Messina is a fantastic hub for exploring some of Sicily’s most iconic sights. Thanks to its strategic location and vibrant port, it’s a natural starting point for tours that showcase the region’s stunning coastlines, historic towns, and unique cuisine. We love how some trips combine the best of both worlds—like the Taormina and Castelmola Tour from Messina, which offers sweeping views, charming villages, and a taste of local life all in one day. The tours vary from quick walks through Messina’s landmarks to immersive private experiences that dive deep into Sicilian culture, like the Private Pasta Class at a local home, which promises authentic flavors and a hands-on adventure.
In this list, you’ll find guided group tours, private excursions, shore excursions, boat cruises, and even culinary workshops. Whether you prefer a quick overview or an in-depth private trip, Messina offers options that suit different interests and budgets. Now, let’s explore the top 15 tours available, emphasizing what makes each one unique and worth considering.
1. Taormina and Castelmola Tour from Messina
At number 1, this 6-hour group tour provides a perfect taste of Sicily’s most photogenic spots. It’s rated 4.5/5 by 450 reviews and costs $110.06 per person. The tour includes a quick stop in the village of Castelmola, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the surrounding landscape. Then, the journey continues to Taormina, famous for its ancient Greek theatre, charming streets, and stunning bay of Giardini Naxos. The highlight is walking down Corso Umberto, browsing local shops and soaking up the lively atmosphere. The tour’s main strength is the balance of guided sightseeing and free time, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The bus ride is notably narrow and winding, which some find exciting.
Guests rave about the views, tour guide Gabriella’s knowledge, and the smooth driver skill. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded experience without sacrificing personal exploration time.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a great blend of scenery, history, and local flavor for an affordable price with strong reviews.
2. Messina private excursions of Taormina and Castelmola
Number 2, this private tour is rated 5/5 by 111 reviews and costs $179.97 per person. It’s a flexible experience tailored to your interests, with the flexibility to customize start and end times. Led by Alessandro, a knowledgeable guide, the journey includes a visit to Castelmola with its panoramic views and tasting Sicilian cannoli from Stefania Pittitti, plus a scenic drive to Taormina. Here, you can admire the Greek-Roman Amphitheater (entry not included) and enjoy the town’s picturesque streets. One unique feature is tasting the almond wine at Bar Turrisi, which combines local tradition with a relaxed atmosphere.
Guests appreciate Alessandro’s in-depth knowledge of Sicilian culture and the personalized approach. The tour’s private format makes it perfect for couples or families seeking exclusivity and in-depth insights. The only downside might be price, but the personalized service and flexibility often justify it.
Bottom Line: For a customized, intimate experience combining scenery, history, and local flavors, this private tour is hard to beat.
3. The Best Private Tour: Taormina, Castelmola, Savoca from Messina
Number 3, this 7-hour private tour with a maximum of 8 guests is rated 5/5 at $196.22 per person. It’s unique for its flexibility—guests can choose their start and end times—and its comprehensive itinerary. The tour visits Isola Bella, the Greek Theatre, and the charming villages of Castelmola and Savoca, including a visit to Bar Vitelli, famous from “The Godfather” film. The driver and guide provide rich commentary on Sicilian legends, traditions, and local stories, making the experience deeply immersive.
Reviews highlight the professionalism of the driver and the friendly, knowledgeable guide. The tour’s flexibility is ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace, with the ability to include or skip certain stops. The cost is higher but well justified by the personalized attention and extensive sightseeing.
Bottom Line: This private experience is perfect for those wanting a fully customizable day, blending sights, culture, and film lore.
4. 2.5-Hour Messina Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5 by 237 reviews at $48.40, this short walking tour is a practical way to get acquainted with Messina. It starts from Cathedral Square and visits key landmarks like Annunziata dei Catalani Church, the Municipio, and the Astronomical Clock. The guide offers stories about Messina’s Arab-Norman architecture and past earthquakes, along with insights into local art and history. This tour is especially suited for cruise passengers or those limited on time but eager for a meaningful overview.
Guests mention the friendly guide and the inclusion of a cannoli treat at the end, making it a delightful and informative experience. The walk is manageable for most fitness levels, and multiple departures mean you can fit it into your schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick but rich introduction to Messina’s main sights.
5. Private Tour of Savoca, Castelmola, Taormina and Messina
Rated 5/5 by 57 reviews at $196.22, this private, full-day tour is designed for travelers who want to explore Sicily’s most famous towns at their own pace. It visits Savoca (famous for “The Godfather”), Castelmola with its views of Mount Etna, and Taormina’s Greek Theatre. The scenic drive through the countryside is complemented by tastings of Sicilian delicacies, including arancini and granita. The tour ends with a visit to Messina’s Christ the King sanctuary, offering panoramic views.
Guests praise the friendly guides, personalized service, and the quality of local food tastings. It’s ideal for small groups or families wanting a comprehensive experience without rushing. The higher price reflects the private, tailored approach.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a full, personalized Sicilian day with cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights, this tour hits the mark.
6. Messina Private excursion Taormina and Castelmola
Rated 5/5 by 53 reviews at $171.95, this private tour offers a 5-7 hour experience blending scenic villages and city sights. Starting with Castelmola’s panoramic views, then moving into Taormina’s historic streets and Greek Theatre, the tour is flexible. It includes a scenic drive through Isola Bella and a visit to the Sanctuary of Christ the King, providing sweeping vistas of the Strait of Messina. The guide helps visitors appreciate the cultural richness of each locale.
Guests remark on the friendly guides, the smooth logistics, and the opportunity to see Sicily’s beauty without feeling rushed. It’s well suited for travelers valuing privacy and customization.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for intimate, flexible exploration of Sicily’s coastal and hill towns.
7. Full Day Taormina and Castelmola Tour with Messina Shore Excursion
Rated 4.5/5 by 195 reviews at $139.03, this 7-hour tour is ideal for cruise passengers wanting a comprehensive day trip. It includes a guided walk through Taormina, a visit to the Greek Theatre, and panoramic views from Castelmola. The tour also covers key sites like the Cathedral and Piazza IX Aprile. Pickup and drop-off from Messina and Giardini Naxos ports make logistics simple.
Guests appreciate the guide’s storytelling and the scenic stops, although some mention the quick pace. It’s suited for those wanting a structured, all-in-one day option.
Bottom Line: A well-organized, full-day tour perfect for cruise travelers wanting to see Sicily’s highlights with ease.
8. Messina Private Excursion Savoca, Taormina, and Castelmola
Rated 5/5 by 43 reviews at $200.25, this private experience emphasizes authenticity and personalized service. It covers Savoca, with its “Godfather” film sites, Castelmola’s scenic views, and Taormina’s Greek Theatre and charming streets. The guide shares local customs and traditions, making it a culturally rich experience. The tour also includes a panoramic drive around Isola Bella and ends with panoramic views of Messina from the Christ the King sanctuary.
Guests highlight the hospitality, knowledge, and flexibility of the guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deep, personalized dive into Sicily’s iconic towns.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, immersive Sicilian adventure, this private tour offers detailed insights and flexibility.
9. Giardini Naxos: Isola Bella and Grottos Cruise with Aperitif
Rated 4.6/5 by 131 reviews at just $45.55, this boat cruise gives you a different perspective of Sicily’s coast. It includes swimming stops in the Marine Park of Isola Bella, exploring caves and grottos, and enjoying a local aperitif on board. The guided commentary highlights Etna’s views and local landmarks. The cruise’s relaxed vibe and scenic beauty make it a favorite for small groups or families.
Reviews mention the captain’s skillful navigation and the amazing scenery. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a half-day of sun, sea, and stunning vistas.
Bottom Line: A scenic, relaxing way to see Sicily from the water, with excellent value and unique coastal views.
10. Messina Private Tour Taormina – Castelmola
Rated 5/5 by 41 reviews at $154.76, this private tour combines scenic villages and city highlights over 5-6 hours. It starts with Castelmola’s views of Mount Etna, then moves to Taormina for its Greek Theatre and bustling streets. The guide helps you explore at your pace, with optional visits to local shops and cafes. The final part includes a panoramic visit to Messina’s Christ the King sanctuary.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a personalized day with beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a cozy, customized experience with scenic views and local flavor.
11. Messina private excursions Savoca (Godfather), Taormina, and Castelmola
Rated 5/5 by 38 reviews at $205.20, this private tour offers a comprehensive look at famous film sites and scenic towns. It covers Savoca’s Godfather locations, Castelmola, and Taormina’s Greek Theatre. The guide is praised for enthusiasm and local expertise, making the day lively and informative. The tour ends with panoramic views over Messina, including a visit to the sanctuary of Christ the King.
Guests love the personalized approach and the ability to tailor stops to their interests. It’s perfect for film buffs and those who want to explore Sicily’s top spots in comfort.
Bottom Line: For a full, flexible private experience with cultural and cinematic highlights, this tour impresses.
12. Cesarine: Private Pasta Class at Local’s Home in Messina
Rated 5/5 by 35 reviews at $166.23, this culinary experience is a hands-on class with a local chef. It includes making and tasting three traditional pasta dishes, paired with Sicilian wines. The private home setting guarantees a personal touch and authentic flavors. Guests rave about Daniela’s hospitality and the chance to learn recipes from scratch.
This tour is perfect for food lovers eager for an authentic cooking lesson and a memorable meal. It offers a break from sightseeing with a delicious culture.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, authentic Sicily experience, ideal for gastronomes and those wanting a personal connection.
13. Half Day Private Tour to Messina, Taormina, and Castelmola
Rated 5/5 by 29 reviews at $188.55, this short, private tour covers Messina’s key sights, Castelmola’s views, and Taormina’s Greek Theatre in about 5-6 hours. The guide offers personalized attention, making it a flexible option for early or late port calls. Highlights include the panoramic Christ the King shrine and a quick visit to the cathedral.
Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the ability to customize the itinerary. It’s a good pick for travelers short on time who want quality over quantity.
Bottom Line: Compact, private, and flexible, this tour offers a rich taste of Sicily’s most iconic towns.
14. Best Shore Excursion Etna, Taormina, Messina With Tasting Of Sicilian Products
Rated 5/5 by 28 reviews at $218.57, this full-day excursion combines active volcano visits with local food tastings. You walk on Mount Etna’s craters, then visit a farm to sample Sicilian products like wine, honey, and olive oil. Afterward, you have free time in Taormina to explore independently. The trip balances adventure, scenery, and culinary delights.
Guests mention the knowledgeable guide and the quality of the tasting experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive day blending nature and food.
Bottom Line: A full, enriching day for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and tasting authentic Sicilian specialties.
15. Taormina and Messina Private Tour with Sicilian Cannoli tasting
Rated 5/5 by 27 reviews at $189.66, this private half-day tour offers a personalized visit to Taormina and Messina, including a cannoli tasting. It features a walk through Taormina’s main streets, seeing the Greek Theatre and the panoramic “Balcony” over Isola Bella. In Messina, you see the cathedral and the astronomical clock, with free time to explore or shop. The guide shares local stories and culinary tips, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.
Guests love the flexibility, the tasty treat at the end, and the knowledgeable guides. It suits travelers who want a taste of Sicily’s best in a shorter format.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a relaxed yet enriching private experience with a sweet ending.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Messina
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a comprehensive private experience with deep cultural insights, the Private Tour of Taormina and Castelmola offers a personalized touch, while the Guided Shore Excursion is ideal if you’re on a tight cruise schedule. Food lovers should look at the Culinary Pasta Class for a hands-on Sicilian experience, and those seeking scenic views should not miss the Boat Cruise to Isola Bella.
Booking early is wise, especially in the busy season, and consider what experience will give you the most value—whether it’s the private tailored trips or the guided group adventures.
