Private Tour to Taormina, Savoca and Messina starting from Messina

Discover Sicily with a Private 6-Hour Tour from Messina

This private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of some of Sicily’s most iconic sights, starting from Messina. At just $120.36 per person, it provides an efficient way to explore Savoca, famous from The Godfather film, the charming Taormina, and the scenic Isola Bella. With an approximate duration of 6 hours, the tour balances sightseeing with relaxed exploration, making it ideal for visitors seeking a comprehensive yet manageable day trip.

The tour is led by Pellegrino Services Tour & Transfer, with pickup offered from the Port of Messina. Reviews highlight friendly guides and stunning views, though some note that on rare occasions, the tour might not strictly be “private” if there are logistical issues. Travelers should book well in advance—average bookings are made 83 days ahead—to secure their spot.

Key Points

• Private tour from Messina covering Savoca, Taormina, and Isola Bella
• Approximate duration of 6 hours, including travel and sightseeing
• Cost of $120.36 per person, with pickup included
• Visit famous film locations and enjoy breathtaking scenery along the Ionian coast
• Free admission at all stops, with a small city tour of Messina included at the end
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and easy accessibility

Starting Point at Messina Port for a Seamless Pickup

The journey begins at the Port of Messina, specifically Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 27. The pickup service simplifies logistics, especially for cruise passengers or those arriving by ferry. The timing window stretches from early morning to late afternoon, accommodating various schedules. The activity concludes back at the original meeting point, making it convenient for travelers to plan their day.

Exploring Savoca: A Village Steeped in Cinema and History

The first stop in Savoca is a highlight of this tour. Known as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, Savoca gained fame from the film The Godfather, which shot many scenes here. Visitors can wander the narrow streets that Francisco Coppola’s film made famous and visit sites like the catacombs, Mother Church, and the historic Vitelli bar.

Spending about 2 hours allows for a relaxed visit, giving enough time to explore the church interior, stroll through the streets, and appreciate the medieval architecture. Admission at this stop is free, but the atmosphere and scenery make it a memorable experience, especially for fans of the movie or those interested in classic Italian villages.

Scenic Drive along the Ionian Coast to Taormina

Following Savoca, the tour proceeds along the Ionian coast, offering travelers stunning views of the sea and coastline. The drive itself is part of the experience, providing photo opportunities of crystal-clear waters and cliffs that define Sicily’s landscape. The passage through such scenery adds a sense of anticipation before reaching Taormina.

Discovering Taormina: The Historic Town and Its Greek-Roman Theatre

Taormina is a standout destination, with 2 hours allocated for sightseeing. Visitors can stroll through the historic centre, which is a blend of medieval alleys and luxury boutiques. The Greek-Roman Theatre stands out as a major attraction, offering insights into ancient architecture and spectacular views over the sea and Mount Etna.

In Taormina, there’s also time to visit shops featuring top designer labels and sample local Sicilian products. The town’s atmosphere combines history, shopping, and culinary delights, making it a versatile stop. Entrance to the theatre is free, but other attractions or shopping may involve additional costs.

Photo Opportunity at Isola Bella’s Panoramic View

A brief 15-minute stop at Isola Bella provides a perfect photo opportunity. Overlooking the sea, this small island and its surrounding marine reserve are renowned for their enchanting scenery. Visitors can take memorable photos of the rock formations and crystal waters, capturing the essence of Sicily’s natural beauty.

Quick Tour of Messina at the End of the Day

After the scenic stops, the tour concludes with a 20-minute city tour of Messina. This final segment offers a chance to see the straits of Messina, the cathedral, and other local landmarks. Although brief, it rounds out the day with some local flavor and helps travelers get oriented before departure.

Flexibility and Personal Attention in a Private Setting

This is a private tour, meaning your group has dedicated attention from the guide and driver. The guides are praised for being friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable. They tailor the experience based on your needs, with some reviews noting a lack of narration but a focus on seeing key sites.

Pickup is included, and the entire experience is designed for comfort and efficiency, making it ideal for those who want to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. The tour is accessible for most travelers, and service animals are allowed.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour is largely praised, a minor disruption occurred when an 8-seater van broke down in one instance. This led to a temporary grouping with another party, which some may find less private than expected. If strict privacy is essential, it’s advisable to confirm the current arrangement with the provider.

The tour duration of 6 hours means that some visitors might find the pace slightly quick, especially if they wish to linger longer at each stop. However, the balanced itinerary ensures a good overview of key highlights without overextending the day.

Final Thoughts on the Sicily Private Tour from Messina

This 6-hour private tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Sicily’s cultural and natural beauty, with famous film locations, scenic coastlines, and historic towns. Its affordable price point and flexible schedule make it attractive for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, or those short on time. The friendly guides and stunning views stand out as key benefits.

While some minor issues with privacy have been reported, overall, the experience provides a personalized and enjoyable way to discover Sicily’s highlights. This tour particularly suits history enthusiasts, film fans, and those eager to see iconic Sicilian scenery in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is generally suitable for families, especially given its relaxing pace and scenic stops.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, all stops mentioned, such as Savoca’s catacombs and Taormina’s Greek Theatre, are free to visit. Additional costs may apply for optional visits or shopping.

What if I arrive late or need to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. It’s best to confirm your pickup time to avoid missing the scheduled departure.

Is there any food included?
The tour does not specify included meals; however, taste local Sicilian products in Taormina, and there are plenty of options to purchase food and drinks during your free time.

How physical is the tour?
The tour involves walking at each stop, including narrow streets and historic sites, but is generally accessible for most visitors with average mobility.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are permitted, ensuring accessibility for travelers with disabilities.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive between Messina and Savoca, along the Ionian coast to Taormina, is integrated into the approximate 6-hour schedule, allowing for comfortable transitions.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private setting, famous film locations, and scenic coastal views are the main highlights, complemented by friendly guides and easy logistics.

Is this tour good for a cruise stop?
Absolutely. Its timed schedule and pickup at Messina port make it a practical choice for cruise passengers seeking a full day of sightseeing before returning to the ship.