Private small group tour Savoca, Taormina and Messina

Exploring Sicily: A Close-Up on the Private Small Group Tour of Savoca, Taormina, and Messina

If you’re dreaming of Sicily’s scenic beauty, history, and legendary cinematic spots, this private small group tour might just be the experience you’re after. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the reviews and details shared paint a pretty appealing picture. It offers a well-rounded taste of three iconic locations, with plenty of opportunities to soak in local culture and scenery while avoiding the chaos of large tour buses.

What really makes this tour shine are a couple of standout features: the knowledgeable guides who listen to your interests, and the spectacular views you’ll get at every turn—from hilltop towns to panoramic seaside vistas. On the flip side, if you’re looking for in-depth entrance visits or specific museums, this might not tick all those boxes since some sites are free to explore and some notable attractions, like the Greek-Roman Theatre or Isola Bella, aren’t included in the admission. Still, for many travelers, the value of a flexible, scenic day with expert insights outweighs these minor details.

This tour would suit travelers who love a curated experience without the hassle of organizing their own transport, especially those who want to see Sicily’s highlights comfortably and efficiently. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with a small group, enjoy engaging guides, and prioritize scenery and local flavor over museum visits or specific entrance fees.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off make this a stress-free way to explore Sicily.
• Flexible and Personalized: Private tour with a small group ensures personalized attention and the chance to customize your experience.
• Stunning Locations: From the iconic “Godfather” film spots in Savoca, to panoramic views in Taormina, and scenic Messina landmarks.
• Cost-Effective: While around $200 per person, the price includes transportation, bottled water, WiFi, and a luxury vehicle—good value for a curated experience.
• Limited Entrance Fees: You’ll enjoy beautiful sites like Savoca and Taormina free of charge, but some attractions, like the Greek-Roman Theatre, are paid separately.
• Authentic Local Experience: Guides are noted for their knowledge and attentiveness, helping you get the most out of each stop.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Savoca: A Film Lover’s Dream with Local Charm

Your day kicks off in Savoca, a town that’s often called one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The highlight here is visiting the famous “Bar Vitelli”, a spot made immortal by “The Godfather.” It’s not just a film set; it’s a window into authentic Sicilian life, built with ancient lava stone structures. Sitting here, you can imagine the film’s scenes unfolding against the backdrop of the Gulf of Taormina, which is part of what makes this area so photogenic.

The reviews praise Savoca’s atmosphere: “Ancient lava stone buildings and in the background, the splendid Gulf of Taormina.” It’s a small town, so expect about an hour here — enough to stroll around, snap photos, and take in the ambiance without feeling rushed.

Taormina: The Pearl of Sicily

Next, you’ll head to Taormina, often called Sicily’s crown jewel. This town is a feast for the eyes—cliffside streets, historic piazzas, and sweeping views of the sea. The Greco-Roman theater is a must-see; it’s a spectacular spot where you can imagine ancient performances with an incredible backdrop of turquoise waters and distant Calabria on clear days.

With around four hours allotted here, you’ll have plenty of time to walk through the charming streets, explore shops, grab a bite, and enjoy the panorama. Reviewers note that the experience is “fantastic” and the staff “attentive to every request,” which makes wandering around even more enjoyable.

Messina: A City of Landmarks and Scenic Views

The final stop is Messina, which offers a different flavor of Sicily’s landscape—more urban, but with striking sites. The Sanctuary of Christ the King provides sweeping views of the Strait of Messina, giving you a sense of the city’s strategic importance. Then, there’s the Cathedral of Messina, home to the world’s largest and most complex mechanical clock, which draws admire from visitors.

This part of the tour is about an hour, giving you a taste of Messina’s highlights without overwhelming your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of about $200 per person includes many thoughtful touches: WiFi on board, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off. A luxury car makes the journey comfortable, and the small group (up to 20 people) means you won’t be lost in a crowd.

However, some attractions like the Greek-Roman Theatre and Isola Bella are not included in the ticket price, so plan for those separately if they interest you. The tour’s flexibility is a plus—since it’s private, it can accommodate your preferences to some extent.

How the Tour Runs

The tour operates daily, starting early in the morning (7 am) and running until late evening (around 11:30 pm). That’s a long window, giving you flexibility, especially if you’re coming from a nearby hotel or cruise.

Cancellation and Booking

Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. That’s reassuring if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Voices and Real Experiences

From the three reviews, it’s clear that guides are a highlight. One reviewer mentions, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and listened to the group’s wants,” which makes a big difference in how personalized and engaging the experience feels.

Another reviewer found the tour “fantastic,” especially praising the “spectacular beautiful island” and “wonderful places in Taormina.” These comments confirm that the views and locations are genuinely special, even if the tour isn’t focused on museum or entrance-heavy visits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you want a well-organized, scenic overview of key Sicilian sights without the hassle of planning transport or logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize beautiful landscapes, authentic towns, and friendly guides over intricate museum visits or in-depth historical tours.

It’s also suitable for those who want a relaxed day with ample time to explore at their own pace, especially in Taormina, since they’ll have around four hours free to wander.

In The Sum Up

This private small group tour offers a balanced mix of Sicily’s most photogenic towns, historic landmarks, and stunning vistas. It’s well-suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and scenic beauty, all at a reasonable price considering the convenience included.

While it may not be for those seeking deep museum explorations or extensive entrance visits, it delivers a comprehensive taste of Sicily’s charm. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and ease of transportation make it a stress-free way to see some of the island’s best spots in one day.

If you’re after a relaxed, picturesque, and well-guided experience, this tour stands out as a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of culture, panoramic views, and local flavor, all wrapped in a private, intimate setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on scenic stops and walking around towns suggests it can work for families, especially those comfortable with moderate walking and sightseeing. Always check with the provider about age restrictions or specific needs.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with detailed stops at Savoca, Taormina, and Messina.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some sites like the Greek-Roman Theatre and Isola Bella require separate admission. The tour is more about the scenery and landmarks outside.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this a very convenient option.

What is the group size?
Up to 20 people, ensuring a personalized experience without feeling crowded.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

This tour offers a practical yet scenic slice of Sicily’s highlights, perfect for those who want a guided, comfortable day out without the fuss of self-organizing. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking memorable views, local charm, and expert insights—all wrapped into a manageable day.