Today the group departs on an overnight flight to Sicily, beginning a beautiful Catholic pilgrimage through Southern Italy and Rome. As pilgrims journey across the Atlantic, they prepare spiritually for days filled with prayer, fellowship, sacred sites, and the rich traditions of Sicilian and Roman Catholic heritage.

Welcome to Sicily! Upon arrival at the airport, connect with your tour escort and transfer to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel and overnight in Palermo.

Today discover the rich history, culture, and flavors of Palermo. Walk through the lively Il Capo Market and sample traditional Sicilian street food while taking in the colorful atmosphere of the city. Visit the Norman Palace and its stunning Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, the Church of the Gesù, and the Shrine of Santa Rosalia on Monte Pellegrino overlooking the city. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore Palermo at your own pace before dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, travel to Monreale to visit its magnificent cathedral, famous for its breathtaking golden mosaics and beautiful cloister. Continue along the scenic Sicilian coast to the charming village of Scopello, known for its picturesque seaside views and historic tuna fishery. Enjoy lunch and time to relax before returning to Palermo for overnight.

After breakfast, depart Palermo and travel to the charming seaside town of Cefalù, known for its beautiful beaches, historic fishing port, and the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Cefalù with its famous mosaic of Christ the Savior. Continue east to the Marian Shrine of Tindari, home of the Black Madonna and overlooking the unique “tongue of sand” along the coast. Later, continue to Catania for hotel check-in, dinner, and overnight.

This morning visit the elegant hilltop town of Taormina, one of Sicily’s most beautiful destinations. Explore its historic streets, churches, and the famous Greek Theatre with panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna. In the afternoon, travel to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, where you can admire the dramatic volcanic scenery and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Return to Catania for dinner and overnight.

Travel to Syracuse, where St. Paul arrived during his journey to Rome. Visit the Catacombs of St. John and celebrate Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Tears, honoring the miraculous Weeping Madonna of Syracuse. Continue to the historic island of Ortigia, rich in Greek, Byzantine, and early Christian heritage, before returning to Catania for dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, visit the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, dedicated to the beloved patron saint of Catania. Enjoy free time for shopping or personal exploration before transferring to the airport for your flight to Rome. Upon arrival in the Eternal City, transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Early this morning, we travel to Vatican City to attend the Papal Audience at St. Peter’s Square with Pope Leo. We celebrate Mass at a selected church before enjoying free time for lunch. This afternoon, we explore the heart of Rome on a walking tour featuring Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Enjoy some free time for shopping before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

Note: An optional supplement to visit Vatican Museum/Sistine Chapel is available (Please inquire for more details)

After an early breakfast, we depart for Assisi. We begin with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Porziuncola Chapel, followed by Mass. After free time for lunch, we continue into Assisi to visit the Basilica of St. Clare, the Sanctuary of the Spoliation honoring Blessed Carlo Acutis, and the Basilica of St. Francis, where we pray at the tomb of the beloved saint and admire the beautiful frescoes. Later, we return to Rome for dinner and overnight.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Pilgrims depart with cherished memories, strengthened faith, and lasting spiritual blessings from this unforgettable journey through Sicily and Rome.