Half-day tour to Taormina, Castelmola and Isola Bella

Sicily , Italy

Half-day tour to Taormina, Castelmola and Isola Bella

Active

(10 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit with us the places in Sicily that boast the most evocative and spectacular locations, surrounded by splendid beaches between the sea and the mountains. You will spend a whole day of adventure, relaxation and fun among history, culture, scents of tradition and enchantment. Our guide will lead you to discover the historical monuments of Taormina, which attract the attention of the most glittering international society, for an incredibly unique journey. We are committed to providing a high level of service that exceeds industry standards, focusing on the safety, reliability and efficiency of our service.

Available options

Half-day tour to Taormina, Castelmola and Isola Bella

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Luxury car

Guide could be the driver

Detailed itinerary

Taormina is an enchanted place where you can live one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. Anyone who goes to Taormina to savor its charm must have the feeling of enjoying a privilege. Nestled on Mount Tauro, from which it took its ancient name, Taormina is a natural terrace overlooking the sea which represents a dream for any tourist. defined as "The Pearl of the Ionian", it is among the most famous and picturesque places on the eastern coast of Sicily. Immersed among suggestive ancient ruins, breathtaking views and enchanting beaches!

Stop 2 Pass by

The historic center of the city, starts from Porta Messina and ends at Porta Catania. Halfway along the course is Piazza IX Aprile, a panoramic terrace overlooked by the churches of Sant'Agostino and San Giuseppe. Not far from the Middle Gate with the seventeenth-century Clock Tower.

From Corso Umberto there are steps and side streets that reach suggestive and quiet corners. One of these leads to the NAUMACHIE, an imposing brick thermal building from the Roman imperial era, of which a wall with 18 arched niches remains.

Stop 4 Pass by

Palazzo Corvaja, located in Taormina in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, adjacent to Corso Umberto, is a spectacular architectural example of the fifteenth century.
It tells the story of Roman domination first and Arab domination later, undergoing changes that also testify to the arrival of the Normans in Sicily.
Palazzo Corvaja was the seat of the Sicilian Parliament.
Today it is the seat of the Archaeological Museum and houses a rich collection of finds from excavations carried out in Taormina, where you can admire wonderful amphorae, Greek statues, sarcophagi and vases from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Stop 5 Pass by

Spectacular for its location, it is the symbol of the city and one of the most famous Sicilian monuments in the world.
It dates back to Hellenistic times, although it was almost completely rebuilt in Roman times when it became an arena for gladiators.
From the steps the view sweeps over Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna in a breathtaking spectacle.

Stop 6

A window on the sea a stone's throw from Taormina, Castelmola is among the most beautiful villages in Italy. Famous for its ceramics, history, art and architecture come together here. This is a natural terrace built around the ruins of a Norman castle and offers one of the most famous views in the world, with fiery sunsets enlivened by the characteristic almond wine. The alternative environment you will visit in Castelmola is the "Bar Turrisi". Finally, once you arrive here, never leave your destination without first tasting the almonds flecked with sugar and prickly pears!

Stop 7

Isola Bella is undoubtedly the symbol of Taormina, as well as a beautiful nature reserve and protected area, immersed in the sea and can be reached via a very small strip of sand.

At the end of the tour, on the return to Messina, if there is time left, the driver will take you to the Cathedral of Messina, not far from the cruise port, where you can admire the famous bell tower with the largest and most complex astronomical and astrological clock in the world.

What's not included

tastings

possible private expenses

Isola Bella

Greek-Roman Theatre

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

8 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.