Sicily shore excursions from port of Taormina or Messina

Discover the beauty and dynamism of Sicily with this private shore excursion, priced at $775.43 per group of up to 7 people. This 5 to 7-hour journey offers a personalized experience led by chauffeurs in Sicily, with luxury vehicles ensuring comfort and style throughout the day. Departing from Taormina or Messina, this tour provides an intimate exploration of Mount Etna’s Silvestri Craters and the picturesque town of Taormina. The pickup service and mobile tickets make it easy to organize, while the private nature of the tour promises a customized pace and attentive service.

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to enjoy Sicily’s top attractions without the hassle of large group tours. The guides are multi-lingual, and the vehicle is equipped with air conditioning for a comfortable ride. While admission to the stops is free, keep in mind that costs for lunch, museums, or additional activities are not included, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Private, luxury tour with a customized experience for up to 7 people
• Includes visits to Mount Etna’s Silvestri Craters and the historic town of Taormina
• Duration ranges from 5 to 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am
• Transport is provided via air-conditioned, private vehicles
• Tour starts at La Terrazza sul Mare in Taormina, with pickup and drop-off included
• Tour includes bottled water and local taxes, but additional costs for activities or meals are extra

Mount Etna’s Silvestri Craters: An Active Volcano Experience

The tour begins with a visit to Mount Etna’s Silvestri Craters, ascending via a winding road in a luxury vehicle to around 2,000 meters altitude. Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, reaches 3,300 meters, but the tour focuses on the craters formed by past eruptions. Guests enjoy about an hour walking around the Silvestri Craters, which are free to visit.

It’s recommended to bring a windbreaker and comfortable shoes, suitable for a trekking-style walk. The views of the volcano are striking, and the terrain offers a sense of the volcano’s power. Since admission is free, there is no extra fee for this part of the tour, making it a cost-effective way to experience Etna’s geological features.

Exploring Taormina’s Historic Center and Greek Theatre

After visiting Mount Etna, the tour continues with a guided exploration of Taormina, one of Sicily’s most charming towns. The driver drops visitors at the entrance to the old town, where a map is provided to help navigate. Guests have about two hours to explore independently, with time to relax along the main street, known as Corso Umberto, and to visit the ancient Greek Theatre.

The town’s medieval streets, boutique shops, and local cafes create a lively atmosphere. The Greek Theatre offers impressive views of the coastline and Mount Etna itself. The drive from Taormina to the port of Messina takes approximately 60 minutes, while from the town center to the port of Taormina is about 20 minutes.

Comfortable, Private Transportation: A Key Advantage

This tour’s luxury vehicle ensures a smooth, comfortable ride between stops. The private transport means flexibility with timing and stops, avoiding the crowds often experienced in larger group tours. The air conditioning keeps the environment pleasant during the warmer months, and the driver is available for local insights and assistance.

Because transportation is private and air-conditioned, the tour offers a relaxed pace, allowing guests to focus on enjoying sights rather than navigating or waiting for others. The pickup from the specified meeting point in La Terrazza sul Mare guarantees a prompt start at 8:30 am.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes local taxes, bottled water, port pickup and drop-off, and the private vehicle. These amenities contribute to a stress-free experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

However, lunch, museum entries, additional city tours, and activities like the funicular at Mount Etna or visits to cellars or museums, are not included. Travelers should budget for these extras if they wish to extend their experience or explore further.

The Experience of a Private Tour

A notable feature of this tour is the private nature, meaning only your group participates. This allows for a more personalized experience, with your driver serving as a guide of sorts, sharing insights about the sites. The multi-lingual guides may provide commentary, adding context to the sights.

The timing of 8:30 am start helps maximize daylight hours, and the flexible pace is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed visit without rushing through the sights.

A Highly Praised Driver: Giovvani

The driver, Giovvani, receives excellent feedback for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. He shares insights about the area, making the day more engaging. The personalized service and welcoming attitude are often highlighted as key strengths of this tour, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Since this is a private tour, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The dress code is smart casual, suitable for comfort and style. The tour is operated most likely by a multilingual guide, though the focus is on the driver’s expertise.

It’s important to arrive on time at the meeting point, as missed tours due to late arrivals are not refundable. Travelers should cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is best suited for those seeking a personalized experience with convenient transportation. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting to avoid large tours. The up-close visit to Mount Etna and the exploration of Taormina make it a perfect option for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see Sicily’s key sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on the pace and timing of stops.

Does the tour include Mount Etna’s cable car?
No, the cable car at Mount Etna is not included in this package.

What should I bring?
It’s best to bring a windbreaker, comfortable shoes for walking around the craters, and bottled water. The vehicle is climate-controlled, but layered clothing helps.

Can I visit museums or buy souvenirs?
Extras like museum visits or shopping are not included in the tour fee and are at your own expense.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating, providing a more intimate experience.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at La Terrazza sul Mare in Taormina.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

What if my cruise ship is late?
Refunds are not issued for missed tours due to late arrivals; timely coordination is essential.

This private Sicily shore excursion from Taormina or Messina offers an efficient, comfortable, and personalized way to enjoy Mount Etna’s volcanic landscape and the allure of Taormina’s historic streets. With high praise for the driver and well-organized stops, it makes for a memorable day in Sicily.