SICILY
Palermo, Cefalu, Taormina, Siracusa, Ragusa, Agrigento
TUSCANY
CINQUE TERRE
SICILY
NAPLES
SARDINIA
VENICE CARNIVAL
Sicily: The Isle of Myths and Mount Etna.
Our 8-day Sicily Photo Tour and Cultural Adventure will transport you to an ancient land that remains relatively undiscovered, steeped in history, and bathed in sunshine. Although it is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is often an afterthought—tacked onto the end, both literally and metaphorically, to mainland Italy. However, for most first-time visitors, the island is a complete revelation, offering the discerning traveler fine cuisine, stunning beaches, volcanoes, rich archaeology, and unforgettable hospitality.
Sicily is defined by a tumultuous historical saga spanning over 2,000 years, layered with conflict, invasion, and ultimately a rich cultural fusion. Nowhere is this more palpable than in Palermo, the island’s capital—a hectic, captivating melting pot where Baroque facades stand beside Norman castles that feel lifted from a storybook. Its vibrant street markets echo the energy of Arabic souks, brimming with Sicilian delicacies. Just like the cuisine, this cultural blending is etched into the people themselves—revealed in their faces, dialects, gestures, and the subtle rhythms of everyday life, all waiting to be captured through your lens.
Sicily’s shores are washed by three different seas, giving rise to its ancient name, “Trinacria” (the three-cornered island). Along this journey, we explore a wealth of coastal landscapes, including Taormina, dramatically perched above the Ionian Sea. Here, rustic balconies draped in bougainvillea spill into charming piazzas, while an ancient amphitheater frames sweeping views that feel more cinematic than a Greek tragedy.
To the south lies Siracusa, once a powerful city said to rival Athens. We stay in Ortygia, a poetic island within an island, where the Fountain of Arethusa shimmers beneath papyrus plants—its myth rooted in the story of a Greek nymph who emerged here after fleeing across the sea.
From coastlines to highlands, the presence of Mount Etna is never far. One of the world’s most active volcanoes and Europe’s tallest, Etna rises as both a physical and mythological force—its drifting smoke and occasional eruptions adding a raw, dramatic dimension to the landscape.
Further along, near Agrigento, we encounter two extraordinary contrasts. The Valley of the Temples stands as a monumental testament to ancient craftsmanship, where towering columns and intricate carvings tell stories etched in stone. Nearby, the luminous white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi reveal nature’s own artistry—smooth, sculptural steps shaped by wind and sea.
This 8-day photography journey is more than a pursuit of striking images, it is an invitation to transform the way you see. Guided by experienced photographers, you’ll be led to the right places at the right moments, while learning to anticipate light, compose with intention, and translate fleeting scenes into compelling visual stories. Through hands-on guidance, thoughtful discussions, and shared creative energy, you’ll refine both your technical skills and artistic voice.
Sicily, an island at the crossroads of civilizations, offers a world of contrast, texture, and emotion unlike anywhere else. This is where your vision deepens, your creativity expands, and your story begins to unfold.
Sicily is defined by a tumultuous historical saga spanning over 2,000 years, layered with conflict, invasion, and ultimately a rich cultural fusion. Nowhere is this more palpable than in Palermo, the island’s capital—a hectic, captivating melting pot where Baroque facades stand beside Norman castles that feel lifted from a storybook. Its vibrant street markets echo the energy of Arabic souks, brimming with Sicilian delicacies. Just like the cuisine, this cultural blending is etched into the people themselves—revealed in their faces, dialects, gestures, and the subtle rhythms of everyday life, all waiting to be captured through your lens.
Sicily’s shores are washed by three different seas, giving rise to its ancient name, “Trinacria” (the three-cornered island). Along this journey, we explore a wealth of coastal landscapes, including Taormina, dramatically perched above the Ionian Sea. Here, rustic balconies draped in bougainvillea spill into charming piazzas, while an ancient amphitheater frames sweeping views that feel more cinematic than a Greek tragedy.
To the south lies Siracusa, once a powerful city said to rival Athens. We stay in Ortygia, a poetic island within an island, where the Fountain of Arethusa shimmers beneath papyrus plants—its myth rooted in the story of a Greek nymph who emerged here after fleeing across the sea.
From coastlines to highlands, the presence of Mount Etna is never far. One of the world’s most active volcanoes and Europe’s tallest, Etna rises as both a physical and mythological force—its drifting smoke and occasional eruptions adding a raw, dramatic dimension to the landscape.
Further along, near Agrigento, we encounter two extraordinary contrasts. The Valley of the Temples stands as a monumental testament to ancient craftsmanship, where towering columns and intricate carvings tell stories etched in stone. Nearby, the luminous white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi reveal nature’s own artistry—smooth, sculptural steps shaped by wind and sea.
This 8-day photography journey is more than a pursuit of striking images, it is an invitation to transform the way you see. Guided by experienced photographers, you’ll be led to the right places at the right moments, while learning to anticipate light, compose with intention, and translate fleeting scenes into compelling visual stories. Through hands-on guidance, thoughtful discussions, and shared creative energy, you’ll refine both your technical skills and artistic voice.
Sicily, an island at the crossroads of civilizations, offers a world of contrast, texture, and emotion unlike anywhere else. This is where your vision deepens, your creativity expands, and your story begins to unfold.
Group Size
4-8 Guests
Experience | Difficulty
- Beginner, amateur, enthusiast, and semi-pro photographers
- All cameras and camera phones are welcome
- Moderate schedule
- Travel by car or minibus
- Considerable elevation changes and moderate amounts of walking
- Non-photographers are also welcome
Weather | Sun
April – Temps 70/48 F | 21/9 C Sunrise 6:16 | Sunset 7:50 (19:50)
Includes
- 8 Days
- Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, and people photography
- Professional photographer | Guide
- Photo walks & discussions
- Small group size (4-8 guests)
- Premium hotels
- Breakfasts
- 2 Dinners
- Local transportation
Travel Information
Arrival & Departure Airports: Palermo, Sicily (PMO) – Transfer time: 45 minutes.
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa.com. They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.
Accommodations
Palermo – Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Central PalaceHotel Federico II, Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes, or similar
Taormina – La Plage Resort or similar
Siracusa – Algila’ Ortigia Charme Hotel, Des Étrangers Hotel & Spa, or similar
Ragusa – Antica Badia Relais Hotel, De Stefano Palace Luxury Hotel, or similar
Agrigento – Villa Athena Hotel, Colleverde Park Hotel, or similar
Helpful Links
Sicily Prices & Dates
| Adventure | Price | REGISTER |
|---|---|---|
From: $8,295 | ||
From: $8,795 |

Photographer Leader
Roman Martin
April 18-25, 2026
April 17-24, 2027
*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.
ITINERARY
SICILY PHOTO TOUR – 8 DAYS
Day 1 | Palermo
We’ll meet in Palermo at our hotel, where we’ll introduce PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” along with our “THE ART OF SEEING” approach—an essential foundation for the journey ahead. Over a relaxed group lunch, we’ll explore each guest’s creative vision, preferred subjects, and personal style.
From there, we will step into the vibrant streets of Palermo for our first immersive day of photography. Layers of history, texture, and daily life reveal themselves at every turn, offering a rich canvas to begin shaping your visual story. As evening settles in, we will gather once more to celebrate the start of our adventure with a memorable “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Italian restaurants. (D)
Day 2 | Palermo - Cefalu - Taormina
On day two, we will depart Palermo and journey east to the coastal gem of Cefalù. This ancient town seems to tumble gently into an emerald sea, where colorful fishing boats rest along the shore and the rhythm of coastal life unfolds naturally before your lens. We’ll spend time exploring and photographing Cefalù’s beaches, streets, and textures before continuing along the northern coastline, pausing to capture hidden villages and sweeping seascapes along the way.
By evening, we’ll arrive in the romantic hilltop town of Taormina, where we will check into our hotel. As the light softens, we will ascend by gondola into the heart of the town and settle in for a memorable Sicilian dinner, surrounded by atmosphere, history, and views that linger long after the day fades. (B)
Day 3 | Taormina
We’ll spend the day immersed in the beauty and history of Taormina, exploring its neighboring villages while also enjoying the refined comforts and photographic possibilities of our resort. Taormina is the kind of place that lingers with you—each corner revealing something new, each moment inviting you to slow down and look closer.
Spectacularly perched along the mountainside, the town is an achingly beautiful blend of medieval charm and dramatic natural scenery. Elegant churches, winding lanes, and the remarkable Ancient Theatre of Taormina create a setting that feels both timeless and theatrical, all framed by sweeping views over the Gulf of Naxos and the ever-present silhouette of Mount Etna.
Founded in the 4th century BC, Taormina flourished under the Greek ruler Gelon II and later the Romans, before slipping into quiet obscurity following the Norman conquest in 1087—its layered past still echoing through the streets we photograph today. (B)
Day 4 | Siracusa
On day four, we will rise early to capture the soft, low light before setting out toward Siracusa in the south. Along the way, Mount Etna looms to our west, its volcanic terrain shaping a landscape rich with texture, contrast, and endless photographic potential. Scattered villages and ancient ruins dot the route, offering spontaneous moments to pause, observe, and create.
Arriving in Siracusa, we’ll step into a city layered with Greek and Roman history, celebrated for its remarkable ruins and luminous coastal beauty. Known especially for its unforgettable sunsets, the light here carries a quiet magic. After checking into our hotel, we’ll gather for dinner in the oldest part of the city, where centuries of history linger in every stone and narrow lane. (B)
Day 5 | Siracusa - Ortygia
Our day will be dedicated to exploring the remarkable city of Siracusa—a place where history and atmosphere unfold at every turn. Founded in 734 BC by Greek colonists from Corinth, Siracusa quickly rose to rival, and at times surpass Athens in both power and splendor, becoming one of the greatest city-states of the ancient world and a stronghold of Greek civilization.
Our focus for the day will be to capture its many layers through street photography, seascapes, architecture, and the rhythms of daily life. At the heart of it all lies Ortygia, where our hotel is located—an ancient island once settled by the Greeks, extending gracefully into the Ionian Sea and connected to the mainland by two narrow bridges. Here, light, texture, and human presence come together in endlessly compelling ways, offering a rich canvas for storytelling through your lens. (B)
Day 6 | Ragusa
We’ll depart the seaside city of Siracusa and journey inland to the mountaintop village of Ragusa, a captivating destination on the island’s southern edge. Renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture, Ragusa has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a rich visual tapestry of ornate facades, grand staircases, and sunlit stone.
What makes Ragusa especially intriguing is its dual identity—divided into the Upper Town and the historic district of Ibla. After the devastating 1693 Sicily earthquake, the town was rebuilt in two distinct ways: one half rising anew along the ridge above, while the other carefully restored the original settlement below.
This layered history gives Ragusa a unique rhythm and perspective, both visually and culturally. By evening, we will settle into our boutique hotel, nestled within this timeless setting—an atmospheric retreat in one of Sicily’s most enchanting villages. (B)
Day 7 | Agrigento - Valley of Temples - Scala dei Turchi
We will check out early for our return journey to Palermo, but not before stopping in Agrigento to photograph two of Sicily’s most striking landmarks. Once known as Akragas and considered among the greatest cities of the ancient world, Agrigento is home to some of the island’s most impressive Greek ruins.
At the heart of it lies the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most mesmerizing archaeological landscapes in the Mediterranean. Here, remarkably preserved Doric temples including the Tomb of Terone, the Temple of Hercules, the Temple of Olympic Jupiter, and the Temple of Concordia—stand as enduring testaments to ancient craftsmanship and vision.
Nearby, the luminous cliffs of Scala dei Turchi offer a striking contrast—smooth, white stone shaped by wind and sea into sculptural terraces that glow in the changing light.
After a day rich with history and imagery, we will continue on to Palermo, check into our hotel, and gather for a memorable Sicilian “Farewell Dinner”. Over great food, laughter, and shared stories, we will reflect on the moments and images that defined our journey together. (B) (D)
Day 8 | Agrigento - Palermo
While enjoying breakfast, we’ll gather for our final group discussion and image review, reflecting on the journey, the stories captured, and the growth each photographer has experienced along the way.
We’ll then depart for our 2.5-hour drive back to Palermo. Guests with departing flights will be dropped at the airport around midday, while those extending their stay will be taken into the city.
As the journey will come to a close, we encourage you to linger a little longer, whether in Sicily or elsewhere in Italy, and continue exploring with the creative vision and skills you’ve developed throughout this experience. (B)
(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion
May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS
Pricing
All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.
Private Guided Adventures
We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.
Travel Insurance
We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.
The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.
Rewards Program
Start earning points today and SAVE up to $750 off a future trip!
Register for one of our photo adventures and begin earning points today!
How the program works
For every photo tour reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points, which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save on future trips. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.
ORANGE REWARDS
On most Photo Tours and Adventures, you earn 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately with your first trip. A $11,995 spend earns 47,980 points with a value of $480 USD.
VIP GUESTS
VIP Guests (guests who have registered for eight or more trips) begin earning double points, or eight points, for every dollar spent. A $11,995 spend earns 95,960 points with a value of $960 USD.
Additional VIP Benefits:
- Advance notification of upcoming adventures and special offers
- Receive complimentary airport transfers at certain destinations
Redeeming your points
Redeeming your points couldn't be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip (scheduled to depart before your points expire), register and pay your deposit. When you pay your balance, you'll be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.
*Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future. Points are awarded only after a trip is completed. Points expire after two years if no new trip is booked and paid for in your account. Points cannot be exchanged for cash and have no cash value. Points cannot be transferred or gifted. Points cannot be applied to any discounted photo adventures, and discounted photo adventures cannot earn points. Points and redeeming points are only available for 5-day or longer photo tours. Points and points redemption are unavailable on private photo tours, photo day tours, low-cost 4-day or less photo tours, online lectures, tutorials, PWA products, and NYC photo tours.
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