countryside experience.
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Family-hosted countryside lunch

DateFriday, May 21, 2027
Share a traditional farm lunch with your hosts in the Sicilian countryside.
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Guided visit of Teatro Massimo

DateFriday, May 21, 2027
Visit the magnificent Teatro Massimo, one of Italy's most celebrated opera houses and a symbol of Palermo.
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Opportunity to attend an evening performance

DateFriday, May 21, 2027
Opportunity to attend an evening performance at Teatro Massimo.
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Harvest lemons and make traditional limoncello. Learn about Sicily's agricultural traditions. Family-hosted countryside lunch. Guided visit of Teatro Massimo. Opportunity to attend an evening performance.
Saturday, May 22, 2027

Day 10 - Royal Palermo, Anti-Mafia Legacy & Farewell Celebration

Day 10 - Royal Palermo, Anti-Mafia Legacy & Farewell Celebration image

Palermo’s Royal Heritage and Farewell Catamaran

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Visit Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina

DateSaturday, May 22, 2027
Begin at the magnificent Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina, masterpieces of the island's Arab-Norman heritage.
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Discover Sicily's Arab-Norman heritage

DateSaturday, May 22, 2027
Discover Sicily's Arab-Norman heritage.
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Explore the No Mafia Memorial

DateSaturday, May 22, 2027
Visit the No Mafia Memorial to learn about Palermo's modern struggle against organized crime and the individuals who fought for justice.
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Private sunset catamaran cruise

DateSaturday, May 22, 2027
Celebrate the conclusion of our Sicilian journey aboard a private sunset catamaran cruise along the Palermo coast.
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Sicilian aperitivo and farewell dinner at sea

DateSaturday, May 22, 2027
Sicilian aperitivo and farewell dinner at sea.
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Visit Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina. Discover Sicily's Arab-Norman heritage. Explore the No Mafia Memorial. Private sunset catamaran cruise. Sicilian aperitivo and farewell dinner at sea.
Sunday, May 23, 2027

Day 11 - Departure from Palermo

Day 11 - Departure from Palermo image

Farewell to Sicily and Departure

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Airport transfer

After breakfast, transfer to Palermo Airport for your return flight home, bringing to a close our journey through Sicily's remarkable landscapes, cuisine, history, and traditions.
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Airport transfer. Return flight to the United States. Farewell to Sicily.
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Breakfast

DateSunday, May 23, 2027
Map of the trip locations

Map

A. Piazza del Duomo, Catania

Piazza del Duomo, 95124 Catania CT, Italy

B. Cathedral of Sant'Agata

Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 163, 95131 Catania CT, Italy

C. Elephant Fountain (Fontana dell'Elefante)

Piazza del Duomo, 95124 Catania CT, Italy

D. Mount Etna (Southern Slopes)

Nicolosi, Metropolitan City of Catania, Italy

E. Benanti Winery

Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 361, 95029 Viagrande CT, Italy

F. Napoli Brothers Puppet Workshop

Via Reitano, 55, 95121 Catania CT, Italy

G. Ortigia Island, Syracuse

Ortigia, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy

H. Cathedral of Syracuse (Duomo di Siracusa)

Piazza Duomo, 5, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy

I. Fountain of Arethusa

Largo Aretusa, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy

J. Noto (Baroque Town)

Noto, 96017 SR, Italy

K. Antica Dolceria Bonajuto

Corso Umberto I, 159, 97015 Modica RG, Italy

L. Duomo di San Giorgio, Modica

Via Duomo, 97015 Modica RG, Italy

M. Three Farms Island (near Noto)

Contrada Fiumara, 96017 Noto SR, Italy

N. Caltagirone (Ceramics Town)

Caltagirone, 95041 CT, Italy

O. Scala di Santa Maria del Monte

Via Santa Maria del Monte, 95041 Caltagirone CT, Italy

P. CEAR Ceramiche

Via Roma, 32, 95041 Caltagirone CT, Italy

Q. Ciurma Marina Yachting

Via Filippo Patti, 90133 Palermo PA, Italy

R. Palermo Historic Center

Palermo, 90133 PA, Italy

S. Teatro Massimo

Piazza Verdi, 90138 Palermo PA, Italy

T. Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina

Piazza Indipendenza, 1, 90129 Palermo PA, Italy

U. No Mafia Memorial

Via Vittorio Emanuele, 353, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy

V. Sicily Blue Dream (Catamaran Cruise)

Via Filippo Patti, 90133 Palermo PA, Italy

W. Palermo Airport (Falcone Borsellino)

Località Punta Raisi, 90145 Cinisi PA, Italy
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