Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made 15 or more days in advance of your tour date are fully refundable, minus our 3% credit card processing fee. See our complete Cancellation Policy for more information.
Full-day Tour of Segesta and Monreale
History
Archaeology
About
This private tour to Segesta and Monreale provides a great overview of Western Sicily, offering a change to explore the heritage left behind by the Greeks and Normans, who both once settled here. Historical significance aside, both locations are just pleasures to see and explore, so I'm sure you'll love them.
Beginning from or near to Palermo, we'll head west from there along the lovely Gulf of Castellammare and then inland through a bucolic wine growing region with soft, rolling hills.
We'll then start our tour in earnest, by visiting the well-preserved temple and the Greek theater in Segesta, which were built in the late 5th century BC and are embedded in a gorgeous stretch of countryside. It is one of my favorite archeological sites in Sicily and the Temple is probably the most authentic one we have anywhere on the island. The Greek Theater is lovely too, as are the fabulous views that it offers of the surrounding scenery, including the Gulf of Castellammare.
Once we've finished touring Segesta, we'll make our way to Monreale, which is about a 1-hour drive away. There, the star attraction is unquestionably the UNESCO-designated Monastery and Cathedral. It was the last Norman ruler of Sicily who commissioned the complex, and it's an especially interesting structure because it was built together by Sicilian and Byzantine craftsmen.
I'll point out the most interesting features of the cathedral's exterior, and then we'll head inside to marvel at the highlights: the incredible, gold covered mosaics that make the church glow incandescently. Even if you're not catholic or a big fan of churches, this one will surely surprise (and delight) you. In fact, it's no exaggeration to say that it rivals The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
Once we've finished touring the cathedral, we can have a look around town and will then hop back in the car to return to your accommodation.
Mimmo
Overview
Highlights
- A scenic drive following the beautiful Gulf of Castellammare
- Private guided tour at the archeological area in Segesta
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Cathedral in Monreale
- Transportation in a luxury Mercedes sedan
- Private tour - only you and your guide
Tour Itinerary
Pick-up at your hotel/accommodation
1-hour drive along the Golfo di Castellammare to Segesta
Tour the Temple and the Greek theater (about 2 hours)
Break for lunch after touring the archaeological site
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made 15 or more days in advance of your tour date are fully refundable, minus our 3% credit card processing fee. See our complete Cancellation Policy for more information.
