Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion in Sicily Departing from Malta

Discovering Sicily: A Look at the Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion from Malta

Planning a day trip from Malta to Sicily can sound ambitious, but tours like this one aim to pack in some of the island’s most iconic sights into a single day. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it offers a fascinating snapshot of Sicily’s diverse landscape and culture — perfect for those eager to see a volcano, enjoy scenic towns, and taste local specialties.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines natural wonders with cultural stops, giving you a well-rounded taste of Sicily even on a tight schedule. Plus, the inclusion of ferry transport makes it a seamless way to jump between islands without the hassle of arranging your own logistics. On the flip side, a possible snag is the long hours involved, which might be a stretch if you’re not used to such full days.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light walking, and a bit of flavor exploration — and who don’t mind spending a lot of time on a bus or ferry. If you’re after a relaxed, laid-back holiday, or traveling with small kids expecting a slow pace, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re up for a busy, rewarding day, it could be worth considering.

Key Points

• Includes ferry transfer, making travel between Malta and Sicily smooth and straightforward.
• Highlights Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, with a chance to see its craters and landscape.
• Cultural stop in Taormina, a charming hilltop town with spectacular views and a lively atmosphere.
• Tasty local flavor, with stops to sample Sicilian wines, almond sweets, and honey — no obligation to buy.
• Long day, around 16 hours including travel, so expect an early start and a full schedule.
• No meals included, so plan to bring snacks or buy on the go, especially during the many hours away from food stops.

What the Tour Looks Like: A Deep Dive

Early Morning Departure and Ferry Ride

The fun begins at 6:30 am from the Malta-based Sicily Catamaran in Marsa. The journey itself is a significant part of the adventure, with the ferry ride offering scenic views as you cross the Mediterranean. This aspect is often appreciated by travelers, as it adds a bit of sea air and anticipation before reaching Sicily.

While the total trip duration is about 16 hours, it’s essential to remember that this includes check-in and ferry time, so you’re not just on the road or boat all day. Still, be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re someone who prefers more leisurely mornings.

Stop 1: Mount Etna

The highlight for many is Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano — a natural marvel that’s hard to top. You’ll climb through picturesque villages and witness the changing landscape as you approach the volcano’s lower slopes, which are incredibly fertile and dotted with groves of trees.

The tour mentions that the climb to the crater isn’t included in the price, and it’s worth noting that the weather at the summit can surprise you. In reviews, some travelers noted that it was quite cold and windy at the top, even in early fall, so packing warm clothes is advisable.

Being on Etna makes for a unique experience — standing next to such a powerful natural feature, with the chance to see steaming craters and volcanic terrain. It’s a compelling reason to consider this tour for geology buffs or those just wanting an extraordinary photo op.

Stop 2: Sicilian Delicacies

On the way to Mount Etna, there’s a stop dedicated to sampling authentic Sicilian treats. Here you can indulge in wines, almond sweets, and honey — all local specialties. The tasting lasts about an hour and is a great chance to relax, take photos, and try some of Sicily’s most famous flavors.

It’s important to note that these are for sale, but there’s no obligation to buy, which keeps things low-pressure. Several reviews pointed out the quality of the food and drink, with one reviewer mentioning the wines and almond sweets as highlights.

Stop 3: Taormina

The jewel of this trip is Taormina, a hilltop town known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean. Originally settled by the Greeks, the town’s beauty has drawn travelers since the 1800s, including British aristocracy. Today, it’s a lively spot where you can wander, explore shops, or visit the famous Greek Theatre (though admission isn’t included).

Travelers get approximately an hour here, which might feel rushed but is enough to enjoy the scenery, snap some photos, or grab a quick coffee or gelato. The panoramic views of Etna and the coast are truly captivating.

Reviewers describe Taormina as peaceful and picturesque, with one noting that the amphitheater is a must-visit (admission fee applies). People appreciated the free time, though some wished for a little more, considering the long day.

Return to Malta

The entire trip wraps up with the ferry ride back to Malta, with the tour concluding around 10-11 pm, depending on ferry timings. Expect to arrive late, but with plenty of memories from a day packed full of sights.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

This tour operates with coach transfers in Sicily and a ferry, making logistics straightforward. The group size can be up to 150 travelers, which means you’re part of a fairly large group, but that’s typical for day trips of this nature. Guide quality seems appreciated, with mentions of a helpful, knowledgeable guide named Frank.

Cost and Value

At $186.78 per person, the price covers ferry transport, coach transfers, and a guide — which is reasonable considering the full-day itinerary. However, lunch, drinks, and extra activities like the Greek Theatre are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore or eat in Taormina.

Timing and Physical Considerations

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved, especially if you visit the amphitheater or explore towns on your own. Keep in mind the long hours — starting early and ending late — so plan your energy accordingly.

Weather and Packing Tips

Weather on Mount Etna can be unpredictable, especially at the summit. As some reviews pointed out, it can be windy and chilly, even in September. Packing warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a rain jacket is wise.

Real Traveler Feedback: What to Expect

From reviews, we see consistent praise for the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer appreciated the “kind and informative” guide, which makes a big difference when you’re in unfamiliar territory.

Others have noted that the long day is worth it if you’re keen on seeing Sicily’s highlights — but it does mean a lot of hours on the road and ferry. A reviewer called it “a great day, just a long one,” which sums it up.

Some travelers found the limited free time at stops a bit frustrating, especially in Taormina where three hours might feel rushed for those wanting to explore more deeply. Still, given the scope of the trip, it’s understandable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience will suit adventurous travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to tick Sicily’s top sights off their list. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in volcanoes and scenic towns and enjoy tasting local foods and wines.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or traveling with very young children, this might feel overly packed. It’s ideal for those who value guided tours and are comfortable with extended hours.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a practical way to see some of Sicily’s most iconic sights in a single day, especially if you’re based in Malta and want to maximize your trip. The combination of natural wonder, charming towns, and local flavors makes for an engaging adventure, as long as you’re prepared for a long day.

The price reflects a comprehensive experience — ferry, guide, transport, and a handful of memorable stops — but remember, meals and some activities are extra. The reviews highlight the quality of the guiding and the stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to see Sicily without dedicating multiple days.

If you’re alright with the pace and long hours, and want to see volcanoes, historic towns, and sip Sicilian wine, this tour could be a memorable addition to your travel plans.

FAQ

• Is ferry transportation included? Yes, the tour includes ferry rides to and from Malta, making the trip between islands seamless.
• What is the starting time? The tour begins early at 6:30 am from Malta.
• Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.
• How long is the total tour? Approximately 16 hours, including travel, ferry, and sightseeing time.
• Is there an age limit or family-friendliness? The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but it is not specifically tailored to young children, given the long hours involved.
• What should I pack? Warm clothes for Mount Etna, comfortable shoes for walking, and possibly a rain jacket.
• Are all stops free? Most stops are free, like Taormina and the food tasting, but the amphitheater visit in Taormina requires an admission fee.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Whether you’re after volcano views, scenic town strolls, or just a quick way to see Sicily’s highlights, this trip has plenty to offer — just be ready for a full day of adventure.