Top Messina Historical Tours

This tour is suitable for cruisers who have little time but who want to see the main attractions of Eastern Sicily. * Personal pick-up from next to your ship * Personal drop-off at the end of the tour – 100% on time * Touring in a mini-van for minimal walking and access to sites * Touring with an English speaking driver-guide * Guiding services in one language only * High quality and personal experience * Tour duration : 6 - 8 hours * Worry free shore excursion * Money back if your ship does not dock * Satisfaction Guaranteed!

Meet your private driver right at the port of Messina and begin a scenic journey south along the coast toward the enchanting hilltop town of Taormina. Upon arrival, spend the morning exploring on your own its charming cobblestone streets, elegant boutiques, and stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Don’t miss a visit to the ancient Greek Theatre, one of Sicily’s most iconic landmarks. Around lunchtime, enjoy a leisurely meal at a traditional trattoria with a terrace overlooking the sea, savoring local specialties like pasta alla norma and fresh seafood. After lunch, your driver will take you further uphill to the picturesque village of Castelmola, perched even higher above Taormina, where you can wander quiet lanes, sip a glass of almond wine, and take in breathtaking panoramic views. You'll have time to relax, explore at your own pace, and soak in the Sicilian charm before your return drive to Messina in the late afternoon.

Get ready to choose one of my tours, I am a driver who speaks English, Spanish French and Arabic. The seriousness, professionalism and that touch of Sicilianness that characterizes my activities and my tours will make your experience memorable and your memories unique.

Tour suitable for cruise passengers arriving at the ports of the Ionian coast, allows you to visit the most interesting places from a landscape and cultural point of view, you will be picked up at the place of departure indicated by you and brought back within the time you set, you can ask your driver the possibility of a longer stop in one of the places you visited for a possible lunch in a restaurant, our staff will be happy to advise you and satisfy your every need.

TOUR DESIGNED FOR CRUISERS WHO WANT TO VISIT IN ONE DAY 2 OF THE MOST CHARACTERISTIC PLACES OF THE SICILIAN IONIAN COAST, ARRIVING ON THE LARGEST ACTIVE VOLCANO IN EUROPE UNESCO HERITAGE SITE. YOU WILL ALSO SEE TAORMINA A HISTORIC CITY BUT AT THE SAME TIME RICH IN SHOPS WHERE YOU CAN SHOP OR VISIT THE FAMOUS GREEK ROMAN THEATRE. * Personal pick-up from next to your ship * Personal drop-off at the end of the tour – 100% on time * Touring in a mini-van for minimal walking and access to sites * Touring with an English speaking driver-guide * Guiding services in one language only * High quality and personal experience * Tour duration : 6 - 8 hours * Worry free shore excursion * Money back if your ship does not dock * Satisfaction Guaranteed!

The tour will be a unique experience as you will experience the experience of Taormina Castelmola and Savoca accompanied by our drivers / hostess who will give you information about the places you visit telling the traditions of habits and traditions of a land rich in history and legends, The particularity 'of this Tour you will decide the start and end times of the tour, the driver will be at your complete disposal for every need, the tour will be' done with mini van max 8 seats on specific request of a larger group we have 18-seater Mini Bus.

The day will conquer you with a private tour through Savoca, Taormina, Castelmola, and Isola Bella—a journey through breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes and timeless Sicilian charm. This isn’t your typical rushed, touristy group tour…it’s a private, fully customizable experience, led by true Sicilian passion and heartfelt stories. Travel aboard a brand-new Mercedes minivan, with an English-speaking Sicilian driver who knows every corner’s story. Stroll ancient alleys of Savoca and taste authentic Sicilian delights that leave crumbs (muddiche). As we say: Cu mancia fa muddichi, ma cu camina si godi u viaggiu! (“He who eats makes crumbs, but he who walks enjoys the journey.”) Admire panoramic views from Castelmola, soak up Taormina’s vibrant atmosphere, and relax by crystal-clear waters of Isola Bella. This tour is perfectly timed for cruise passengers, giving you freedom to customize your day—change the schedule, add stops, and organize your day at your own pace. With love from Sicily

The tour allows people who have little time available to visit the most suggestive places of the Ionian coast of Sicily by mixing history, landscapes and culture. You will see the splendid panoramas of Etna, you will admire the town of Savoca where the most suggestive scenes of the film The Godfather were filmed and you will go shopping and walk in the historic Taormina full of restaurants, street food and souvenir shops.

You will have the opportunity to visit the city of Messina, you will go to Taormina passing through the famous Isola Bella. You will be waiting for 3 hours of relaxation walking independently inside one of the most beautiful cities of Sicily you can decide to go to the beach or to have a street food tasting or have lunch in one of the most characteristic Sicilian restaurants. * Personal pick-up from next to your ship * Personal drop-off at the end of the tour – 100% on time * Touring in a mini-van for minimal walking and access to sites * Touring with an English speaking driver-guide * Guiding services in one language only * High quality and personal experience * Tour duration : 4 - 6 hours * Worry free shore excursion * Money back if your ship does not dock * Satisfaction Guaranteed!

Take the guesswork out of visiting Taormina while docked at Messina's cruise ship port with this hassle-free shore excursion. Enjoy free time in Taormina to visit its famed Greek theater and other sights in the old town at your own pace. Stop for photos at Isola Bella and Messina's most famous scenic overlook, plus take in the Messina cathedral and astronomical clock before returning to port.

This tour will allow you to discover the beauties of the city of Taormina and Messina and taste the flavors of Sicilian confectionery tradition through the tasting of the famous Sicilian cannolo. All accompanied by one of our drivers or hostess who will give you information on board the vehicle on what you visit, without invading your free time in Taormina where you can independently dedicate yourself to do what you like most shopping, photographs, visits to historical and cultural attractions.

Private tour by a comfortable car with a personal tour leader to the must-see Sicilian hill towns world-known thanks to F.F. Coppola, who filmed his legendary "The Godfather" here. Get the friendly and informative insight into the filming process and interesting trivia, learn the real Sicilian Mafia story, its structure, rise and development. Discover the history and culture of the movie locations and feel the romantically rustic atmosphere of old Sicily. Walk along the authentic streets of Savoca and Forza d’Agro remained unchanged since the movie was made, visit ancient churches, Bar Vitelli where Michael spoke to Apollonia’s father, and other locations. At the end of the tour you will have lunch in traditional restaurant with an authentic Pizza. You can choose your favourite type of pizza prepared with organic, local ingredients. Along with the pizza you will have a chance to try local wine or beer.

Embark on an extraordinary journey to Etna and Taormina from Messina, where a world of awe-inspiring natural beauty and enchanting cultural heritage awaits. This one-of-a-kind private tour ensures a truly personalized experience, tailored to your interests and desires. Your knowledgeable local guide, brimming with passion and expertise, will unveil the secrets of Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. Feel the whispers of the earth beneath your feet as you explore its dramatic landscapes and unearth its captivating geological tales. The picturesque town of Taormina will charm you with its ancient Greek Theatre, the stately Palazzo Corvaja, and the bustling Corso Umberto I. The personalized attention and extensive knowledge of your private guide will elevate your experience, transforming your adventure into an unforgettable tapestry of memories.

Sicily has a history that stretches over millennia, and is rich in ancient towns and archaeological ruins. See two of the most fascinating in one day with this tour of Tindari and Milazzo on the northern coast. Enjoy a guided tour of the Greek and Roman ruins in Tindari and take in the spectacular views over the Gulf of Patti. Then head to Milazzo to tour its imposing fortress and other historic highlights.

The tour will allow you to visit Savoca , Taormina and Messina without time limits you will decide the stops with your driver or hostess who will accompany you giving information on board the means of transport , plus at the end of the tour you can enjoy in a famous Pastry shop in Messina the real Sicilian cannoli made at the time while sipping a glass of almond wine typical of Sicily . * Personal pick-up from next to your ship * Personal drop-off at the end of the tour – 100% on time * Touring in a mini-van for minimal walking and access to sites * Touring with an English speaking driver-guide * Guiding services in one language only * High quality and personal experience * Tour duration : 4 - 8 hours * Worry free shore excursion * Money back if your ship does not dock * Satisfaction Guaranteed!

This tour will give you the chance to understand the past and present of this island. We will start with a walking tour of Messina, a city conquered by many and reconstructed after being devastated by several earthquakes in the past, it will show its intriguing history in every corner. Savoca, will let you into the world of Mafia, and how important it was in the history of this island. Past and present under one tour. In Top Private Tours we want you to have an amazing experience, that is why our tours can be customised to you liking! Hope to see you soon!

Experience the landscapes of the largest active Volcano in Europe recognized as Unesco heritage, taste the flavors of typical Sicilian products and be fascinated by the Greek Roman history that Taormina offers us.

Visit with us the largest active volcano in Europe recognized Unesco heritage, and taste typical Sicilian products in one of the most famous farms on the slopes of Etna. You will also have the opportunity to see the main attractions of the historic center of Messina and the pearl of the Ionian Coast Taormina in full autonomy for 2 hours. * Personal pick-up from next to your ship * Personal drop-off at the end of the tour – 100% on time * Touring in a mini-van for minimal walking and access to sites * Touring with an English speaking driver-guide * Guiding services in one language only * High quality and personal experience * Tour duration : 4 - 8 hours * Worry free shore excursion * Money back if your ship does not dock * Satisfaction Guaranteed!

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a captivating private tour that whisks you away from Messina and unveils the mesmerizing beauty of Taormina and Castelmola. With seamless transportation provided, your journey begins with a comfortable pick-up in Messina, setting the tone for a day filled with unforgettable experiences. Your first stop is the renowned town of Taormina, a treasure trove of history and natural splendor. Explore the enchanting streets of this ancient town, known for its remarkable Greek Theatre with stunning views of Mount Etna and the sea. Wander through its picturesque alleys, lined with boutiques, cafes, and historical landmarks that reveal the town’s rich past. Castelmola, perched high above Taormina, welcomes you with its quaint charm and historical allure. Stroll through its cobbled streets, where ancient ruins and medieval fortifications tell tales of bygone eras while breathtaking landscapes amaze you.

When in Sicily, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the treasures of this unique island. You’ll have the exclusive experience of climbing the ‘Etna’, the highest Volcano in Europe, along with the visit of the ancient town of Taormina, a cliffside Sicilian gem with a breathtaking view over the sea. Starting with our professional meet and greet service from Messina port, you'll be on your way to the highest point of the island in no time. The views you will take in while traveling to the 2,700 metre summit via cable car are simply breathtaking. With the added suspense of being on Europe's most active volcano, it's a once in a lifetime experience for thrill seekers. Upon returning to your Private driving guide, set off to one of the most magical towns in the whole of Italy. Taormina has been under control of many great reigns for centuries from the Greeks, to the Arabs, to the Ancient Romans, meaning the town has a huge historical heritage.

Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe. It is located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. The volcano is the highest point on the island and it is also one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Enjoy this private tour to Taormina and Castelmola from Messina. Taormina and Castelmola are two towns in Sicily, Italy that have a rich history and culture. It is one of the most visited places in Europe by travelers. The town has a lot to offer for tourists from different countries. The local cuisine is worth trying out, as well as the many museums and churches. The history of Taormina dates back to the Greek period, while Castelmola was built by the Arabs in 878 AD. You will enjoy a private guided tour with an experienced local guide who will take you to see some of Messina's best attractions and amazing sight of Etna on this day trip from Messina

Discover a land where ancient legends meet the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea. This is a private, bespoke escape from Messina to the monumental Sanctuary of Tindari and the mystical Marinello lagoons (the "Lake of Venus"). As your Travel Designer, I have curated a journey that balances the spiritual grandeur of the Black Madonna with the raw, natural beauty of Sicily’s protected reserves. Experience the island’s heritage with the intimacy and comfort. Licensed luxury transport (NCC) and all coordination are arranged on your behalf for total comfort. For travelers seeking a deeper dive into the Greco-Roman history and archaeology of Tindari, a licensed expert guide can be arranged as an exclusive add-on to your journey. Please contact your Travel Designer after booking to coordinate this premium service.

Departure from the Hotel We will start our Godfather tour with a pick up from your hotel, this is a private tour just for you. Arrival in Savoca After a short journey we will reach the picturesque village of Savoca, famous for being one of the main locations of the film "The Godfather". During the visit to Savoca we will explore the locations linked to the film, such as the Bar Vitelli and the Church of Santa Lucia. Transfer to the Schiavi Castle After Savoca we will head to Castello Schiavi in Fiumefreddo di Sicilia, another iconic location from the film. Visit to the Slave Castle At Castello Schiavi you can explore the rooms and gardens used in the film. You will discover the unique atmosphere of this historic residence and admire the panoramic view of the Sicilian coast. End of the tour, optional lunch and return to the hotel After the visit to the Schiavi Castle, we will head to a local restaurant (optional) where you can enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch. Return transfer to your hotel.