This Shore excursion in Sicily, has been designed to give a unique experience to our guests, keeping the focus on the two most sought after locations in the Sicilian Riviera.
The first stop is dedicated to Castelmola, a small village perched on the rock at 550 metres above sea level with memorable views of the bay of Giardini Naxos and the majestic Etna, southside. Whilst on the other side it kisses the magnificent Isolabella and looks upon the north east riviera of Sicily towards the province of Messina.
Our second stop is dedicated to Taormina, the location where art, culture, tradition and entertainment are the base created over thousands of years, as demonstrated by the ancient Greek Theatre which was successively dominated by the Romans. The church of San Nicolò that today represents the Cathedral of the city offers various contrasts which start from the period of the mediaeval cults passing through the baroque of the 17° century and arriving at the frescos that contributed to the 19th century, the Naumachie roman walls, the botanical gardens and much more.
Italiano, English, Español
Daily
Cruise Terminal - Port - Harbour
SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
Full refund up to 72 hours before of the experience
Our tour begins with collection from the port at a previously agreed time confirmed during your booking process. Your driver/guide will be waiting with a welcome sign stating your group or family name.
We will start our journey towards Taormina where we will pass by the coastal route of Mazzarò, here over the last 50 years noble buildings have been transformed into luxurious 5 star hotels and private homes.
We will stop to admire Isola Bella before starting our ascent on the most important road to Taormina "Via Luigi Pirandello", named the route of flowers.
rriving at the piazza Belvedere, from here you will have views of around 80 km of coastline between the two cities of Messina and Catania, also taking in the outline of Mount Etna and the wonderful birdseye view of the area which we previously passed Mazzaro and Isola Bella.
From the Belvedere we will move directly towards Castelmola, along the only connecting road on the perimeters of Taormina's north side.
On arrival in this quaint village at Piazza San Giorgio, this is where our walking tour begins. The walls of the city built approximately 1000 years ago, the remains of the Greek Byzantine castle and all that you can see around you from the terraces of the castle will help you appreciate the surroundings.
On leaving the castle we are ready for our tasting, what is typical of this small village and has been a tradition for 100’s of years produced by native families, Almond Wine "Il Vino Di Mandorla".
From Castelmola, towards the centre of Taormina an obligatory stop is the Saracens Castle and the Madonna della Rocca church. The church is still consecrated with original features of a 16th century convent which was jealously guarded and used for ecclesiastical life.
The particularity of this church is that it was excavated within a natural rock looking down onto the centre of Taormina.
Directly above the convent, built by the Greeks on the Monte Tauro cliff stands the Saracens Castle, connecting with other castles in the area such as Francavilla, Castiglione, Castelmola and Forza D'agrò, thus creating a perfect ring controlling the access points into the Alcantara valley.
We will finally arrive in Taormina, representing our last stop of the day. Originally named "Taormenium" it was constructed on the previously mentioned Monte Tauro hill by the hands of the Greeks from 500 AC onwards. It sits directly above the bay of Giardini Naxos and is centrally positioned between the cities of Catania and Messina.
The first thing we note walking through the streets of Taormina is its history, tradition and art, left behind over centuries by its many conquerors, for example the lively ancient Theatre, originally Greek, the Piazza IX Aprile, the Duomo and its Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens characterised by its English-Sicilian style and its many more sites adopted by the UNESCO World Heritage.
All of this will be possible to reach via the pedestrianised area "Corso Umberto',' you will have a couple of free hours agreed directly with your guide who will be waiting for you at your chosen pick up point. We will then return to the cruise terminal.
The order of the events will be communicated by your Driver on the day • All activities will be carried out on foot, in a car or minivan • All refreshments and wine tastings are excluded
| from Messina | |
| 1-3 pax | 380€ |
| 4-6 pax | 430€ |
| 7-8 pax | 480€ |
| from Giardini Naxos - Taormina | |
| 1-3 pax | 320€ |
| 4-6 pax | 360€ |
| 7-8 pax | 420€ |
| from Catania | |
| 1-3 pax | 380€ |
| 4-6 pax | 430€ |
| 7-8 pax | 480€ |
We will collect you from your cruise terminal at a previously arranged time established during the booking process based on your cruise schedule.
During your shore excursion your guide will be an experienced driver that speaks Italian, English and Spanish with a deep knowledge of the local area.
We recommend booking this excursion in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during days of festivities. We require at least 2 days notice and bookings are subject to availability.
To make a reservation, follow the link at the bottom of the page. You will be contacted within 24 hours by our booking team who will confirm your booking and assist you in preparing for your excursion.
You may cancel this excursion free of charge up to 72 hours before the date of activity. No refunds will be given for cancellations within the 72 hour period, arriving late or no shows.