Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion in Sicily Departing From Malta

Travelers seeking to explore the captivating landscapes of Sicily will find the Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion an enthralling option. Departing from Malta, this comprehensive day trip promises a seamless journey through the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the majestic Mount Etna to the historic Taormina, the excursion offers a well-rounded experience, complete with a scenic ferry ride, a guided visit to an ancient Greek Amphitheater, and a delectable tasting of local Sicilian delicacies. With convenient coach transfers and an emphasis on inclusivity, this excursion caters to a diverse range of travelers, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. However, as with any journey, there’s more to uncover about the organizational aspects that shape the overall experience.

About Your Stay

• The excursion departs from Malta and includes a ferry ride to Sicily, followed by a coach transfer to explore Mount Etna and the historic Taormina Amphitheater.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 150 travelers and includes an English-speaking guide to assist the group throughout the day.
• Participants will have the option to explore the Mount Etna base or take a cable car ride (additional cost) and enjoy a local tasting of Sicilian produce.
• The return trip to the port takes approximately 2.5 hours, and travelers are responsible for their own food, beverage, and admission fees to the Taormina Amphitheater.
• A moderate level of physical fitness is required, with accommodations made for travelers with physical limitations, but participants are advised to assess their comfort with the activities.

Excursion Overview

The Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion departs from Malta, offering travelers a chance to explore the iconic volcano and the picturesque town of Taormina.

The total tour duration, including check-in time and ferry travel to and from Malta, is for a maximum of 150 travelers.

The excursion features a ferry ride to Sicily, coach transfers, and a visit to the historic Taormina Amphitheater.

Along the way, travelers can enjoy a local tasting of produce before heading to the base of Mount Etna, where they can choose to explore on their own or opt for a cable car ride to the summit at an additional cost.

Itinerary and Activities

Upon arriving in Sicily, travelers embark on a coach transfer that takes them to the charming town of Taormina.

There, they’ll visit the stunning Ancient Greek Amphitheater, a highlight of the tour, which requires an admission fee. Along the way to Mount Etna, the group enjoys a local tasting of fresh Sicilian produce.

At the iconic Mount Etna, the active volcano, travelers have the option to explore the base for 2 hours or take a cable car ride, at an additional cost of €50 per adult.

The return trip back to the port takes approximately 2.5 hours. Throughout the day, a local, English-speaking guide accompanies the group, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Departing from Malta, travelers meet at the Sicily Catamaran in Marsa, where local transport is provided to the Virtu Passenger Terminal.

Check-in is required 1 hour prior to departure, and a valid travel document is needed.

The meeting point is:

1. Sicily Catamaran, Marsa, Malta
2. Local transport to Virtu Passenger Terminal
3. Check-in 1 hour before departure
4. Valid travel document required

Once checked in, travelers can look forward to the ferry ride to Sicily, which marks the start of their Mount Etna and Taormina excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion are an English-speaking guide and a provided lunch. However, the price of the excursion doesn’t cover any other meals or drinks.

Travelers will need to pay for their own food and beverages throughout the day. Plus, the admission fee to the Taormina Amphitheater isn’t included, so visitors will need to purchase tickets separately.

The tour provides transportation, a local guide, and one meal, but the rest of the expenses, such as additional sightseeing, are the responsibility of the participants.

It’s important for travelers to budget accordingly for the full experience.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Travelers must have a moderate level of physical fitness to participate in the Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion.

The tour involves:

1. Walking for extended periods, including up and down stairs at the Taormina Amphitheater.
2. Navigating uneven and potentially slippery terrain during the exploration of Mount Etna.
3. Enduring cold and windy conditions at the base of Mount Etna, requiring warm clothing.
4. Maintaining the ability to board and disembark ferries and coaches without assistance.

Those with physical limitations or concerns are advised to carefully consider their ability to comfortably complete the activities before booking the excursion.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion is wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing travelers with mobility challenges to fully participate.

Service animals are also permitted on the tour.

While a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to the nature of the activities, the organizers have made every effort to accommodate guests with varying fitness levels.

Travelers are advised to dress warmly, as the weather conditions atop Mount Etna can be cold and windy.

Reviews and Ratings

The Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion has received 6 reviews, with an overall rating of 3.2 out of 5. While some travelers have praised the experience, others have expressed concerns.

The excursion’s strengths include:

1. The opportunity to explore the iconic Mount Etna and visit the historic town of Taormina.
2. Convenient transportation, including a ferry between Malta and Sicily and coach transfers.
3. The inclusion of a local tasting of Sicilian produce en route to Mount Etna.
4. The availability of a cable car option for those who prefer not to hike to the base of the volcano.

However, some reviewers have noted that the overall experience could be improved, suggesting the need for better organization and clearer communication from the tour operators.

Worth The Stay

The Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion from Malta offers a captivating adventure for travelers. Exploring the majestic Mount Etna and historic Taormina, the tour provides a scenic ferry ride, guided visits, and local Sicilian tastings. While there’s some organizational feedback, the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage make this an unforgettable experience. With convenient coach transfers and an inclusive approach, this excursion is well-suited for participants of various fitness levels.