Small Group · Sicily
Erice and Segesta day trip
The Overview
Overview
On this tour we visit two of the most historic and picturesque cities in Sicily: Erice and Segesta. Our first stop will be at the magnificent Temple of Segesta. It was built by the Elimian, an old population whose origins maybe are Turkish but were later colonized by the Greeks to become one of the most important Greek colonies on the west side of Sicily.
We then move on to the medieval town of Erice, situated 880 metres above the sea level and surrounded by ancient Elimi and Phoenician walls on the northeastern side of the city. Two castles make for a spectacular skyline, Pepoli Castle, with foundations dating from Saracen times, and Venus Castle, dating from the Norman era but built on ruins of the ancient Temple of Venus. Surrounded by a lush park, the hilltop castles alone are worth a stop in Erice, which offers charming old stone streets and medieval churches. Pepoli Castle was at first a feudal stronghold, though Erice was eventually ceded to the Crown as a demesnial city. The view from the castle towers is stupendous. Though both castles have been modified somewhat over the centuries, they still have that distinctively medieval character one expects of such fortresses.
It is also interesting to visit the Cathedral built in the 1300 in Gothic Catalan style with mirable decorations where we can see the picture of the famous black Virgin venerated in the area. We will stroll the village and taste the famous marzipan cakes made with almonds in different flavors (pistachio, pinots, orange, lemon and so on..) by the famous pastry shop "Grammatico".
Duration
0 hours
Pricing
On request
Tailored to your dates and group.
On this tour we visit two of the most historic an picturesque cities in Sicily: Erice and Segesta. Our first stop will be at the magnificent Temple of Segesta. It was built by the Elimian, an old population whose origins maybe are Turkish but were later colonized by the Greeks to become one of the most important Greek colonies in the west side of Sicily.
- Tour Style
- Small Group
- Departs From
- Sicily
The details
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Detailed explanation of sites
- English speaking professional tour guide
- Entrance Fees
What's Not Included
- Gratuities of any type
- Lunch
In their words
Traveler Reviews
Emily and David DavisonMy husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.
Ron and Deb CrosbyDear Guiseppe and Jesse,
We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.
Hotels
1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.
2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.
3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.
Wine Tour
Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!
The various wineries we visited on tour:
Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.
Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.
Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.
Leon and MicheleThe trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.
Bob & SandyJesse & Giuseppe,
Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.
Where you are
Location
Italy Sicily
Sicily and beyond
Every stop on this journey is chosen by the people who live here.
Where it starts
Sicily
Nearby Experiences
Palermo and Monreale Full Day Private Tour
Sicily: Private Full Day Tour of Erice - Castellammare del Golfo and Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
Isola Bella and the Coast of Taormina Morning Tour By Boat
Mt. Etna and the Etna Wineries with Tastings and Full Lunch at Cantina Patria
Highlights of Palermo & Monreale from Cruise
Parma Food tour
Half Day In The Footsteps Of Leonardo Walking Tour & Last Supper Visit(Approx. 3 Hrs)
Pisa, Volterra, San Gimignano
Full day exploring Palermo and its area
Cinque Terre Mini-Stay Holiday
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?
Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?
Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.
How do we start planning?
Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.
When should we book?
The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.
Plan your journey
Start the Conversation
Quick Enquiry
Our travel specialists reply within one business day.
You may also like
Recommended Tours
Handpicked
Our Featured Properties
From the journal
Our Recent Blog
Keep exploring
Explore More of Italy
Curated Italy journeys and travel inspirations.
Ready to plan your journey?
Connect directly with a member of our team for expert guidance and fully customized travel across Italy and the Mediterranean.
- Direct in Italy: +39 375 823 5314
- Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565