TASTE OF SICILY: Taormina, Messina + sicilian street food tasting

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Exploring the “Taste of Sicily”: Taormina, Messina + Sicilian Street Food Tasting

Taking a cruise in the Mediterranean often means a day in port that can leave you feeling a little rushed or overwhelmed. When we looked into the “Taste of Sicily” tour offered by Messina Cruise Tour, it seemed like a nice balance of sightseeing, local flavors, and relaxed exploration. And, based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a solid choice for those wanting to sample Sicily without the hassle of planning each stop.

What we love about this experience: First, the hassle-free pickup from the cruise port takes away the stress of arranging transport. Second, the small group size (max 12 travelers) promises a more personalized, less rushed trip—perfect for those who want an authentic, intimate experience. Lastly, the combination of sightseeing and tasting gives you a taste of local culture and cuisine, making it both fun and delicious.

On the flip side, one potential consideration is that some might wish for even more food or longer tasting stops, as a few reviewers expected a slightly different food experience. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, engaging day with plenty of opportunities to shop, explore, and indulge, this tour might be just right.

This experience best suits travelers who appreciate guided local insights, want a taste of Sicilian street food, and prefer a relaxed pace with dedicated free time to explore on their own.

Key Points

Hassle-free pickup directly at the cruise port simplifies logistics.
Small group setting ensures a personal and relaxed experience.
Includes guided sightseeing in Messina and Taormina with included entrance tickets.
Tastings of iconic Sicilian street foods like arancini and cannoli provide authentic flavors.
Ample free time in Taormina for shopping, dining, or exploring at your own pace.
Professional guides and drivers known for friendliness and local knowledge.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Taormina

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Convenience and Transport

One of the standout features of this tour is the door-to-door pickup from either the Messina or Giardini Naxos cruise ports. This means no stress about navigating unfamiliar transportation or figuring out directions in a busy port area. The tour uses private or small-group transfers, making the journey smooth and comfortable, with reviews highlighting the driver’s attentiveness—our imaginary guide Sergio, for example, was appreciated for making a rainy day enjoyable and getting ahead of crowds.

Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour is divided into two main parts: a visit to Porta Catania di Taormina and a guided tour of Messina’s highlights, with plenty of tasting stops along the way.

Stop 1: Porta Catania di Taormina

You’ll get around two hours to explore this “Pearl of the Ionia Sea,” which is well appreciated for its stunning views. Taormina itself is a picture-perfect town, with narrow cobbled streets, panoramic vistas of the coastline, and historic sites. Reviewers like Margaret H. found Taormina far less crowded than the popular Amalfi Coast and appreciated the three hours of free time—plenty of opportunity to stroll, shop, or enjoy lunch independently.

Stop 2: Cathedral of Messina and Street Food Tastings

In Messina, the tour includes a panoramic city tour with two tasting stops—one for the beloved arancini (rice balls) and another for the famous cannoli siciliano. These are not just quick bites; reviews mention that the tastings are memorable, with guests noting the “delicious” cannoli and flavorful rice balls. Guest Joy C. highlights how Iggy, the guide, made the experience fun and insightful, with an emphasis on local history and the best spots for food.

The Food Experience

The tastings are a key highlight, providing a chance to sample Sicily’s iconic street foods. While some reviews mention that they expected more food or a longer tasting session, most agree that the quality and authenticity make up for it. The guides seem knowledgeable about where to find the best local treats, and the stops are well spaced so you don’t feel rushed.

Hungry for more Taormina flavors? We've covered these other food and drink spots

Free Time in Taormina

Probably the most appreciated part of this tour is the free time allocated in Taormina—around two hours, according to the itinerary, but reviewers often had a bit more. This allows you to explore at your own pace—whether that’s shopping for local crafts, taking photos of the dramatic scenery, or popping into a café for some Sicilian espresso.

Overall Value and Practicality

At $190.15 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances sightseeing, tasting, and free time. Given that it’s booked about 92 days in advance on average, it’s clearly popular among cruise travelers who want a well-organized, authentic taste of Sicily.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many travelers highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Simone, Fabio, or Sergio. Their knowledge made history come alive, and their ability to keep the group on schedule was repeatedly praised—crucial when you’re balancing sightseeing with a cruise’s tight schedule.

One reviewer, Kerrie C., mentioned feeling slightly rushed due to a mix-up with another tour, which hints at how important it is to communicate your expectations clearly. Still, most found the pace ideal, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Food was another big winner. Joanne D. loved the cannoli and rice balls, noting how Simone was punctual and attentive, making the tasting stops memorable rather than hurried. For many, the combination of stunning views and delicious treats made the day special.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The 4 to 6-hour timeframe is perfect for those wanting a full, yet not exhausting, day ashore. The tour offers pickup and drop-off, so you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics or losing time on your own.

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group size strikes a balance—small enough for personal attention but large enough for a lively, fun atmosphere. Travelers especially appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to ask questions freely.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers who want to make the most of their limited time in Sicily without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for those interested in local street food, authentic sightseeing, and guided insights. It also suits travelers who enjoy free time to explore on their own—whether to shop or relax with a coffee.

If you’re after a well-organized, friendly, and flavorful day that showcases Sicily’s charm without the fuss, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The “Taste of Sicily” tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, authentic food tastings, and free time, all delivered with professional guides and small-group intimacy. It’s a smart choice for cruise travelers who want to experience Sicily’s highlights without the stress of planning or large crowds. The inclusion of local flavors, beautiful scenery, and personalized attention makes it a memorable way to discover Sicily’s magic—one bite and one view at a time.

While some may wish for longer tastings or more food, the overall package delivers excellent value and authentic experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or simply after a relaxed day ashore, this tour offers a taste of Sicily that you’ll remember long after your cruise ends.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for the tour?
You’ll be collected directly at the cruise port, making it extremely convenient and saving you from navigating unfamiliar transportation.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and the free time you choose in Taormina.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes transportation, guided sightseeing in Messina, entrance tickets to the main sites, and tastings of arancini and cannoli.

Can I customize the free time?
While the itinerary offers around two hours in Taormina, you can decide how to spend this time—shopping, dining, or exploring.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Simone and Iggy for being enthusiastic, informative, and personable.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers say yes, especially since the pace is relaxed and the stops are engaging, but it’s best to check with the provider if traveling with very young children.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly some cash for extra snacks or souvenirs. The tour offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.

What if my cruise gets delayed or the weather is bad?
The tour operates with flexible timings, and most providers offer free cancellation if plans change or weather impacts the experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Sicily shore excursion matches your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re seeking authentic flavors, scenic views, or simply a worry-free day, it looks like this tour offers a tasty bite of Sicily with plenty of personal touches.