Tour from cruise port Messina to Taormina Castelmola and Savoca

Sicily , Italy

Tour from cruise port Messina to Taormina Castelmola and Savoca

Active

5h - 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

We offer you the tranquility of a private experience where you will be supported throughout the tour by a driver / hostess who together with you will manage schedules and destinations to visit, respecting your needs and preferences, ensuring the return to the ship in perfect time for your boarding. During the transfer from the cruise port until you reach the first destination of the tour, you will be told curiosities, legends and traditions of our land, to fully appreciate its beauty and magic!
Love for our land has always been the soul of our work and our greatest satisfaction is to be able to end the day with you with the warmth of your smile and the knowledge that you will carry with you, in your heart, a piece of our Sicily through your most beautiful memories!

Available options

Tour from cruise port Messina to Taormina Castelmola and Savoca

Pickup included

What's included

The tour guide could also be your driver

WiFi on board

The vehicle and driver will be reserved for your group.

Water will be offered for each traveler

Air-conditioned vehicle

During your visit you will be offered typical Sicilian cannoli

Detailed itinerary

After meeting the driver inside the port area, we proceed to the first destination of the tour, Taormina, which is about 40 minutes from the cruise port of Messina. The first stop will be made at PIAZZA BELVEDERE, a splendid terrace overlooking the entire coast of Taormina, where you can take beautiful panoramic photos and where you can admire ISOLA BELLA from above, a wonderful and suggestive UNESCO World Heritage natural reserve, joined to the coast of Taormina by only a thin strip of sand!

Stop 2

The next destination will be the Corso Umberto in Taormina, the main street that crosses the entire city center and the place of greatest interest. On both sides of the Corso you can find a number of luxury boutiques, jewellers, clothing and souvenir shops. In addition, bars and restaurants, as well as major historical monuments such as: the famous GREEK-ROMAN THEATRE, which is used for the performance of plays and concerts by famous artists worldwide; PIAZZA IX APRILE, one of the best panoramic points of Taormina, with its incredible rooftop terrace overlooking the bay below and Mount ETNA, is considered the perfect place to take beautiful photos. You can also admire a small church that contributes to its charm, the CHURCH OF SAN GIUSEPPE, which takes up the Baroque style; located at the end of Corso Umberto is the CATHEDRAL OF TAORMINA, recognizable by its medieval facade and its Baroque-style door.

Stop 3

Among the things not to be missed while visiting Taormina, is certainly the small island located at the foot of the city, represented on every postcard of Taormina! It is possible to reach ISLAND BEAUTIFUL on foot in about 20 minutes from the top of the city (going back will be a bit tiring for the legs because of the many steps!). This beach is really amazing and definitely worth a visit, especially for the pebble beach and its crystal clear water where you can take a refreshing bath after the walk in town. If you also want to visit the interior of the villa located in the center of the island, an entrance fee of about 4 euros per person will be required, NOT included in the tour price.

Stop 4

It 'a small medieval village defined among the most beautiful in Italy, also famous for its ceramics. Located 5 kilometers from Taormina, the small town of Castelmola is definitely worth a visit, both for the ruins of its medieval castle and for its charming streets. Both in the village and in the castle, there are some of the most scenic points of the valley below and MOUNT ETNA. Don't forget to taste the ALMOND WINE, a specialty of the country.

Stop 5

Upon returning from your tour of Messina, the driver will also make a stop at the famous Cathedral of Messina, not far from the cruise port, where you will admire the impressive Bell Tower with the most beautiful and largest astronomical and astrological clock in the world, where even here you can take beautiful photos!

What's not included

Gratuities

Meals and drinks consumed during the tour

Greek-Roman Theatre

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

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

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Gate 5

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.