ETNA & WINE, TAORMINA TOUR FD from CATANIA (GUIDE and LUNCH Included)

Catania , Italy

ETNA & WINE, TAORMINA TOUR FD from CATANIA (GUIDE and LUNCH Included)

Active

(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

ETNA & TAORMINA
**ATTENTION: Tour available ONLY departing from Catania
Mount Etna is the highest active terrestrial volcano in the Eurasian Plate. Its frequent eruptions throughout history have changed, sometimes profoundly, the surrounding landscape, coming several times to threaten the populations settled around it. The UNESCO Committee, has included Mount Etna in the list of assets constituting the World Heritage Site.
Taormina is a famous tourist city also visited by artists, writers and intellectuals (among these stayed there Goethe and Truman Capote). Particularly loved not only for its scenic beauty and fantastic panorama, but also for its “dolce vita”, permissiveness and transgression.

Punctuality, efficiency, elegance, experience and professionalism.

Available to meet any customer need.

Assistance throughout the tour.

"Happiness is a JOURNEY, not a destination...!!!"

Available options

ETNA & WINE, TAORMINA TOUR FD from CATANIA (GUIDE and LUNCH Included)

Pickup included

What's included

Single dish with tasting of 2 typical Sicilian wines

Air-conditioned vehicle

Insurance

Equipment, if requested at the time of booking.

Pick-up by jeep or minibus in Catania, directly at the hotels or at a meeting point.

Professional naturalistic guide (geologists, volcanologists, agronomists) and passionate about trekking

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will have the opportunity to discover in one day the beauties of our volcano and the splendid Taormina, after the pick-up in the city of CATANIA here we go:

First Stage: Walking through centuries-old woods, eccentric craters and unique lava formations (usually the Sartorius Mountains or the craters formed in 2002 on the north-east side of Etna), our naturalistic guide will introduce you to the fascinating world of volcanic phenomena.

Second stop: You will explore a volcanic cave (for example the "Grotta dei Ladroni" or the "Cassone Cave") provided with the necessary equipment (helmets and torches). During the winter, the visit to the cave is not carried out in the event of significant snow or ice at the entrance which would make the entrance dangerous.

Third stage: If the weather conditions permit, you will have the opportunity to have a typical Sicilian 'hot table' snack. Otherwise, lunch will take place indoors at a lovely mountain farmhouse.

Fourth stop: In the afternoon you will reach Taormina where, independently, you can visit its elegant course that separates the medieval city gates, Porta Catania and Messina. You will be provided with a map containing all the information on the most important places to visit.

The guide will wait for you at the entrance of the town (mainly pedestrian area) for the return to Catania.

During the excursion, you will reach a maximum altitude of 2000 meters (area of competence of our nature guides).

What's not included

Extra costs not included or not foreseen

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We remind you to wear closed shoes (sports or trekking) with socks, and to bring a winter jacket as the temperature at a height is around 10-15 ° C lower than in Catania.

We also recommend, in case of snow, to bring a pair of spare socks. Snowshoes and sticks will be provided by us. If you think you are not well equipped, inform us when booking. In that case, we will supply shoes and jackets.

Also remember to bring a bottle of water with you to quench your thirst during the trek.

Depending on the needs of the group and the weather conditions, the route may undergo small variations in favor of a perfect trend of the day for everyone. In addition, in the event of conditions or events independent of our will and not foreseeable, the guide may choose to make some changes to the itinerary and his judgment is insidacable.

WARNING: Tour not available for those arriving by cruise ship at the port of Catania, due to incompatibility with the established tour times.

Tour available ONLY departing from Catania

Suitable for Everyone (We do not recommend taking part in the excursions to those who are not in good health, especially those suffering from cardio-respiratory diseases. We also do not recommend this type of excursion to children under 10 years.)

About Catania

Catania is a vibrant city on the east coast of Sicily, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and active volcano, Mount Etna. The city offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, baroque buildings, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Catania, featuring the stunning Catania Cathedral and the elegant Elephant Fountain. The square is a hub of activity and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Romano

The Roman Theatre is an ancient ruin dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's a fascinating glimpse into Catania's Roman past and a popular spot for cultural events and performances.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €4 (includes access to the nearby Roman Odeon)

Castello Ursino

Castello Ursino is a 13th-century castle that now houses the Civic Museum, showcasing art and artifacts from Catania's rich history. The castle's imposing structure and scenic views make it a must-visit attraction.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours €8

Mount Etna

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Nature/Adventure Half-day to full-day €50-€150 (depending on the tour)

Fish Market (La Pescheria)

La Pescheria is Catania's bustling fish market, offering a vibrant and authentic Sicilian experience. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, interact with local vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (food purchases vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta alla Norma

A classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata, and basil. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Sicilian cuisine.

Main Course Vegetarian

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas. They are a popular street food and a must-try in Catania.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit. Cannoli are a beloved Sicilian dessert and a must-try in Catania.

Dessert Vegetarian

Granita con Brioche

A refreshing Sicilian breakfast consisting of granita (a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors) served with a sweet brioche bun. It's a perfect way to start the day, especially in the summer.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Etna Guided volcano tours Scuba diving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Visiting museums Attending cultural events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Catania is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

18-28°C 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Sicilian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Catania is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.

Getting there

By air

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Catania Centrale

By bus

Autostazione di Catania

Getting around

Public transport

The AMT bus system covers the entire city and its suburbs, offering frequent and affordable service. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Catania.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San Berillo Borgo Canalicchio

Day trips

Taormina

50 km • Half day to full day

Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its stunning views, ancient Greek theatre, and elegant shops and cafes. It's a popular day trip from Catania, offering a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.

Syracuse

70 km • Full day

Syracuse is a historic city on the eastern coast of Sicily, known for its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and rich history. It's a fascinating day trip from Catania, offering a mix of archaeological sites and scenic views.

Mount Etna

30 km • Half day to full day

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Festivals

Festa di Sant'Agata • February 3-5 Catania Jazz Festival • Late October to early November Infiorata di Catania • May (first Sunday)

Pro tips

Visit the fish market (La Pescheria) early in the morning for the freshest catch and a lively atmosphere.
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods, such as San Berillo and Borgo, for an authentic and immersive experience.
Take a guided tour of Mount Etna for a safe and informative exploration of the volcano's craters and lava fields.
Sample local specialties, such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli, at traditional trattorias and street food stalls.
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Festa di Sant'Agata and the Catania Jazz Festival, for a unique and memorable experience.