Messina Taormina: cultural heritage experience
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a day to the discovery of two wonderful locations of the Ionian coast: Messina and Taormina.
Starting from Messina, drive for almost 50 minutes and reach Taormina and walk from Porta Catania – the Southern entrance to the town – towards Corso Umberto which is its main street. Here take the opportunity to discover the monuments, the wonderful squares with their views above Mt Etna and the coast and taste an authentic Sicilian cannoli or a delicious arancino. After two hours and 30 minutes in this unique location drive back towards Messina and admire the historical heritage of Sicily’s third-largest city visiting the monuments and the churches but also the natural beauties driving among the coast till Capo Peloro – the nearest point of the island to the mainland and also the best point of observation of the Strait of Messina.
At the end of the tour, return to the departure point where the driver and the guide will say goodbye inviting you for a long second journey in Sicily.
Available options
Small group (min 8- max16)
Pickup included
Private tour
Pickup included
Shared tour group
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Port pickup/drop-off
Driver
Air-conditioned vehicle
Live commentary on board
Professional tour guide
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Is the Southern entrance in the city of Taormina.
2
Stop 2
This is the main street of Taormina among which the major part of the monuments and attractions are located.
3
Stop 3
The most important church of Taormina
4
A wonderful monument located in the Cathedral square in Taormina.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
One of the most suggestive churches located in Taormina
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Historical building located in the centre of Taormina
7
The most important church of Messina
8
Stop 8
Pass by
The Belltower is the most important attraction of Messina
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Ancient church located in the historical centre of Messina
10
The lighthouse located on the Northern side of Messina in front of the Strait of Messina.
11
It is an impressive temple, the second in size for the churches of Messina
What's not included
Gratuities
Entrance ticket to the Greek-roman theatre
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
