Mount Etna, Lunch in a Winery and Taormina Private Day-Trip from Messina

If you’re cruise hopping through Sicily and considering a day to really soak in the island’s standout sights, this private tour from Messina might catch your eye. It promises a journey that hits Mount Etna’s volcanic landscapes, a taste of local wines, and the chance to wander around Taormina’s iconic streets. From what we’ve seen, it’s a flexible, hassle-free way to experience some of the island’s best without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

What we especially like about this trip is the personalized touch — you’re traveling with a private driver, which means more control over your schedule and stops, and you get to enjoy an authentic Sicilian lunch paired with local wines at a charming winery. Plus, the fact that it’s a full-day trip allows for enough time at each location without feeling rushed. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour isn’t guided in the traditional sense; it’s more of a chauffeur experience, so if you’re craving detailed historical commentary, you might find it a bit limited.

This tour is perfect if you love a balance of natural beauty, cultural sights, and food and wine. It’s especially suited for those who want the comfort of a private vehicle and prefer a relaxed, custom-paced day rather than a large group hustle.

• Private transportation means none of the group crowd and more flexibility.
• Mount Etna’s lava fields give a striking view of Sicily’s active volcano.
• Wine tasting at a local winery provides a genuine taste of Etna DOC varietals.
• Lunch is a relaxed, picnic-style affair with local delicacies.
• Taormina’s scenic beauty and Greek ruins make for an elegant end to the day.
• Booked in advance for a smooth experience, especially during peak season.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

This tour kicks off at the cruise port of Messina, where your private driver will meet you and take charge of the transport — a major plus if you’re tired after your journey or simply want to avoid navigating unfamiliar roads. The first stop is Piano Provenzana, on the north side of Mount Etna. Here, you’ll get a quick 15-minute look at the impressive lava flows from the 2002 eruption. It’s a short visit but offers unbeatable views of molten rock patterns and the volcanic landscape, perfect for snapping photos or just taking in the raw power of nature.

Next, you’ll head to Gambino Winery. This is where the tour shines for anyone who appreciates good wine and local flavors. The tasting and lunch here are described as both beautiful and welcoming, with some reviews noting the quality of the wine and the delicious food. The setting is picturesque, and the staff makes you feel right at home. It’s a genuine opportunity to taste Sicily’s renowned Etna DOC wines, made from grapes grown in the volcanic soil — you’ll probably find these wines have a distinct character.

Then, there’s the visit to Porta Messina, which leads you into Taormina — one of Sicily’s most photographed spots, perched atop sea cliffs with panoramic views and a charming old-world atmosphere. With over an hour here, you’ll have enough time to explore the streets, do some shopping, or just soak in the scenery. The town is rich with history, and many reviews highlight how enjoyable it is to wander its alleys and discover local shops and cafes.

The Highlights and Small Details

One of the standout features of this tour is how it balances natural sights and cultural stops. The lava flow at Piano Provenzana is dramatic, and many find the landscape awe-inspiring. The wine tasting at Gambino Winery adds a sensory dimension, and the lunch of local products makes the experience feel authentic and flavorful. Many reviewers loved the wine and food, describing it as a highlight of their trip.

The drive itself is smooth, thanks to the private air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially appreciated on warm Sicilian days. You’ll get a local driver, not a guide, which means the experience is more about the journey and less about guided commentary. Some reviews suggest that the driver was personable and efficient, making the experience enjoyable, but a few felt the lack of a dedicated guide limited the historical or cultural insights.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Piano Provenzana offers a quick but striking view of the lava fields — think stark, blackened terrain stretching out against mountain scenery. It’s a photo opportunity and a reminder of Etna’s ongoing activity. No entrance fee here, so it’s purely observational.

Gambino Winery is where you’ll enjoy a sit-down tasting paired with a hearty lunch. Expect to sample wines directly from the vineyard, with some reviewers noting the quality and welcoming atmosphere. The lunch is described as picnic-style with local gourmet treats, making it a relaxed, no-fuss experience in a beautiful setting.

Taormina is the grand finale. You’ll stroll through its historic streets, admire the architecture, and get a peek at the ancient Greek theater. Many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed wandering around and the scenic views over the sea, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon.

At a price of $493.83 per person, this tour isn’t exactly pocket change, but it’s packed with activities and the convenience of private transport. Compared to the costs of booking individual excursions, it offers good value if you consider the inclusions: pickup and drop-off at the port, private driver, wine tasting, and lunch. The tour also allows you to customize or skip parts if you wish, which is a big plus.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense — it’s more of a chauffeur-driven experience. If you’re after detailed commentary or historical insights, you might need to supplement this with your own research or find a guide-led tour.

This trip is especially well-suited for travelers who want to see key Sicilian sights at a relaxed pace without the hassle of navigating themselves. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food and wine, scenic landscapes, and a touch of luxury in their day. If you’re traveling with others who prefer a private experience, or if you’re keen on avoiding large group tours, this could be a great fit.

It’s also a good choice if you want flexibility: you can spend more or less time at each stop, and the private vehicle makes it easier to customize your day.

This private tour from Messina offers an enjoyable blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and gastronomic delight. While it doesn’t come cheap, the convenience, flexibility, and quality of experiences make it worth considering. The stops at Mount Etna’s lava fields, the winery, and Taormina are all iconic in their own right, and many travelers have praised the friendly driver, stunning views, and excellent wine and food.

It’s perfect for those who prefer a more personal approach than large group tours, especially if you’re interested in tasting Sicily’s renowned wines and soaking up its scenic spots at your own pace. If you’re okay with a more relaxed, chauffeur-driven experience rather than a guided commentary, this could be just the thing to make your Sicilian day memorable.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included. You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a driver/escort, starting from and returning to the Messina cruise port.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

What does the lunch at the winery include?
The lunch features local gourmet products in a picnic-style setting, paired with wine tasting. Vegetarian options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

Can I customize my stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver. However, the main stops are fixed, and any changes should be arranged beforehand.

Is there any entrance fee at the stops?
No, the stops at Piano Provenzana and Gambino Winery do not have entrance fees. Taormina’s attractions may have their own admission costs if you choose to visit specific sites.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of stops (like wine tasting and walking around historic town streets), it’s more suited for adults. Families with older children who enjoy scenery and exploring can certainly enjoy it.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is often booked around 120 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, so planning early is advisable for securing your preferred date.

What if my ship docks at a different port than Messina?
This tour is designed for cruise ships docking in Messina. If your port is different, you might need to look for alternative options.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Shorter notice cancellations are subject to the policy detailed in the booking terms.

This private day-trip strikes a nice balance between scenic adventure and comfort. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy Sicily’s highlights without the chaos of large tours or the stress of organizing everything on their own. Whether you’re into volcanic landscapes, fine wines, or charming towns, this outing offers a bit of everything—making for a memorable Sicilian escape.