Travel > Sicily

Volcano Etna in Sicily seen through ruins of ancient amphitheater in Taormina stock photoJewish Sicily: A Hidden World Rediscovered

Dates: December 13-22, 2026
Prices (in US dollars):
  • $6,950 per person (land only, based on double occupancy)
  • $1,450 single supplement

Together we will uncover the hidden legacy of Jewish life that flourished in Sicily for centuries before expulsion and conversion reshaped the island forever. Through dynamic learning sessions, text study, underground mikvaot, secret Jewish sites, breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary architecture, and unforgettable Sicilian cuisine, we will bring to life the story of a vanished community whose memory is slowly reemerging across the island today. From Palermo and Siracusa to Taormina and Mount Etna, this journey invites us to experience Sicily not simply as travelers, but as seekers uncovering layers of history, resilience, and hidden Jewish memory.

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Highlights:

  • Explore the hidden Jewish quarters of Palermo, Siracusa, Trapani, and Taormina.
  • Descend into ancient underground mikvaot and forgotten Jewish spaces.
  • Learn how Jewish life flourished under Roman, Muslim, Norman, and Spanish rule.
  • Encounter the story of Sicily’s Crypto-Jews after the expulsion.
  • Wander through breathtaking medieval hill towns and seaside villages.
  • Experience Sicily’s extraordinary blend of Jewish, Arab, Greek, and Christian cultures, along with the island’s festive Christmas markets and holiday traditions.
  • Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient ruins.
  • Engage in dynamic Melton learning sessions and text study throughout the journey.
  • Taste Sicily through unforgettable local cuisine and regional wines.
  • Stand before the dramatic beauty of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.

 

For the itinerary, FAQs and other details, please see the tabs below. On a mobile device, use the menu icon (☰) to open other tabs.

  • Photo: Volcano Etna in Sicily seen through ruins of ancient amphitheater in Taormina stock photo © Stefan_Alfonso, iStock
Please read Melton's comprehensive health policy HERE.
  • Jewish Sicily: A Hidden World Rediscovered
    December 13-22, 2026
    (Itinerary - subject to change)

    Day 1: Sunday, December 13, 2026 – Arrival in Palermo  

    Participants arrive independently in Palermo and transfer to the hotel. In the late afternoon, we gather for an opening orientation introducing the themes of the journey and the extraordinary history of Sicilian Jewry. A panoramic city tour offers a first glimpse into Palermo’s layered past before we gather for a specially prepared welcome dinner together.

    Overnight: Palermo


    Day 2 – Monday, December 14, 2026 – Trapani and Erice: Medieval Jewish Sicily

    Following an opening session on the defining characteristics of Sicilian Jewish history by Dr. Kathy Aron-Beller, we travel to Trapani to explore its historic guidecca, or Jewish quarter. We will view the Palazzo della Giudecca, once a center of Jewish intellectual and communal life. Continuing to the breathtaking hilltop town of Erice, we encounter medieval streets, sweeping views, and traces of Jewish presence woven into Sicily’s landscape.

    Overnight: Palermo


    Day 3 – Tuesday, December 15, 2026 – Muslim Sicily and Agrigento

    Today’s learning session explores Jewish life in Byzantine and Muslim Sicily, a period of extraordinary cultural interaction and flourishing. We travel to Siculiana to visit the Mother Church, home to a remarkable baptismal font decorated with scenes connected to the Hebrew Bible. We then continue to Agrigento to explore the magnificent remains of the ancient Greek world at the Valley of the Temples.

    Overnight: Palermo


    Day 4 – Wednesday, December 16, 202 – Palermo: Jewish Life under Norman and Catholic Rule

    Today we explore Palermo’s extraordinary blend of Arab, Norman, Jewish, and Christian influences. Following a learning session examining Jewish life under Catholic rule, we visit Monreale Cathedral, famed for its dazzling golden mosaics. Back in Palermo, we walk through the historic Jewish quarter, visit the ancient mikveh, and explore the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel, one of Sicily’s greatest examples of Arab-Norman art and architecture.

    Overnight: Palermo


    Day 5 – Thursday, December 17, 2026 – Piazza Armerina and Siracusa

    This morning’s learning focuses on the beginning of the decline of Sicilian Jewry under Aragonese rule. We travel to Piazza Armerina to see some of the world’s most extraordinary Roman mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale. Continuing onward to Siracusa, we encounter one of Sicily’s most important ancient Greek cities, rich in history, beauty, and layered civilizations.

    Overnight: Siracusa


    Day 6 – Friday, December 18, 2026 – Siracusa and the Legacy of Crypto-Judaism

    Today we delve into the final chapter of Jewish life in Sicily and the rise of Crypto-Judaism after expulsion and forced conversion. In Siracusa, we explore one of the island’s most fascinating guideccas, visit the remains of the synagogue and the recently rediscovered mikveh, and see Hebrew inscriptions preserved within the city. Visits to the catacombs of San Giovanni and Vigna Cassia deepen our understanding of the region’s religious and historical complexity.

    Overnight: Siracusa


    Day 7 – Saturday, December 19, 2026 – Shabbat in Siracusa

    Today is intentionally lighter, allowing time for personal reflection, rest, wandering through the beauty of Siracusa, or quiet conversations with fellow travelers. Shabbat in Sicily offers an opportunity to pause and absorb the remarkable history, learning, and experiences of the journey.

    Overnight: Siracusa


    Day 8 – Sunday, December 20, 2026 – Agira and Taormina

    Today we continue exploring Jewish Sicily under Catholic rule and the lasting traces of Jewish life after expulsion. In Agira, we visit the church preserving the Aron HaKodesh from the medieval synagogue and explore the location of the former Jewish quarter. We then continue to Taormina, one of Sicily’s most picturesque hilltop towns, known for its dramatic beauty overlooking the Ionian Sea.

    Overnight: Taormina


    Day 9 – Monday, December 21, 2026 – Taormina and Mount Etna

    Our final full day includes a tour of Taormina’s guidecca and its extraordinary Greek theater overlooking the sea. We then travel to Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, whose powerful landscape has shaped Sicilian history and imagination for millennia. This evening we gather for a festive farewell dinner in Taormina, celebrating the friendships, learning, and discoveries shared throughout the journey.

    Overnight: Taormina


    Day 10 – Tuesday, December 22, 2026 – Departure   

    Participants depart Sicily from either Catania or Palermo, carrying home the stories, memories, and hidden Jewish history of this extraordinary island.

  • The Melton tour to Cuba will be led by Dr Kathy Aron-Beller, senior lecturer of Jewish History in the Rothberg International School of the Hebrew University and currently Visiting Scholar of the Stephen Roth Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism and Racism at Tel Aviv University.

    Melton Travel is open to adults of all ages. While Melton oversees the educational aspects of our tours, it's important to note that we are not a travel agency. For the logistics of this trip, our local travel partners will be responsible.

    Please note that Melton is not liable for any financial loss due to reasons beyond our control, such as health-related cancellations. We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation and health-related issues, including COVID, within a few weeks of paying your nonrefundable deposit.

    Thank you for your interest in travelling with Melton. We eagerly await the opportunity to learn and explore together with you.

    The Melton Travel Team


    Register today online >

  • Includes:

    • 9 nights' accommodation
    • Touring in a deluxe air-conditioned coach
    • 9 breakfasts, and 3 dinners
    • All educational programming and entrance fees
    • Wireless audio guide system
    • Porterage
    • Water bottles on the bus
    • Tips for local service providers including guides, drivers and wait staff

     


    Hotels:

    Palermo: Hotel Des Palmes Via Roma, 398, 90139 Palermo PA, Italy. Tel: +39.091.277.9600

    Siracusa: Ortea Palace Hotel Via Nazario Sauro, S.N, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy. Tel: +39.0931.16681

    Taormina: Hotel Excelsior Viale Pietro Toselli, 8, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy. Tel: +39.0942.23975

    Note: We will do our best to assist you with extensions both before and after the seminar.


    Not Included:

    • Air Travel
    • Travel Insurance
    • Tips for housekeeping
    • Personal expenses
  • A non-refundable deposit of US$1,000 is due upon registration. If the trip is cancelled, the registration fee will be refunded. 

    The final balance will be due by September 4, 2026. All cancellations must be submitted in writing. After September 4, 2026, there will be no refunds, nor will there be refunds for unused services. Please purchase travel insurance within 21 days of making this deposit.

    Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary. Group rates are per person and a minimum of 15 fully paying participants.

    A Melton educator will be with the group throughout the tour.

    Activity level: Participants should be comfortable getting on and off a bus multiple times a day, as well as walking and standing during site visits. Some days may be more physically demanding than others. If a day’s activities are too challenging, our staff and educators will do their best to arrange for the traveler to stay with the driver, relax at a nearby café, or arrange for a taxi, with costs covered individually. 

    All gratuities are included.

    Baggage: Melton shall not be held responsible for any damage to or loss of luggage/personal items. All damage/loss must be reported at time of incident and documented in writing by local authorities for submission to the insurance company. Regarding airline baggage allowance, different carriers have different regulations for business and coach, please check with your individual carrier about permitted number of pieces, weights, and dimensions. Melton is not responsible for fees levied by any air carrier for the transport of personal belongings of any kind.


    Not Included:

    • Flights and personal insurance 
    • Personal expenses, including meals or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified
  • Melton Travel recommends Forbes Advisor for the most up-to-date travel insurance comparisons. Consider travel protection for:

    • Trip Cancellation
    • Trip Interruption
    • Emergency Medical Expenses
    • Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains
    • Trip Delay
    • Baggage & Personal Effects
    • Baggage Delay

    Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 21 days from the time you make your initial trip deposit, the entire non-refundable amount of the trip must be insured, and you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. However, the travel protection plan itself can be purchased any time prior to departure.


    Additional Information

    • Airline Security Measures: Your name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket, or you may be denied boarding. If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification are required for that particular airport.

    • Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times. You may also wish to visit the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items.

    • Holidays and Museum Closures - Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or state and local holidays observed in the destinations being visited.

    • Photography During Tours: We will occasionally use photographs taken by fellow guests or your trip director for promotional purposes. If you prefer your photo not used in any marketing activities, please notify us at the start of your tour.

     


  • Frequently Asked Questions ...

    IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR ME?

    Who are these trips for?

    Our programs are designed for adult travelers who enjoy meaningful learning, cultural exploration, and engaging with fellow travelers. We welcome individuals, couples, friends, and multi-generational families traveling with adult children or grandchildren.

    Our journeys are thoughtfully paced to balance learning, exploration, and free time, making them comfortable and rewarding for a wide range of travelers.

    Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

    ABOUT MELTON WORLD TRAVEL

    Why should I travel with Melton World Travel?

    Our journeys are led by experienced educators and local experts who bring depth, context, and perspective to each destination. Through guided exploration, learning sessions, discussions, and meaningful encounters with local residents, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit.

    We go beyond landmarks to include conversations with local communities, visits to cultural institutions, and opportunities to hear firsthand stories that bring each destination to life.

    Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance iconic sites, immersive learning, authentic local experiences, and time to explore independently, creating a travel experience that is both enriching and rewarding.

    BOOKINGS, PAYMENTS & POLICIES

    How much is the deposit and when is final payment due?


    A deposit is required to reserve your place on the trip. Deposit amounts vary by program and are listed on the individual trip page.

    PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP

    Do I need a visa?

    Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, destination, and, in some cases, the countries through which you transit. Travelers are responsible for determining and obtaining any required visas and travel documents before departure.

    We recommend checking the requirements with the appropriate embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip. If you have questions or are unsure what is required, the Melton World Travel team is happy to serve as a resource and help guide you to the appropriate information and visa services.

    DURING THE TRIP

    What size are your groups?


    Group sizes vary by destination but are intentionally kept small, typically ranging from 15 to 25 participants. This allows for a more personal, engaging, and flexible travel experience.

    A minimum of 15 travelers is required for a trip to operate. Maximum group size depends on the destination and demand but is generally capped between 24 and 25 participants to ensure a comfortable, personal experience.

    We aim to keep groups small enough to allow meaningful connection and a high-quality travel experience, while also making space for more participants on particularly popular or bucket-list journeys.

    JEWISH PRACTICE & OBSERVANCE

    How is Shabbat observed during the trip?

    Shabbat is an important part of a Melton journey and is observed in ways that reflect the destination and itinerary. When possible, we include opportunities to enjoy Shabbat meals, attend services, participate in meaningful discussions or walking experiences, and enjoy time for rest, reflection, or personal observance.

    To respect a range of traditions and practices, we do not schedule group transportation on Shabbat. Travelers with specific Shabbat observance needs or questions are encouraged to contact us before registering so we can discuss whether a particular journey is the right fit.

    ISRAEL-SPECIFIC

    Is the trip suitable for first-time visitors to Israel?

    Absolutely. Many of our Israel journeys are designed with first-time visitors in mind, providing a meaningful introduction to the country while going far beyond the highlights. At the same time, returning travelers consistently tell us they discover new places, hear new stories, and gain fresh perspectives with every visit.

    Each itinerary has its own educational focus, so no two Melton journeys are exactly alike. Whether it is your first visit or your tenth, you'll experience Israel through the lens of history, culture, contemporary society, and meaningful encounters with the people who call it home.


    For more information ...

    For more information, please contact us here.

    T: 1–646–921–0747, Ext. 4