Discovering Taormina

Taormina is a synonym of sea and sun, ancient history, and atavistic cultures. It's one of the most evocative cities of Sicily, with its gaze turned to the Ionian Sea and its soul enraptured by Isola Bella. Climb the magnificent Mt Etna volcano and cruise along the Sicilian coast during this short four-day tour.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Taormina: a very popular and interesting old town situated high up in the Sicilian hills. It is an important city of culture and during the Summer there are many festivals and films, concerts, dance performances, meetings and fashion shows to be seen. 

Mount Etna: one of the natural wonders of the island, Mt Etna with over 300 craters, is the largest active volcano in Europe. It is so active, that it is always in a constant state of activity.

Day 1: ARRIVAL TAORMINA

Upon your arrival in Sicily reach the hotel on your own and check in (transfer from Catania airport or train station available as an optional extra). Enjoy free time to explore the city. Get lost in the beautiful scenario of the old town of Taormina or enjoy the most beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the Taormina Cathedral, one of the most famous monuments, Piazza IX Aprile, the ideal destination for admiring the untouched blue around the coast and Villa Comunale, perfect for relaxing with its large gardens. 

Overnight in Taormina.

Day 2: TAORMINA – ETNA – TAORMINA

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a morning tour to discover two of Sicily’s most spectacular natural wonders on a full-day guided tour from Taormina. This experience combines the power of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, with the unique beauty of the Alcantara Gorges, offering a perfect balance of nature, geology, and scenic landscapes.

The tour begins with a drive along the Etna slopes, reaching around 1,500 meters above sea level. Here, you will explore ancient lava flows and learn about the volcano’s most significant eruptions, including the dramatic 2002 event that reshaped the area around Piano Provenzana. Equipped with a helmet and torch, you will also enter a lava cave, formed by flowing magma and now a fascinating natural tunnel. Along the route, enjoy views of traditional villages such as Castiglione di Sicilia, surrounded by vineyards and known for its Etna DOC wines. There will be free time for a lunch break at a mountain chalet (not included).

In the afternoon, the tour continues to the Alcantara Gorges, a striking canyon carved by lava and water over thousands of years. Here you can walk along the paths, admire the basalt rock formations, and experience the refreshing atmosphere of this unique natural park.

Overnight in Taormina.

Day 3: TAORMINA: BOAT TOUR

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a scenic boat excursion along the stunning Sicilian coastline between Taormina and Giardini Naxos on this relaxed 2-hour experience. Departing from Giardini Naxos port, the cruise will take you past dramatic sea caves, hidden bays and picturesque beaches that define this coastal landscape. Along the way, you’ll see natural highlights such as the Blue Grotto, the Lovers’ Grotto overlooking the Gulf of Giardini Naxos, and the striking formations of the Grotta del Cavallo.

As you glide toward Isola Bella Marine Park, enjoy the chance to stop for a refreshing swim in the clear Ionian waters. Onboard, sip a refreshing Sicilian almond wine and savor traditional almond pastries while soaking up the Mediterranean views. Before returning to port, you’ll cruise past the beaches of Mazzarò, the Bay of the Sirens, and the long sandy stretch at Letojanni.

Overnight in Taormina.

Day 4: DEPARTURE TAORMINA

Enjoy your last breakfast in Taormina and if time permits take the last walk to say “arrivederci” to the city or do some shopping. Transfer to the airport or train station is available as an optional extra.

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Italy. We recommend bringing warm clothing and suitable shoes for trekking. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.