Marsala is a treasure trove of authentic Sicilian experiences, perfect for travelers eager to explore its scenic coastlines, historic wineries, and unique landscapes. What makes Marsala especially appealing is its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness — whether you’re cruising the lagoon, sampling legendary wine, or cycling through salt pans, every tour offers a taste of genuine Sicily. Our favorite picks include the Favignana dinghy excursion for its intimate access to hidden bays and crystal-clear waters, and the Salt Road Winery Tour that combines historical insight with a scenic boat ride along Italy’s iconic salt flats. These experiences capture the essence of Marsala’s natural and cultural allure.
If you’re planning your trip, this guide highlights the top tours in Marsala, from adventurous boat excursions and e-bike rides to immersive wine tastings and historic salt pans. Each offers something different — whether you want a quick taste of wine or a full day exploring the coast and countryside. Let’s dive into the details, so you can pick your ideal way to experience Marsala.
1. Favignana, Excursions by Dinghy from Marsala
At number 1 on our list is this lively, full-day boat trip among the Egadi Islands, including Favignana and Levanzo. This 9-hour adventure offers a fantastic mix of turquoise waters, secluded bays, and lively snorkeling. The tour departs from Lungomare Mediterraneo and whisks you away on a speedboat for 30 minutes of exhilarating travel.
What makes this trip stand out is its access to inaccessibly small beaches and calettes—perfect for swimming, snorkeling in crystal waters, and taking in scenic views. The itinerary includes stops at Bue Marino Beach, Cala Rossa, and GROTTA DEGLI INNAMORATI, each offering opportunities for photos, quiet swims, and diving. The trip also features island visits, a Sicilian lunch, and wine tasting, making it a full sensory experience. Guests consistently praise the tour’s perfectly planned day and the comfort of a speedboat with sun protection.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love water activities and want to explore multiple islands in one day — ideal if you’re after a lively, full-immersion experience. The only drawback? It’s a long day, so flexibility and stamina are needed.
Bottom Line: A fantastic way to see multiple islands with a mix of adventure, swimming, and local flavor — perfect for active water lovers.
2. Marsala: Historic Winery Tour with Wine Tasting
Number 2 on our list is a classic cultural experience—the Historic Winery Tour. Located just a short distance from the salt pans, this tour guides you through a family-managed winery housed in a 19th-century baglio. It’s a more relaxed, intimate way to learn about Sicilian wine traditions.
The tour lasts about an hour and includes tastings of white, red, fortified, Passito, and Marsala wines, all made from native grape varieties not found in large-scale distribution. The guide, often a family member, shares stories about the history of the winery and the production process, making it a personal and educational experience. Guests comment on the passion and knowledge of the guide and the quality of the wines tasted.
This experience is ideal for travelers interested in authentic wine stories and unique regional flavors. The tour’s focus on small-batch, traditional wines offers real value for those wanting more than just a tasting — a chance to connect with Sicily’s wine roots.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers seeking a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Sicily’s lesser-known wines.
3. Marsala tour: Salt Road Tour Winery visit/tasting Boat Trip
Number 3 combines history, scenery, and wine on an engaging 5-hour journey that covers the famous Salt Road and the Stagnone Lagoon. This tour offers a comprehensive experience—visiting a prominent winery, walking along the ancient salt flats, and taking a boat cruise.
You’ll start with a guided visit to a local winery, enjoying tastings of fine regional wines paired with local snacks. Then, you’ll cruise on a boat through the lagoon, with wildlife sighting opportunities and scenic stops at islands like Mothia. The tour includes insider insights into the salt-making process and the significance of the salt flats, which have shaped local life for centuries.
The standout feature is the blend of educational content, picturesque scenery, and regional delicacies, making it a well-rounded day. Guests appreciate the informative guides and the opportunity to learn about Italy’s Salt Road along with tasting excellent wines.
Best suited for travelers interested in history, scenery, and wine, this trip offers great value for a half-day experience, especially if you enjoy learning about local industries.
Bottom Line: A balanced mix of scenery, history, and wine — a perfect introduction to Marsala’s iconic salt and wine culture.
4. Evening tour of a historic winery and wine tasting with Sicilian cuisine
Number 4 is an intimate, 2.5-hour evening experience that combines fine wine with traditional Sicilian dishes. Set inside a beautifully lit historic Baglio, this tour feels like a special night out.
You’ll taste a selection of native grape wines and savor authentic Sicilian cuisine paired perfectly with each pour. The setting, with its warm lighting and live music, creates a memorable atmosphere. It’s a limited-size event, with up to 40 people, which ensures a cozy and engaging experience. This tour is especially good for those who want to enjoy good food, excellent wine, and a touch of local ambiance in one evening.
While it’s shorter than some other tours, the focus on quality and atmosphere makes it worth the price. Reviewers mention the excellent pairing of wine and food and the overall “magical” experience.
Ideal for romantic evenings or those looking for a relaxed, cultural dinner, this tour offers excellent value for a special night.
Bottom Line: A charming, intimate way to enjoy Sicilian wine and cuisine in a historic setting, perfect for couples or foodies.
5. From Trapani: ebike tour to Marsala
Number 5 takes you on a 4.5-hour e-bike adventure from Trapani, passing through some of Sicily’s most photogenic salt pans. This guided ride offers a healthy dose of nature and scenery, with plenty of stops to admire the landscape.
You’ll pedal past 16th-century windmills, flamingos in the Oriented Nature Reserve, and the historic salt pans once owned by the Florio family. The tour combines physical activity with cultural insights, making it ideal for active travelers who want a slower, more personal way to experience the landscape. The guide shares details about local ecology and salt production, making it educational as well as scenic.
Guests rave about the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see flamingos up close, with some describing it as a “unique experience.” It’s suitable for those comfortable on an e-bike and interested in a mix of nature and history.
Bottom Line: A scenic, active way to explore Sicily’s salt pans and wildlife, with a focus on eco and cultural education.
6. Private tour of Pellegrino cellars and wine tasting
Number 6 offers a personalized, 2.5-hour private experience at the Pellegrino wineries, ideal for travelers who prefer an in-depth, exclusive visit. You’ll enjoy a confidential tour with dedicated wine experts guiding you through the cellars, tasting a variety of specialty wines.
What sets this tour apart is its tailor-made approach, allowing for a more intimate exploration of wine-making secrets. Guests appreciate the authenticity and depth of the experience, as well as the chance to learn about the Pellegrino history and wine traditions.
Perfect for wine aficionados or travelers seeking a private, educational experience, it offers the chance to enjoy rare wines in a relaxed setting—without the crowds.
Bottom Line: The best choice for connoisseurs wanting a custom, behind-the-scenes look at Sicily’s legendary wine-making.
7. Private tour of the Stagnone of Marsala with lunch on board
Number 7 is a 3-hour private cruise on the Stagnone Lagoon, combining scenic boat travel with a genuine Sicilian lunch. It’s perfect for those who want to relax while soaking up nature and local flavors.
You’ll move through the lagoon, stopping for a swim, and then enjoy a lunch on the boat featuring regional dishes and local wines. This experience is flexible and intimate, with opportunities to customize your stopovers or just enjoy cruising the calm waters.
Guests love the personalized service and the chance to experience the lagoon from the water, with good reviews praising the delicious food and scenic views. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace and are interested in a combination of sightseeing and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: A private, relaxed way to experience Marsala’s lagoon with great food and personalized service.
8. Sicily: Stagnone Lagoon Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour
Number 8 offers a 2.5-hour stand-up paddleboarding adventure in the Stagnone Lagoon. This is for those who want to combine exercise with scenery, paddling through shallow waters with views of Mozia and Santa Maria islands.
The tour is run by an authorized SUP company, ensuring safety and quality. You’ll paddle at sunset, with breathtaking reflections on the water and the chance to observe local wildlife. It’s a fun, active way to see the lagoon and get some exercise while enjoying a peaceful setting.
Guests mention the fantastic sunset views and the ease of paddleboarding even for beginners. It’s suitable for active travelers who enjoy water sports and are comfortable standing on a board.
Bottom Line: An active, scenic paddleboarding experience perfect for nature lovers and sunset admirers.
9. Stagnone di Marsala Sailing Tour
Number 9 takes you on an 8-hour sailing adventure around the Stagnone Lagoon. This full-day tour combines sailing, sightseeing, and a seafood lunch, making it ideal for those who want to relax on the water.
You’ll sail past islands like Santa Maria, Scola, and Mothia, enjoying crystal-clear waters and panoramic views. The highlight is catching the sunset as the boat returns, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery. During the day, you’ll learn about the area’s history and marine life.
Guests rave about the delicious seafood and the peaceful sailing experience. The tour is best for travelers comfortable with a full day on the water and those seeking a luxurious, leisurely experience.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to unwind, see the islands, and enjoy authentic Sicilian seafood aboard a comfortable boat.
10. Winery tour in Marsala with wine tasting and local products
Finally, number 10 offers an all-day wine and culinary experience at Gandolfo Vini. Starting with a vineyard visit, you’ll sample a variety of wines and local products, followed by a dinner of regional dishes.
This tour immerses you in Sicilian culture, with a focus on traditional wine-making techniques and authentic flavors. The setting is in the countryside, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the richness of Marsala’s food and wine heritage. Visitors highlight the passion and warmth of the hosts, making it feel like visiting friends.
Ideal for wine lovers and foodies, this tour combines tasting with culture. Given its full-day length, it’s best for those with flexible schedules wanting a deep dive into local traditions.
Bottom Line: An authentic, comprehensive taste of Sicilian wine and cuisine in a welcoming countryside setting.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Marsala
When deciding which tour best suits your interests, consider your priorities: Are you after an active day exploring salt pans and wildlife? The e-bike tour might be perfect. Interested in diving into wine culture? The private Pellegrino cellar tour offers an exclusive experience. For water lovers, the Favignana dinghy trip provides a full day of snorkeling and island hopping.
Budget is another consideration—shorter, guided tastings or scenic boat rides can be more affordable, while private tours and full-day sailing trips offer more personalized or luxurious options. Timing your visit for good weather enhances outdoor activities like paddleboarding or sailing, so check local forecasts.
Booking early is advised for popular tours, especially during peak season (spring and early fall). Decide if you want an active adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a relaxing day on the water, and Marsala has a little of everything.
From scenic boat trips to immersive wine tastings, Marsala offers a vast array of ways to experience its charm. Whether you’re a water enthusiast, a history buff, or a wine connoisseur, you’ll find an unforgettable experience. For the best value, consider combining a couple of these tours—many can be scheduled conveniently in one trip. Whatever you choose, early booking ensures your spot in these popular adventures.