Messina: Mt. Etna and Taormina Private Tour With Driver

Explore the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Sicily on a private tour that takes you from the towering peak of Mount Etna to the historic charm of Taormina. This all-inclusive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the natural wonders and architectural marvels that have enchanted visitors for centuries. With a private driver to handle the logistics, you’ll have the freedom to fully appreciate the breathtaking vistas and iconic sites that make this region of Italy so uniquely remarkable. Prepare to embark on a journey that promises to leave a lasting impression on all your senses.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Messina.

Key Points

• This private tour from Messina covers the highlights of Mount Etna and Taormina, including a cable car ride to the volcano’s summit and guided visits to cultural sites in Taormina.
• The 7-hour tour is priced at €620 per person and includes hotel/cruise ship transfers, entry tickets, and a provided lunch for a fully inclusive experience.
• The tour itinerary features scenic drives, cable car rides, guided visits to the Silvestri Craters and Teatro Antico di Taormina, and exploration of Taormina’s historic architecture.
• Guests should be aware of potential accessibility challenges, as the itinerary may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and is operated by English-speaking guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private tour in Messina offers visitors an opportunity to explore both Mount Etna and the picturesque town of Taormina, with a duration of 7 hours and a per-person price of €620.00.

Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel or cruise ship transfers, a private driver, and an entry ticket to the renowned Teatro Antico di Taormina.

Lunch is also provided, making this an all-inclusive experience.

With the ability to skip the line and enjoy guided tours, this tour is designed to maximize the time and convenience for visitors to Messina.

Itinerary and Experience

After pickup from the Messina cruise ship port or accommodation, the tour commences with a scenic drive to the cable car station, which takes approximately 1 hour.

From there, guests embark on a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Etna, where they’ll enjoy guided tours of the Silvestri Craters for 30 minutes and the Rifugio Sapienza area for an additional 30 minutes, allowing them to enjoy the volcanic landscape.

The tour then travels to the historic town of Taormina, where visitors can explore the Ancient Greek Theater, soak in the views from the Belvedere Taormina, and discover the architectural gems of the Duomo di Taormina, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja.

1. Witness the captivating natural wonders of Mount Etna’s volcanic features.

2. Uncover the rich cultural heritage of Taormina, a town steeped in history.

3. Enjoy the convenience of a private tour with a professional driver and guide.

Highlights and Attractions

Amongst the myriad highlights of this tour are the chance to ride a cable car up Mount Etna, offering guests stunning vistas of the volcano’s captivating volcanic landscape.

Explorers will have the opportunity to wander the Silvestri Craters and marvel at the raw power of this active volcano.

In Taormina, visitors can step back in time at the ancient Greek theater, still in use today.

They’ll also admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of San Nicola and Palazzo Corvaja, as well as soak up the lively atmosphere of Piazza IX Aprile.

This comprehensive tour provides an unparalleled glimpse into the natural wonders and historic treasures of this enchanting region.

Included Amenities

This tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Travelers receive hotel or cruise ship transfers, with a private driver to whisk them from location to location.

Admission to the Teatro Antico di Taormina, a historic Greek theater, is also covered. Guests can look forward to an included lunch as they explore the highlights of Mount Etna and Taormina.

The tour’s inclusions go beyond just transportation and admission fees.

Travelers can also expect:

1. Skip-the-line express security checks, allowing them to maximize their time exploring the sights.

2. A live tour guide available in English to provide insightful commentary and historical context.

3. Flexibility, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Pickup and Drop-off

The tour begins with convenient pickup from either your Messina cruise ship port or your accommodation, ensuring a seamless start to your adventurous day. The driver will meet you at your specified location and escort you on the scenic 1-hour drive to the cable car station at the base of Mount Etna. After your explorations on the volcano, the driver will then transport you to the historic town of Taormina, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover its ancient Greek theater, cathedral, and charming piazzas. Finally, at the end of your day, the driver will return you to your original pickup point in Messina.

Pickup Location	Estimated Time
Messina Cruise Ship Port	1 hour
Messina Accommodation	1 hour
Cable Car Station	1 hour
Taormina	1 hour
Return to Pickup	1 hour

Accessibility Considerations

Despite the spectacular scenery and historic sights on this tour, it’s important to note that the itinerary may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or who use wheelchairs. The cable car ride to Mount Etna and the walking tours throughout Taormina require a moderate level of physical ability.

Here are a few considerations for guests with accessibility needs:

1. The cable car and walking paths on Mount Etna may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

2. The ancient Greek Theater in Taormina has uneven stairs and cobblestone paths that could be difficult to navigate.

3. Some of the historic sites visited, like the Cathedral and Palazzo Corvaja, may have limited accessibility options.

Guests with concerns should discuss their needs with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure the experience matches their abilities.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this Messina tour is straightforward, with the option to reserve a spot without any upfront payment.

Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in their travel plans.

The tour costs €620 per person and lasts 7 hours, covering the highlights of Mount Etna and Taormina.

Pickup is available from the cruise ship port or accommodation in Messina. Travelers should specify their ship name and arrival time to ensure smooth pickup arrangements.

While the itinerary is subject to change, the tour includes guided visits to the Silvestri Craters, Rifugio Sapienza, and key sights in Taormina.

With a private driver and included lunch, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to explore these iconic Sicilian destinations.

Important Notes

While this private tour offers a comprehensive experience of Mount Etna and Taormina, it may not be suitable for all travelers.

Specifically, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the itinerary includes cable car rides and walking tours that could prove challenging. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special needs or accessibility requirements when booking to ensure the experience aligns with their abilities.

Other important notes include:

1. The tour itinerary is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

2. Live tour guides are available in English to provide commentary and answer questions.

3. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so the group size is limited to the number of people in the party booked for the tour. The tour does not specify a maximum group size, as it is tailored to each individual’s needs.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, guests can generally customize the tour itinerary to their preferences. The tour operator is often flexible and willing to adjust the schedule and activities to meet the traveler’s specific interests and needs within the tour’s duration and location.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Child Policies for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, and children are welcome. Infants under 2 can join for free, while children ages 2-12 receive a discounted rate. Families should specify the number and ages of children when booking.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour Activities?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour activities. Visitors can take photos of the scenic views, historical sites, and volcanic landscapes encountered throughout the excursion, unless otherwise restricted for safety or preservation reasons.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide meals, so bringing snacks and beverages is allowed. However, the tour operator recommends enjoying the included lunch for a more complete experience.

Recap

This private tour of Messina offers an unparalleled experience, seamlessly blending the majestic landscapes of Mount Etna with the historic charm of Taormina.

Guests can expect a comprehensive, all-inclusive journey that showcases Sicily’s natural and cultural treasures, complete with skip-the-line access, delectable cuisine, and personalized service from a private driver.

It’s an unforgettable way to take in the beauty and wonder of this captivating region.

You can check if your dates are available here: