Top Taormina Layover Tours

The volcanic landscapes around Mt. Etna draw travelers from far and wide, but reaching the highest peaks can be a challenge. This adventurous full-day tour from Taormina includes food-tastings in Zafferana Etnea and a visit to the Parco dell’Etna. Delve into a lava cave with a guide, marvel at Italy’s volcanic landscape from the Rifugio Sapienza, and delve deep into the Alcantara Gorges—home to lava formations shaped over millions of years.

Mount Etna may be famous for its volcanic landscapes, but the mountain's lower slopes are covered in lush vineyards where some of the island's best wines are produced. Explore Mount Etna's winemaking culture with this full-day tour packed with cellar visits and tastings. Kick off by sampling a variety of local labels in Castiglione di Sicilia, then continue on to visit two local wineries for tastings and lunch.

Make the most of your time docked in Messina with this small-group shore excursion that can fit more stops in one day than a large coach tour. Explore the town of Savoca, setting of The Godfather films, before moving on to Taormina. Take in the Greek Theater, browse the shops along Corso Umberto, and soak in views overlooking the coastline before ending with a stop at the UNESCO-listed Isolabella marine reserve.

The best way to connect with any local culture is through food, and nowhere is this more true than Sicily. With this cooking class, shop for ingredients at the market in Taormina like a local before learning how to prepare a variety of traditional Sicilian dishes with Chef Massimo in his restaurant kitchen. Enjoy the fruits of our labors over lunch afterwards, served with two local wines.

Sicilian cuisine is renowned as some of the best in Italy and this 5-hour cooking class is the perfect introduction. Shop for ingredients at Taormina Market, learn to make traditional Sicilian dishes like fresh pasta and Caponata, then sit down to enjoy a delicious homemade lunch, accompanied by Sicilian wine.

Sicily’s romantic atmosphere and unconventional history has seduced visitors for millennia, but they're easy to miss in the bustle of modern travel. This private walking tour immerses you in rustic hill towns and the history of the Sicilian Mafia—including visits to filming sites of The Godfather movie—and the anti-Mafia fight. Upgrade to end your tour with food and wine tastings or a traditional fish dinner at a local restaurant.

Appreciate the serene beauty of Taormina on a brief walking tour. Learn about the culture and archaeology of this historical beach town in eastern Sicily from your guide as you explore the Greek Theatre, Piazza Duomo, Palazzo Corvaja, and an ancient Roman theater. Take in the views of Taormina during a stroll along Corso Umberto, seeing the Old Town lit up next to the Mediterranean.

Take a tour of three southeastern Sicilian cities on this private tour with hotel or port pick up. See ancient Greek and Roman ruins at the Neopolis Archeological Park in Syracuse; stroll through the small streets of the island of Ortigia and shop for Sicilian products; and discover the UNESCO-listed baroque architecture of Noto, including its magnificent cathedral.

The Gole Alcantara is one of Sicily’s most popular attractions, and often has the crowds to match. On this private half-day tour, let a local guide help you sidestep the tourists and show you the park’s caverns and rock formations, gardens, and best swimming places. Later, explore the seaside town of Giardini Naxos on foot. Finish the tour with food and wine tasting at a local wine bar.

See the coast of Taormina and Isola Bella from the sea, a unique vantage point, on this private boat tour. Depart from the bay of Giardini Naxos to admire the views of Taormina and Mount Etna as you cruise along the rugged coastline of Capotaormina and the sea caves of Isola Bella. Stop to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters and relax on board with snacks and soft drinks.