Taormina and Castelmola Full Day Tour: Experience the Rich History and Culture of Sicily
4.6
115 Ratings
Messina
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Sicily on a full-day tour of Taormina and Castelmola. Explore the ancient Greek Theater, stroll through the charming village of Castelmola, and discover the iconic landmarks of Taormina. Don't miss the chance to visit the filming location of the popular TV series White Lotus Sicily!
Duration: 7 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • La Madonnina del Porto - The stele was raised by the will of Archbishop Angelo Paino
  • Fontana di Nettuno - The fountain was created by Montorsoli in 1557
  • Chiesa di S. Francesco all’Immacolata - It is an impressive temple, the second in size for the churches of Messina
  • Castelmola - small village located at 500 meters above the sea level
  • Quattro Fontane di Taormina - The baroque fountain of the Minotaur, built-in 1635, standing in Piazza Duomo in Taormina
  • Duomo di Taormina - The cathedral was built around 1400 on the ruins of a medieval church, dedicated to Saint Nicola di Bari
  • Corso Umberto - the main street of Taormina
  • Ancient Theatre of Taormina - the greek-roman amphitheatre built in the 3rd century B.C.
  • Porta Catania di Taormina - Located in the Southern part of Taormina, it is part of the second defence walls system of the city.
What's Included
  • Professional guide
  • Entrance ticket to the Greek roman theater
  • Transport by air-conditioned bus
  • Port pickup and drop-off
  • Live commentary on board
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Additional Information

Embark on a journey to Taormina and Castelmola, where you will be amazed by the rich history of one of the Greek colonies in Sicily, especially its remarkable ancient Theater, which has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including the popular White Lotus Sicily series.

The excursion begins with a trip to the scenic village of Castelmola Sicily, perched just above Taormina, offering a thrilling view of the splendid Giardini Naxos bay and the imposing Mount Etna in the distance.

Next, immerse yourself in a walking tour of Taormina, exploring the Aragonese-inspired Porta Catania and Corso Umberto, which was originally a segment of the ancient Roman thoroughfare Via Valeria.

Discover Taormina’s landmarks during the walking tour, as well as its luxurious stores, dining locations, and accommodations, including the illustrious San Domenico Palace and the newly installed White Lotus Sicily venue. Also, visit the Taormina theater, Sicily’s second-largest, which was constructed by Greeks and Romans in the third century BC.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • May be operated by a multilingual guide
  • Personal food and drinks allowed.
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • Walking in Taormina is over paved and cobblestone surfaces, some of which are sloped. The Greek Theater requires climbing steep uneven stone stairs to enter and numerous steps inside.
Location
Terminal Crociere
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.6
(115 Ratings)
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Louis_m
May 30, 2024
Great tour of Sicily - Our guide, Gabriella was excellent, knew all the details for the sites, was extremely personable and did a great job. The sites were incredibly beautiful. Great tour.
Review provided by Viator
Ken_n
May 27, 2024
Quick and easy - Nice pace excellent guide with Mariarita. Shows you the highlights of each location and then gives you free time to explore both locations and to do some souvenir hunting. Very good tour highly recommend.
Review provided by Viator
Carlo_f
May 22, 2024
Great Sicilian experience - Maria was a very personable and friendly person. She also was a great guide and was full of very interesting information.
Review provided by Viator
Jack_l
May 19, 2024
Cruise Stop in Messian - We were met at the cruise port by Mariarita. On our way to our first stop of Castelmola, along with her excellent narrative, she treated us to an delicious walnut cookie (she claimed to have made them herself but the wrapper looked suspiciously store bought). Upon our arrival, she gave us a 15-minute walking tour and then gave us 45 minutes to explore the town. Following that, we proceeded to Taromina where we were treated to a 45-minute walking tour and then 1 1/4 hours of free time. Mariarita was an excellent, knowledgeable guide. Recommended.
Review provided by Viator
William_m
May 1, 2024
Sophia made the tour. - Had a wonderful guide named Sophia who was very informative and very nice. Tour was well organized and on time. We would recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Kim_b
Apr 29, 2024
Great experience - One of the best tours we've had the pleasure of taking- Wonderful guide, sunny and warm- good views of Mt Etna.
Review provided by Viator
Vrtus
Mar 21, 2024
Mont Etna and Taormina day tour by Messina Shore Tours. - Our group of 19 booked a day tour to Mont Etna & Taormina through Messina Shore Tours which it's a transfer company, they sent 2 Mercedes Benz vans. All in new condition. Angela is our guide; our drivers are Massimo & Carmelo. They came to our cruise port to pick us up on time. Angela explained the history and cultures of Sicily to us. Mont Etna was in its zero degree Celsius, and the small hails was falling on the face, cold but it's exciting to experience at the famous volcano which eruptions December 2023. We watched the video while at the small cafe at the mountain top. This is one of a lifetime experience the nature in Sicily. Mont Etna, what a stunning scenery. Nature is so beautiful. Then we head to Taormina, a town close to Mont Etna. This is a town which drawing lots of travelers recently. There're many small shops and restaurants that we browse through and relax. Messina Shore Tours did a wonderful job for our day tour in Sicily. I highly recommended this company and the tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andrew_k
Mar 7, 2024
Outstanding - What an amazing trip! Both towns were incredible and exemplified a blend of both the beauty of nature and architectural marvel. Mariarita is truly a gem with her knowledge, passion, and expertise, as well as her positive energy. Our driver was expert in maneuvering the narrow windy roads. A fantastic, memorable day.
Review provided by Viator
Nancyrc3796ty
Nov 21, 2023
Fantastic Shore Excursion - Excellent tour. These sites are a must when visiting Sicily! Tour guide was knowledgeable and extremely personable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
460regt
Nov 19, 2023
Great tour with a great guide!! - Beautiful places to visit!! Great tour - Katya was wonderful - funny, informative and friendly. Highly recommended. Would definitely use them again
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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