Taormina & Castelmola Tour From Messina or Catania Port Sicily

Our Taormina and Castelmola Tour from Messina and Catania cruise ports is a unique one-day shore excursion, showcasing two of Sicily’s most charming destinations in complete comfort. With our expert local drivers, you will discover a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and authentic Sicilian atmosphere. Taormina is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views over the sea. You will enjoy a scenic stop at Madonna della Rocca Church before continuing to Castelmola, a peaceful hilltop village with stunning views. Back in Taormina, you will have free time to explore highlights such as the Greek Theatre, the Cathedral, and Palazzo Corvaja, or simply enjoy the lively streets and shops. Time for lunch will also be allocated. At the end of the tour, you will be comfortably returned to your original pickup point.

1. 1

   Isola Bella

   10 min

   First of all we will stop at the viewpont just bove the Isola Bella, called Belvedere, offering breath-taking views. It is the ideal location to admire and take shots of the coastline and the fantastic Isola Bella.

2. 2

   Castelmola

   1 hour

   As our journey continues, we drive to the charming medieval village of Castelmola. This sleepy town is perched precariously above Taormina. A stroll around is a must, with its cool medieval alleyways and picturesque piazza commanding views of the whole countryside, Mount Etna and the Ionic coastline.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   We will have a stop at the famous Bar Turrisi. This pub, located on a high hilltop near Taormina, appears very nice from the outside, with its many balconies and crimson sun umbrellas reaching up towards the sky. However, as soon as you grip the side door handle, you realize that this tavern is a little bit unique among Sicilian establishments. You can pay for the almond wine and eat as well.

4. 4

   Chiesa Madonna della Rocca

   15 min

   Madonna Della Rocca is a 15th Century church that has been carved out of a mountain, located just below the Saracens Castle you will enjoy an extraordinary bird’s eye view of Taormina and the Greek Theatre.

5. 5

   Taormina

   3 hours

   On arrival in Taormina Centre you will have free time to wander the historic Corso Umberto. This is the main promenade through the heart of Taormina boasting elegant designer shops and cute cafés and restaurants

6. 6

   Ancient Theatre of Taormina

   30 min

   You will have free time for visiting the Greek theater of Taormina

7. 7

   Stop 7

   10 min

   Taormina's Palazzo Corvaja is a medieval palace that was built in the tenth century. The early Arab fortification, which was built on Roman foundations, is part of the palazzo's history. Its central structure is a tower in the Islamic style, with arched windows and entrances indicating the Islamic influence within the inner courtyard. There is an ornate balcony with a view of the courtyard and a staircase dating back to the 13th century that leads to the first floor. The Moorish Gothic palace is crenellated and spread over four main storeys surrounding a courtyard. The main floor features columns dividing pairs of lancet windows for fenestration. Reliefs depicting The Creation adorn the walls of the courtyard. The palazzo is now a center for exhibitions where you can take photos.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   10 min

   Ancient medieval Catholic church featuring ornate statues and a huge interior arched ceiling. You can take photos of the structure.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Time travel is added to the total time duration.
• We will only do exterior sightseeing for Ancient Theatre of Taormina and Palazzo Corvaja

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