Private Tour of Savoca and Taormina from Messina

Sicily , Italy

Private Tour of Savoca and Taormina from Messina

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About this experience

Taormina is known for its rich history, culture and scenic views. Here are some highlights of this beautiful town.

First, Taormina has many beaches and is the closest beach resort on mainland Italy to Sicily. It is one of the most visited spots in Italy, with around 1,800,000 tourists a year and it is often referred to as "the most beautiful city in the world". Secondly, Savoca is a small town in the province of Vicenza, Italy. The most popular attraction in Savoca is the church of San Zeno Maggiore which has been mentioned in Dante’s work "Inferno".

The tour includes visits to a one of the most popular places for visitors a small square Piazza IX Aprile, Teatro Greco and many other sites to take photos and enjoy the beautiful architecture. You will enjoy a private guided tour with an experienced local guide who will take you to see some of Taormina and Savoca's best attractions on this day trip from Messina.

Available options

DRIVER AND OFFICIAL TOUR GUIDE

Private full day excursion to Taormina and Castelmola from Messina with PRIVATE DRIVER AND OFFICIAL TOUR GUIDE<br/>Pickup included

Private tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private Tour

Hotel/cruise port pick up and drop off in Messina

Private experienced guide for 8 hours

Private vehicle with chauffeur for 8 hours

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Taormina is a small Sicilian city located on the north-western coast of the island. It is famous for its location in front of one of Italy's most spectacular natural sites, Mount Etna. It is also known for its coastal charm, historical monuments and cultural attractions.

The municipality is also known for the Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greco-Roman theater. Private visit with your official driver.

Stop 2 Pass by

The Ancient Theatre of Taormina is one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been restored to its original splendor, with a capacity of over 4,000 spectators.

A unique, superbly preserved theatre from the ancient world. It was recently restored and is now a stage for open-air performances.

Stop 3

Piazza IX Aprile is a small square in the old town of Florence, Italy. It is one of the most popular places for visitors to take photos and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

The small square was originally named Piazza del Campo because it was where people once gathered to watch horse races. The name changed in 1732 after a fire destroyed most of the buildings around it and only a few remained.

Piazza IX Aprile is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit while they are visiting Italy. The small square has a lot of history and culture which makes it an attractive place for tourists to visit.

Taormina's most famous landmark is the Greek Theater, built in the 3rd century BC. It was built under Hieron II of Syracuse. Completely rebuilt with all the features of a Roman theater under Roman rule in the 2nd century BC.

Kontiland is one of the first theme parks to be built in Italy, featuring a number of attractions, including a replica of the volcano Etna and the famous maze from "Labyrinth". The park was opened on November 28th, 2017.

A beautiful place to visit. Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children and sailors, is a figure with a rich history. The Church of Saint Nicholas in the city of San Nicolo was erected on the site where in 1579, a miracle occurred. When the door to the church was opened, it closed by itself. This event is said to have cured many people from their illnesses.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

In case of needing a infant seat please request at time of booking

Important notes

- SAVE COVID-19 SAFE - As this is a private tour we take care of maintaining social distance
- Please confirm hotel details or cruise arrival for correct pick up at least 48 hours prior to tour date

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.