Duration : 8 Hours
Starting From:You’ll see
an amazing variety of scenery and culture on this private shore excursion from Messina
Port to Taormina, the Riviera dei Ciclopi, and Castelmola.
This day combines the elegance and atmosphere of Taormina, the legendary beauty
of the Cyclops Coast, and the panoramic viewpoints of Castelmola.
Cruise
guests: we plan your timing around docking and all-aboard times for a smooth
day ashore and a timely return (see cruise arrival instructions) with our on-time return guarantee.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Port
Pickup & On-Time Return
Pickup and
drop-off at Messina Port. Please share your ship name, docking time, and
all-aboard time (if available) for smooth planning. We guarantee a timely
return with our on-time return guarantee.
Suggested
Itinerary (8 Hours – Flexible & Customizable)
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:
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 Taormina worth visiting on a cruise stop in Messina?
Yes—Taormina is one of Sicily’s most scenic and well-known towns, with great viewpoints, an easy walking stroll, and the option to visit the Greek Theatre.
What is the Riviera dei Ciclopi and what will we see there?
It’s a beautiful volcanic coastline near Aci Castello and Aci Trezza. You’ll enjoy sea views and viewpoints of the Faraglioni sea stacks, tied to local Cyclops legends.
How much walking is there in Taormina and Castelmola?
Expect moderate walking with some hills, stairs, and uneven streets—especially in Castelmola. We can always adjust pacing and stops based on your comfort level.
Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private shore excursion operated exclusively for your party.
Is the driver also a guide?
Our English-speaking drivers are not licensed guides. They provide commentary from inside the vehicle but cannot guide you on foot. Licensed guides can be arranged on request.
Does the driver go with us inside the monuments?
No. Only licensed guides can accompany you inside sites. Your driver will stay with the vehicle.
Does this tour include lunch and admission fees?
No. Lunch and tickets are not included.
Can we visit the Greek Theatre in Taormina?
Yes, it can be included if you’d like. Tickets are not included and time will be planned based on your ship schedule.
Will we see the Faraglioni sea stacks?
Yes, you’ll have viewpoints near Aci Trezza where the Faraglioni sea stacks can be seen.
Is Castelmola worth it?
Yes, it’s a beautiful hilltop village known for panoramic views over the coast, Taormina, and Mount Etna.
Is the itinerary flexible?
Yes. The itinerary is flexible within reason, and we can adjust timing based on your interests and ship schedule.
Do you guarantee the return to the ship on time?
Yes. In almost 30 years of business, we have never missed a ship, and we plan itineraries to ensure an on-time return.
Is gratuity included in the price?
No. Tips are never included.
Is this tour suitable for seniors?
Yes, but please note there can be hills and stairs in Taormina and Castelmola. Let us know any mobility needs in advance.
There will
be a full charge for bookings canceled with less than 72-hour notice for any
service required. If the ship does not make it to the pier due to bad weather,
no charge will be made. A full charge will be made for no-shows. Only
pre-purchased skip-the-line tickets (if requested) are not refundable and will
be charged.
Transfer Services activated.