One Day Sicily Tour fom Malta

If you’re considering a quick trip from Malta to Sicily, this private, full-day tour promises to pack in three of Sicily’s top highlights: Syracuse, Mount Etna, and Taormina. Designed for ferry travelers, it offers a streamlined way to experience some of Sicily’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its convenience—round-trip pickup from Pozzallo and private transport make it a seamless day. Plus, the itinerary hits three different types of attractions: a historic city, a volcano, and a picturesque hill town, giving you a well-rounded taste of the island’s diversity.

On the flip side, a key consideration is that this is a fast-paced tour—there’s little time for deep exploration at each stop. The absence of a guided commentary during the day might also be a drawback if you’re craving more context or storytelling about each location.

This trip suits adventurous travelers who want to maximize their time and see a lot, or those arriving in Malta with a single day to spare. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth experience, this may feel a bit rushed. But if your goal is a taste of Sicily’s highlights in one go, this could be a solid option.

Key Points

• Efficient for short visits: Cover three major sites in just one day.
• Private transport: Air-conditioned vehicle for comfort and ease.
• No guide included: You explore independently, which can be a plus or minus.
• Ferry tickets separate: Tour price does not include the cost of the Malta to Sicily ferry.
• Ideal for active travelers: Fast-paced schedule with limited free time.
• Limited deep dives: Focus on sightseeing rather than detailed guided commentary.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The Pickup and Transport

The tour starts early at 8:30am from Contrada Raganzino, Pozzallo. The pickup process is straightforward, with private, air-conditioned transfers to each stop. Given the timing, you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with a lot of ground covered in about 12 hours.

Syracuse: The Oldest Sicilian City

Your first stop is Syracuse, famed for its ancient ruins and storied past. You’ll spend around two hours exploring the historic center, where the Cathedral of Syracuse is a highlight, built into the ancient Temple of Athena. The city is a treasure trove of history, from Archimedes to Plato, and you’ll get a quick taste of its charm.

The reviews note that admission to attractions is free, so most of your time will be spent walking and admiring the sights. As one reviewer puts it, Syracuse “reveals its secrets only to beauty lovers,” which makes it a favorite for those interested in architecture and history.

Mount Etna: The Volcanic Wonder

Next, you’ll head to Mount Etna, which offers stunning panoramic views and a sense of the island’s fiery heart. The drive along the coast gives you a chance to take in the volcanic landscape and the powerful energy of one of Europe’s most active volcanoes.

While you won’t go up to the summit, the scenery alone makes this stop worthwhile. People seem to appreciate Etna’s grandeur, with one reviewer describing it as “seductive and frightening,” capturing the volcano’s dual nature.

Taormina: The Italian Pearl

The third stop is Taormina, often called Sicily’s “pearl of the Grand Tour,” perched on a hill with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast. With a history of attracting artists and travelers, this charming town is full of colorful streets, lush gardens, and sweeping vistas.

Expect about two and a half hours here, enough time for a stroll through the cobblestone streets, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the scenery. Its reputation as a romantic, cinematographic place definitely lives up to the hype, with Goethe famously falling in love with it.

A Quick Stop at Pozzallo

Before returning to Malta, there’s a relaxed 30-minute break in Pozzallo for ice-cream or a quick snack—perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $983 for up to 7 people, the price might seem steep, but considering it’s a private tour with private transportation, the cost becomes more understandable. If you’re traveling as a group, this can be a comfortable way to cover a lot of ground without the stress of navigating alone.

Some reviews mention that the tour is more than just sightseeing—it’s an enriching experience that highlights Sicily’s diversity. Others, however, felt it was too rushed or lacking in guided commentary, which can diminish the experience if you prefer more educational context.

What Travelers Love

• Knowledgeable guides and drivers make the experience smoother, according to some reviews.
• The stunning views from Taormina and Etna are often highlighted as unforgettable.
• The convenience of door-to-door pickup and private transport makes logistics simple, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

What Could Be Better

• Lack of a guide during the stops means you’ll be exploring independently. If you prefer storytelling and historical insights, this might be a downside.
• The fast pace can make it hard to fully soak in each site, especially Syracuse and Taormina.
• The cost doesn’t include ferry tickets, so you’ll need to buy those separately, which adds to the overall expense.

Deep Dive into the Stops

Syracuse: A City of Layers

We loved the way Syracuse combines ruins, narrow streets, and lively piazzas. The fact that the cathedral is built into an ancient temple adds a layer of history you won’t find in typical sightseeing spots. Without a guide, you might miss some of the stories, but the free time allows for personal wandering.

Mount Etna: Witnessing Nature’s Power

While you won’t reach the summit, the drive along the coast to Etna offers sweeping views. The volcano’s constant renewal is palpable, and the landscape’s rugged beauty is a highlight. It’s a reminder of Sicily’s restless volcanic energy.

Taormina: The Hilltop Perfection

This is where the tour hits its most scenic point. The views of Mount Etna and the coast are stunning, and the town’s gardens and cobblestone streets feel like stepping into a postcard. Goethe’s quote about falling in love with Taormina is well-earned.

Pozzallo: A Relaxed Send-Off

Ending with a quick ice-cream break in Pozzallo offers a chance to relax before heading back to Malta—simple, sweet, and satisfying.

Practical Details

• Timing: The tour begins early at 8:30am and lasts around 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.
• Group Size: Up to 7 people, making it intimate but not crowded.
• Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle.
• Ferry Tickets: Must be purchased separately and are not included in the price.
• Booking: Booked about 43 days in advance on average, so plan ahead if this interests you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for active travelers who want to see the highlights quickly without the fuss of organizing transport or guides. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable exploring independently and value convenience. If you’re traveling with a small group or in a couple, the private aspect makes it more personal.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or in-depth historical guides, this might be too rushed, and you could consider other options with guided commentary.

This One Day Sicily Tour from Malta offers a manageable way to get a taste of Sicily’s diversity—from ancient Syracuse and the volcanic energy of Mount Etna to the romantic charm of Taormina. The private transport and door-to-door pickup make it convenient for ferry travelers, and the stops are well-chosen to showcase different facets of the island.

While it’s not ideal for those who want a slow, detailed exploration or guided storytelling, it’s perfect for adventurous, time-conscious travelers eager to make the most of a single day. The views from Taormina and the spectacle of Etna leave lasting impressions, and the efficient itinerary helps pack in a lot without feeling overwhelming.

If you’re okay with a fast pace and want a hassle-free way to see Sicily with a small group, this tour could be a great fit. Just remember to buy your ferry tickets separately and be prepared for a full, energetic day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, families comfortable with a busy schedule and short stops could find it manageable. It’s more suited for older kids or teenagers than very young children.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Malta to Sicily takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, with the tour starting shortly after arrival.

Are the stops guided?
No, the tour does not include a guide at each site, so you explore independently during your free time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some snacks or water for the day are recommended.

Is the price worth it?
Considering private transport and the three major sites covered, many find it good value, especially for small groups. However, remember that ferry tickets are extra.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a fixed itinerary, so customization isn’t offered. It’s designed for those wanting a quick overview.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, bookings are made about 43 days in advance, but earlier is advisable during peak seasons.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

If you’re after a convenient way to tick off Sicily’s highlights in a single day and don’t mind a fast pace, this tour can deliver a memorable snapshot of the island. Just weigh your preferences for guides, pace, and depth before booking.