Travel through southern Italy and Sicily on this 15 night guided journey from Naples to Palermo, following the opening stretch of the new series of Race Across the World, which begins in Sicily before heading through Calabria on its way towards the final destination in India. This route puts you right into the same part of the world seen in the first episode, from coastal towns and hilltop villages to Mount Etna and the Valley of the Temples, but with the time to actually enjoy each stop along the way.
Start in Naples before heading south into Calabria, reaching the hilltop village of Civita. This is a quieter side of Italy, where you can walk through the village and see a different pace of life. A nature based hike in Pollino National Park gives you time in the mountains, with views across the landscape and coastline.
Continue to Tropea, set on cliffs above the sea, where you can explore the town or spend time by the water. From here, head out by boat to Stromboli. This is one of the standout parts of the trip, with the chance to see volcanic activity by night from the water, something you do not get to experience often.
Travel along the coast to Reggio Calabria and visit the Archaeological Museum to see the Riace Bronzes. Cross into Sicily and continue to Taormina for a private boat trip along the coastline, with time on the water and the option to swim. In Catania, take a guided walk through the city and try local granita, with Mount Etna visible in the background.
Spend a full day on Mount Etna, walking across volcanic terrain, visiting lava caves and seeing the landscape up close. Continue to Syracuse where a guided walk introduces you to the city, followed by free time to explore the old town, visit archaeological sites or spend time along the waterfront.
Travel through the baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa, known for their architecture and layout, before reaching Agrigento. A guided visit to the Valley of the Temples brings the site to life, with time to walk through the ruins and take in views across the surrounding landscape.
Finish in western Sicily, stopping in the hilltop town of Erice to try local sweets before continuing to Palermo. A guided Anti Mafia walking tour gives you a different perspective on the city, visiting key locations and meeting local people. You then have time to explore Palermo before the trip ends.
Return flights from Dublin with Aer Lingus and Swiss International Air Lines via Naples, Palermo and Zurich, 15 night guided tour from Naples to Palermo, transport throughout by train, public bus, private vehicle and ferry, accommodation throughout in hotels and guesthouses, 15 breakfasts. Included activities: Civita nature based hike, Stromboli by night boat trip, Reggio Calabria Archaeological Museum visit, Taormina private boat excursion, orientation walks in Taormina, Catania and Syracuse, Mount Etna day trip with lava cave visit, Noto and Ragusa day trip, guided visit to the Valley of the Temples, Erice local sweets tasting, Palermo Anti Mafia walking tour. Flights depart Dublin on 30 August 2026. Price is correct at the time of posting (02 April 2026). Offers are subject to change.
Price from €5,800 per person
This thirteen night journey brings together the buzz of Japan’s cities and time by the coast in central Vietnam. You move from neon streets and high speed rail to lantern lit evenings and relaxed days near the beach, with a strong balance of food, culture and downtime. Private transfers, well located hotels and key rail and flight connections are all arranged, so each stage runs smoothly while still giving you the freedom to explore on your own.
This ten night family holiday in the Algarve is designed for families who want space, easy days and everything close at hand. Staying in a one bedroom residence at Domes Lake Algarve gives you room to settle in properly, with private transfers, direct flights from Dublin and a dolphin watching trip included. It is a straightforward, well planned summer break that balances time at the resort with simple days out along the coast.
Travel through Switzerland by train on this eight night trip, combining city, mountains and alpine rail journeys. Start in Zurich, continue to Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn, then travel on to St Moritz before returning to Zurich. With first class rail travel and private transfers included, this is a straightforward way to see Switzerland without driving.
