Full Day Taormina and Castelmola Tour with Messina Shore Excursion
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Taormina and Castelmola tour with Greek Theater will let you experience the history of one of the Sicilian Greek colonies and its astonishing ancient Theatre, used as a film set for many movies and TV series, such as the recent White Lotus Sicily show.
The tour starts with a visit to Castelmola Sicily a picturesque village situated just above Taormina, the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful setting and a wonderful outlook over the magnificent bay of Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna rising in the distance.
Then our journey continues with a Taormina walking tour, seeing the Aragonese-style Porta Catania and Corso Umberto, once part of the ancient Roman street Via Valeria.
Enjoy a Taormina walking tour visiting the monuments of the town, as well as the most exclusive shops, restaurants, and hotels, such as the famous San Domenico Palace and the newest White Lotus Sicily location and the theatre of Taormina, the second-largest in Sicily, built by Greeks and Romans in the 3rd century BC.
Available options
Small group (min 8 -max 16)
Pickup included
Shared group tour
Pickup included
Private tour
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Entrance ticket to the Greek roman theater
Transport by air-conditioned bus
Port pickup and drop-off
Live commentary on board
Detailed itinerary
1
The stele was raised by the will of Archbishop Angelo Paino
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The fountain was created by Montorsoli in 1557
3
It is an impressive temple, the second in size for the churches of Messina
4
Stop 4
small village located at 500 meters above the sea level
5
Stop 5
Enjoy the guided visit along Corso Umberto with your tour guide. Visit the Cathedral Square with the monumental fountain and take beautiful pictures from April IX Plaza.
Soak in history visiting the Greek-Roman Amphitheater, situated scenically on top of a hill overlooking the sea and Mt. Etna.
6
After the guided visit, enjoy 1h30'/2h of free time for some shopping in the fancy boutiques and souvenir shops. Take your time to get lost in the alleys discovering secret places off the beaten path, such as the quiet Pubblic Gardens. Don't forget to taste some typical Sicilian food for lunch before leaving!
7
Stop 7
It's time to say goodbye!
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
146 reviews
5★
115
4★
18
3★
8
2★
1
1★
4
Tripadvisor
4.9
89 reviews
5★
84
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
May be operated by a multilingual guide
Personal food and drinks allowed.
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Walking in Taormina is over paved and cobblestone surfaces, some of which are sloped. The Greek Theater requires climbing steep uneven stone stairs to enter and numerous steps inside.
Meeting point
FOR GUESTS THAT ARE NOT CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS:
The meeting point at our office DISCOVER MESSINA SICILY, located in Via I Settembre, 110, 45 minutes before the tour.
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
About Messina
Messina, located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and strategic location. It serves as a major hub for ferries to mainland Italy and offers a unique blend of cultural influences from various eras.
Top Attractions
Messina Cathedral
This beautiful cathedral, rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, features a stunning façade and houses the famous silver statue of the Virgin Mary.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Messina
This museum showcases a rich collection of art and artifacts, including works by renowned artists like Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina.
Museum
2-3 hours
€8
Messina Harbour
One of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, Messina Harbour offers a glimpse into the city's maritime history and modern-day significance.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pasta alla Norma
A classic Sicilian dish made with pasta, tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Arancini
Fried rice balls filled with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Etna
Scuba diving
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Boat tours
Swimming
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Messina for warm weather and outdoor activities. The sea is warm, and the city is lively with festivals and events.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Sicilian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Messina is generally safe, but visitors should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Reggio Calabria Airport • 30 km
By train
Messina Centrale
By bus
Messina Centrale Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The AMT bus system covers most of the city and is affordable and efficient. Buses are the primary mode of public transport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Harbour Area
Day trips
Taormina
50 km • Half day to full day
Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its ancient Greek theater, stunning views, and luxurious resorts.
Mount Etna
80 km • Full day
Mount Etna is an active volcano and one of the most famous natural attractions in Sicily. Visitors can hike, take guided tours, and enjoy the stunning views.
Festivals
Feast of the Assumption • August 15th
Pro tips
- Visit the fish market in the morning for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere.
- Take a ferry to the nearby town of Reggio Calabria for a day trip.
- Explore the historic city center on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
- Try local specialties like granita and brioche for a classic Sicilian breakfast.
- Check the schedule for the Feast of the Assumption if visiting in August for a unique cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
