Messina , Italy

Taormina-Castelmola : DA dream views

Active

(196 reviews)

4h - 7h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Don't waste time with the usual tourist traps! Join us by choosing one of our tours and we will overwhelm you with a whirlwind of emotions, legends, traditions and culture. You will feel part of the family, but with an extra touch of Sicilian charm.

Available options

Taormina-Castelmola : DA dream views

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

The times described in the tour can be changed based on the departure of the ship

WiFi on board

Bottled water

There will be a companion with me who will help us on the tour

Fruit juice bottled water cannoli tasting

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Our tour will start DA Messina, the ancient "gateway to Sicily", where history and modernity, legends and traditions, resilience and beauty come together.
After our meeting, along the panoramic road that runs along the port in the shape of a sickle, you will be able to admire the statue of the Madonna della Lettera, patron saint of Messina that welcomes anyone arriving from the sea.
DA here will start our tour to two jewels of our territory: Castelmola and Taormina.

Stop 2

Our first stop will be the charming medieval village of Castelmola, perched on a hill overlooking the landscape!
Castelmola, which was once the site of an ancient Norman castle, is now known to host one of the most particular bars in the world: the Bar Turrisi! An authentic Sicilian landmark known for its unique furnishings. Here we will take a break to explore the cultural significance of the iconic phallic shapes used as bar decorations. Far from being vulgar, they are a vivid tribute to ancient Greek culture, symbolising the very essence of freedom, fertility and life. This is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of the famous almond wine along with delicious Sicilian cannoli.

Our journey will continue with the descent to the renowned "pearl of the Mediterranean": Taormina.
Entering through the historic arch of Porta Catania. Immerse yourself in the city's rich past, exploring the spectacular Greco-Roman amphitheatre (ticket price not included in the tour), a masterpiece of ancient engineering with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea, and then head to the beautiful and magical Lady Florece Trevelyan Public Garden.
Afterwards, strolling along Corso Umberto, the bustling main street and ancient decumanus, you will be surrounded by elegant boutiques, lively cafes, picturesque alleys and historic buildings that guard the true essence of the city.
Finally, we will reach by car a strategic and unique vantage point to admire and photograph the breathtaking view of the iconic Isola Bella, leaving you with an indelible and unforgettable memory of our beautiful land.

After our visit to Taormina, we will return to Messina, where time and energy permitting you can be fascinated by the historic center of the city and especially by the bell tower of the Duomo, which houses one of the largest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clocks in Europe.
At the end of the day we will take you back to the starting point with the hope of having given you a day full of emotions in our company.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

34 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

162 reviews

5★

162

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1★

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

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.