Savoca and Taormina Godfather tour from Messina port

Discover the enchanting towns of Savoca and Taormina with this private tour from Messina, priced at $541.74 per group for up to three people. With a duration of approximately 6 to 7 hours, this journey offers a combination of cinematic sights, historic landmarks, and stunning coastal views. The tour features visits to famous filming locations from ‘The Godfather’, a scenic calessino bee ride, and ample free time to explore Taormina’s boutiques and beaches. It’s designed for those who appreciate culture, history, and natural beauty, with the flexibility to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

A key advantage of this tour is its private nature, ensuring personalized attention and comfort. However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, as it involves some walking and outdoor exploration. The tour does not include admission to theaters or museums in Taormina, which are paid separately. Overall, it offers a well-rounded experience for lovers of cinema, history, and scenic landscapes.

Key Points

• Private tour from Messina for up to three people at $541.74
• Duration of 6 to 7 hours, blending sightseeing with free time
• Visit iconic ‘The Godfather’ filming locations in Savoca
• Experience Taormina’s Greek-Roman Theatre and views of Mount Etna
• Enjoy a calessino bee ride in Savoca and independent exploration in Taormina
• Tour features guided visits to Bar Vitelli, Santa Lucia Church, and scenic viewpoints

Starting Point and Duration of the Tour

The tour departs from the Port of Messina at 7:00 am. It is designed as a private activity where only your group participates, enhancing comfort and flexibility. The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it a manageable but comprehensive day-trip option. You’ll be driven by a clean Mercedes and guided through some of Sicily’s most beloved sights.

Visiting Savoca: The Godfather Filming Location and Its Highlights

The first stop is Savoca, a charming medieval village famous for being a filming location of ‘The Godfather’. You get about one hour to wander its streets, famous for their authenticity and history. Key spots include the Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone spent time, and the Church of Santa Lucia, where his wedding was filmed.

This stop offers a glimpse into Sicilian rural life combined with cinematic history. The calessino bee ride adds a fun, traditional touch, giving you a scenic tour through the village. The guides usually point out viewpoints and local spots worth noting, making the most of your time in this picturesque setting.

The Significance of Santa Lucia Church and Bar Vitelli

A visit to the Church of Santa Lucia is a highlight, as it’s the site of the famous wedding scene in ‘The Godfather’. The admission to the church is included in the tour. Similarly, the Bar Vitelli retains its original charm, serving as a reminder of the film’s authentic Sicilian backdrop.

While these stops are brief—around 30 minutes each—they’re packed with cinematic history and local flavor. The tour guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making these visits both informative and engaging.

Transition to Taormina: The Pearl of the Ionian

After exploring Savoca, the tour continues to Taormina, a renowned seaside town often called the “Pearl of the Ionian.” You have about two hours free to explore independently, starting from the entrance of Corso Umberto.

In this period, visitors can visit boutiques, enjoy local restaurants, or relax on nearby beaches. The town’s Greek-Roman Theatre remains a major attraction, offering spectacular views of Mount Etna and the coastline. The flexibility to explore at your own pace lets you soak in the atmosphere and capture memorable photos.

The Greek-Roman Theatre and Mount Etna Views

The Greek-Roman Theatre in Taormina is a standout site, with impressive ancient architecture and panoramic vistas. It’s a must-visit landmark that offers spectacular views of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.

While the admission to the theatre is not included in the tour, the free time allows visitors to visit independently and enjoy the scenery. Many find this a perfect opportunity to relax, browse boutiques, or sit at a cafe with a view.

Free Exploration in Taormina: Shops, Beaches, and Food

The free time in Taormina is ideal for discovering local boutiques, cafes, and beaches. The Corso Umberto is lined with shops and restaurants, perfect for strolling and sampling Sicilian cuisine. The Villa Comunale, a public park, offers additional scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

It’s advisable to plan your own visit to the Greek Theatre or sample some famous cannoli from local bakeries. Since admission to museums and theaters in Taormina is paid separately, some travelers choose to prioritize outdoor sightseeing.

Transportation, Guides, and Personalization

This tour is led by Escursioni Taormina, with a knowledgeable guide (not specified by name) who delivers stories and insights throughout the day. The Mercedes vehicle ensures comfortable transport between stops.

Being a private tour, it guarantees a customized experience, with the flexibility to spend more or less time at each location. The group size of up to three people enhances the personal touch and allows for a more relaxed pace.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour includes confirmation at booking and service animals are allowed. It is suitable for most travelers, with near public transportation at the meeting point. Keep in mind that admission fees for theaters and museums in Taormina are paid separately.

The tour is ideal for those interested in cinema history, scenic landscapes, and cultural exploration. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor walking and some uneven surfaces in historic villages and ancient sites.

The Sum Up: A Rich Taste of Sicily’s Cinematic and Cultural Heritage

This private tour from Messina offers a balanced mix of film history, historic sites, and scenic coastal views. It’s perfect for culture lovers, cinema enthusiasts, and those seeking scenic relaxation.

The tour’s highlights—such as the ‘The Godfather’ filming locations in Savoca and Taormina’s impressive Greek Theatre—are complemented by the personalized experience and flexible free time. The guided stops and scenic rides make it memorable, though travelers should note that additional admission fees apply for some attractions in Taormina.

This tour provides a well-rounded Sicilian experience for those who want a full day of sightseeing with a private touch. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking intimate, informative, and scenic excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Messina?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free exploration time.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Savoca, famous for ‘The Godfather’ scenes, the Church of Santa Lucia, Bar Vitelli, and Taormina with free time to explore Corso Umberto and the Greek Theatre.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-restricted visitors?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves outdoor walking, and some sites have uneven surfaces, which may require mobility considerations.

Are admission fees included?
Admission to theatre and museums in Taormina is paid separately by visitors at their discretion.

Can I customize this tour?
Being a private activity, it offers flexibility, allowing you to spend more or less time at each stop, depending on your interests.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider, Escursioni Taormina, with confirmation provided at booking. The tour includes mobile ticket access.