Shore Excursions Group
Taormina And Etna With The Gold Of The Gods
From Messina you will begin your exciting day and travel in comfort towards Taormina, approximately 1-hour away. Taormina’s genesis and early history began with the Greeks who founded and named the town in 358 B.C. The climate is a dream, its position, perfect panoramas, monuments and luxurious flora and fauna render Taormina a location admired by all who visit it. The city lies on a terrace, with a view of the ancient Amphitheater against a backdrop of citrus groves with Mount Etna engulfed in the glory of the Ionian Sea beyond.
Once in Taormina, you will have the opportunity to explore on your own some of the some of the treasures this medieval village keeps. Known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, view the ancient churches, palaces, unique squares with astonishing views, architecture, cafes and exclusive boutiques.
From here, continue to Mt. Etna where you will stop for a short visit at 1900m high. This is Europe’s highest volcano and one of the most active in the world. Towering above the city of Catania on the island of Sicily, it has been growing for about 500,000 years and is amid a series of eruptions that began in 2001. It has experienced a variety of eruption styles, including violent explosions and voluminous lava flows. More than 25% of Sicily’s population lives on Etna’s slopes, and it is the main source of income for the island, both from agriculture (due to its rich volcanic soil) and tourism.
Leave Etna behind and begin to make your way back to Messina and make your last stop of the day at a local farm to discover what is known as the “Gold of the Gods”, the local honey. The quaint, local village of Zafferana Etnea lies at the base of the volcano. At approximately 500m above sea level, the commune provides a cooler climate during the oppressive heat of summer. Nestled between mountain and sea, the green hills rise to the heights of Mt. Etna but is minutes to the Ionian Sea. Here you will indulge in a delicious tasting of local products to savor the true flavor of Sicily. Enjoy olive oil, bread, dried tomatoes, wine and honey that will give you a reason to never forget this destination.
| Day 1 |
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. The island’s rich past is evident in its archaeological treasures, with Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman influences shaping its architecture and traditions. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is a must-visit for history lovers, where you can wander among some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece. In contrast, the bustling capital of Palermo offers a mix of Byzantine mosaics, Baroque churches, and vibrant markets like the famous Mercato di Ballarò. Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by Sicily’s diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline to the towering Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. You can hike its slopes or take a cable car to witness stunning views and volcanic activity. For a more tranquil experience, the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer crystal-clear waters perfect for sailing, diving, or simply relaxing on the beach. The island’s natural beauty is matched only by its flavorful cuisine, with Sicilian dishes like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli showcasing its culinary excellence. Sicily’s towns and cities are equally enticing. The baroque city of Noto, with its honey-colored architecture, is an ideal stop for those who appreciate art and history. Meanwhile, the seaside town of Taormina offers a stunning blend of ancient ruins, such as the Greek Theatre, and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Taormina’s unique combination of culture and scenery has long made it a popular destination for writers, artists, and filmmakers. A fun fact about Sicily: it’s home to the Sicilian Cart, a traditional, brightly painted horse-drawn carriage that dates back to the 19th century. These carts are not only used for transportation but also as a form of folk art, with detailed scenes depicting historical events and legends. Today, you can still see them in local festivals, showcasing the island’s deep cultural pride. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $135 |
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Guests must be able to get in and out of transportation and walk on even and uneven surfaces. Guests must be of legal drinking age to consume alcohol. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
