From Messina Cruise Terminal: Taormina+ Godfather tour+Lunch
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Feel the unique relaxed atmosphere of Taormina the most famous Sicilian resort. You will walk the main street of Taormina - Corso Umberto - vibrant and lively, but still relaxed and romantic. You will see such important sights as Palazzo Corvaja and Roman Theatre Odeon of the 2nd century. Then continue to Duomo square and learn about the influence of the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards. In the second part of the tour we will go to Savoca(village famous for the movie "The Godfather"). We will visit the Bar Vitelli( where Michael the first time met Apollonia's father) and the church where Michael Corleone married Apollonia. At the end of the tour you have sicilian lunch in traditional Trattoria with salami, prosciutto, Etna cheeses, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, caponata, pasta alla norma and lemon sorbet with local wine. This tour is private, to ensure the highest quality for our guests, and includes pickup and drop-off in Messina.
Available options
Tour from Messina
.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private Taormina walking tour
Bottled water
Hotel/port pickup and drop off
Round trip transportation by comfortable air-conditioned car
Private local English speaking guide
Private tour of "The Godfather" locations in Savoca, including Bar Vitelli visit
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your private English-speaking guide will pick you up at your hotel or port in Taormina at your preferable hour in the morning, and you will start this delightful private tour of the most important and beautiful Sicilian sites.
First, you will visit Mt Etna Volcano. Your friendly guide will tell you history of volcano creation, about eruptions, culture, myths, and folklore of "Mamma Etna" and Sicily itself. Driving by private car through authentic mountain villages, you will visit local honey farm and taste the produce of the fertile volcano terrain - honey, jams, olive oil, Etna DOC wines and liquors. Then continue to ascend and visit amazing natural phenomenon - a cave of lavic origin where, according to the Greek legend, Ulysses was confined by Polypheme, after which you will reach “Rifugio Sapienza” station at 2000mt. Here you will see famous Silvestri Craters, admire unforgettable panoramas, visit shops with souvenirs of lava, refresh yourself at some restaurant or bar. Optional ascent with cable car and jeep with the authorized Alpine Guide to 3000mt.
Then your guide will chauffeur you to Alcantara Gorges Natural Reserve - another unique natural phenomenon with Etna activity connection. Several thousand years ago, Alcantara river's bed was blocked by lava flow from Mt Etna. As the lava was cooled much more quickly by the water than it would have done otherwise, it crystallised in the form of columns. Over the next millenia, the river eroded a channel through these columns, resulting in impressive gorges and ravines. You will see this unique gorges, refresh yourself in cool water of Alcantara river, enjoy unspoilt Sicilian nature.
The tour will continue in Savoca - the must-see Sicilian hilltop village world-known thanks to F.F. Coppola, who filmed his legendary "The Godfather" here. The guide will tell you about the filming process and trivia, and the real Sicilian Mafia story. You will discover the history and culture of the movie locations, and feel the romantically rustic atmosphere of old Sicily. Walk the authentic streets of Savoca, remained unchanged since the movie was made, visit ancient churches, Bar Vitelli where Michael spoke to Apollonia’s father, church of Santa Lucia where the couple was married, follow the same path down the hill into town that the newlyweds did, and maybe even meet some locals cast in the movie - like signora who played Apollonia's mother!
Then, you will arrive at a charming wine bar near the church, and sitting on a terrace with romantic panoramic view of the sea and surrounding countryside, you will have hearty traditional food and wine session. You will taste organic locally produced food - cheeses, salami, prosciutto, Sicilian relish caponata, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, home-made jelly, extra virgin olive oil and fresh bread with Etna DOC red and white wines.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Minimum drinking age is 18 years
About Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.
Top Attractions
Valley of the Temples
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10
Mount Etna
Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nature
Half day to full day
€30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)
Palermo Cathedral
A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.
Architectural
1-2 hours
€7
Taormina
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre
Cefalù
A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca
Must-Try Local Dishes
Arancini
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Cannoli
Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Granita
A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.
Dessert
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park
Volcano trekking on Mount Etna
Beach lounging in Cefalù
Spa treatments in Taormina
Visiting the Valley of the Temples
Exploring the historic center of Palermo
Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands
Boat tours along the coast
Best Time to Visit
May to June, September to October
The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
- 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
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.
Getting there
By air
- Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center
By train
Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale
By bus
Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Palermo Centro Storico
Taormina
Catania Centro
Agrigento
Day trips
Aeolian Islands
25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight
A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.
Erice
100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day
A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.
Noto
90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day
A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.
Festivals
Infiorata di Noto • May
Taormina Film Fest • June
Sagra del Miele • September
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
- Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
- Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
