Piazza IX Aprile Tours and Activities

Marvel over the geological wonders of Mount Etna, then visit the elegant resort town of Taormina on this action-packed full-day tour from Catania. Soak up the dramatic scenery of Europe’s highest active volcano as you visit the hilltop resort of Rifugio Sapienza; ride the cable car to the 9,514-foot (2,900-meter) peak of Mount Etna (optional) and explore a natural lava cave. Then, cool off with a swim on Isola Bella island, before spending the afternoon enjoying Taormina’s medieval churches, ancient Greek theater, and lively shopping district.

Spend a day discovering Europe’s highest active volcano and lava caves on this Mt. Etna tour. As you travel from Taormina or Giardini Naxos, learn all about the infamous Sicilian volcano from a guide. Then, leave the vehicle to trek along the trails of Parco dell’Etna, and visit an intriguing lava cave back at ground level. On your return to Catania, you have time for one last stop at an organic farm where samples of wine and honey await.

Visit Sicily’s first Greek colony of Giardini Naxos as well as Isola Bella, Castelmola, and Taormina on a half-day trip from Catania. The 5-hour experience includes a seafront drive alongside Naxos Bay in the history-steeped seaside town of Giardini Naxos, followed by a dip in the sea at Isola Bella. Check out the Mother Church of Castelmola on a walk around its historical center, then visit Taormina to hear its history and shop in its artisanal boutiques.

Perfect for movie-buffs and die-hard “Godfather” fans, this walking tour takes you deep into the Sicilian settings of the Francis Ford Coppola classic. You’ll get a first-hand peek at backdrops for the film’s standout scenes. Discover hidden landmarks along the way, like a 15th-century synagogue and Roman-built village centers. Admire spectacular views along the Ionian coast with free time to explore at your own pace.

See why Taormina earned the nickname ‘the Pearl of the Ionian’ while exploring its picturesque coastline from the water. On this half-day boat tour, get the best perspective of dramatic sea caves, the Grotta Azurra and Capo Taormino as your captain navigates along the rocky shore and through spectacular bays. Splash into the crystal-clear waters for a swim, and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with views of the Isola Bella island nature reserve.

Visit two highlights of eastern Sicily without the hassle of arranging transportation and lunch with this all-inclusive tour of Taormina and Castelmola. Enjoy convenient port pickup in Messina or Giardini Naxos and a guided walk through Taormina’s old town to admire the Greek Theater and other highlights. Stop for a traditional Sicilian lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to the postcard-perfect hill town of Castelmola to take in the views.

Visit Taormina and Castelmola on this tour from Messina. During a quick stop in the village of Castelmola, admire a view of the surrounding Sicilian landscape, including Mt Etna. Then head to Taormina to see sights like Isola Bella and the Greek Theatre. Browse local shops or bars, if you wish, and take a walk along Corso Umberto.

Discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a 3-hour walking tour of highlights like Palazzo Corvaja, Santa Caterina church and Vicolo Stretto — the narrowest street in town. Gain skip-the-line entry to the ancient Greek theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mt Etna and Giardini Naxos. In the main square of Piazza IX Aprile, rest your feet and refresh with a tasting of unique Mt Etna DOC wines and savory local products at an enoteca.

A whole day to discover places and culture among the splendid and suggestive natural glimpses of the highest active volcano in Europe and the uniqueness of the magnificent town of Taormina, defined and known as the "pearl of the Mediterranean".

Experience the natural landscapes of Mt. Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe, with the benefit of a personal guide. Going with a guide ensures you spot wildlife often missed by visitors and visit secluded locations not found in guidebooks. In addition to round–trip hotel transport, the tour includes a wine tasting and option to visit an ancient Greek amphitheater.

During the first part of the excursion, you'll be surrounded by nature, visiting old craters and lava flow caves and enjoying breathtaking views. In the afternoon you'll visit Taormina, one of the most quaint villages in Sicily, be enchanted by its alleys, gardens, and endless sea views.