southern italy
brooks & kathy simpson
May 5–13, 2026
Sicily and the Amalfi CoastLast Updated: October 16, 2025
Itinerary Outline
May 5 – 8 | Noto | 7 Rooms Villadorata (3 nights)
May 9 – 13 | Amalfi Coast | Le Agavi (5 nights)
May 13 | Departure
tuesday, may 5 | ortigia & Noto, Sicily
Enjoy a final breakfast in Taormina with Blake and Kate. You’ll say goodbyes for now as you continue to explore southern Italy before reconnecting in Switzerland.
Pick Up & Transfer
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for a private transfer to Noto, with an exciting pitstop along the way.
Drive Time: about 2 hours
Guided Tour of Syracuse & Ortigia
On your way to Noto, make a memorable stop in the captivating island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse. Accompanied by a private guide, wander through ancient Greek ruins, Baroque piazzas, and lively markets tucked between sea-splashed alleyways. Highlights include the majestic Duomo di Siracusa, built atop a 5th-century temple, and the mythical Fonte Aretusa, where legend and history converge in a serene waterfront setting.
Cooking Class in Ortigia
After soaking in the rich cultural layers of Ortigia, join a local chef for an intimate cooking class in a traditional home or courtyard kitchen. Begin with a stroll through the bustling market to source seasonal ingredients, then roll up your sleeves to prepare classic Sicilian dishes—perhaps handmade pasta, fresh seafood, or caponata. As the meal comes together, enjoy stories of Sicilian family traditions and culinary secrets passed down through generations, all culminating in a shared feast you helped create.
7 Rooms Villadorata | Deluxe with Private Terrace (B, L)
wednesday, may 6 | Noto, Sicily
Uncover Noto With a Local Guide
Welcome to Noto, the jewel of Sicilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is a living masterpiece, where art and architecture blend to tell a story of resilience and creativity. After a devastating earthquake in 1693, Noto was rebuilt in stunning Baroque style, with majestic staircases leading to ornate churches, wide avenues unfolding into elegant piazzas, and noble palaces glowing in the golden Sicilian sun. Its charm and elegance are unparalleled across the Mediterranean.
Noto’s beauty is not only captivating but magnetic, inspiring filmmakers and artists worldwide. Must-see landmarks include the grand Palazzo Ducezio, the impressive Palazzo Vescovile, and the stunning Cathedral of San Nicolò. Every corner of the city reveals architectural treasures, from the detailed Church of San Domenico to the elegant Palazzo Landolina. To end your visit, savor a refreshing granita with a warm brioche—perfectly capturing the harmony of Noto’s timeless allure.
7 Rooms Villadorata | Deluxe with Private Terrace (B)
thursday, may 7 | Noto
Olive Oil on a Family Farm
Visiting the Tenuta Cavasecca olive oil estate in Sicily is a delightful journey into the heart of authentic agritourism. Situated in the Contrada Cavasecca at around 300 m above sea level, this family-run organic estate spans centuries-old olive groves and new plantings of native cultivars like Tonda Iblea, Siracusana, Biancolilla, and Nocellara—all certified D.O.P. Monti Iblei and I.G.P. Sicilia. Your experience begins with a scenic walk among ancient and young olive trees, followed by a tour of their "temple" of oil—an atmospheric former feeding hall—where you're guided through each step, from manual hand-harvesting (“brucatura”) to cold-extraction milling and oxygen-free storage in stainless steel tanks under nitrogen to preserve freshness.
Finally, enjoy a tasting session in the rustic setting, sampling several estate oils—such as the aromatic Firrisa (100 % Tonda Iblea) and the robust Siracusana—while learning to distinguish fruity, bitter, and peppery notes on the palate. It’s not just a tasting, but an immersion into Sicilian terroir, tradition, and craftsmanship.
Lunch included.
7 Rooms Villadorata | Deluxe with Private Terrace (B, L)
friday, may 8 | to the amalfi coast
Airport Transfer & Flight to Naples
Meet your driver this morning for a private transfer to Catania Airport in time for your flight out to Naples Airport.
Flight Time: 8:45 a.m.
Airline: Easyjet
Duration: 1 hour 5 minutes
Pick Up & Explore Naples
Meet your driver at Naples Airport for a convenient pickup, then set off with a friendly local guide to discover the vibrant city of Naples. Enjoy a scenic drive through historic streets, visit iconic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture. Along the way, savor an authentic Neapolitan pizza lunch at a traditional pizzeria — the perfect way to experience Naples like a local.
Lunch included.
Check In to Hotel
After lunch, continue your drive down the coast to your seaside hotel.
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Positano, Le Agavi Hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. This elegant hotel combines Mediterranean charm with modern luxury, featuring beautifully appointed rooms, a private beach accessible by funicular, and exceptional dining overlooking the sea. Its tranquil setting and impeccable service make it a perfect retreat for an unforgettable stay in Positano.
Le Agavi Hotel | Deluxe Sea View with Balcony (B, L)
saturday, may 9 | at leisure in amalfi
Pamper Yourselves at Le Agavi
Spend a day at leisure at Le Agavi Hotel, perched elegantly above the coastline. You might linger over a late breakfast with panoramic vistas, unwind by the cliffside pool, or take the private elevator down to the hotel’s beach club for a swim in the clear Tyrrhenian waters. Indulge in spa treatments, sip cocktails on the terrace as the afternoon light softens, and end the day with dinner overlooking the twinkling lights of Positano—an unhurried celebration of la dolce vita.
We can make specific recommendations or spa reservations as your trip gets closer.
Le Agavi Hotel | Deluxe Sea View with Balcony (B, L)
sunday, may 10 | cruising around amalfi
Full Day Boating Around the Amalfi Coast
Set off on a full-day private boating adventure along the Amalfi Coast, gliding past dramatic cliffs, pastel-hued villages, and hidden coves. Your captain will tailor the journey to your pace, with leisurely stops to swim in crystalline waters and explore charming seaside towns. A highlight is the visit to the legendary Blue Grotto on Capri, where sunlight filters through the cave’s entrance to illuminate the water in an otherworldly shade of electric blue. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a waterfront trattoria or on deck, then continue cruising beneath the sun-drenched coastline, savoring the beauty of the Mediterranean from the best seat in the house.
Le Agavi Hotel | Deluxe Sea View with Balcony (B)
monday may 11 | at leisure in amalfi
Day at Leisure
After several days exploring, enjoy a day at leisure to rest up and enjoy at your own pace. We’ll make recommendations as your trip gets closer and, if you’d like an organized activity with a guide, we’re happy to include additional experiences.
Take a Day Trip to Capri (Recommended)
If you’d like to explore the island of Capri, we recommend taking the ferry directly from the nearby Positano port. You can explore for the day and have lunch, and the the ferry home in the evening.
If you would like to explore Capri with a private boat transfer and local guide, just let us know.
Le Agavi Hotel | Deluxe Sea View with Balcony (B, L)
wednesday, may 13 | at leisure in amalfi
Day at Leisure
After several days exploring, enjoy a day at leisure to rest up and enjoy at your own pace. We’ll make recommendations as your trip gets closer and, if you’d like an organized activity with a guide, we’re happy to include additional experiences.
Hike the Path of the Gods (Recommended)
Embark on a breathtaking hike along the Path of the Gods, one of the Amalfi Coast’s most iconic trails. Winding high above the sea from Bomerano to Nocelle, the path offers sweeping views of rugged cliffs, terraced lemon groves, and the sparkling coastline below. As you walk, the scent of wild herbs fills the air and ancient stone steps guide you through peaceful villages and untouched landscapes. Whether taken at a leisurely pace or as a more active adventure, this unforgettable hike reveals the Amalfi Coast from a truly spectacular vantage point.
If you would like a guided hike, let us know.
Le Agavi Hotel | Deluxe Sea View with Balcony (B, L)
tuesday, may 12 | departure
It's time to bid farewell and head home today after your adventure in Italy. Thankfully in Italy we don't say goodbye, but rather a dopo, or until next time.
Private Transfer & Departure
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver for a private transfer to Naples Airport for your flight off to Zurich.
Flight to Zurich
Catch a direct flight from Naples to Zurich where you’ll meet up again with Blake and Kate.
Pricing & inclusions
Total price: $ 29,000
The above price is when paying by wire transfer. A 40% deposit of $11,600 is required to confirm your reservations, with the remaining balance due 90 days before departure (February 1, 2026).
Accommodation
3 nights in Noto at 7 Rooms Villadorata
5 nights in Positan at Le Agavi
Transport: Private transfers for all activities.
Flights:
Flight from Catania to Naples
Flight from Naples to Zurich
Tours & Activities: All tours, activities and excursions with an expert English-speaking guide as listed in the itinerary, along with the required entrance fees associated with the tours.
Meals: All breakfasts, some meals listed as included in your itinerary (B=breakfast, L= lunch).
Other: City taxes associated with your accommodations. Restaurant reservations and coordination. All insider recommendations for your trip. Local team on call 24-hours a day during your trip.
Exclusions
Flights to and from Seattle
Travel insurance
Tips