SICILY
Palermo, Cefalu, Taormina, Siracusa, Ragusa & Agrigento
TUSCANY
CINQUE TERRE
SICILY
NAPLES & AMALFI
PUGLIA
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’s the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is often an afterthought, tacked onto the end, 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, archaeology, and unforgettable hospitality.
Sicily is defined by a tumultuous historical saga spanning over 2,000 years, with layers of conflict and invasion, culminating in both cultural tension and fusion. This dynamic can be felt in Palermo, the island’s capital, a hectic melting pot renowned for its fascinating blend of Baroque facades, Norman castles straight out of a storybook, and local food markets reminiscent of Arabic souks brimming with Sicilian delicacies. Just like the food, this mingling is evident in the people too: catch on camera the differing details of their faces, dialect, gestures, and the way they interact with one another.
Sicily’s shores are washed by three different seas, hence the island’s ancient name: “Trinacria”, the three-cornered island. On our photo trip, we will visit many coastal locations, such as Taormina, a town carved into the cliffs above the Ionian Sea, which provides epic cityscape vistas. The center is a haven of rustic balconies tangled with vibrant bougainvillea, charming squares, and an ancient amphitheater that exudes more cinematic drama than a Greek tragedy.
On the south side of the island is the magical city of Siracusa, a former powerful capital that was said to have rivaled Athens. We will stay in Ortygia, Sicily’s island within an island, home to the Fountain of Arethusa, an enchanting natural spring lined by papyrus plants and named after a Greek nymph who bobbed up there after fleeing her underwater home.
From the coastal to the mountainous, the mighty Etna will be a distant yet imposing presence throughout our travels, its billows of smoke and spews of lava a dramatic backdrop for our photography. One of the most active volcanoes in the world and the tallest in Europe, Mount Etna is shrouded in countless Greek, Roman, and medieval myths. We will also pass by Agrigento, to view and photograph two spectacular sites, one manmade and one natural. The Valley of the Temples is a majestic complex of ancient ruins. Amidst the grandeur of the temples’ monumental columns, our cameras will zoom in on details that reveal intricate carvings and weathered inscriptions, a testament to the craftsmanship of these ancient builders. In contrast, nearby Scala dei Turchi is a feat not of man but of nature, with dazzlingly stark white staircases eroded into the limestone.
This 8-day photography tour is more than just a quest to capture exceptional images; it’s an invitation to elevate your craft and see the world through a new lens. Our expert photographer guides will not only lead you to the most photogenic locations under the best light but also help you master the art of visual storytelling. Along the way, you’ll refine your camera techniques and discover how to navigate the challenges of photographing in a foreign land. You’ll also learn to anticipate a scene before capturing the decisive moment, elevating ordinary photos into extraordinary works of art. Join us for spirited discussions, enriching camaraderie, and moments of unforgettable inspiration. Sicily, an island at the crossroads of history, offers a world of fusion, contrast, and high drama like no other. Your visual odyssey starts here!
Sicily is defined by a tumultuous historical saga spanning over 2,000 years, with layers of conflict and invasion culminating in both cultural tension and fusion. This dynamic can be felt in Palermo, the island’s capital, a hectic melting pot renowned for its fascinating blend of Baroque facades, Norman castles straight out of a storybook, and local food markets reminiscent of Arabic souks brimming with Sicilian delicacies. Just like the food, this mingling is evident in the people too: catch on camera the differing details of their faces, dialect, gestures, and the way they interact with one another.
Sicily’s shores are washed by three different seas, hence the island’s ancient name: “Trinacria”, the three-cornered island. On our photo trip, we will visit many coastal locations, such as Taormina, a town carved into the cliffs above the Ionian Sea, which provides epic cityscape vistas. The center is a haven of rustic balconies tangled with vibrant bougainvillea, charming squares, and an ancient amphitheater that exudes more cinematic drama than a Greek tragedy.
On the south side of the island is the magical city of Siracusa, a former powerful capital that was said to have rivaled Athens. We will stay in Ortygia, Sicily’s island within an island, home to the Fountain of Arethusa, an enchanting natural spring lined by papyrus plants and named after a Greek nymph who bobbed up there after fleeing her underwater home.
From the coastal to the mountainous, the mighty Etna will be a distant yet imposing presence throughout our travels, its billows of smoke and spews of lava a dramatic backdrop for our photography. One of the most active volcanoes in the world and the tallest in Europe, Mount Etna is shrouded in countless Greek, Roman, and medieval myths. We will also pass by Agrigento to view and photograph two spectacular sites, one manmade and one natural. The Valley of the Temples is a majestic complex of ancient ruins. Amidst the grandeur of the temples’ monumental columns, our cameras will zoom in on details that reveal intricate carvings and weathered inscriptions, a testament to the craftsmanship of these ancient builders. In contrast, nearby Scala dei Turchi is a feat not of man but of nature, with dazzlingly stark white staircases eroded into the limestone.
This 8-day photography tour is more than just a quest to capture exceptional images; it’s an invitation to elevate your craft and see the world through a new lens. Our expert photographer guides will not only lead you to the most photogenic locations under the best light but also help you master the art of visual storytelling. Along the way, you’ll refine your camera techniques and discover how to navigate the challenges of photographing in a foreign land. You’ll also learn to anticipate a scene before capturing the decisive moment, elevating ordinary photos into extraordinary works of art. Join us for spirited discussions, enriching camaraderie, and moments of unforgettable inspiration. Sicily, an island at the crossroads of history, offers a world of fusion, contrast, and high drama like no other. Your visual odyssey starts here!
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 a moderate amount of walking
- (non-photographers also welcome)
Weather | Sun
May – Temps 70/58 F 21/16 C Sunrise 6:16 | Sunset 7:53 (19:53)
October – Temps 73/64 F 22/18 C Sunrise 6:58 | Sunset 6:58 (18:58)
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 to hotel 45min
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. Go to Visa Map to find out.
Accommodations
Palermo – Hotel Federico II – Central Palace, 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
> Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel – by Roman Martin
> Reading Sicily – By Erika Suban
Sicily Prices & Dates
Adventure | Price | REGISTER |
---|---|---|
From: $6,995 | ||
From: $7,795 |
Photographer Leader
Roman Martin
April 19-26, 2025
April 18-25, 2026
*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.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
SICILY 8 DAYS
Day 1 | Palermo
We meet in Palermo at our hotel, where we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique. During our group lunch, we will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles, and techniques.
From here we will set out for a wonderful day of photography throughout the city of Palermo. In the evening we celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Italian restaurants. (D)
Day 2 | Palermo - Cefalu - Taormina
On day two we depart Palermo and drive east to the city of Cefalu on the northern coast. Cefalu is an ancient city falling in an emerald sea. On the beaches, we will find beautifully colored fishing boats and delicious seafood. We’ll photograph as much of Cefalu as time will allow us before we move on along the northern coast, hunting for breathtaking villages and coastline.
We end our day on the eastern side of Sicily in the romantic city of Taormina where we check into our hotel. In the evening, we head up the mountain by gondola to Taormina and enjoy a wonderful Sicilian dinner. (B)
Day 3 | Taormina
We spend the day exploring the beauty and history of Taormina, neighboring villages, and enjoying the amenities and photo opportunities of our fabulous resort. Taormina is the type of Sicilian village that you just can not get enough of.
Spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain, the town remains an achingly beautiful spot with gorgeous medieval churches, a stunning Greek theatre and sweeping views over the Gulf of Naxos and Mt Etna. Founded in the 4th century BC, it enjoyed great prosperity under the Greek ruler Gelon II and later under the Romans, but fell into quiet obscurity after being conquered by the Normans in 1087. (B)
Day 4 | Siracusa
On day four we’re up early to photograph the low light, and then off to Siracusa in the south, passing Mount Etna to our west. The terrain is volcanic and the views and photo opportunities are endless. There are many small villages and ruins along the way which will provide many photo opportunities.
Siracusa is an ancient Greek and Roman city, known for its well-preserved ruins and beauty, and especially known for its sunsets. Once there, we check into our hotel followed by dinner in the oldest part of the city. (B)
Day 5 | Siracusa - Ortygia
Our day is dedicated to exploring the city of Siracusa, a wonder to behold. One of the great ancient capitals of Western civilization, the city was founded in 734 BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and soon grew to rival, and even surpass, Athens in splendor and power. Siracusa became the largest, wealthiest city-state in the West and a bulwark of Greek civilization.
Our focus will be on street photography, seascape, architecture, and people photography. The island of Ortygia, where our hotel is located, is an ancient city first inhabited by the Greeks, which juts out into the Ionian Sea and is connected to the mainland by two small bridges. (B)
Day 6 | Ragusa
We depart the seaside city of Siracusa for the mountaintop village of Ragusa, a fascinating town on the southern side of Sicily. Ragusa’s baroque architecture has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. It’s an unusual town, divided into two parts – the Upper Town and Ibla. After the earthquake of 1693 destroyed most of the town, half the people decided to build on the ridge above town and the other half renovated the old town. Our lovely boutique hotel will be our overnight stay in this charming ancient village. (B)
Day 7 | Agrigento - Valley of Temples - Scala dei Turchi
We check out early for our return trip to Palermo, but not before stopping in Agrigento to view and photograph the Valley of the Temples, and the stunning white rocks of Scala dei Turchi. At one time the fourth-largest city in the known world, Agrigento, or Akragas as it was then known, is home to Sicily’s most impressive Greek ruins.
The UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples is one of the most mesmerizing sites in the Mediterranean, boasting the best-preserved Doric temples outside of Greece. They include the Tomb of Terone, Temple of Hercules, Temple of Olympic Jupiter and the Temple of Concordia.
After an amazing day, we check into our hotel and head out for an amazing Sicilian “Farewell Dinner”. With great fun and laughter, we will discuss all the highlights of the trip. (B) (D)
Day 8 | Agrigento - Palermo
While enjoying breakfast we conduct our final group discussion and review. We depart early for our 2.5-hour drive to Palermo. Those departing Palermo will be first dropped at the airport (approx. 12:00 noon).
Those staying on for a late departure will be dropped in Palermo. We do urge you to extend your stay in Sicily or in Italy and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (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 $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!
How The Program Works
For every adventure 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 up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. 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
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.
GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.
Additional Gold Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).
Additional VIP Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
- Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
- Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*
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, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.
THINK ORANGE Magazine
Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!
Gift Cards
Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.