best experience guaranteed
Shore Excursions
8 hours
Explore Etna, Taormina, and the Alcantara Valley This private tour begins with a convenient pick-up from the port at your preferred time, as you set off on a scenic journey through the Alcantara Valley and the captivating landscapes of Mount Etna. Along the way, your expert driver will share fascinating details about the history and culture of this beautiful region, creating a rich introduction to your day of exploration. Alcantara Gorges: Nature’s Majestic Canyon Your first stop will be the Alcantara Gorges, a stunning natural wonder formed millions of years ago by a volcanic eruption. As lava flowed over the riverbed, it cooled into striking basaltic prism walls, which the erosion of the river later transformed into a dramatic canyon. Between these towering, black lava formations, you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and hidden beaches—creating an unforgettable atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for photos and to connect with nature. Castiglione di Sicilia: A Step Back in Time Next, you'll drive through charming villages like Francavilla on your way to Castiglione di Sicilia, one of the most picturesque and unspoiled Sicilian villages. Take time to explore the ancient Greek fortress perched on the highest peak of the town, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alcantara Valley below. The village itself is a perfect place to experience traditional Sicilian life and the beauty of its historic architecture. The Red Wine Route and Lava Landscapes Continue your journey along the Red Wine Route, passing through the unique landscape of lava from the 1981 eruption. As you drive through Linguaglossa, a quaint village known for its Baroque churches, you’ll also have the chance to sample some of the region’s famous almond and nut pastries—delicious local specialties that capture the essence of Sicily’s rich culinary heritage. Optional Brunch Stop: If you’d like to enjoy a break, we can stop at Gambino, a local winery renowned for its Etna wines. Here, you can indulge in a wine tasting experience featuring the unique flavors of Etna wine, paired with a selection of local Sicilian products. (This is an optional extra for those interested in a deeper taste of the region’s produce.) Explore the Historic Center of Taormina After experiencing the wonders of Etna and the Alcantara Valley, your journey will continue to Taormina, Sicily’s famous hilltop town known for its dramatic views and ancient Greek influences. You’ll have time to explore the historical center at your own pace, taking in the breathtaking vistas and wandering through charming streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and ancient ruins. Return to the Port At the end of your adventure, your driver will take you back to the port, ensuring you return in plenty of time to re-board your cruise ship, leaving you with lasting memories of Sicily’s most beautiful sights.
price from €500.00
Shore Excursions
8 hours
Full Day Excursion to Siracusa: A Journey Through History and Beauty Your adventure begins the moment your private tour driver greets you at the dock beside your cruise ship in Sicily. With flexible pick-up times to suit your convenience, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the heart of southern Sicily, passing the Piana of Catania, the rugged Iblei Mountains, and the breathtaking coastline of the Ionian Sea as you make your way to Siracusa. Explore the Rich History of Siracusa Upon arrival in Siracusa, one of the island’s most fascinating historical towns, you’ll be transported back in time to explore its ancient wonders. Siracusa is not only known for its remarkable history, culture, and art, but also as the birthplace of the legendary Archimedes of Syracuse. Your first stop will be the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to some of the most impressive ruins of the ancient world, including the Greek Theatre, the grand Roman Amphitheatre, and the awe-inspiring Latomia del Paradiso—where you’ll discover Dionysius’ Ear, a natural limestone formation known for its incredible acoustics. Also included is the Ara of Hieron, an ancient altar dedicated to the gods, adding even more depth to your understanding of Syracuse’s rich past. The Heart of Syracuse: Ortigia Island Next, your driver will take you to Ortigia Island, the heart and soul of Syracuse. Wander through its charming, narrow streets, discovering historical sites around every corner. Among the must-see spots is the beautiful Arethusa Fountain, which sits along the Ionian Sea and has a rich mythological connection to the ancient Greek gods. You’ll also have the chance to admire the stunning architecture and hidden gems of this ancient part of the city. Additional Attractions (Time Permitting) If time allows, there are even more treasures to explore in Syracuse. Visit the Syracuse Cathedral, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, or take a tour of Castello Maniace, a historic castle with breathtaking views over the sea. Return to Your Cruise Ship At the end of your enriching day in Siracusa, your driver will ensure you are safely transported back to your cruise ship in time for departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Sicily’s cultural heart.
price from €600.00
Shore Excursions
8 hours
Welcome to Sicily: Your Scenic Adventure Begins Your unforgettable private excursion starts when your personal tour driver greets you at the port where your cruise ship is docked. With a warm welcome, your journey through Sicily’s stunning landscapes begins. As you leave the port, enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque countryside and coastal roads, passing magnificent views of the Ionian Sea, Mount Etna, and rolling hills. Along the way, your driver will stop at the most photo-worthy spots, ensuring you capture the best of Sicily’s natural beauty. After this relaxing journey, you’ll arrive in two of the island’s most famous towns—Taormina and Castelmola. First Stop: Taormina’s Piazza Belvedere Your first stop in Taormina will be the famous Piazza Belvedere (Lookout Square). Here, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view stretching across Isolabella (Beautiful Island) and the sparkling Messina coastline. The view is mesmerizing, with lush greenery and the Mediterranean’s clear waters as far as the eye can see. This moment will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your excursion, offering the perfect opportunity for photos. Up to Castelmola: A Medieval Village Above the Sea Continuing your journey, you'll drive up to the charming medieval village of Castelmola, perched high above the coastline. As you ascend, your next stop will be at Madonna della Rocca, an extraordinary viewpoint offering an unparalleled view of the ancient Greek Theatre below, surrounded by mountains and the sea. Castelmola’s Rich History and Stunning Views While in Castelmola, you’ll explore the Church of Madonna della Rocca, perched on the edge of a cliff with incredible views over the valley. The next highlight will be the 13th-century Arab castle, situated at the highest point in Castelmola. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Ionian coastline and Mount Etna. As you wander through the village’s narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Every corner of Castelmola offers picturesque views, making it one of the most unforgettable stops of your day. The Jewel of Sicily: Explore Taormina After soaking in the beauty of Castelmola, you’ll descend into the vibrant town of Taormina, often called the “Jewel of Sicily.” Here, you’ll have free time to explore the town’s historic streets and iconic landmarks. The Ancient Greek Theatre One of the must-see sites in Taormina is the Greek Theatre, dating back to the 2nd century A.D. The theatre is one of the best-preserved ancient ruins in Sicily, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Etna in the distance. Palazzo Corvaja: A Medieval Masterpiece Next, you’ll visit the Palazzo Corvaja, a beautiful medieval building known for its intricate architecture. This historical structure offers a glimpse into Taormina’s past and stands as a testament to the town’s rich history. The Duomo di Taormina Another highlight is the Duomo di Taormina, the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, located in the heart of the town. This cathedral blends medieval and Baroque styles, and its majestic presence adds to the charm of the town. Stroll Through Taormina’s Lively Streets After visiting the town’s historical sites, take a leisurely stroll along San Nicolò Cathedral Square and the bustling Corso Umberto, the main pedestrian street of Taormina. Here, you can soak in the lively atmosphere, enjoy local cafes, shop for artisan goods and souvenirs, or simply relax and take in the sights. Return to the Port: Memorable End to a Beautiful Day After a day filled with exploration, your driver will take you back to the port at a time that’s most convenient for you. You’ll arrive back with plenty of time to relax and re-board your cruise ship, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the scenic views, historic landmarks, and charming villages of Taormina and Castelmola. Whether you’ve marveled at ancient ruins, wandered through medieval streets, or enjoyed sweeping views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, your Sicily excursion will leave you with lasting impressions of the island’s beauty and cultural richness.
price from €100.00
Shore Excursions
8 hours
Private Tour of Iconic Villages in Taormina & The Godfather Locations Your unforgettable private tour begins as your English-speaking tour driver greets you at the dock beside your cruise ship at the Sicilian port. From here, you will embark on a scenic drive, passing through picturesque landscapes on your way to some of Sicily’s most iconic spots, many of which were featured in The Godfather II. Piazza Belvedere: The Perfect Introduction to Taormina Your first stop will be Piazza Belvedere, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Isolabella (Beautiful Island) and the Messina coastline. This is the perfect place to start your day, with stunning views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding hills, offering excellent photo opportunities. Savoca: The Godfather Village Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive inland to Savoca, a picturesque village considered one of the most beautiful in the Taormina region. This village is particularly famous for being one of the key locations where Francis Ford Coppola shot scenes for The Godfather II. You’ll have free time to visit the Bar Vitelli, where you can enjoy a refreshing granita while soaking in the history of the location. The bar is filled with photographs and memorabilia from the filming, and its terrace overlooks the stunning surroundings, including local artisans’ tools on display. Taormina: A Town of Infinite Beauty The tour then continues to Taormina, often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily, known for its charm and picturesque setting. The town is elevated, offering magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea, Mount Etna, and the Messina coastline. As you explore this charming town, you’ll experience the relaxed vibe of “dolce far niente”—the art of doing nothing, which captures the essence of Taormina. Explore Taormina’s Historic Landmarks In Taormina, you will visit some of the town’s iconic landmarks: The 13th-century Cathedral, known for its stunning medieval architecture. The Greek Theatre, one of the most famous and well-preserved ancient theatres in Sicily, with incredible views of Mount Etna in the background. Palazzo Corvaja, a beautiful medieval building. Corso Umberto, the main pedestrian street where you can shop for local goods and souvenirs, as well as enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town. Return to Your Cruise Ship After a day filled with history, beauty, and cinematic charm, your driver will return you to the port at the time that is most convenient for you, allowing you to re-board your cruise ship and reflect on the unforgettable memories made during your Taormina and Godfather tour.
price from €500.00
Discover the Wonders of Sicily’s Coastline with our Sicily Shore Excursion.
A shore excursion in Sicily is the perfect way to explore the stunning coastline of this Italian island. From relaxing days on the beach to boat trips to explore hidden coves and ancient ruins, there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of your time in Sicily.
From the picturesque beaches of Taormina to the rugged cliffs of Cefalu, this Mediterranean island has something for everyone. With its rich history and culture, Sicily is an ideal destination to explore and discover its wonders. On your shore excursion, you will be able to take in the stunning views while learning about the local culture and traditions.
So come explore this beautiful part of Italy and discover why Sicily is one of Europe’s most beloved destinations!
Sicily is a stunningly beautiful region of Italy located in the south of the country. A land that is not only beaches and crystal clear sea but also history, art, culture and traditions.
Archaeological sites and medieval villages
Sicily is characterized by small medieval villages, perched on rocky spurs, rich in history and traditions, such as Castiglione di Sicilia.
But Sicily, places to visit has really for all tastes: Alcantara Gorges, the archaeological area of Neapolis, Ortigia Island.
Breathtaking views
Sicily is rich in landscapes that offer a wonderful mosaic of colors which range from rugged mountains and lush valleys to crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches.
Take in the breathtaking views as you explore this beautiful destination – you won’t be disappointed!
Let our professional drivers take you from any Sicilian port to discover incredibles villages, sculptures and landscapes: Taormina, Castelmola, Etna villages, volcanic wonders and many fun activities.
Discover real Sicily, its history, the local culture and customs with our expert guides.
+39 06.999.77.65
+39 339.159.25.40
info@discoveryguidedtours.com