The streets of this surprisingly sophisticated city are lined with elegant buildings, some in Venetian style; there are good restaurants, great shops (time for shopping), excellent gelaterias and the superb bronze Riace statues at the archaeological museum, not to mention an attractive seaside promenade with lidos that are lively in summer and stunning views across to Sicily and Mount Etna. In the afternoon stop at Scilla – another sublime seaside resort with a charming upper town, with a castle and churches, high above the sea. Full-day excursion

Taormina (Sicily)

Situated on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina has been a very popular tourist destination since the 19th century. Small town with the charm of Saint-Tropez, where you can admire historical buildings, splendid gardens and the famous greek amphitheatre. Full-day excursion