Top Catania Day Trips - page 2

This was easily the best excursion of our trip, and the best value we've ever experienced. It began with being picked up just outside the port gate (a variety of pickup locations are available). The van was clean and comfortable. The tour starts with a 40-minute drive to Mt. Etna. Our knowledgeable and friendly guide and driver, Itala, narrated our trip in English. As temperatures are 10 degrees lower on the mountain than in the city (there was snow!), jackets and boots can be rented inexpensively. The guide will lead the group on a 30-minute hike upslope, then return. Alternatively, you can choose to purchase your own tickets to ride the Gondola up another 2000 meters or so of elevation. On a clear day, this is highly recommended. We went up on a cloudy day and still loved it - we would have lost out if we missed it. Next, we went down to the wine tasting at a lovely winery. The wines and paired antipasti were delicious, and the portions generous (our group did not finish the meat or cheese dishes, for example). We bought a bottle of delicious pistachio liqueur, but did not feel pressured to do so. Finally, we explored a lava cave from the 1696 eruption (if I recall correctly). Helmets and flashlights were provided. Overall. We had great fun. This excursion departs at 8:30 AM and returns at 5:00 PM, so, sadly, it will not work if you are on a cruise that arrives in the morning and departs in the early afternoon. If you are visiting other than through a "short-day" cruise, we urge you to book it fast - spots seem to fill up fast (we felt lucky to get two seats).