Taormina , Italy

Mount Etna Day Trip from Taormina

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(270 reviews)

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

Visit Sicily’s famously fiery volcano, the magnificent Mount Etna, on a day trip from Taormina. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and views from it over Parco dell'Etna (the national park) are breathtaking. Explore the foothills around the base station on a 3-hour independent hike (extra ticket), or optionally upgrade (extra) to include transport to Mount Etna’s upper area and an escorted walking tour of the upper crater included Mountain Guide service. Main departure point is from Taormina Bus Terminal. Alternative pick-up points are available along the route only on request by providing the full address.

Available options

Mount Etna Upper Crater

Includes round-trip transport from Taormina, transport to the volcano and walking tour. Ascent by cable car up to 2500m and continue on jeeps to the authorized crater zones at approx 3000m with guides

Foothills Only

Includes round-trip transport from Taormina and free time in the foothills of Mount Etna

What's included

Professional multilingual guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Pick up point only on request.

Stop 2

Visit Sicily’s famously fiery volcano, the magnificent Mount Etna, on a day trip from Taormina.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Wind jackets and boots rental

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

161 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.4

109 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Warm clothes and comfortable shoes are recommended

The high-altitude ascents are not indicated for heart passengers, asthmatics and pregnant women.

Please note that for your safety, all excursions to Etna do not reach the edge of the main craters and customers are always kept on a safety zone.

The cost of the excursion to Etna, ascent inclusive, has a special price valid only with advance reservation. When buying the ascent on board, the cost will be higher.

Meeting point

Departure for all tours is from the main Bus Terminal in Via Pirandello. Pick up is also available along the coast at Taormina by the sea, Letojanni and Giardini Naxos. Customers are invited to contact for information about pick up.The coach is silver with a SAT logo in red.

Important notes

The main pick-up point for all tours is the Bus Terminal at Via Luigi Pirandello in Taormina. Pick-up is also available in the areas of Taormina by the sea, Giardini Naxos, Recanati and Letojanni only on request by providing your address to SAT Group by e-mail at booking@satgroup.it or by phone +39 0942 24653.

About Taormina

Taormina is a picturesque hilltop town in Sicily, known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It combines ancient Greek and Roman history with charming medieval streets, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Ancient Theatre of Taormina

This well-preserved Greek theatre dates back to the 3rd century BC and offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It is still used for performances and events.

Historical 1-2 hours €10.50 for the combined ticket with the Odeon

Isola Bella

A small, picturesque island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It is a nature reserve with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to visit, €5 for the nature reserve

Corso Umberto

The main street of Taormina, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is a great place to stroll, shop, and enjoy the town's atmosphere.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by shop

Public Gardens (Giardini della Villa Comunale)

Beautiful public gardens with panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna. They are a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Castelmola

A charming medieval village perched above Taormina, offering breathtaking views of the coast and Mount Etna. It is known for its narrow streets, historic churches, and local wine.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, €5-€10 for wine tastings

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta alla Norma

A traditional Sicilian pasta dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, coated in breadcrumbs.

Appetizer Contains cheese and gluten

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often with chocolate chips or candied fruit.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors like lemon, almond, or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Etna Snorkeling and diving in Isola Bella Jeep and cable car tours of Mount Etna Sunbathing and swimming at Mazzarò Beach Enjoying a granita at Bar Turrisi Strolling through the Public Gardens Exploring the Ancient Theatre of Taormina Visiting the historic churches and museums

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Taormina, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The weather is ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Sicilian dialect
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

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taormina is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare in advance.
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 50 km from Taormina

By train

Taormina-Giardini Station

By bus

Taormina Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The funicular is efficient and frequent, offering a quick and scenic way to get around the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Taormina Mazzarò Castelmola

Day trips

Mount Etna

40 km from Taormina • Full day

Mount Etna is Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and unique geological features.

Aeolian Islands

Varies by island, approximately 50-100 km from Taormina • Full day or overnight

The Aeolian Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for their volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and stunning beaches.

Syracuse (Siracusa)

100 km from Taormina • Full day

Syracuse is a historic city with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, a charming old town, and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Taormina Arte • July to August Taormina Film Festival • June Festa di San Pancrazio • May 12th

Pro tips

Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina for stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Try local specialties like pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli at traditional Sicilian restaurants.
Explore the charming streets and shops of Corso Umberto and Via Naumachia.
Take a day trip to Mount Etna for hiking, jeep tours, and wine tasting.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Mazzarò and Isola Bella, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.