Messina

DURATION: 8 hours +/-

ACTIVITY LEVEL: LIGHT – some walking at a relaxed pace with potential stairs/incline

EXCURSION HIGHLIGHTS

• Silvestri Craters at Mount Etna, including lava formations

• Taormina

• Corso Umberto

• Piazza Duomo

• Piazza IX Aprile

• Free time, shopping

• Pickup and drop off at port

• Air-conditioned transportation on a private bus

• English speaking guide

EXCURSION DESCRIPTION

One of my favorite excursions! We’ll begin with the approximately 90-minute drive to the Silvestri Craters at Mount Etna, where you will be able to see the lava formations and the craters. We’ll have free time at the rim of the crater.

Next, we’ll drive to Taormina, an enchanting Sicilian hilltop town with medieval cobblestone streets that lead to charming spots where you can take in sweeping seascapes and peer out over calm blue waters, all with a dramatic outline of Mt. Etna in the background. In Taormina, we will have the opportunity to visit one of most famous sites, the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, a UNESCO World Heritage site (ticket not included). We will also spend time visiting Corso Umberto, which is the main street lined with medieval buildings with Renaissance style architecture.

We will visit the Piazza Duomo, which is a charming central square that features the Church of San Nicolo and has a panoramic terrace with breathtaking views. We will also visit the Piazza IX Aprile, which is home to the Church of San Giuseppe and the 12th century clock tower before heading back to the cruise ship.
 

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

• The order of the stops may vary, and this excursion will happen rain or shine, so please come prepared for the day.

• Local currency is the Euro.

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

• Bring your sunglasses, sunscreen, sunhat, and water bottle.

• Bring your camera/device fully charged and consider bringing a portable battery, as access to outlets for recharging cannot be guaranteed.
   

EXCLUSIONS

• 12 Euro Ancient Theater entrance fee as of 2024

• Food and beverages

• Gratuities