Day Trip: Noto and Siracusa Highlights From Catania or Taormina

Taormina , Italy

Day Trip: Noto and Siracusa Highlights From Catania or Taormina

Active

(24 reviews)

7h - 8h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This Day trip to Siracusa will take you back 2000 years, to show the greatness of a city that was among the most powerful cities of ancient Greece, and the beauty of the “Late Sicilian Baroque” in Noto.

The Excursion Siracusa Noto is suggested if you start from Hotels or Ports of Taormina Area and sourrounding. This is a tour for everyone, without difficulty and very interesting, from an archaeological and architectural point of view.

Available options

Day Trip Noto Siracusa

Excursion Noto Siracusa: Day trip Noto and Siracusa Highlights Tour Baroque from Taormina<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private tour

English Speaking Driver

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Excursion to Siracusa, the driver, driving along the road south, takes you to visit the archaeological zone Neapolis of Syracuse, to visit the famous Greek Theater, the Ear of Dionisio, the tumb of Archimedes, the Altar of Hieron and the Roman Amphitheater. You will, also, the opportunity to visit the archaeological museum Paolo Orsi.

Our visit of Syracuse, continues with the historical center of Ortigia Island. Where you will have free time to visit: the temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa, the Saint Lucy Cathedral and its magnificent Piazza Duomo and enjoy excellent seafood for lunch.

Stop 2

Teatro greco, Orecchio di Dionisio, Latomie del Paradiso, Anfiteatro Romano

We will dedicate the rest of our trip to visit the beautiful city of Noto. Defined the “capital of Baroque”, in 2002, its historic center was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, along with other late Baroque towns of Val di Noto

Across the “Royal Door”, along the Via Vittorio Emanuele, you can admire the beautiful aristocratic and ecclesiastical buildings dating back to the 17th century. Among the most important: Ducezio Palace, Palazzo Nicolaci, The Cathedral, the Theatre and many others

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

One Child free 0-1 year only when sharing with 2 paying adults

The Plan of visit can be inverted

About Taormina

Taormina is a picturesque hilltop town in Sicily, known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It combines ancient Greek and Roman history with charming medieval streets, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Ancient Theatre of Taormina

This well-preserved Greek theatre dates back to the 3rd century BC and offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It is still used for performances and events.

Historical 1-2 hours €10.50 for the combined ticket with the Odeon

Isola Bella

A small, picturesque island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It is a nature reserve with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to visit, €5 for the nature reserve

Corso Umberto

The main street of Taormina, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is a great place to stroll, shop, and enjoy the town's atmosphere.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by shop

Public Gardens (Giardini della Villa Comunale)

Beautiful public gardens with panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna. They are a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Castelmola

A charming medieval village perched above Taormina, offering breathtaking views of the coast and Mount Etna. It is known for its narrow streets, historic churches, and local wine.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, €5-€10 for wine tastings

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta alla Norma

A traditional Sicilian pasta dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, coated in breadcrumbs.

Appetizer Contains cheese and gluten

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often with chocolate chips or candied fruit.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors like lemon, almond, or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Etna Snorkeling and diving in Isola Bella Jeep and cable car tours of Mount Etna Sunbathing and swimming at Mazzarò Beach Enjoying a granita at Bar Turrisi Strolling through the Public Gardens Exploring the Ancient Theatre of Taormina Visiting the historic churches and museums

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Taormina, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The weather is ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Sicilian dialect
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taormina is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare in advance.
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 50 km from Taormina

By train

Taormina-Giardini Station

By bus

Taormina Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The funicular is efficient and frequent, offering a quick and scenic way to get around the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Taormina Mazzarò Castelmola

Day trips

Mount Etna

40 km from Taormina • Full day

Mount Etna is Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and unique geological features.

Aeolian Islands

Varies by island, approximately 50-100 km from Taormina • Full day or overnight

The Aeolian Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for their volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and stunning beaches.

Syracuse (Siracusa)

100 km from Taormina • Full day

Syracuse is a historic city with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, a charming old town, and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Taormina Arte • July to August Taormina Film Festival • June Festa di San Pancrazio • May 12th

Pro tips

Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina for stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Try local specialties like pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli at traditional Sicilian restaurants.
Explore the charming streets and shops of Corso Umberto and Via Naumachia.
Take a day trip to Mount Etna for hiking, jeep tours, and wine tasting.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Mazzarò and Isola Bella, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.