Castemola and Taormina
After exploring the majestic views and the Piazzetta del Duomo in the town of Castemola, which originated in the 8th century, you'll then proceed to Taormina. This resort town located on a cliff, and has been a popular place to visit for centuries. While there, visit the Teatro Greco, and see the incredible views of Mt. Etna.
Price: Adults expect to pay from $51 to $100 for a 4 hour tour.
Booking Advice: This tour is generally regarded as strenuous due to the amount and type of walking, which includes uneven surfaces and steep terrain. The cruise line excursion does not include meals or admission prices. Cruise line prices appear to be fairly competitive with online third party vendors.
Catania and Acicastello
The main event of this tour is actually visiting the town of Catania, which was originated in 729 BC, but almost completely destroyed by lava and earthquakes in the mid 17th century. It was rebuilt in the 18th century, and has many buildings composed of black lava. You'll see Baroque architecture when you view structures including the Palazzo del Municipio and the cathedral. En route back to Taormina, you'll be driving along the Ionian Coast, where you'll pass the Riviera of the Cyclops and Acicastello. A stop for photos is planned by an 11th century Norman castle built totally from black lava.
Price: Adults expect to pay from $51 to $100 for a 4 hour tour.
Booking Advice: This tour is rated as moderate with regard to physical exertion due to the walking involved. Cruise line prices appear to be competitive with online third party vendors.
Taormina and Teatro Greco
Established by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC, the town of Taormina was “remodeled” by the Romans. Today, it is a lovely resort area, with cobblestone streets and a Medieval feel. You'll see the Palazzo Corvaja (circa 1400's), and then view the Greco Roman theater called Teatro Greco. This theater was less renovated by the Romans essentially because nothing was needed to improve its acoustical features. From here, you'll also have great views of Mt. Etna. Also in Taormina, there'll be time to shop in the boutiques that line the Corso Umberto.
Price: Adults expect to pay from $51 to $100 for a 3.5 hour tour.
Booking Advice: Because of the walking and climbing involved, these tours are rated as physically strenuous. Cruise line prices do appear to be competitive with third party vendors online.
Wine Tasting- Mt. Etna
The soil of Mt. Etna is particularly suited for vineyards and hence wine production. All the better when your tour takes you to the Barone di Villagrande Farm, which has been owned by the Nicolosi Family since 1727. You first tour the cellars, and you are then offered a sample of the vintages (red and white wine).
Price: Adults expect to pay from $51 to $100 for a 3.5 hour tour.
Booking Advice: Because of the walking and climbing involved, these tours are rated as physically strenuous. Cruise line prices do appear to be competitive with third party vendors online.
Coastal Tours
Coastal tours are essentially coach tours of the Ionian coast, where you'll see the lovely terrain, views of Mt. Etna, the Riviera of the Cyclops, and pass through Acicastello. A stop for photos is scheduled by the 11th century Norman Castle built of lava, and some tours include a visit to the Gival Jewelry Factory. At the factory, you'll see and have opportunity to purchase unique jewelry composed of lava, shells, gold, and amber.
Price: Adults expect to pay from $51 to $100 for a 3.5 hour tour.
Booking Advice: This tour is rated as easy in terms of physical exercise. Cruise line prices appear to be competitive.