Messina Private Excursion Savoca Taormina and Castelmola
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Messina Private Excursion Savoca Taormina and Castelmola

Active
(48 reviews)
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

The tour departs from the cruise terminal in the direction of Savoca (approximately 40 minutes by road).
Savoca is the town where the film The Godfather was filmed. We will see all the most iconic places such as the Vitelli bar and the cathedral where Michael Corleone got married.
After about an hour we leave to go to Castelmola (about 30 minutes from Savoca).
Castelmola is a small village on the top of Taormina with a wonderful view of Mount Etna.
After about an hour we move to Taormina, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, reachable only on foot and full of shops and restaurants.
After about 2 or 3 hours we return to Messina, but not before a nice panoramic tour of Isola Bella.
As a last stop, we will visit the Sanctuary of Christ the King, a panoramic point over the Strait of Messina, and the Duomo cathedral, where you can admire the largest astronomical clock in Europe.

The timetable is designed to make the most of your time in Sicily and to be perfectly on time with the cruise ship.

Available options

Messina Private Excursion Savoca Taormina and Castelmola

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
WiFi on board
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

Savoca is the town where the film The Godfather was filmed. You will see all the most iconic places such as the Vitelli bar and the cathedral where Michael Corleone got married.

2
Stop 2

A small village, rich in Norman and Baroque culture, on the top of Taormina with a wonderful view of Mount Etna.

3

Taormina is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, characterized by a mix of different cultures. A favorite destination for tourists, it can only be reached on foot and is full of shops and restaurants.

4

Small sightseeing tour of the city of Messina with a visit to the sanctuary of Cristo Re, a panoramic point of the city from which it is possible to see the Strait of Messina from above. Finally we will see the Duomo cathedral with the largest astronomical clock in Europe.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
43 reviews
5★
42
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

As soon as you get off the ship you will find me outside the terminal. You will find the meeting point as soon as you get off the ship.

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 3-100
1
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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