Taormina is a perfect place for exploring with a variety of tours that highlight its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, cruising along the coast, or hiking Mount Etna, the options here can keep any traveler busy. We particularly like the Private and Guided Godfather Tour for its cinematic charm and authentic Sicilian flavor, especially if you’re a fan of the movies or local history. The Boat Tours offer relaxing ways to enjoy the coast and spot dolphins, while the volcano excursions give a chance to experience Sicily’s fiery heart up close. For a taste of local food and wine, the Etna countryside tours are a must. Each experience offers unique ways to see Taormina and its surroundings—so read on to find your perfect match.
Quick Overview
Taormina is renowned for its ancient theater, breathtaking views, and rich culinary scene, making it ideal for a wide array of guided tours. The list below covers everything from historic walking tours and movie location excursions to boat trips with snorkeling and volcano adventures. You can explore Sicily’s most iconic sights, indulge in local wines, or relax on the water with options like Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour or Taormina: Dolphin Watching Sunset Tour. Each offers something different, depending on your interests and energy level.
1. Private and Guided Godfather Tour from Taormina with Lunch
Starting from Taormina, this private tour takes you to the movie’s filming locations in Savoca and Forza d’Agro. It’s a unique way to combine Sicily’s cinematic history with local stories about the Mafia’s influence. The tour includes round-trip transport from Taormina, Messina, or Catania, with an optional upgrade for food and wine tastings in Savoca, a charming hilltop village. You’ll walk along unchanged medieval streets, visit the church where Michael and Apollonia wed, and explore iconic spots like Bar Vitelli. The highlight is a traditional Sicilian lunch featuring cheeses, salami, and lemon sorbet, served with a view of the sea. This tour appeals strongly to film buffs and history lovers who want a personal, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of cinema and authentic Sicilian towns, this private tour combines scenery, history, and excellent food. It’s pricier but offers personalized attention and unique film locations.
2. Private tour of Etna and Winery Visit with Food and Wine Tasting from Taormina
This full-day adventure takes you to Europe’s highest active volcano, Mount Etna, with a private guide at your side. It’s ideal if you want to see volcanic landscapes without the hassle of driving. The tour includes stops at a honey shop in Zafferana Etnea, a visit to volcanic craters, and a winery with tastings of reds and whites produced on Etna’s slopes. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through mountain villages, with plenty of opportunities for photos and local food samples. The guide can customize the day, including optional cable car or jeep rides up Etna. The reviews praise Alessandro’s expertise and the delicious local wine and food.
Bottom Line: Great for wine lovers and those interested in geology, this tour combines stunning scenery with tastings and a comfortable, personalized experience.
3. Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour (Small Group or Private)
For lovers of Sicilian food and wine, this 6-hour tour offers a deep dive into Etna’s rural charms. Starting from Taormina, you’ll visit a family-run winery and an old farmhouse, sampling local wines, cheeses, salami, and olives. The small-group option provides an intimate experience, with a guide sharing stories about Sicily’s culinary traditions. The tour explores scenic villages and ends with a visit to a historic restaurant on the slopes of Etna. Guests rave about the quality of the food, the knowledge of the guide Giovani, and the beautiful surroundings.
Bottom Line: This is ideal if you want a relaxed day focused on tasting Sicily’s authentic flavors, with the flexibility of a private or small-group setting.
4. Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco
Set sail from Giardini Naxos on this 2-hour boat tour that promises stunning coastlines, snorkeling, and bubbly. Along the way, you’ll explore sea caves like Grotta dell’Amore and the Blue Grotto, all while enjoying fruit and Prosecco on board. Snorkel gear is provided, so you can peek into the underwater world, spotting fish and perhaps even octopus. The reviews highlight the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery. This tour is especially good for travelers who want a quick but scenic escape from land, with plenty of opportunities to relax and see the coastline from the water.
Bottom Line: A short, fun option for adventurers and water lovers, with a good mix of scenery, snorkeling, and bubbly.
5. Mt. Etna and Alcantara river full day tour from Taormina
This 9-hour tour is perfect for those who want to see both the volcano and the unique lava formations of the Alcantara Gorges. It includes a visit to the Silvestri Craters, a lava cave experience, and a trek at Mount Etna, plus a walk through the Alcantara Gorges’ stunning basalt formations. The tour is comprehensive and active, suited for travelers comfortable with some walking and adventure. Reviewers mention Salvo’s knowledge and the spectacular scenery, especially the gorges and volcanic craters.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a full day of volcanic scenery combined with geological marvels.
6. Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella
This 2-hour boat tour offers a relaxing way to see the coast from the water, with an aperitif served onboard. You’ll visit Isola Bella, Taormina’s iconic island, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The reviews mention the friendly guides, the beautiful scenery, and the chance to relax with a drink at sunset. This tour is perfect if you want a laid-back experience that combines sightseeing with leisure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic cruise with a touch of local flavor.
7. Giardini Naxos Taormina: Dolphin Watching Sunset Tour
This 2.5-hour sunset boat trip combines dolphin spotting with stunning views of Taormina’s coast. You’ll see the famous Cave of Love and Isola Bella, with chances to observe dolphins in the wild. Passengers rave about the friendly crew and the beautiful sunset scenery. It’s a favorite for those who love wildlife, nature, and a peaceful end-of-day cruise.
Bottom Line: Best suited for nature lovers and sunset seekers wanting a memorable, dolphin-filled evening.
8. Taormina: Sea Tour in the Nemosub with Dolphin Sightings
For a different perspective, this one-hour underwater sea tour in the Nemosub lets you see colorful fish, wrecks, and possibly dolphins from below the surface. It’s suitable for all ages and includes an open upper deck. The reviews appreciate the vibrant marine life, and the chance to explore the seabed without getting wet.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re curious about marine life but don’t want to snorkel or dive.
9. Taormina Food and Wine Walking Tour (Small Group or Private)
Explore Taormina’s culinary scene on this 2.5-hour evening tour, visiting three venues for sweet and savory treats. With wine and Italian liqueur included, this tour offers a taste of local flavors and stories behind Sicily’s food traditions. The personalized options make it suitable for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies wanting insider insights and a relaxed pace in the evening.
10. Isola Bella-Blue Grotto: Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Aperitif
This 2-hour boat adventure takes you around the coast, exploring caves and the Blue Grotto while snorkeling. You’ll finish with an aperitif at sunset. It’s a compact but lively way to discover Taormina’s marine scenery, with opportunities to spot dolphins and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers wanting a quick boat ride with snorkeling and a sunset toast.
11. Taormina: Isola Bella Tour with Swimming, Fruit and Prosecco
Offering a 2-hour scenic boat tour, this experience emphasizes swimming in crystal waters and enjoying fresh fruit with prosecco. It’s ideal for those who want leisure and stunning views in a short trip. Reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the chance to relax.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a laid-back, scenic afternoon with swimming and snacks.
12. Taormina: Ancient Theater Entry Ticket and Guided Tour
Visit one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily with skip-the-line entry to the Ancient Theater. The guided tour enriches your understanding of its importance and history. It’s a 50-minute visit that offers spectacular views over the coast and a chance to walk through history with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Essential for history lovers and those wanting to see Taormina’s iconic ruins without the crowds.
13. Taormina: Dolphin Tour and Sunset Aperitif Boat Tour
This 2-hour sunset boat cruise combines dolphin sightings with a relaxing ride along Naxos Bay. Enjoy Sicilian snacks and the beautiful sunset, making it a memorable way to end the day. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and the chance to see dolphins in the wild.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing evening with wildlife viewing and scenic views.
14. Taormina: Guided Walking Tour
This 3-hour walking tour provides an engaging overview of Taormina’s most historic and scenic spots, including the Greek Theatre and the Mediterranean Garden. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, bringing the town’s stories to life. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a well-rounded, educational walk with plenty of photo opportunities.
How to Choose Your Perfect Taormina Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and energy levels. Want to experience Sicily’s cinematic past? The Private Godfather Tour offers an immersive visit to iconic locations. Looking for relaxation on the water? The Boat Tours or Sunset Dolphin Tour provide scenic escapes and wildlife spotting. For active travelers, the Etna and Alcantara Gorges combine hiking and volcanic scenery.
Budget-wise, cable car or group tours tend to be more affordable, while private options provide personalized service and flexibility. Think about the best time—many tours operate seasonally or may require early booking in summer. Planning ahead guarantees you won’t miss out on the most popular excursions.
Final Thoughts
Taormina offers a diverse selection of tours tailored to different interests—whether you’re a film fan, foodie, wildlife enthusiast, or geology buff. For a comprehensive experience that combines scenery, history, and local flavors, the Private and Guided Godfather Tour stands out. If water-based adventures appeal, the Boat Tours and dolphin cruises promise memorable moments. Adventure seekers and active travelers will love the Etna and Alcantara full-day trek.
To make the most of your trip, book early, especially during peak season. Whichever tour you pick, Taormina’s authentic charm and stunning landscapes will make your journey unforgettable.