Little Nino will guide you through a beautiful, fun-filled, and unforgettable day?perfect for the whole family, including children and small pets.

Why Take This Tour?

This tour offers an extraordinary chance to blend adventure, nature, and culture, discovering two of Sicily's most spectacular destinations: Mount Etna and Taormina. Starting from Campofelice di Roccella, you can explore these iconic locations independently or join a guided excursion, making it an ideal experience for those seeking to enjoy the wonders of the island in just one memorable day.

Why Visit Mount Etna?

Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, offers a truly unique experience. Visiting Etna means immersing yourself in awe-inspiring lunar landscapes, hiking across ancient lava fields, exploring fascinating lava caves, and enjoying stunning panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the sea. It?s an unmatched opportunity to witness the immense power of nature and appreciate the volcanic history that has shaped Sicily over thousands of years.

Why Visit Taormina?

Taormina is Sicily's jewel, renowned for its charming historic center and the magnificent Ancient Greek Theater, which offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Strolling along the bustling Corso Umberto, you?ll discover elegant boutiques, picturesque squares, and authentic Sicilian cuisine. Taormina perfectly blends history, culture, and scenic beauty, promising an unforgettable visit that captures the essence of Sicily.

For this day trip to Etna and Taormina, you have two options: you can either explore on your own with a private car, or join an organized guided excursion.

? Option 1: Self-Drive Tour

Departure: Case Vacanze Mare Nostrum

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?1st stop ETNA

?? Suggested Itinerary:

Rifugio Sapienza (Mount Etna ? South side)

• Distance: Approx. 180 km, around 2 hours and 30 minutes driving.
• Activities:
• Walk around the Silvestri Craters
• Optional cable-car and 4x4 jeep excursion up to 2,900 meters
• Exploration of a lava cave
• Recommendations: Wear hiking shoes and bring a windproof jacket, even in summer.

???Google Maps: Follow exactly this link to reach a convenient location where you can park your car for free.

The Rifugio Sapienza is the main access point for exploring Mount Etna's southern slope and serves as the starting point for the Etna cable car. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,910 meters, it offers a range of services to enhance your visit.

?? What to See

• Silvestri Craters: Just a short walk from the parking area, these craters formed during the 1892 eruption and are easily accessible. They provide a unique opportunity to observe volcanic formations up close.

?? Dining and Refreshments

• Cafés and Restaurants: Several establishments offer breakfast, lunch, and snacks, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine before or after your excursion.

?? Souvenir Shopping

• Lava Stone Crafts: Souvenir shops in the area sell unique items crafted from volcanic lava, such as jewelry, sculptures, and other mementos. Even if you don't plan to purchase anything, browsing these shops provides insight into local craftsmanship.

? Amenities

• Restroom Facilities: Available for visitors' convenience.
• Equipment Rental: If you're not adequately equipped for the mountain environment, rental services for hiking shoes and warm clothing are available.

? How to Take the Mount Etna Cable Car (optional)

The Etna Cable Car ("Funivia dell?Etna") is the easiest and most scenic way to explore Mount Etna, allowing you to comfortably ascend to an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters.

The cable car station is located at Rifugio Sapienza (1,920 meters elevation) on the southern slope of Mount Etna. Easily reachable by car via Provincial Road SP92 from Nicolosi.

?? Prices and Ticket Options:

1. Cable Car Only (up to 2,500 meters)

• Adults: ?50
• Children (5?10 years): ?30
• Children (0?4 years): Free
• Duration: Approximately 15 minutes

This option takes you to the upper cable-car station, offering stunning panoramic views and easy access to walking trails.

Once you reach the top, you'll find restroom facilities, a bar, and a rental point for hiking shoes and warm clothing, in case you're not fully equipped for the high-altitude conditions.

2. Cable Car + 4x4 Bus (up to 2,920 meters)

• Adults: ?78
• Children (5?10 years): ?50
• Children (0?4 years): Free
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours (including guided walk)

This option includes an additional ascent from the cable car's top station by 4x4 vehicles to 2,920 meters, followed by a guided walk around the fascinating Barbagallo craters.

? Opening Hours:

• Opening time: 08:30
• Last ascent: 15:30
• Last descent: 17:30

Note: Hours can vary based on season and weather conditions.

? Recommendations:

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
• Bring a windproof jacket, even in summer.
• Check weather and volcanic activity conditions before visiting.

There are several cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy breakfast or grab a quick meal.

You'll also find a shopping area with souvenir stores selling crafts made with volcanic lava dust?even if you don?t plan to buy anything, it?s definitely worth browsing and taking a stroll through these unique shops.

????????????? 2nd Stop: TAORMINA

Distance: Approx. 60 km, about 1 hour driving from Mount Etna.

? Important Note on Access:

Driving into the center of Taormina is not permitted for non-residents. You will need to park your car in a designated parking area and continue on foot or by shuttle.

We recommend using the "Parcheggio Lumbi", a large, well-organized parking facility just outside the town. It offers a free shuttle service that will take you directly to the heart of Taormina in just a few minutes.

? https://maps.app.goo.gl/pREoEmv9EBNySfn39

• When you arrive at the entrance barrier, you?ll receive a ticket from the machine.
• Take this ticket with you ? do not leave it in the car.
• Before returning to your vehicle, you will need to pay at the self-service machines located in the parking facility.

? What Makes Taormina Special

Taormina is one of Sicily?s most prestigious and exclusive destinations. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, it has long attracted celebrities, artists, and travelers from all over the world. It?s known for its elegance, charm, and VIP atmosphere, which is reflected in prices?restaurants, cafés, and shops here can be more expensive compared to other Sicilian towns.

Taormina also hosts several international events, including the renowned Taormina Film Festival, prestigious classical music concerts, theater performances, and cultural exhibitions at the Greek Theater and beyond.

? Main Attractions in Taormina

Here?s what you can visit during your time in the city:

• ? Ancient Greek Theater (Teatro Antico di Taormina)
• A stunning, well-preserved open-air theater with sweeping views of the sea and Mount Etna. It?s still used for performances today.
• ?? Corso Umberto
• The main pedestrian street lined with boutiques, gelaterias, art galleries, jewelry shops, and elegant cafés. Perfect for a relaxed stroll and people-watching.
• ? Villa Comunale (Public Gardens)
• A peaceful oasis with lush vegetation, panoramic terraces, and unique architectural follies built by Lady Florence Trevelyan.
• ?? Isola Bella
• A tiny island connected to the mainland by a strip of beach. Great for a walk or relaxing by the sea. Accessible by funicular from the city center to Mazzarò.
• ? Piazza IX Aprile & Church of San Giuseppe
• One of the most scenic town squares in Sicily, with dramatic views and a charming baroque church.
• ?? Palazzo Corvaja
• A medieval palace and former parliament building, now housing exhibitions and cultural events.
• ?? Naumachia and other Roman ruins
• Ancient Roman walls and remnants scattered around the town, adding a layer of historical depth to your visit.

?? Dinner:

Treat yourself to a memorable meal in a restaurant with a panoramic view of Mount Etna, the Ionian coast, or the rooftops of Taormina. From fresh seafood to gourmet Sicilian cuisine, the food here is as refined as the setting.

Note: As Taormina is a luxury destination, prices at restaurants and shops may be higher than in other Sicilian towns. But the setting and experience are often well worth it.

? Return:

Drive back to Campofelice di Roccella ? approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

? Option 2: Guided Tour (Etna & Taormina)

For those who prefer a comfortable, all-inclusive day trip, this guided tour is a perfect choice. It allows you to visit Mount Etna and Taormina in one day, without the stress of driving or organizing logistics.

? Meeting Point & Schedule

• Meeting time: 06:50 AM
• Meeting point: Q8 Gas Station, Campofelice di Roccella
• Google Maps - Q8 Campofelice
• Return: Same location in the late afternoon or early evening

?? Tour Itinerary

• Departure from Cefalù area (with pickup in Campofelice)
• Travel to Mount Etna, Europe?s highest active volcano
• Enjoy breathtaking views during the scenic drive
• Stop at 2,000 meters altitude, at Rifugio Sapienza
• Visit the extinct Silvestri Craters
• Optional ascent to 3,000 meters via cable car + 4x4 jeep with alpine guide (ticket not included)
• Free time to explore and enjoy the volcano area

? Please bring warm clothing and walking shoes, even in summer!

• After Etna, continue to the glamorous Taormina, known as the Pearl of Sicily
• Optional visit to the Greek-Roman Theater (entrance ticket not included)
• Free time for lunch, shopping, or strolling along Corso Umberto
• Return to Campofelice via Messina in the late afternoon

? Tour Rates:

• Adults: ?70.00
• Children (ages 3?12): ?35.00
• Infants (ages 0?3): Free

(Prices may not include cable car or theater admission)

? Availability:

• Operates only during summer months
• Every Wednesday, from June to October