Old Sicily and Etna wine tasting tour from Taormina

If you’re after a well-rounded day that combines natural beauty, historic towns, and local flavors, the Old Sicily and Etna wine tasting tour from Taormina promises just that. Priced at around $68 per person, this eight-hour adventure offers a taste of Sicily’s rugged landscapes, lava-stone architecture, and renowned wines—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a knowledgeable guide.

What really shines about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with authentic experiences. You’ll love the stunning scenery along Mount Etna’s slopes, the chance to walk through the Alcantara Gorges, and exploring the lava-built streets of Randazzo. Plus, the wine tasting at a famous winery is a highlight, giving you a genuine taste of Sicily’s vinicultural talent.

One thing to keep in mind is that entry to the Alcantara Gorges is extra, and the tour can be a bit variable depending on your guide and coach condition. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want an engaging, relatively affordable day that hits key highlights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see Sicily’s volcanic side and enjoy local culture.

Key Points

• Natural & Historic Highlights: Visit Mount Etna’s scenic slopes, Alcantara Gorges, and a lava-built town—perfect for fans of nature and history.
• Authentic Wine Tasting: Enjoy a tasting at a renowned winery with local products, offering insight into Sicily’s wine culture.
• Comfortable Transport & Guide: Roundtrip bus service with guided commentary in multiple languages makes the day seamless.
• Flexible & Practical: Cost-effective at $67.97, with options for flexible booking and free cancellation if plans change.
• Some Extras Extra: Entry to Alcantara Gorges costs additional; plan accordingly.
• Mixed Reviews on Service: While many praise the guide, some express disappointment with slower service at the winery and coach comfort.

A Close Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The journey begins at the Bus Terminal at Via Luigi Pirandello in Taormina, where a grey-silver bus marked with SAT in red awaits. The coach is air-conditioned, offering comfort as you set off on your 8-hour adventure. We found that having a comfortable ride makes a big difference when spending hours on the road, especially on Sicily’s sometimes warm days.

The tour’s focus on the scenic drive around Mount Etna is a highlight in itself. The views of the volcano’s slopes, often with wispy clouds or volcanic craters in sight, set a dramatic scene. This part of Sicily is truly unique, with landscapes that feel both alien and beautiful.

Alcantara Gorges: Nature’s Masterpiece

The first major stop is the Alcantara Gorges, where you’ll pay an entrance fee if you choose to go inside (not included in the tour). This natural wonder features basaltic lava formations sculpted by water over centuries, creating stunning columns and cliffs. It’s a photographer’s dream and a must-see for nature lovers.

Expect to snap a few photos of the impressive gorge, with its dark, jagged rock formations contrasting against the lush greenery around. Some reviewers mention that the scenic stop is brief—about an hour—but it’s enough to appreciate the raw power of volcanic activity etched into the landscape.

Discovering Randazzo

Next, the bus takes you to Randazzo, a town built entirely from lava stone. Its streets and buildings are like a living museum of volcanic architecture. The main Cathedral, crafted from lava rock, stands proudly in the center, and guides often include anecdotes about how local buildings survived eruptions.

You’ll have some free time here, with the option of wandering the historic center or exploring the Sunday market if your visit coincides with the day. We loved the way Randazzo’s rough-hewn charm offers a tangible sense of Sicily’s volcanic past.

A guide will lead a brief sightseeing tour, pointing out details that might be missed on your own. From reviews, some visitors appreciate the guided insights, noting guides like “friendly and full of tips,” which enhances the overall experience.

Wine Tasting in Castiglione di Sicilia

The highlight for many is the wine tasting at a well-known winery in Castiglione di Sicilia. We found the tasting session to be substantial—lasting about 75 minutes—featuring local wines paired with typical Sicilian products like cheeses, cured meats, and bread.

While some travelers, like Kenneth, felt that the service was slow and the coach condition could be better, most agree that the opportunity to sample authentic wines and learn about Sicily’s wine-making heritage is worth the price. The tasting provides valuable insights into regional varieties, and the setting is often picturesque, with views of vineyards on Etna’s slopes.

Returning to Taormina

The tour wraps up early in the afternoon, returning you comfortably to the original meeting point. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, a few bottles or souvenirs, and a richer understanding of Sicily’s volcanic and cultural landscape.

Practical Details & Tips

• Entry fees: The Alcantara Gorges are not included, so plan for an extra few euros if you want to explore inside.
• Time management: The itinerary covers significant ground, so be prepared for a full, sometimes busy day.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes for walking in towns and at the gorge—terrain varies from paved streets to rocky paths.
• Weather considerations: The tour operates rain or shine, so bring a jacket or raincoat if rain is forecast.
• Language: Guides operate in English, German, and Italian, offering helpful insights in your preferred language.
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with confidence.

What Past Travelers Say

One reviewer appreciated the guide’s friendliness and wealth of tips, noting, “Our tour guide was absolutely great: friendly, explained a lot to us and gave us tips and much more,” which made the day more engaging. Conversely, another guest highlighted some frustrations, especially with slow service during the wine tasting and the coach’s condition, describing the overall experience as “not worth the money” due to these issues.

This mixed feedback underscores the importance of managing expectations—while the experience is generally enjoyable and packed with highlights, some logistical aspects could improve.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day combining natural wonders, history, and local flavors. If you’re keen on learning about volcanoes, exploring volcanic architecture, and tasting regional wines, this experience hits those marks well. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Sicily’s volcanic landscape without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips.

However, those who prioritize luxury coach comfort or very quick, high-end tastings might find some aspects less polished. It’s also worth noting that entry to Alcantara Gorges is extra, so budget accordingly if you want to explore inside.

Final Thoughts

The Old Sicily and Etna wine tasting tour from Taormina offers a solid value for those interested in Sicily’s volcanic scenery, historic towns, and authentic wine experiences. The trip’s highlights—the stunning views of Mount Etna, the lava-built streets of Randazzo, and the tasting at a renowned winery—make it a memorable day out.

While some logistics could be improved, the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery help compensate. The tour works best for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and good food and drink at a reasonable price.

If you’re looking to tick several Sicilian boxes in one day and don’t mind some variability, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Just come with an open mind, comfortable shoes, and a camera ready to capture Sicily’s volcanic magic.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip bus transportation from Taormina’s Bus Terminal is included, providing a comfortable and convenient way to explore.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a start time that varies depending on availability.

What sights will I see during this tour?
You’ll visit Mount Etna’s slopes, explore the Alcantara Gorges, wander through the lava-stone streets of Randazzo, and enjoy a wine tasting in Castiglione di Sicilia.

Are entrance fees to the Alcantara Gorges included?
No, entry to the Gorges is an additional cost that you’ll need to pay on the day if you wish to visit inside.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides operate in English, German, and Italian, so you can choose a language you’re comfortable with.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat beforehand or after the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended, especially if the weather varies or it rains.

How long is the wine tasting?
The wine tasting lasts approximately 75 minutes, including sampling local wines and products.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically geared towards children, the scenic nature and short walks could be enjoyable for families, but check with the provider for age restrictions or recommendations.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Sicily, this tour offers a convenient way to see some of the island’s most striking features and enjoy authentic local wines. Prepare for a day filled with natural beauty, historical charm, and flavorful discoveries.