Best of Taormina & Mt Etna (A Small-Group Tour)
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Port
Taormina, Italy
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$269.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Departing from Taormina, you’ll board a motorcoach for a panoramic drive along Sicily’s mountainous eastern coastline. You’re headed to the Crateri Silvestri and Mt Etna. Along the way, you’ll pass through the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana Etnea and enjoy some dramatic coastal views.
At Crateri Silvestri, you’ll have time to walk around the crater on your own and take in some amazing views of the summit of this great volcano that is the tallest and most active in all of Europe. It has erupted more than 130 times in recorded history. You’ll also see the town of Catania, buried by an eruption more than 300 years ago.
Reboard the coach for the scenic ride back to Taormina. An elevator will take you from the coach parking area to the city, where your walking tour begins. Get acquainted with this village perched 700 feet above the stunning Bay of Naxos. It was a famed resort even in Roman times, so you’ll easily find remnants of its Greek and Roman history in its fine medieval quarter. Castle ruins, modern shops and chic cafés invite you to explore.
See the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and the bustling Corso Umberto. The latter is the main street and is lined with former mansions, shops, and bars. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an outdoor beverage (at your own expense) while people-watching.
Your lunch is served in a fine restaurant in Taormina with a spectacular bay view.
You’ll have some free time to shop and explore on your own before returning to the ship.
Notes:
Expect crowding in Taormina. Tour requires strenuous uphill walking. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, and many steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Elevators are available to reach Taormina’s gates but, in the event of long lines, you may be required to climb approximately 140 steps. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Mt Etna is an active volcano and erupts frequently; participate at your own risk. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered regarding visibility or views on any day.