Sicily private shore excursion - Etna and Taormina with personal driver

Catania , Italy

Sicily private shore excursion - Etna and Taormina with personal driver

Active

(3 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a private service for couples or small groups traveling together. Our driver will meet you at the port exit port with a displey with your name written on it.This excursion is customised using a driver.

A driver is a chauffeur specialized in driving you around, he is able to provide basic historical information, he can show you the main highlights, is knowledgeable and he has an umbrella of information.

The driver will take care to give adequate time at all stops and to accommodate special requests when possible, to ensure that your experience in Sicily will be both memorable and enjoyable.

The driver is not a Licensed Tour Guide and cannot take you inside monuments. In case you need a Licensed Local Guide you must pay a surcharge and we will arrange for Licensed Guide to meet you directly on the spot.

Available options

Sicily private shore excursion - Etna and Taormina with personal driver

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Port pickup and drop-off

Local taxes

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

You will meet your driver at the port exit gate. He has a displey with your name written on it...After leaving the pier with your local driver, the road will wind around the slopes of the mountain, before you reach the Silvestri craters at about 6.000 feet above the sea level. To the ancient Greeks Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, god of fire.

At approx. 3.350 m ( 10,922 ft ) it is Europe's highest and world's most active volcano. Previous eruptions have devastated Catania with the lava reaching the sea on several occasions.

Continue with the drive to Taormina but first you will make an exciting stop to visit a winery in the lava of the Etna volcano.

Here you will have a guided tour of the winery, a lunch with typical Sicilian products of this area and a guided wine tasting (it’s price euros 45,00 at person).

Sicily's most picturesque town and best known resort located its all year round mild climate, its preservation of local culture, ancient history and its perfect modern organization.
Visit free the ancient theatre, Taormina's most remarkable monument and one of the most celebrated ruins in Sicily.Of the case of bad weather conditions is not possible to visit the volcano. We will make a personalized program change for your wishes, for example: visit of the coast of the Cyclops or tour of the Godfather to Savoca in a private house at the entrance of the village is the Bar Vitelli, which features a collection of local artisans' tools and photographs taken when Francis Ford Coppola was in this area filming scenes for The Godfather II.
Remember that travel times on small Sicilian roads are slow. To visit many sites I recommend taking small breaks but our driver is at your disposal and if you prefer to make a few visits but with a lot of relaxation, it's ok for us.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Clients Safety. We believe in your safety. You won't find worn or unsafe tires on our cars, you won't see inoperable lighting, you won't hear grinding brakes or a suspension system that sounds as if it's going to fall to pieces. They are trained to drive safetly throught the narrow streets of Sicily and the winding roads on the Sicily.

Infant seats are available upon request

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

About Catania

Catania is a vibrant city on the east coast of Sicily, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and active volcano, Mount Etna. The city offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, baroque buildings, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Catania, featuring the stunning Catania Cathedral and the elegant Elephant Fountain. The square is a hub of activity and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Romano

The Roman Theatre is an ancient ruin dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's a fascinating glimpse into Catania's Roman past and a popular spot for cultural events and performances.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €4 (includes access to the nearby Roman Odeon)

Castello Ursino

Castello Ursino is a 13th-century castle that now houses the Civic Museum, showcasing art and artifacts from Catania's rich history. The castle's imposing structure and scenic views make it a must-visit attraction.

Historical/Museum 1-2 hours €8

Mount Etna

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Nature/Adventure Half-day to full-day €50-€150 (depending on the tour)

Fish Market (La Pescheria)

La Pescheria is Catania's bustling fish market, offering a vibrant and authentic Sicilian experience. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, interact with local vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (food purchases vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta alla Norma

A classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata, and basil. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Sicilian cuisine.

Main Course Vegetarian

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas. They are a popular street food and a must-try in Catania.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit. Cannoli are a beloved Sicilian dessert and a must-try in Catania.

Dessert Vegetarian

Granita con Brioche

A refreshing Sicilian breakfast consisting of granita (a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors) served with a sweet brioche bun. It's a perfect way to start the day, especially in the summer.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Etna Guided volcano tours Scuba diving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Visiting museums Attending cultural events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Catania is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

18-28°C 64-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Sicilian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Catania is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.

Getting there

By air

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Catania Centrale

By bus

Autostazione di Catania

Getting around

Public transport

The AMT bus system covers the entire city and its suburbs, offering frequent and affordable service. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Catania.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San Berillo Borgo Canalicchio

Day trips

Taormina

50 km • Half day to full day

Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its stunning views, ancient Greek theatre, and elegant shops and cafes. It's a popular day trip from Catania, offering a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.

Syracuse

70 km • Full day

Syracuse is a historic city on the eastern coast of Sicily, known for its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and rich history. It's a fascinating day trip from Catania, offering a mix of archaeological sites and scenic views.

Mount Etna

30 km • Half day to full day

Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.

Festivals

Festa di Sant'Agata • February 3-5 Catania Jazz Festival • Late October to early November Infiorata di Catania • May (first Sunday)

Pro tips

Visit the fish market (La Pescheria) early in the morning for the freshest catch and a lively atmosphere.
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods, such as San Berillo and Borgo, for an authentic and immersive experience.
Take a guided tour of Mount Etna for a safe and informative exploration of the volcano's craters and lava fields.
Sample local specialties, such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli, at traditional trattorias and street food stalls.
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Festa di Sant'Agata and the Catania Jazz Festival, for a unique and memorable experience.