Setting out on a journey through Sicily’s enchanting landscapes, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s history and culture. From the quaint charm of Savoca to the breathtaking vistas of Castelmola, each destination promises an unforgettable experience. With Taormina’s vibrant streets and the stunning Isola Bella, this private excursion caters to those seeking an immersive exploration of Sicily’s gems. Discover why this tour has become a sought-after experience for travelers seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of this remarkable region.
Key Points
- This 6-hour tour departs from Messina and visits the towns of Taormina, Savoca, Castelmola, and includes a 15-minute stop at Isola Bella.
- Savoca is known for its connection to the film The Godfather, while Castelmola offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
- Taormina’s historic center features designer stores and Sicilian products, and the tour includes admission to Savoca’s catacombs, mother church, and Vitelli bar.
- The tour provides comfortable air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and covers parking fees and fuel surcharges.
- Customers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour is available in Italian, English, and Spanish.
Tour Overview
The tour begins with a departure from Messina and covers a duration of 6 hours, showcasing the charming towns of Taormina, Savoca, Castelmola, and Messina.
A 6-hour tour from Messina showcasing the charming towns of Taormina, Savoca, Castelmola, and Messina.
Guests can explore Savoca, famous for its appearance in The Godfather, and visit the catacombs, mother church, and historic Vitelli bar.
Next, they’ll discover the ancient village of Castelmola, with its breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
The tour then moves to Taormina, where visitors can stroll the historic center, browse designer stores, and enjoy typical Sicilian products.
Finally, there’s a 15-minute stop at Isola Bella for views and photos before returning to Messina.
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Destinations
As the tour unfolds, visitors first explore Savoca, a quaint town renowned for its appearance in the iconic film The Godfather.
They visit the catacombs, the mother church, and the historic Vitelli bar, where Michael Corleone first met his future wife.
Next, the tour ventures to Castelmola, an ancient village perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
The final destination is Taormina, known for its historic center, Greek Roman theater, designer stores, and quintessential Sicilian products.
A 15-minute stop at Isola Bella provides an opportunity for stunning photos.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off from Messina, allowing visitors to embark on their journey. The first stop is the charming village of Savoca, famous for its appearance in The Godfather. Guests will explore the catacombs, mother church, and the historic Vitelli bar for about 2 hours. Next, they’ll head to the ancient village of Castelmola, which offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. In Taormina, the group will discover the historic center, browse designer stores, and shop for typical Sicilian products, spending approximately 2 hours there. Finally, they’ll make a brief 15-minute stop at Isola Bella for photos.
| Destination | Duration |
| — | — |
| Savoca | 2 hours |
| Castelmola | – |
| Taormina | 2 hours |
| Isola Bella | 15 minutes |
Inclusions
This tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport visitors comfortably between destinations.
Bottled water is provided to keep guests hydrated throughout the day. Parking fees and fuel surcharges are covered, so there are no unexpected costs.
The tour also includes:
Entrance to the catacombs, mother church, and Vitelli bar in Savoca, along with panoramic views from Castelmola and a stop at Isola Bella.
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Entrance to the catacombs, mother church, and Vitelli bar in Savoca
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Panoramic views from the ancient village of Castelmola
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A 15-minute stop at Isola Bella for photo opportunities
With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the history and natural beauty of the Taormina region.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Information
To reserve this tour, visitors can check the availability of starting times. Once a preferred date and time are selected, they can proceed to choose the number of participants. The booking process allows customers to secure their spot without any upfront payment, as they can reserve now and pay later. Below is a table outlining the key booking details:
| Detail | Information |
| — | — |
| Reservation | Reserve now, pay later |
| Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |
| Payment | Pay upon arrival |
| Group Size | Private group |
| Languages | Italian, English, Spanish |
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Savoca: The Godfather Connection
As a highlight of the tour, visitors explore the picturesque village of Savoca, famous for its connection to the iconic film The Godfather.
This quaint town serves as a backdrop for several memorable scenes from the classic movie. Guests can:
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Visit the historic Vitelli bar, where Michael Corleone first met his future wife Apollonia.
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Tour the town’s catacombs and marvel at the well-preserved remains.
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Step inside the Mother Church, a stunning 15th-century cathedral that appeared in the film.
This in-depth exploration of Savoca offers a unique glimpse into Sicily’s cinematic past and the enduring legacy of The Godfather.
Castelmola: Panoramic Vistas
After exploring the cinematic charms of Savoca, the tour now winds its way up to the captivating village of Castelmola.
Perched atop a mountain ridge, this ancient settlement offers breathtaking vistas over the Ionian Sea and the towering presence of Mount Etna. Visitors can wander the narrow, winding streets, admiring the historic architecture and stopping for a refreshment at the charming cafes.
The main draw, though, is the panoramic viewpoint, where one can gaze out over the stunning coastal landscape. Castelmola’s elevated position provides a unique perspective on the natural beauty of this corner of Sicily.
Taormina: Exploring the Historic Center
What captivating wonders await visitors in the historic center of Taormina? This charming Sicilian town offers a delightful blend of ancient history and modern allure.
Explore the renowned Greek-Roman Theater, a stunning architectural marvel dating back to the 3rd century BC. Indulge in the town’s vibrant shopping scene, featuring an array of designer boutiques, artisanal workshops, and local specialty shops.
Take a stroll along the Corso Umberto, the main street, where you’ll find:
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Picturesque piazzas and charming alleyways
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Authentic Sicilian cuisine at cozy cafes and restaurants
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Stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the towering Mount Etna.
The Sum Up
This captivating tour offers an immersive glimpse into Sicily’s rich history and natural beauty. From the Godfather-famous town of Savoca to the picturesque Castelmola and the vibrant streets of Taormina, the journey promises enchanting experiences. With comfortable transportation, bottled water, and entrance fees included, it’s an ideal way to discover the enchanting wonders of this remarkable region.
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