Gay Group Trip: Discover Sicily
Trip Summary:
- GBP (£)
- EUR (€)
- USD ($)
USD
At a glance
?
Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and it’s packed with culture and history. The tour focuses on Eastern Sicily. The fine beaches, baroque palaces and glorious Mount Etna are all major draws. The world-famous wines and food also help.
Beginning in Catania, you will visit the tallest volcano in Europe, enjoy boat rides around the island and indulge in the finest Italian cuisine. You’ll also see some of the great ruins of antiquity. The island of Sicily has been ruled by many empires – you’ll find layers of different cultural influences, including Arab, Byzantine and Norman.
More Information
Italy offers a mix of progress and challenges when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. LGBTQ+ individuals benefit from anti-discrimination laws that protect against bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and same-sex couples have had access to civil unions since 2016. These unions provide many of the legal rights associated with marriage, such as inheritance and hospital visitation. However, same-sex marriage itself is not recognized, and joint adoption rights for same-sex couples remain unavailable, reflecting gaps in full equality.
In recent years, the political landscape has become more conservative, with policies that complicate family recognition for LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes restrictions on surrogacy, both domestically and abroad, which have disproportionately impacted same-sex couples looking to start families. Despite these setbacks, public opinion is gradually becoming more supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, driven by younger generations and urban communities.
Major cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples are home to vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, with inclusive nightlife, annual Pride events, and a growing cultural acceptance. These urban hubs provide welcoming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, offering opportunities for connection and celebration. However, attitudes in smaller towns and rural areas can still reflect the country’s traditional and religious roots.
Italy’s blend of progress and challenges makes it a unique case in Europe. While there is much to celebrate in terms of visibility and community support, continued advocacy is essential to achieve full equality. LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy the country’s rich history, culture, and welcoming atmosphere in its major cities, where inclusivity shines the brightest.
Please ask us about dates
- Accommodation as listed
- International Flights
- Travel insurance
In detail
?
Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Day 1: Welcome
Our adventure begins in Catania, a port city in the shadow of Mt. Etna. You will be welcomed by your hosts and briefed on the adventures to come. We’ll all enjoy a welcome dinner and then go for drinks as we explore Catania’s gay-friendly bar scene.
Day 2: Catania
On our first full day, we’ll take a guided tour of Catania and acquaint ourselves with this beautiful city. Starting at piazza Frederick, we’ll explore sights such as the Urniso Castle, the Roman Baths and the Fotana dell’Elefante, to name a few.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore Catania. We recommend indulging in the world-famous cuisine. La Pescheria, the local fish market, is well worth a visit.
Day 3: Mount Etna
Pack walking boots because today, we’re taking a hike! Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest active volcano. Reaching an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level, this moderate hike will give us astounding views of Sicily’s landscapes. From the Valle del Bove to the smoking craters of Mount Etna, the surrounding landscapes will be a highlight of this gay group trip.
After lunch, we will make our way back to the hotel. You will have free time again this afternoon, to explore or relax after our hike. Then, in the evening we will enjoy the finest pizza Sicily has to offer.
Day 4: Taormina
Today we’ll explore the jaw-dropping beauty of Taormina, arguably the prettiest city in Sicily. We’ll go for a walking tour, exploring the hidden gardens and famous Greek theatre of the city.
Lunch on your own. We’ll then take a glorious boat trip across Taormina bay. Cruising along the Mediterranean sea, we’ll see aquatic sights such as the Cave of Love, Sirens Bay, the Blue Grotto, Isola Bella and St Nicholas Bay. Bring your swimming costume so you can cool off in the sea.
Day 5: Syracuse
Today we leave Catania and make our way to Syracuse. Our walking tour will take us through the Archaeological park, we will learn of Syracuse’s history. From the remains of the Roman Amphitheatre to the legend of Dionysus, our guide will take us to the heart of Syracuse’s ancient past.
After our tour we will head to the beach, where you can shop, stroll or relax!
Day 6: Noto
After a hearty breakfast we head to Noto. This picturesque town is known for its classic architecture and hip bars and eateries. Located in the middle of a glorious valley, Noto is surrounded by wonderous landscapes home to Late Baroque architecture. Noto is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Evening at leisure.
Day 7: Syracuse
Day at leisure. Soak up the history of this 2,700-year-old city, which was once one of the major powers in the Mediterranean region.
Whether it’s wine tasting or tours of the ancient Grecian artefacts, there’s plenty to see before our farewell meal.
Day 8: Farewell
After breakfast, our tour of Sicily draws to a close. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.
Why book with us?
Personal Service
We want to ensure you have the best experience with us so we’ll keep working on your itinerary until perfect. You will have your own personal dedicated member of our team who will help build the perfect trip for you.
Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
Our 5* Reviews
We pride ourselves in the number of clients that are referred to us by our existing customers. Our 5* Trustpilot rating is important to us, so we encourage you to browse our reviews. They speak for themselves and that's why you are in safe hands.