Duration : 8 Hours
Starting From:This private tour from Catania combines the coastal beauty of the Riviera dei Ciclopi with the panoramic charm of Castelmola, one of Sicily’s most scenic hilltop villages above Taormina. It’s an easy, flexible day with comfortable logistics—ideal if you want a mix of seaside views, authentic towns, and unforgettable photo stops.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Port Pickup & On-Time Return
If you are visiting Catania as part of a cruise day,
please share:
We plan the itinerary to ensure a smooth day and an on-time
return (see cruise arrival instructions). You can rely on our on-time
return guarantee.
Suggested Itinerary (Flexible)
This is a private tour, so the itinerary is flexible and can
be adjusted with your driver on the day based on your interests and walking
preferences.
Pickup in Catania
Meet your driver at your hotel/accommodation in Catania (or agreed
meeting point).
Stop 1: Riviera dei Ciclopi (Aci Castello / Aci Trezza)
Enjoy the coastline and stop near Aci Trezza to see the Faraglioni
sea stacks. If you’d like, include a short stroll or café stop (not included).
Stop 2: Castelmola
Head up to Castelmola for panoramic viewpoints and time to explore the
village at a relaxed pace. If you’d like, you can include a short almond-wine
style café stop (not included).
Return to Catania
Relax on the drive back, with timing planned for a smooth return.
Why book with DriverInRome
What You’ll See
Cruising to other ports in Italy? Here are a few
popular options:
Civitavecchia shore excursions
Livorno (Florence) shore excursions
Naples
shore excursions
Cruising to multiple ports? Share your itinerary and
we’ll help you plan the smoothest, most time-efficient days ashore.
Optional customization
More shore
excursions from your port:
CA01 -Catania, Mount Etna & Taormina Shore Excursion
CA03 -Godfather Towns, Savoca & Forza D Agro
See all Catania shore excursions
Included
Not included
What to expect from your driver
Our drivers provide commentary from inside the vehicle about the major highlights. They are not licensed guides on foot and cannot accompany you inside sites. Licensed guides can be arranged on request.
Is this a private tour or a group tour?
Yes. This is a private tour operated exclusively for your party, with your own driver and private, air-conditioned vehicle.
Where does the tour start (pickup location)?
We offer pickup from Catania hotels/accommodations and from the Port of Catania. We’ll confirm the exact meeting details and pickup time after booking.
How long is the tour from Catania to Riviera dei Ciclopi and Castelmola?
Timing is flexible and depends on how long you want at each stop. After you share your pickup point and preferences, we’ll suggest the best duration for a smooth, enjoyable day.
What will we see at the Riviera dei Ciclopi?
You’ll see a unique lava-stone coastline near Catania, famous for its sea stacks and dramatic views around Aci Trezza. It’s a great stop for photos and a relaxed waterfront walk.
Is Castelmola worth visiting?
Yes—Castelmola is a beautiful hilltop village with panoramic views, charming streets, and a quieter atmosphere than many nearby spots. It’s ideal if you want a scenic, authentic village stop during your private tour from Catania.
How far is Castelmola from Catania?
Driving time varies with traffic, but it’s generally around 1 hour (more or less). Your driver will manage timing and routing to keep the day comfortable.
Can we also stop in Taormina?
Often yes, time permitting. If Taormina is important to you, tell us in advance and we’ll recommend the best way to include it without rushing the rest of the day.
What is the Riviera dei Ciclopi famous for?
It’s known for its volcanic coastline and the Faraglioni sea stacks near Aci Trezza, linked to local legends and some of the most photogenic coastal views near Catania.
Will we see Mount Etna on this tour?
You may see Mount Etna from viewpoints along the route or from Castelmola on clear days. If you want an Etna-focused experience, we can recommend a dedicated Mount Etna tour.
Is this tour suitable for kids and families?
Yes. Because it’s private, you can set your own pace, include breaks, and keep walking to a comfortable level. Child seats can be provided on request.
Is this tour good for seniors or guests with limited mobility?
It can be a great option because driving reduces long walks between areas. Let us know your mobility needs and we’ll suggest the best pacing and easiest viewpoints.
How much walking is involved?
Walking is generally light to moderate—short strolls in Castelmola and along the waterfront. If you prefer minimal walking, tell us and we’ll adjust stops accordingly.
Are entrance tickets required for this itinerary?
Typically no major tickets are required for the main scenic areas. If you want to add attractions that require tickets, we’ll advise the best approach.
What should we bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection in warmer months, and a light jacket in cooler seasons. A camera/phone for photos is recommended.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather affects visibility or comfort, we can adjust timing or swap viewpoints to keep the day enjoyable. We’ll always aim for the best experience based on conditions.
How much does the tour cost?
Pricing is starting from and depends on group size, duration, and any custom additions. Send your date and pickup details and we’ll provide a fast, accurate quote.
Can you customize the itinerary on the day?
Yes. Since this is a private tour, you can adjust timing and stops with your driver (within the overall duration).
Is lunch included?
No. We’re happy to suggest a good lunch stop based on your preferences and timing.
There will be a full charge made to your credit card for no-shows and
bookings canceled with less than 72 hours notice, including the cost of
any pre-purchased tickets. Pre-purchased tickets are not refundable
under any circumstances.
Please keep us apprised of any problems
or changes during your travels (flight delays and changes, missed
connections, port changes, etc.) and we will do our best to adapt. If
you are on a cruise ship and it does not come into port, your service
will be annulled and no penalty will apply (with the exception of
skip-the-line tickets; you will owe us for any entrance fees we have
pre-paid on your behalf, regardless of circumstances.)
Subscribe to our newsletter to get new promos!
Transfer Services activated.
