Taormina and Castelmola Tour

Taormina and Castelmola shore excursion panoramic coastal views Sicily

overview

Taormina and Castelmola Shore Excursion Overview

Discover the glamorous town of Taormina, known as "the Pearl of the Ionian Sea." Make the most of your time ashore with this Taormina and Castelmola shore excursion, designed by Tours by Luca for cruise passengers arriving in Messina or Catania. You will enjoy a comfortable itinerary, scenic drives, and professional English-speaking drivers who ensure a smooth and relaxing day.

Castelmola – A Hilltop Gem

First, your experience begins in the picturesque hilltop village of Castelmola, perched high above the Ionian coastline. This charming medieval town offers extraordinary views of Mount Etna, Taormina, and the sparkling sea.

Additionally, you can wander through its stone streets, admire the panoramic terraces, and if you wish, sample the village's famous almond wine in a local café — an authentic taste of Sicilian tradition.

Taormina – The Pearl of the Ionian Sea

After enjoying the tranquility of Castelmola, your excursion continues down to the glamorous town of Taormina. Here, guests will have free time to walk on their own, exploring at their own pace.

In particular, you can stroll along the elegant Corso Umberto, visit the iconic Ancient Greek Theatre, enjoy boutique shopping, or simply relax at a café overlooking the sea. As a result, Taormina's vibrant atmosphere offers something for everyone.

Guaranteed Return to Ship

At the end of your visit, Tours by Luca will accompany you back to your cruise ship with plenty of time to spare, ensuring a safe and punctual return.

Therefore, this excursion is ideal for cruise passengers seeking breathtaking views, authentic villages, flexible free time, and the warm hospitality of Tours by Luca — all in one unforgettable day.

More Shore Excursions in Sicily

Also available for cruise passengers: the Mount Etna and Taormina shore excursion, the Godfather and Taormina tour, or the Etna wine and honey tour.

What's Included

English speaking driver
Mercedes Van
Taxes
Water on board and insurance

Not Included

Entrances fees
Meals

FAQ

Will I be back at the ship on time?

Absolutely! All our tours are designed with your ship’s schedule in mind. We carefully monitor docking and departure times to ensure you return at least one hour before your ship’s departure.

Where do we meet our driver?

Your private driver will meet you just at the pier, holding a sign with your name (or “Tours by Luca”). We’ll provide detailed meeting instructions in your confirmation email.

Are your tours private or shared?

All our excursions are completely private – just for you and your group. This means you can travel at your own pace and customize the itinerary as you wish.

What type of vehicle will we use?

We use, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicles sedan or minivan up to 7 people depending on your group size) for a comfortable and safe ride.

Can we customize our itinerary?

Of course! All our tours are flexible. Whether you’d like to visit a winery, add a photo stop, or spend more time in a village, we’ll tailor the day to your preferences.

Do you provide licensed tour guides at the sites?

Yes, for major archaeological sites such as Syracuse, Agrigento, and Palermo, we can arrange local licensed guides who will join you for a detailed visit. Otherwise it is not actually needed!

What’s included in the price?

Our rates include private transportation with English-speaking drivers, fuel, highway tolls, and parking fees. Entrance tickets, meals, and local guides are optional extras unless otherwise specified.

How do I book and pay?

You can book directly through our website or by email. We accept major credit cards, PayPal, or cash in euros on the day of the tour. A small deposit may be required to secure your reservation.

What if my cruise ship changes schedule or cancels the stop?

If your ship cancels or changes port times, we will adjust the tour accordingly or provide a full refund. We understand these situations happen and offer flexible solutions.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended, especially during summer. Don’t forget your camera – Sicily is incredibly photogenic!

Shore Excursion Booking

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