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The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily has a rich history that includes 25 centuries of foreign domination by Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Normans among others. The result is an impressive cultural legacy. Experience that legacy firsthand with this full-day, active excursion to explore the Norman- fortified village of Erice and the ruins of the ancient city of Segesta.

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach at your pier and journey through the rugged Sicilian landscape en route to the island's west coast. You'll feel as if you stepped back in time when you arrive in the village of Erice. Perched 2,461 feet above the glistening Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by ancient Elimi and Phoenician walls, this gorgeous village overlooks the low-lying city of Trapani and the Aegadian Islands - three islands that form a mini-archipelago off Trapani. Be sure you're wearing your walking shoes as you join your knowledgeable guide for a tour of Erice entirely on foot! It's the best way to fully explore the narrow stone streets, towers, churches and fortifications built during the Norman occupation of Sicily. View the Porta Trapani, one of three Norman town-gates. Learn how this seemingly medieval city is, in fact, much older. In antiquity, Erice was famous for its temple where the Phoenicians worshipped Astarte, the Greeks honored Aphrodite and the Romans celebrated Venus! Erice boasts over 60 churches! It's most important is the breathtaking 14th century Mother Church (Chiesa Matrice) built from stones from the Temple of Venus. Bask in the breathtaking views offered at Erice's twin castles: Pepoli Castle, rising majestically from foundations dating from Arab times, and the Norman-period Venus Castle built on ruins of the ancient Temple of Venus. Marvel at the medieval character of these ancient hilltop fortresses surrounded by lush gardens.

Take a break from your exploration to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Follow it up with free time for independent sightseeing and shopping prior to re-boarding your motorcoach for the next leg of your excursion. No, you're not hallucinating. That is indeed a Greek temple you are glimpsing from the window of your motorcoach. It's the Temple of Segesta! Perched atop a hillside with views that stretch to the sea, it wasn't actually built by Greeks, however. It was built between 430 & 420 BC by the Elymians, the indigenous population of Sicily who also founded Erice! Have your camera ready as you stroll among its 36 Doric columns, a perfect backdrop for spectacular photos.

Time permitted, your return journey takes you on a narrated drive through your port city of Palermo and enjoy views of the 9th century Palazzo dei Normanni which served as the seat of Kings of Sicily and the Quattro Canti, the piazza at the heart of the Palermo's old historic district where many of the city's monuments, artistic churches and other sights are located. A lovely ending to a perfect day.