Taormina is a fantastic place to indulge in lunch experiences that go beyond just a good meal. With its stunning views, authentic Sicilian flavors, and a dash of cinematic history, this charming town offers memorable ways to enjoy your midday break. We especially love the Godfather vs Mafia Tour & Pasta Lunch for its combination of iconic film locations, Mafia tales, and a delicious Sicilian pasta buffet—perfect for film buffs or anyone interested in local culture. If you’re seeking a more personalized experience, the Private and Guided Godfather Tour from Taormina with Lunch provides a private journey through film sites and history, with a lovely traditional meal overlooking the sea. For those who want hands-on fun, the Taormina Pizza Making Class with Lunch and Wine Tasting offers a chance to learn Sicily’s pizza secrets from a professional chef, perfect for food lovers.
Across the list, you’ll find tours ranging from guided cinema tours and local wine tastings to adventure-filled horseback rides and off-road excursions. Each experience offers a distinct taste of Sicilian life, whether through cultural storytelling, active outdoor fun, or culinary mastery.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top lunch options, helping you decide which fits your style, budget, and schedule.
1. Godfather vs Mafia Tour & Pasta Lunch (Small Group or Private)
At number 1, this Godfather vs Mafia Tour & Pasta Lunch combines a cinematic experience with a taste of real Sicilian history. This 5-hour guided tour takes you through two authentic villages, Forza d’Agro and Savoca, where iconic scenes from The Godfather were shot. Your guide will show you the church where Michael Corleone married Apollonia, plus other filming locations that make the movie so beloved. Along the way, you’ll hear true stories from Sicilian Mafia clans—an eye-opening contrast to Hollywood’s portrayal.
The tour includes comfortable transport in an 8-seater minivan and hotel pickup, making logistics easy. The highlight is the pasta buffet at a typical trattoria, paired with a glass of Etna wine made from volcanic vineyards. This tour’s small group limit (up to eight people) ensures personalized attention, and reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and authentic experience. Guests have described it as “more like exploring with friends” and love the mix of film history, local culture, and delicious food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for film fans and history lovers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a tasty Sicilian lunch thrown in.
2. Private and Guided Godfather Tour from Taormina with Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Private and Guided Godfather Tour with Lunch. This tailored experience offers a more exclusive look at Sicily’s cinematic spots in Savoca and Forza d’Agro. Starting from Taormina, your private guide will lead you through unchanged medieval streets and visit legendary sites like Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone’s character asked for Apollonia’s hand. You’ll see the church where Michael and Apollonia married, along with memorable film locations.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on Sicily’s ongoing story of Mafia culture and anti-Mafia efforts, giving you context most tours miss. After sightseeing, enjoy a private traditional Sicilian lunch on a terrace overlooking the sea—featuring local cheeses, salami, caponata, and lemon sorbet. For an added upgrade, tours from Messina include tastings of wines and delicacies, providing a culinary backdrop to your exploration.
Reviews highlight the personalized service, with guides like Marco and Bruno providing in-depth insights and engaging stories. It’s ideal for travelers who want a private, flexible experience with rich historical and culinary elements.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, immersive experience with a focus on film, history, and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
3. Taormina: Pizza Making Class with Lunch and Wine Tasting
For around $100, the Pizza Making Class with Lunch and Wine offers a delightful hands-on experience. This 2.5-hour class in a local restaurant is perfect for those who want to roll up their sleeves and learn Sicily’s culinary secrets. A professional chef will guide you through making pizza dough from scratch, and you’ll enjoy tasting your creation along with pasta, cheese, and local wines.
The class isn’t just about the food—it’s about understanding the techniques behind Sicily’s pizza tradition and taking home recipes to impress friends back home. The experience also includes a coffee break and a cheese and wine tasting, making it a well-rounded culinary adventure.
Guests consistently praise the friendly instructor, the quality of the pizza, and the chance to interact directly with Sicilian cooking. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a memorable, edible souvenir of your trip.
Bottom Line: For food lovers eager to learn authentic pizza-making skills in a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Private Horseback Riding Tour in Sicilian Countryside + Traditional Lunch
Number 4, the Horseback Riding Tour, combines outdoor adventure with regional cuisine. After pickup, you’ll drive through the scenic Sicilian countryside toward a horse ranch, where an instructor will help you learn to ride. The ride lasts about an hour, taking you through Etna Park’s rolling hills and lava fields.
What makes this tour special is its focus on experiencing the landscape firsthand—saddles, stirrups, and all. It’s great for active travelers or those curious about rural life. The day ends with a traditional Sicilian lunch featuring local products and wines from nearby vineyards. Reviews mention the friendly guides and the surprisingly relaxing ride, even for beginners.
This is a perfect choice if you’re seeking a unique outdoor adventure that pairs well with authentic food and wine. The tour’s value lies in its combination of physical activity, scenic views, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want to combine riding with a hearty Sicilian meal.
5. Package of 2 private tours in one day: Etna-Godfather with Lunch
At number 5, the Full-Day Private Etna and Godfather Experience offers a comprehensive Sicilian day out. It combines a private tour of Mount Etna’s volcanic landscapes with a visit to Savoca’s film sites. Starting from Taormina, your guide will take you to the volcano’s rifugio at 2000 meters, where you can walk around Silvestri Craters, and then to the film sites like Bar Vitelli.
The tour includes a traditional lunch with cheeses, salami, and lemon sorbet, plus local wine tastings. Guests love the personalized service, with reviews saying guides like Omar make the experience unforgettable. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full day of exploration, blending natural wonders with film history.
The value is high, considering the depth of sites covered, the private transport, and the inclusive meals. It’s suited for those with a full day to spare and a love for both nature and movie lore.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want an all-in-one Sicily experience, combining geology, film sites, and local gastronomy.
6. Tour of the Etna cellars, typical lunch and wine tasting
Number 6 is the Etna Cellars and Food Tour. This 6-7 hour excursion explores the volcanic terrain and the flavors that it inspires. Starting at the Alcantara Valley, you’ll visit the Gurne and Castiglione di Sicilia’s medieval streets, then head into local wineries where you taste wines, honey, olive oil, and more.
The highlight is the combination of natural beauty—the erosive Gorges—and the tasting of regional products at a family-run cellar. Travelers comment on the delicious food and how the tour clears up myths about Sicilian produce. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
While the focus is on food and drink, the scenic stops and cultural insights make it a well-rounded day out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Sicily’s culinary heritage and scenic rural landscapes.
7. Private and Guided Tour of Gole Alcantara with traditional Lunch
Number 7, the Private Gole Alcantara Tour with Lunch offers an intimate look at one of Sicily’s most striking geological formations. With a private guide, you’ll explore the lava rock formations, swim in natural pools, and enjoy a personalized itinerary.
The tour’s highlight is the visit to Alcantara Park, where you can walk through the Gorges or relax by the river. The included traditional Sicilian lunch features fresh, local ingredients, paired with regional wines. Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, mentioning Bruno’s storytelling and the accommodating nature of the experience.
This tour is perfect if you want a flexible, private day with nature, adventure, and excellent food in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers valuing privacy, geology, and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
8. Private Etna tour with lunch in traditional “Trattoria” with organic food
Number 8’s Private Etna Tour with Trattoria Lunch combines volcanic scenery with a farm-to-table meal. Starting from Taormina, your guide will lead you into the Chianti hills—well, Sicily’s equivalent—visiting Monteriggioni fortress and Castellina, then stopping at a local winery for tastings.
Guests love the organic focus, with local cured meats, olive oil, and cheese served alongside wines. It’s more of a regional food experience than a straightforward tour, making it ideal for those who want a laid-back, immersive day.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the delicious, authentic flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic views with organic, local Sicilian cuisine.
9. Taormina, Etna, and Alcantara Gorges: full-day tour with transfer and lunch
Finally, the Full Day Taormina, Etna & Gorges Tour offers a comprehensive exploration, including private transfer, off-road 4×4 adventures, and a wine tasting at the foot of Mount Etna. This is the ultimate day for those who want to see natural wonders, enjoy regional food, and experience Sicily’s volcanic landscape all in one.
The off-road 4×4 adventure is a highlight, taking you through rivers, lava fields, and crater trails. It’s suited for active travelers prepared for a full day of sights and tastes.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous spirits wanting an all-encompassing Sicilian experience.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Taormina
Picking the perfect lunch experience depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re a film or history buff, the Godfather tour or private film site tour might suit you best. Want a hands-on cooking class? The pizza-making experience is perfect if you love to cook and eat. For those who prefer outdoor adventure and scenic views, horseback riding or off-road tours like the Horseback Riding Tour or Gole Alcantara private tour offer active options.
Budget-conscious travelers might opt for shorter classes or shared tours, while those seeking exclusivity should consider private tours with personalized guides. Remember to check if tours include local wines, regional cheeses, or other specialties to get the most for your money.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to lock in spots on popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Taormina offers a wide range of lunch experiences that showcase Sicily’s culinary, scenic, and cinematic sides. For a relaxed, intimate experience, the Godfather vs Mafia Tour stands out. If you want to learn to cook and enjoy a meal, the pizza class is perfect. Adventure travelers will love combining outdoor activities like horseback riding or off-road exploring with regional tastings.
Whichever tour you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable culinary adventures. With options suited for history buffs, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Taormina truly has something to suit every taste.
