Chat with us, powered by LiveChat Etna, Catania & Latojani, Sicily | Solo Travel Italy | Guided Walking Trip Tours For Solos

What to expect

Guided Walks

Guided Walks

Embark on three expertly guided walks through the diverse and stunning landscapes of eastern Sicily, from volcanic trails to picturesque countryside and dramatic gorges.

Volcanic Encounters

Volcanic Encounters

Witness the dramatic and otherworldly lava fields of Mount Etna, an iconic and active volcano, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore a truly unique geological wonders.

Historical Sights

Historical Sights

Explore the charming villages and fascinating archaeological sites of eastern Sicily, uncovering the rich history and cultural heritage of this captivating Italian island.

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

Savor the incredible flavors of Sicily, indulging in iconic dishes like Arancini and Cannoli, and experience the region's delightful wines during a traditional tasting lunch.

About this trip...

Come experience the diverse beauty of eastern Sicily on a week of fantastic walking! From our relaxing hotel in the scenic coastal town of Giardini Naxos, we'll hit the trails through the incredible, otherworldly lava fields of Mount Etna, the charming countryside near Forza d’Agrò (you might recognize it from "The Godfather"!), and the stunning Alcantara River gorges with their amazing natural basalt formations. This is solo travel to Italy at its finest! We'll also take a guided tour of the historic city center of Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along with these great walks and the city tour, we'll seek out some of Sicily’s most beautiful views, and you'll still have free time to relax or explore even more of this fascinating region. It's the perfect choice for solo travelers looking for an unforgettable adventure in Italy!
Activity Level: Activity Level Rating
What's this?

What's Included

  • Airport transfers (Catania Airport)
  • Private Room
  • Breakfast daily & 2 dinners
  • Welcome drink and information meeting
  • Guided tour of Catania
  • 3 Guided Walks - 1 Full Day & 2 Half Day
  • Wine tasting with traditional lunch
  • Accompanying Solo's Tour Leader

What's extra:

  • International flights not included. Let us help you book them! Learn more.
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips & drinks
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Activities not included in the itinerary
  • Tourist City Tax – $2 USD per night payable to the hotel locally at the end of your stay (amount subject to change)

Itinerary

  • Arrive Sicily
  • Etna
  • Catania
  • La valle d'Agrò
  • Day at leisure
  • Alcantara Gorge
  • Day at leisure
  • Depart Sicily

What you will be doing...

Day One: Arrive in Sicily

Day One: Arrive in Sicily

We arrive on the island of Sicily. We will transfer from Catania Airport to the town of Giardini Naxos - our base for the week. Situated on the eastern coast of the island, its easy pace of life offers visitors a relaxing beach getaway with stunning sea views and easy access to nearby natural, historical and cultural attractions.

  • Dinner Included
Day Two: Explore Mount Etna

Day Two: Explore Mount Etna

We embark on a scenic walk starting from Rifugio Sapienza, approximately 6,266 feet high, perfect for exploring Mount Etna. We'll follow a road with stunning views, then detour at approximately 6,890 feet to see craters from the 2001 eruptions. Next, we visit Monti Calcarazzi's historic pyroclastic cones and glimpse the Abisso dei Monti Calcarazzi cave from outside for safety. Returning, we'll cross the 2001 lava flow and ascend the Silvestri Superior Crater for a breathtaking panorama. This approximately 1.86-mile hike takes about three hours, offering an enriching journey through Mount Etna's iconic sites.

  • A challening walk with height altitude approximately 6,562 - 6,890 feet Journey time is 3-4 hours. Path on volcanic ash & flora made of endemic bushes. 
  • Breakfast Included
Day Three: Catania

Day Three: Catania

Today we enjoy a half day guided tour of Catania, the second largest city on Sicily after Palermo.

We begin at the Piazza Alcalá through the streets of the World Heritage listed city centre, taking in the Piazza Duomo, in the heart of the city with its Baroque palaces and the central Elephant Fountain. From there, we will walk along the Via Etnea and visit Piazza Stesicoro to see the remains of the ancient Roman city of Catania and its impressive amphitheatre. We will also visit the monument to Vincenzo Bellini, the famous opera composer, and an open-air fish market, famous for its vibrant colors.

We spend the remainder of the day at our own pace.

  • Breakfast Included

Day Four: La Valle d'Agrò

Day Four: La Valle d'Agrò

We take a more rural walk today, passing through the tranquil rolling countryside around Forza d’Agrò, a medieval town north of Taormina, made famous when scenes for the The Godfather movie were shot there. We make our way through the beautiful flora of the region, along paths through ancient rural landscapes with panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian coast, Calabria and the peaks of the nearby Nebrodi Mountains. This walk takes a circular route.

Once back at our hotel, we have the rest of the day as free time to relax as we please.

  • Height altitude starting at approximately 1312 feet and varying between approximately 656 to 820 feet.Total trail length approximately 4.35 miles. Journey time is about 3-4 hours.
  • Breakfast Included
Day Five: Day at leisure

Day Five: Day at leisure

Today can be spent however we wish! Giardini Naxos offers a relaxed slice of the Sicilian coast with its picturesque winding streets, great local restaurants and a long beach with azure blue lapping waves to laze on.

  • Breakfast Included

Day Six: Alcantara Gorge

Day Six: Alcantara Gorge

Today, we explore the Alcantara Gorge - a stunning canyon with towering basalt walls sculpted by the river and lava flows from Etna. We’ll follow an approximately 2.92-mile trail offering varied views, gradually ascending approximately 230 feet for a panoramic perspective. Descending into the gorge, we’ll witness millennia-old basalt formations, feeling immersed in the Earth's ancient story. After exploring, it’s time to ascend back to enjoy views of Mount Etna and the Peloritani Mountains, with the picturesque village of Motta Camastra nestled in the landscape. 

 
After the walk, we’ll transfer to a local winery and enjoy a spot of wine & olive oil tasting and local produce lunch: fresh pecorino cheese, Provola cheese, Nebrodi black salami and coppa, Sun-dried tomatoes, Olives, Capers, Omelette with wild herbs, Peppers, Caprese salad.

  • Approx 3 mile walk ascending 230 feet.
  • Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day Seven: Day at leisure

Day Seven: Day at leisure

Another day of free time, which can be spent relaxing around Giardini Naxos or exploring further afield to one of the many beautiful parts of the region.

Upmarket Taormina – dubbed the Monte Carlo of Sicily – is right on our doorstep and there is a local bus stop 100 meters from our hotel for a bus that can take you there in 18-20 minutes.

In Taormina town, there are numerous landmarks to visit such as the Ancient Theatre, strolling along the Corso Umberto and admiring its many fountains and churches. Or why not stop to take in the many splendid views around the town. Your Tour Leader will be happy to assist you with any arrangements you wish to make.

  • Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day Eight: Depart Sicily

Day Eight: Depart Sicily

It’s time to say “Arrivederci” after this unforgettable guided tour of Sicily! After breakfast, we will transfer back to Catania airport to take our onward flight.

Breakfast Included

Trip Reviews

Excellent experience

Having a very friendly and competent Tour Leader, the position of the hotel right by the sea, the town's amenities, particularly the Etna Walk which was a great experience and of course, our guide Alessandro. I have to commend our Tour Leader, Sue, who devoted herself to making sure everyone was happy and enjoying themselves - she was a big part of the excellent holiday experience.

Anon

Highly recommended

Recently returned from Sicily walking holiday. Fully met expectations of a Solo holiday, having travelled with them before. Well organised. Tour leader Su was excellent. Varied tour, climbing Mt Etna, 8km village/countryside walk and gorge walk. Further days out included Taormina, Castania, local vineyard with amazing lunch. Alessandro, local guide was excellent too. Highly recommended tour.

Sally

Great group of people

Exploring the local area and meeting a great group of people. Our solos leader, she was great at keeping us informed and sorting things out.

Anon

Varied walks

The Tour Leader was so helpful and couldn’t do enough to make your holiday go smoothly. The walks were all challenging, in different ways. More like this one please Solos!

Mark

Accommodations

Hotel Alexander Three-star

Hotel Alexander is a charming, family-run hotel crafted for relaxation and convenience. Nestled in the heart of Giardini Naxos, hotel enjoys a prime coastal spot just steps from the Ionian Sea—approximately 50 to 100 m from the beach near the small bay of Porticchio.  Within walking distance, you’ll find the archaeological park and Museo di Naxos (~200 m), the lively seafront promenade, eateries, shops, and public transport links that make trips to Taormina, Isola Bella, or Etna effortless.

Facilities include

  • Outdoor seasonal swimming pool set in a tranquil garden area, ideal for leisurely relaxation
  • Beach area with sunbeds, umbrellas, and optional beach services for guests situated 16-minute stroll from the property,
  • A poolside snack bar, lobby bar, and on-site restaurant offering hearty Sicilian and light dishes
  • 24-hour reception, concierge, luggage storage, tour/ticket assistance, and laundry/dry-cleaning services
  • Accessibility features such as lifts, wheelchair access, and disabled-friendly bathrooms and public areas
  • Wi-Fi available throughout, ensuring you stay connected

Room includes

31 smoke-free and air-conditioned rooms, some with balcony
Private bathrooms with showers, bidets, toilets, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries
In-room amenities include:
  • flat-screen TV,
  • Mini-bar or refrigerator,
  • Safe,
  • Electric kettle and tea/coffee facilities,

Dates & Prices

Departure Return Nights Price from Other Info
Apr 17 2026 Apr 24 2026 7
$1999
 
May 22 2026 May 29 2026 7
$1999
 
Sep 18 2026 Sep 25 2026 7
$1999
 

Essential Information

Walking Excursions

One full day and two half-day guided walks are included in the program, as well as a half-day guided city tour. Your walking guide will advise you at your accommodation regarding the daily schedule. The walking program is graded as Easy to Medium, and you can expect to walk between approximately 3.1 to 5.6 miles per day, with some ascents/descents. Terrain varies from rocky underfoot to compacted volcanic materials.

Etna: Length approx. 3.1 miles; Height altitude approximately 6562 - 6890 feet; journey time 3-4 hours; path on volcanic ash; flora made of endemic bushes. Challenging walk.

Alcantara Gorge: Length approx. 2.92 miles. Moderate walk.

Valle del Fiume Argo’: Length approx. 4.35 miles; journey time 3 hours. Moderate walk.

Catania City half-day tour

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are physically fit and healthy enough to participate in your chosen activity vacation. If you are unsure whether the walks are within your abilities, please contact our office to discuss this, ensuring you understand the terrain you will be walking on.

You might encounter uneven ground in some areas, and extreme caution should be taken, especially when wet. If you typically use a walking pole or stick, it is advisable to bring it. Please understand that the route and content of the vacation may change at the time and at the discretion of the guide/organizer, should conditions require. Solo’s Holidays Ltd cannot be held responsible for personal injury, accident, or property damage while on these walks, other than incidents arising from the company’s negligence. The guide has the right to refuse to lead a walk with anyone not properly dressed.

What to Wear

It is important that you have the correct footwear. It is essential to wear walking boots that are comfortable and preferably lightweight, with some ankle support and a good grip. If you already have a pair of boots that you are happy walking in (including during hot/wet weather and on hard ground), then bring these along. However, if you are bringing new footwear, do make sure they are well broken in before you arrive.

The weather, even in summer, is unpredictable – particularly in mountainous areas. We would therefore recommend you travel with clothing suitable for all conditions, and suggest you use the following checklist as a guideline of what to take:

  • Walking boots with good ankle support
  • Waterproofs – jacket and trousers
  • Walking poles – recommended as they provide good support for the knees, particularly on downhill sections of walks and when conditions are wet/slippery
  • Lightweight trousers and shorts with pockets
  • Shirts or t-shirts for walking in
  • Walking socks – several pairs
  • Lightweight fleece or jumper
  • Hat & gloves
  • Daysack/rucksack for walking
  • Umbrella – it can be used also for protection from the sun as well as rain
  • Lightweight drinking bottle to carry water whilst walking
  • Small first aid kit – bandaids, insect repellant, etc
  • Good, high factor sunscreen, sunhat and sunglasses – the sun’s strength is often multiplied in mountainous areas.
  • Beach towel and beach shoes 
Gratuities
We suggest a Group Collection to cover transfer drivers, and hotel staff of $30.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate % add on.
Passports and visas

We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Department if you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.

Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.

Health requirements 

We recommend that you check if vaccinations are required for your destination at the CDC’s recommendations for your visited destination(s). We also recommend you purchase travel protection. A travel protection plan can often assist with medical emergencies and reimburse costs that are covered by the plan. Please verify coverage details with Solos before you travel.

Important Information

A reasonable level of fitness/mobility is required.

The order of the itinerary and events may be subject to change.

The airport transfer is unable to stop outside the hotel so it will be necessary to walk the final 5 minutes to the hotel entrance (your luggage will be transferred by hotel minibus) 

Please note the hotel does not allow food and drink purchased from outside of the hotel to be consumed within the hotel. 

Flights & Airport Transfers
Whether you'd like us to arrange your flights or prefer to book your own, we're here to make the process easy. Our team can secure flights from the location that suits you best, or provide all the arrival and departure details you'll need if booking independently.
 
Arrival & departure airport transfers are included for all trips EXCEPT our UK Breaks, regardless if you book your own flights or if we book them for you. To learn more about flight options, payments, and transfers, click here.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before any trip — it safeguards you against unexpected issues like illness, cancellations, or lost luggage. It also protects your health and travel investment, giving you peace of mind to fully enjoy your journey. Click here. to learn more.

Rated as Excellent (4.8/5) by our customers

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Fantastic time

I’ve recently returned from my first Solos trip and had a fantastic time. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every minute, and the memories will last a lifetime.
-Patricia

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Highly Recommended

I’d highly recommend Solos to people looking to travel on their own with a group of like minded people.
-David

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Brilliant Week!

We laughed until our bellies ached. It was such a brilliant week.
-Janev

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Go for it!

I still get a bit nervous but this will be my third time with Solos and its one of the best decisions I have ever made- everyone is so friendly, just go for it!!
-Jane

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