Half-day excursion to Taormina, Isola Bella and Messina

Sicily , Italy

Half-day excursion to Taormina, Isola Bella and Messina

Active

(8 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

You will spend a whole day of adventure, relaxation and fun among history, culture, scents of tradition and enchantment for an incredibly unique journey!
Accompanied by your driver/hostess who will tell the history and traditions of our land,
visit the most iconic places of Sicily on a tour where you can taste the typical dishes and scents of the Sicilian tradition, immersed in the most spectacular locations, surrounded by beautiful beaches, between sea and mountains.
Love for our land is the soul of our work that will mirror the beauty of our attractions.

Available options

A magical 7/8 hour tour of Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

WiFi on board

luxury cars

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide could also be the driver

Detailed itinerary

You will spend a whole day captivated by the extraordinary beauty of the places of greatest interest in eastern Sicily, with a tour to discover Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella and Messina, where you can admire and photograph wonderful panoramic Mediterranean landscapes...
During the tour you can taste typical Sicilian products.
The service will be carried out on board new and comfortable Mercedes vehicles that will be expertly driven by drivers carefully selected for their competence, image and charisma.
We also allow flexibility of schedules and the opportunity to modify the organization of the tour according to any preferences or needs of the passengers. This will make the service ideal for cruise passengers.

Stop 2

It is the most grandiose monument that characterizes Taormina. It is the second largest classical theater in Sicily (the first is the one in Syracuse).
Currently, the Greco-Roman Theater hosts major cultural events that attract a huge audience. Precisely for this reason, the ancient Theater has become the symbol of Taormina in the world.

Stop 3 Pass by

The Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina is one of the most scenic and airy.
Immediately on the left stands the wonderful facade of the church of San Giuseppe, at the top of a double staircase.
On the right side the square allows us to range over a wide panoramic spectacle.
The square is brightened by some cafes that allow you to sit at the outdoor tables and enjoy the architectural landscape.

Stop 4 Pass by

Palazzo Corvaja is one of the most elegant aristocratic palaces of the Sicilian Middle Ages.
The beautiful main portal of the palace is characterized by a very low arch. It is one of the most beautiful sixteenth-century portals that adorn the aristocratic palaces of Taormina.
Inside this palace is housed the Museum of Art and Popular Traditions.

Stop 5

Located along the coast of Taormina, Isola Bella has become, together with the Greek-Roman Theater, the symbol of Taormina. Picturesque and evocative, the islet still maintains its beauty and charm unchanged today.

Returning to Messina, you will visit one of the most particular and spectacular places of the city, the Sanctuary of Christ the King, with the beautiful view from the terrace overlooking the Strait of Messina, where you can take beautiful photos.
At the end, direction Messina Cathedral, where you can admire the largest astronomical and astrological clock in the world.

What's not included

Lunch

entrance tickets to monuments (paid on site)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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 poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.