Classic Taormina Walking Tour
Start your journey with a walking tour through Taormina’s old town. A licensed local guide leads this tour, which typically includes a visit to the Greek Theatre, one of Sicily’s most famous ancient sites. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Etna and the sea.
Stroll along Corso Umberto, the town’s lively main street filled with boutiques, cafés, and Baroque churches. You’ll also stop at historic gates like Porta Messina and Porta Catania and learn how Taormina changed from a Greek colony to a modern tourism hub.
Perfect for: First-time visitors, history lovers
Estimated duration: 2–3 hours
Average cost: €20–€40 per person
Taormina Food and Wine Tasting Tour
One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food, and Taormina does not disappoint. This tour takes you to local markets, hidden trattorias, and boutique wine shops where you’ll taste Sicilian favorites like arancini, caponata, and cannoli.
Pair your bites with local wines like Etna Rosso and Nero d’Avola, and hear the stories behind each bottle. Many tours also include a hands-on cooking session.
Perfect for: Foodies, wine lovers, cultural travelers
Tip: Go with an empty stomach!
Mount Etna Day Trip from Taormina
Are you ready for adventure? Take a guided day trip to Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. Options include 4x4 rides, lava tube explorations, and cable car rides with alpine guides.
Some tours also stop at local honey farms or lava-flow wineries, balancing excitement and culture. Don’t forget to bring a jacket; even in summer, Etna can be cold at the summit!
Perfect for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Safety: Choose tours run by certified operators
Isola Bella and Blue Grotto Boat Tour
For a magical escape into the sea, join a small-group boat tour around Isola Bella, a small island just off Taormina’s coast. Known for its clear turquoise waters and rich marine life, this area is perfect for snorkeling.
Most tours also visit the nearby Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), where the water shines a surreal blue due to natural light reflections. Sunset tours are especially romantic.
Perfect for: Couples, swimmers, photographers
Best time to go: May to September
Godfather Filming Locations Tour
Attention, movie buffs! Visit the real Sicilian towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, where scenes from The Godfather were shot. These picturesque hilltop villages offer more than nostalgia—they’re filled with beautiful churches, viewpoints, and quiet streets.
Enjoy a granita at Bar Vitelli, made famous by the movie, and listen to your guide share stories about the film’s behind-the-scenes moments and local legends.
Perfect for: Film fans, culture lovers, off-the-path travelers
Fun fact: Many locals were extras in the original film!
Sunset Aperitivo Tour in Taormina
Evenings in Taormina are magical. This tour focuses on enjoying the golden light while sipping on Aperol Spritz or Sicilian wines, served with regional appetizers. Walk through quiet alleys as the crowds thin out and take in panoramic views from hidden terraces.
Many guides share tales of Taormina’s glamorous past, including stories about hosting Hollywood stars and being a favorite of writers like Truman Capote.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, lifestyle seekers
Mood: Relaxed and romantic
Private Customizable Tour with a Local Guide
For a personalized experience, choose a private customizable tour. You’ll work with a local guide to create your itinerary based on your interests, whether that’s architecture, shopping, photography, or hidden food spots.
Taormina tours are great for families or those with limited mobility, as they can be adjusted to your pace. If you want to skip the crowds and see Taormina from a local’s perspective, this is the way to go.
Perfect for: Custom experience, VIP travelers, families
Pro tip: Book in advance, especially during peak season
Bonus: Seasonal Tours to Look Out For in 2025
Taormina will host a variety of seasonal events and specialty tours in 2025. From Easter walking tours to summer opera nights at the Greek Theatre, and Christmas market strolls in December, there’s always something special happening depending on when you visit.
Tips for Booking a Taormina Tour
- Use local operators when possible; they provide more authentic experiences.
- Check reviews on sites like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Google.
- Inquire about group size—smaller groups usually offer a better experience.
- Don’t skip the guide; their stories bring each location to life!
FAQs
Q: Is Taormina walkable for most tours?
Yes, but it can be hilly. Wear comfortable shoes and check if the tour matches your fitness level.
Q: Do I need to pre-book these tours?
During the high season (May–September), it’s best to book in advance.
Q: Are English-speaking guides available?
Yes, most tours have English-speaking guides. Some also offer French, German, and Spanish.
Q: Can I do more than one tour in a day?
Absolutely! Many travelers combine a morning walking tour with an afternoon food or boat tour.
Final Thoughts
Taormina is a place that offers more than just beautiful views; it’s rich in culture, stories, flavors, and passion. With the right tour, your visit can become unforgettable. So whether you’re sipping wine in the hills, hiking an active volcano, or sailing along a hidden cove, 2025 is the perfect year to experience Taormina like a pro.