Catania is a city that offers more than just its lively streets and baroque architecture. It’s the gateway to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, and a place where outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food collide. We love how many of these tours combine stunning natural scenery with fascinating geology—like the Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep/Van Tour, which guides you through volcanic landscapes just before sunset, offering spectacular views and tastings of local wines. Plus, with options like the Etna in 4×4 exploring lava fields and underground caves, you get a real sense of Etna’s fiery personality.
Beyond Mount Etna, Catania’s proximity to the coast and fertile lands means there’s a wealth of tours tailored to different tastes. Whether you want to hike up to the summit, enjoy a scenic boat trip with prosecco, or explore the city’s street food scene, there’s something for all. Below, we’ve rounded up the top tours, each offering a unique slice of Sicily’s diverse appeal.
1. Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep/Van Tour
At number 1, this half-day guided tour takes you across Mount Etna’s volcanic terrain in a rugged Jeep or SUV, exploring old lava flows, volcanic caves, and scenic spots. It’s rated 4.7/5 from over 1,600 reviews, which speaks to its popularity. The tour includes visits to Hornitos, a small volcano famous for ancient eruptions, and a stop at Valle del Bove for stunning photos. One of the standout features is the sunset view, where the landscape is transformed by the changing light, making it ideal for photography or just soaking in the moment.
What makes this tour special are the frequent stops for tasting local Sicilian products and wines, and its comprehensive itinerary that covers key volcanic sites. The trip is perfect for those wanting a balance of adventure and culture. Most reviews highlight the excellent guides, especially Gaetano, as a highlight. The price is around $68 per person, making it a reasonably priced way to experience Etna’s dramatic landscape.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a full package—scenic views, taste of local flavors, and a fun off-road experience—making it ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and culture.
2. Catania: Etna Morning Tour with Transfer
Slightly longer, at 6 hours, this morning trip from Catania delves into the prehistoric landscapes of Etna, walking on ancient lava flows and exploring a lava cave. It boasts a 4.9/5 rating from nearly 800 reviews, underscoring its quality. The tour includes a scenic drive through the volcano’s surroundings, with stops at Milo, Grotta delle Nevi, and Monti Sartorius for photos and exploration. The highlight is reaching 1800 meters to admire views from the extinct crater and walking among centuries-old trees and vegetation.
The trip is run with small groups, making it personable and flexible. Guides are knowledgeable, sharing the history and geology of Etna in a lively way. This tour suits active travelers who want a more in-depth experience of Etna’s natural features without intense hikes. The round-trip transfer from Catania keeps it convenient.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, well-rated morning adventure that balances scenery, geology, and local lore.
3. Etna Tour in 4×4
At number 3, this full-immersion Jeep tour allows you to explore Mount Etna’s volcanic terrain in style, with a focus on geology and underground secrets. Rated 5.0/5 from 530 reviews, it’s praised for its detailed explanations and hands-on approach. The highlight is the visit to lava fields, extinct craters, and a lava tube where you can walk through cooled lava formations with helmets and headlamps.
This tour goes beyond the surface, offering insights into the volcano’s past eruptions and current activity. The guide’s expertise, combined with the opportunity to explore the underground lava tube, makes it stand out. The cost is around $87, which is a fair value considering the depth of exploration.
Guests say: “Luca was very knowledgeable and explained everything very well,” which shows the tour’s educational edge. It suits travelers eager for a more technical understanding of Etna’s volcanic processes.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for geology enthusiasts and adventure lovers eager for an in-depth exploration of Etna’s lava tubes and craters.
4. Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour – From Taormina
For around $120, this full-day tour from Taormina combines hiking across volcanic landscapes, wine tasting, and a visit to the Alcantara Gorge. Rated 5.0/5 from 440 reviews, it’s a well-rounded experience. You’ll hike through lava fields and ancient woodland, sample regional wines at a local vineyard, and explore the stunning basalt formations of the Alcantara Gorge.
What makes this tour appealing is the balance between active outdoor time and relaxing wine tasting. The included lunch and hotel pickup make it a hassle-free day. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine as they share stories about Etna’s eruption history and Sicilian wine traditions.
Guests loved: “The combination of learning about Etna with the opportunity to taste local food and wine,” noting it’s a good value for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of nature, wine, and a taste of Sicily, with easy logistics and expert guides.
5. Mt. Etna Sunset Experience – Breathtaking Adventure from Catania
Taking you into the golden hour, this 5-hour tour offers a walk around lava flows, old craters, and a farm tasting of honey and wine. Rated 5.0/5 from 438 reviews, it’s praised for its intimate atmosphere and scenic spots. The highlight is watching the sunset over Etna from a scenic viewpoint, with ample photo opportunities.
The tour includes visits to Silvestri Craters and a local farm, with caving equipment provided for exploring lava caves. The guides are attentive, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience. The price is around $71, providing good value considering the sunset spectacle.
Guests say: “Zelia was wonderful, with so much knowledge and a sense of humor,” highlighting the engaging guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography lovers and those seeking a relaxed yet immersive sunset experience.
6. Catania: Etna Sunset Tour with Pickup and Drop-off
Rated 4.8/5 from over 700 reviews, this evening tour takes you to Silvestri Craters and Valle del Bove for sunset views. It includes stops at local snack markets and volcanic caves. The 5-hour trip offers an elegant combination of scenic drives, walks, and tastings, with pickup from several Catania locations.
The guides make the stories come alive, and the small group size ensures intimacy. Price-wise, it’s a good option for those wanting a relaxed, less physically demanding experience with stunning vistas and local flavors.
Guests mention: “Paulo was a superb guide and was so lovely when we were late,” showing the friendly, flexible nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a leisurely sunset tour that emphasizes scenery, local cuisine, and cultural insights.
7. Catania: Stunning Etna Sunset Tour with Pickup and Drop-Off
Rated 4.9/5, this sunset excursion emphasizes easy walks along extinct craters and visits to volcanic caves. It’s perfect for travelers who want a scenic but manageable outing. The tour includes scenic drives to Silvestri Craters and Piani Vetore, with stunning sunset views.
The guides’ storytelling makes the landscape come alive, and the small group size guarantees a personal touch. The route is carefully chosen for optimal sunset viewing, making it a highlight for photographers or those wanting a peaceful end to the day.
Guests rave: “Simone was the most knowledgeable guide,” and appreciated the accessible nature of the walk.
Bottom Line: An ideal sunset-focused tour for those preferring a relaxed pace with spectacular views.
8. ETNA SUNSET: GUIDED TOUR OF ETNA WITH PICKUP FROM CATANIA
Rated 5/5 with 371 reviews, this tour offers a tailored sunset experience on Etna, stopping at multiple viewpoints, including the Silvestri Craters and the Alcantara Gorge. The flexible itinerary allows for personal preferences, and expert guides share fascinating stories about Etna’s geology and traditions. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a private or semi-private experience.
The tour includes tastings of local products, making it a tasty and educational outing. Pickup from various Catania locations adds convenience.
Guests note: “Very knowledgeable and friendly,” highlighting the personal attention and customization.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a flexible, small-group sunset tour with in-depth stories and tastings.
9. From Catania: Full-Day Mount Etna and Taormina Tour
Rated 4.8/5, this 9-hour tour combines volcano exploration with a visit to the charming town of Taormina. You start with a guided hike on Mount Etna, visiting lava caves and sampling local produce, then relax in Taormina’s scenic streets. The trip includes stops at Grotta dei Tre Livelli and scenic views from the hillsides.
It’s ideal for travelers who want both active volcano adventures and leisure time in a beautiful town. The guide makes the history and geology engaging, and the inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it a good value.
Guests comment: “We had a great time and learned a lot,” emphasizing the educational aspect.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a full day of active volcano exploration combined with a relaxed afternoon in Taormina.
10. Catania: Boat Trip with Aperitif, Prosecco and Snorkeling
This 4-hour boat trip along Catania’s coast offers water fun with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a prosecco aperitif. The route passes scenic spots like Aci Trezza, Ulysses Caves, and Aci Castello, with stops for exploring underwater caves and taking photos. It’s rated 4.8/5 from over 600 reviews, showing its popularity.
The trip is a relaxing way to enjoy Sicily’s coast, with the chance to cool off and take in the views from the water. The group photo included is a nice touch. It’s best suited for travelers who want a casual, scenic water experience rather than intense adventure.
Guests say: “Make a splash with water activities and enjoy a delicious aperitif,” making it ideal for a family or romantic outing.
Bottom Line: Great for a laid-back afternoon of sailing, snorkeling, and enjoying local flavors by the sea.
11. Catania: Mount Etna Adventurous Tour with a Volcano Guide
Rated 4.7/5 from 777 reviews, this high-altitude trek takes you off the beaten path across Etna’s rugged landscape. Led by a volcano specialist, you explore lava flows, side craters, and Valle del Bove. The 7-hour trip is good for fit travelers comfortable with walking and some elevation gain.
The guide’s storytelling brings the landscape to life, and the small group size makes for a personal experience. It’s suitable for those wanting an active, educational, and immersive hike.
Guests say: “Antonio was an excellent guide blending knowledge of volcano science with landscape exploration,” which speaks to the quality of the guide and the trip.
Bottom Line: For active travelers eager to explore Etna’s wild side with a knowledgeable guide, this is a top choice.
12. From Catania: trek on Mount Etna, Lava Cave & tasting Tour
Rated 4.8/5, this 7-hour trek and cave exploration offers an immersive experience. You’ll visit lava fields, crater sites, and a lava cave with helmet and lamp, plus enjoy tastings of local honey, olive oil, and wine at a farm. It’s perfect for active travelers who love combining physical activity with culinary treats.
The tour’s highlights include the drive up to inactive craters, exploring the lava cave, and tasting authentic Sicilian products. The guide provides detailed explanations, making it educational as well as fun.
Guests rave: “Sample typical local products like honey, olive, oil, and wine at a farm,” making this a perfect combination of adventure and flavor.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a full sensory experience of Etna’s volcanic beauty and regional cuisine.
13. Catania Street Food Walking Tour and Market Adventure
Rated 5.0/5 from 306 reviews, this food-focused walking tour takes you through Catania’s bustling markets and historic streets. You’ll taste Sicilian specialties at market stalls, learn about local culinary traditions, and explore sites like Piazza del Duomo and Via dei Crociferi.
The tour is a delightful way to see the city through its flavors. The guide, Gisella, is known for her engaging storytelling and excellent selections of treats. It’s best suited for foodies or those wanting an authentic taste of Catania’s culinary scene.
Guests say: “Super knowledgeable and gave us all the history along the way,” emphasizing the educational element combined with delicious tastings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary explorers wanting insider tips on where to eat well in Catania.
14. Etna Volcano: South Side Guided Summit Hike
Rated 5.0/5, this mountain hike takes you to Etna’s summit with a volcanologist guide. The 6-hour trek includes a cable car or jeep (own expense) to 2,900 meters and a two-hour walk to the summit, passing through volcanic craters and steam vents. Proper footwear and weather-appropriate gear are essential.
Guests praise the guide’s expertise and the chance to stand on top of Europe’s most active volcano. It’s suited for travelers with good fitness levels who want a real high-altitude adventure.
Guests say: “Antonio was an excellent guide blending knowledge of volcano science with a great tour of the landscape,” showing the educational and scenic quality.
Bottom Line: A top pick for active hikers eager to reach the summit and experience Etna’s fiery core firsthand.
15. Catania: Mount Etna Morning Jeep/Van Tour
Finally, at number 15, this morning Jeep tour explores Etna’s Valle del Bove, Hornitos, and volcanic landscapes. Rated 4.7/5 from 673 reviews, it’s a convenient option to see Etna’s highlights in a half-day trip. The itinerary includes scenic drives, visits to volcanic sites, and tastings of local wines and foods.
Most reviewers appreciate the friendly guides like Gaetano and Kevin, who make the experience informative and fun. The tour’s moderate pace suits travelers seeking a manageable yet immersive visit.
Bottom Line: An accessible, well-rated tour that covers major volcanic sights with the added benefit of local tasting experiences.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Catania, consider your fitness level, interests, and available time. For an active adventure with high-altitude hikes or cave explorations, the Etna Summit Hike or Trek on Mount Etna are excellent options. If you prefer a more relaxed scenic experience paired with local food and wine tastings, the Sunset Jeep or Etna Sunset Tour with Pickup will suit you nicely.
For those wanting to combine city and volcanic exploration, the Full-Day Mount Etna and Taormina Tour offers a perfect balance, including a visit to a charming Sicilian town. If water activities appeal, the Boat Trip with Aperitif provides a relaxing sea experience with snorkeling and scenic coast views.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Etna in 4×4 or sunset excursions, as they tend to fill up during peak seasons. Think about your interest in geology, outdoor activity level, and whether you want a gourmet experience or a scenic drive—these factors will help narrow your choices.
Exploring Catania with its diverse range of tours ensures you’ll find something that fits your style and curiosity. Whether you’re after a high-energy hike, culinary adventure, or relaxing boat ride, this list offers excellent options to make your Sicilian trip unforgettable. Remember, many of these tours include hotel pickups and local tastings, so plan ahead and book early to secure your spot.
