From Messina to discover Taormina and Castelmola

Sicily , Italy

From Messina to discover Taormina and Castelmola

Active

5h - 7h

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

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About this experience

Are you ready to experience a stress-free trip? With our service you can count on comfort, safety and punctuality. Our professional drivers will welcome you with a smile offering you a comfortable and worry-free journey. Book now and let yourself be transported to your destination in peace and style!

Available options

From Messina to discover Taormina and Castelmola

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Upon exiting the cruise ship, one of our drivers will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it. He will accompany you on a tour to discover the beauties of Messina and its historic center.

Stop 2

Castelmola, thanks to its breathtaking panorama and its colours, is considered among the most beautiful and picturesque villages in Italy. Its historical-artistic treasures, including the castle and medieval monuments, distinguish it as a small jewel in the province of Messina.
Its name derives from the Norman fortress which represents its symbol and of which today only ruins remain. Our tour will start from the historic centre, which with purely medieval characteristics is divided into a labyrinth of narrow streets.
Among our main stops, there will also be the very famous Bar Turrisi characterized by the presence of phallic shapes as entire decorations. This idea, however, is not to be considered vulgar, but rather a strong influence of ancient Greek culture as a symbol of freedom, fertility and life.
Here you can taste the famous almond wine, the excellent Sicilian cannoli and many other typical products.

Second stop of our tour will be Taormia. Thanks to its wonderful location and its unique natural beauty, this city is considered the Pearl of the Ionian.
The birth of this important tourist center is linked to the arrival, in 358 BC, of some Greek refugees from the nearby city of Naxos, an ancient Greek colony. From this origin came the name Tauromènion, which then evolved into the current one.
The historic center is rich in monuments and its natural conformation makes Taormina seem like a beautiful panoramic terrace. There are many things you will have the opportunity to visit and see in Taormina, among all there is certainly the Greek Theater, symbol of this city, which offers a breathtaking view of the turquoise sea and the gulf dominated by Etna.
Furthermore, Corso Umberto, the pulsating heart of Taormina, will make you lose yourself among the many shops and the characteristic streets and small stairways decorated with a Sicilian theme and full of typical symbols of our beautiful Sicily.

After the stop in Taormina we will return to Messina, but before returning to the ship at the starting meeting point. We will take a tour of the most important attractions of our city. We will take you to admire the panoramic terrace of Cristo Re from which you can see the entire city and our characteristic port. Afterwards we will visit the Cathedral of Messina. This magnificent cathedral, with its imposing facade and its historic astronomical clock, is a true jewel of Sicilian architecture. The interior, equally fascinating, houses works of art of inestimable value. Another place not to be missed is the Fountain of Orion, located in Piazza Duomo. This fountain, built in the 16th century, is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Renaissance sculpture in Sicily.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Once disembarked, all our drivers will wait for you at the Cruise Terminal, exit gate 5, with a sign with your name and surname written on it. It will be from Messina that our tour will begin, lasting approximately 6 hours in total, to discover Castelmola and Taormina.

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.