Spend a full and delightful day exploring two medieval villages on craggy hills overlooking the sea, each setting with its own personality. After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a scenic drive south to Taormina, an ancient city that rises almost perpendicularly from the sea. It’s a beautiful setting with an alluring medieval character, as you will discover while strolling its narrow, cobblestone streets. Among the highlights are the Arabian-influenced Palazzo Corvaja and the ruins of a 2nd-century Greek theater. It sits on a seaside hilltop with a view of Mount Etna that is so inspiring that it can detract from the entertainers that still perform there in the summer. After visiting, you will enjoy free time to explore on your own, taking in the views from the fragrant public garden or shopping along boutique-lined Corso Umberto. The most popular merchandise includes designer fashions, jewelry and colorful ceramic pine cones, a Sicilian symbol of hospitality.A bit farther inland and above Taormina, you will find the village of Castelmola, which arguably boasts even better views. Although first fortified in the 9th century, Castelmola was repeatedly attacked and the ruins of the castle that remain are from the 16th century.Like Taormina, Castelmola is wonderfully atmospheric with cobblestone streets and lovely squares flanked by small shops. Still, it’s the breathtaking views that will linger long in your memory. Before returning to the pier, you will enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch and perhaps a glass of almond-flavored wine, the local specialty.

Explore the timeless city of Taormina with approximately two hours on your own to do as you wish. You’ll enjoy a scenic transfer along a winding road to Taormina, a town graced with an extraordinary natural setting and an evocative medieval character. You might stroll to the exquisite Palazzo Corvaja, a beautifully ornate building whose construction began in the 15th century and which bears Arabic, Norman and Gothic influences. Wander to the Greco-Roman theater, an architectural treasure that dates back to the 3rd century BC, a reminder of how long Taormina has been a vibrant city and a superlative spot from which to take in a breathtaking panorama of Taormina, the glittering Mediterranean and striking Mount Etna in the distance. Perhaps shop along Corso Umberto, the town’s main commercial street, and wander the quaint jumble of elegant homes and picture-perfect churches, a reminder that for centuries Taormina has fascinated poets and artists much as it will inspire you today.

Delve into dazzling Taormina on a guided walking tour of this ancient seaside city. You will appreciate a scenic drive along a winding road to Taormina, a town graced with an extraordinary natural setting and an evocative medieval character. Stroll past the exquisite Palazzo Corvaja, a beautifully ornate building whose construction began in the 15th century and which bears Arabic, Norman and Gothic influences. Gaze at the Greek theater, an architectural treasure that dates back to the 3rd century BC, a reminder of how long Taormina has been a vibrant city. You will learn that the theater was rebuilt by the Romans in the 2nd century and is still in use today for summer performances. While roaming the fascinating remains of the auditorium, see that its placement on the slope of a steep promontory offers what some consider to be one of the best views in all of Italy, a breathtaking panorama of Taormina, the glittering Mediterranean and striking Mount Etna in the distance. You'll descend to lively Corso Umberto, the town's main commercial street, and wander its quaint jumble of elegant homes and picture-perfect churches, an appealing meld of the old and new that perfectly captures Taormina enduring spirit.

Capture a seemingly endless array of memorable pictures on this guided coach and walking tour of Taormina and Mount Etna. In Taormina, you'll stroll past the exquisite Palazzo Corvaja, a beautifully ornate building whose construction began in the 15th century and which bears Arabic, Norman and Gothic influences. See the Greek theater, an architectural treasure that dates back to the 3rd century BC, a reminder of how long Taormina has been a vibrant city. You'll learn that the theater was rebuilt by the Romans in the 2nd century and is still in use today for summer performances. While roaming the fascinating remains of the auditorium, realize that its placement on the slope of a steep promontory offers what some consider to be one of the best views in all of Italy, a breathtaking panorama of Taormina, the glittering Mediterranean and volcanic Mount Etna in the distance. Before you journey to the iconic volcano, you'll stop for a relaxing lunch of Sicilian specialties at a local restaurant. Brace yourself for an exceptional climb by coach up winding roadways and past mountain villages to one of Etna's awe-inspiring craters, where the full majesty of Sicily's natural wonders is on glorious display.

Conquer Mount Etna via coach, cable car and 4x4 mini-buses on this epic adventure. You’ll agree the vista-filled ascent to Etna’s summit along circuitous roads past charming mountain villages and through barren, rocky landscapes is almost as remarkable as the volcano itself. Arriving at the inactive Silvestri craters, more than 6,000 feet above sea level, you’ll discern numerous remnants of lava streams from previous eruptions coating the craters’ slopes. From your fabulous perch, you’ll revel in seemingly endless vistas of the shimmering Gulf of Catania and the surrounding fertile, volcanic landscape, today protected as the island’s first national park. If you wish, shop for souvenirs before boarding a cable car to the base of the main craters, enjoying sweeping views of the eminent mountain as you ascend. You’ll transfer to specially-outfitted 4x4 mini-buses that will convey you to formidable craters found at a height of over 9,500 feet above sea level. Accompanied by a professional alpine guide, explore the exhilarating volcanic phenomena up close, perhaps opting to take a 20-minute walk to view the most recent lava flow. On this unforgettable tour, allow the unbridled, primal beauty of Mount Etna to stir your soul.

Behold dormant craters atop Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano and one of Earth’s most astonishing natural wonders. You’ll agree the vista-filled ascent to Etna’s summit along circuitous roads past charming mountain villages and through barren, rocky landscapes is almost as remarkable as the volcano itself. Learn that Etna has had a profound impact on the region through the ages, from the Greek’s belief that it was the workshop of Hephaestus, god of fire, to the catastrophe of 1669, when several villages and part of Catania were subsumed by lava. Arriving at the inactive Silvestri craters, more than 6,000 feet above sea level, you’ll discern numerous remnants of lava streams from previous eruptions coating the craters’ slopes. From your fabulous perch, you’ll revel in seemingly endless vistas of the shimmering Gulf of Catania and the surrounding fertile, volcanic landscape, today protected as the island’s first national park. As you stand atop one of nature’s most powerful agents of change, contemplate the indelible impact of Mount Etna’s wrath on the civilizations of the Mediterranean.

Admire captivating rock formations born from lava streams as you travel along the Cyclops Riviera and stroll through lovely Catania on a guided walking tour. You’ll drive through tiny Aci Castello, viewing a Norman castle built from black lava, and in the hillside town of Acireale, a magnificent Gothic cathedral. Looking out to sea, behold the amazing Isole dei Ciclopi, jagged offshore islets said to have been broken off Mount Etna by the Cyclops of Homeric myth and flung into the sea to stop Ulysses and his men from escaping in their ships. Back in Catania, drive past compelling sights such as the Piazza Verga and Piazza Stesicoro before embarking on your walking tour. Begin in stunning Piazza del Duomo, Catania’s central square, which is renowned for its unusual black lava Elephant Fountain, now the city’s symbol, and surrounded by the impressive 18th-century Municipio as well as numerous ornate university buildings. As you stroll alluring streets, you’ll notice that 17th-century architect Giovanni Vaccarini used black lava in the construction of many of the striking buildings, a readily available material when the city was grandly rebuilt after the earthquake of 1693.

Sicily is Italy's third most important wine and food destination after Tuscany and Piedmont. The distinct flavor of Sicily's wine is due to the volcanic soil from Mt. Etna, the smoldering volcano that rises nearly 11,000 feet above the sea. Depart the pier with your guide for a brief drive through the town of Catania, founded by Greek colonizers in the 8th century BC. You will continue on to Linguaglossa, located inside Mt Etna Park over the Alcantara river. The remarkably well-preserved Linguaglossa is one of the most attractive Etna's villages built mainly of black volcanic stone.- Upon arrival, you will visit the main square and Cathedral, constructed in the early-17th century. After a stop at a famous local patisserie near the Cathedral Square for a refreshing pistachio gelato, you will continue on to the Gambino Estate. Its lands extend from the northern foothills of Mt. Etna at about 2,300 feet above sea level. The site of ancient volcanic eruptions, these lands are now extremely fertile, and continue down as far as the alluvial beds of the Alcantara River. You will tour the vineyard and cellar, then have an opportunity to taste their wines, which will be accompanied by some local delicacies.

Experience the best of the Mount Etna region with a visit to the soaring volcano, a tasting at an illustrious winery and a traditional Sicilian lunch. Enjoy an arresting drive to Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, reaching an altitude of more than 6,000 feet above sea level, where you’ll discern numerous remnants of lava streams from previous eruptions coating the volcano’s slopes. From your fabulous perch, revel in seemingly endless vistas of the surrounding fertile, volcanic landscape and the shimmering sea beyond. Descend to Tenuta San Michele, a distinguished winery that takes full advantage of the region’s ideal micro-climate of cold winters, temperate summers and abundant rain. You’ll learn the quality of the region’s grapes is further enhanced by the lava soil, which is rich in potassium and mineral salts. Join your friendly hosts for a tasting of the estate’s best vintages enhanced by informative descriptions of the day’s selections. Cap your eye-opening exploration with a satisfying typical Sicilian lunch accompanied by local wines, a perfect encapsulation of what makes Sicily a bucket-list destination for food lovers the world over.

OVERVIEW

Cruise along the eastern shore of Sicily with Mt. Etna always looming in distance and admire the gorgeous coastal scenery the entire way. You will embark at Giardini Naxos, an elegant city that was once nothing more than a fishing village. As you cruise north through the brilliant blue waters of the Ionian Sea, you will soon pass the inspiring statue of Nike – the goddess of victory – that towers above Capo Schisò and see the remains of ancient stone walls that were built to protect Giardini Naxos. On the approach to Taormina, you will be awed by the beauty of the sea caves along the craggy cliffs and San Domenico Palace, a five-star hotel that was originally a 14th-century convent. As a bonus, you can swim in the sea or remain onboard and toast the cruise experience with a glass of prosecco and a sweet cannoli.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the Ionian Sea between Giardini Naxos and Taormina.
• Behold Mt. Etna – Europe’s highest active volcano – looming in the distance at all times.
• Pass the statue of Nike at Giardini Naxos and several sea caves near Taormina.
• Enjoy a tasty cannoli and a glass of prosecco onboard.
• Swim in the Ionian Sea, if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Sample Sicily’s world-renowned wines at the esteemed Tenuta San Michele winery, which nestles on the fertile lands at the base of Mount Etna. You’ll appreciate a scenic journey through the verdant farmlands and vineyards of eastern Sicily to Tenuta San Michele, a distinguished winery that takes full advantage of the region’s ideal micro-climate of cold winters, temperate summers and abundant rain. You’ll learn the quality of the region’s grapes is further enhanced by the lava soil, which is rich in potassium and mineral salts. Once at the estate, cherish wonderful panoramas of the surrounding landscape afforded by the high elevation. Discover the estate sprawls over 62 acres distributed across large terraces, on which unique Etna varietals are grown, including nerello Mascalese, nerello cappuccio, carricante and catarratto. Join your friendly hosts for a tasting of the estate’s best vintages, enhanced by informative descriptions of the day’s selections. Sip on these opulent and unexpected rewards of Mount Etna’s eruptions and toast your buona fortuna. 

OVERVIEW

Spend hours relaxing however you please on the beach that rims Giardini Naxos, a delightful resort town that was founded in the 8th century B.C. as the first Greek settlement in Sicily. The beach is more than two miles long so it will be easy to find your own slice of paradise, whether you are looking for a private spot or a busier area. The consistency of the beach at Giardini Naxos varies from fine golden sand to pebbly sand, but no matter where you are dropped off, waterfront restaurants and shops will be close at hand. Once you settle in, you will be free to enjoy a refreshing swim in the Ionian Sea, stretch out on a blanket and bask in the sun and stroll the lengthy shoreline without a care in the world. Mountains loom behind the city offering a picture-perfect setting and a popular promenade follows the coast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Relax on the lengthy beach at Giardini Naxos, a popular resort town on the Ionian Sea.
• Spend hours doing whatever you please with no schedule to follow other than your own.
• Take advantage of nearby amenities that include dining and shopping.
• Stroll along the promenade that runs along the coast if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.