Private Excursion to Taormina from Catania on the ways of the Godfather

Traveling through Sicily offers a blend of stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and cinematic history. This private tour takes you from Catania to visit the charming town of Savoca—famous for scenes from The Godfather—and the picture-perfect town of Taormina, with its Greek-Roman theater and winding alleys. It’s a well-rounded option for those looking to combine scenic drives, cultural stops, and a touch of Hollywood magic in a manageable 5-6 hour trip.

What we really love about this experience is how personalized it feels. With private transportation and the option to include a knowledgeable guide, you’re not just bouncing around on a big group tour. Another highlight is the chance to explore film-famous spots like Bar Vitelli, giving a little bit of movie history added depth to your journey. However, a possible consideration is that entrance fees—like the Greek theater in Taormina—are not included, so budget accordingly.

This trip suits travelers who want a leisurely, authentic taste of Sicily with flexibility and local insights. Whether you’re a film lover, history buff, or simply after stunning coastal views, this excursion offers a balanced mix of all three.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures comfort and flexibility
• Highlights include Savoca, the filming location of iconic Godfather scenes
• Includes free time in Taormina, one of Sicily’s most picturesque towns
• No guide included by default, but optional guides are available for a fee
• Entrance fees (like Greek theater tickets) are paid separately by travelers
• Approximately 5-6 hours, making it a convenient day trip from Catania

An In-Depth Look at This Sicilian Journey

Starting Point: From Catania to Savoca and Taormina

The tour kicks off with pick-up at your chosen location in Catania or the cruise terminal—flexibility is a big plus here. Depending on your group size, you’ll travel in either a private car or minivan, which means plenty of room for luggage or comfort. The drive from Catania to Taormina is about 50 km, roughly an hour’s ride, with scenic views along the way that set the tone for the day.

Savoca: A Small Village with Hollywood Fame

The first major stop is Savoca, a quaint hilltop village with fewer than 2,000 residents. Travelers love the way this tiny town feels like stepping back in time—no modern chaos here, just old lava stone buildings and citrus groves. As one reviewer pointed out, Savoca “offers a lot to travelers who visit,” despite its size, thanks to its cinematic fame and charm.

Here, you’ll get a chance to visit Bar Vitelli, the film set of the famous scene where Michael Corleone asks for a date. Many visitors appreciate this stop for the chance to snap photos and soak in the atmosphere of a rustic Sicilian village. One guest remarked that Savoca offers “a return to the past—little cars, little chaos, and old buildings surrounded by the stunning Gulf of Taormina.”

For those interested, it’s possible to visit Castelmola instead of Savoca—a medieval town perched above Taormina—adding another layer of medieval charm, if you prefer a different flavor of Sicilian history.

The Movie Connection and Authentic Charm

Savoca is not just about The Godfather scenes; it’s also recognized as one of Italy’s “most beautiful villages,” with art, vineyards, and olive groves. Visitors frequently comment on how the town’s quiet serenity provides a glimpse into authentic Sicilian life, far from tourist-packed spots.

Taormina: The Pearl of the Mediterranean

After soaking in the rustic charm of Savoca, the tour continues toward Taormina, often called Sicily’s “pearl.” The town’s reputation is well-earned—the views from above are jaw-dropping, with the Ionian Sea stretching out to the horizon. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore on foot, with stops at Palazzo Corvaja, the belvedere, and along Corso Umberto, a lively street filled with shops, cafes, and vibrant Sicilian life.

While entrance to the Greek Theater isn’t included, it’s definitely worth prioritizing if you’re a history or architecture enthusiast. From many reviews, the theater’s ancient ruins and panoramic views are a highlight. Visitors often mention that “the Greek theater is a must-see,” and “you’ll love the views from the top,” providing picture-perfect moments.

Optional Guided Tour: Why Consider It?

Most of the itinerary is independent, giving you freedom to explore at your own pace. However, an optional guide can be booked for an additional fee (around €180). Having a local guide means richer stories about Sicily’s history, the filming locations, and tips on where to eat and shop. Several reviewers appreciated guides like Salvo and Lorenzo, praising them for bringing the local history to life and enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Lunch, Entrance Fees, and Personal Expenses

Keep in mind that lunch and entrance fees are on you. The Greek theater, for example, is a paid attraction, and most travelers budget extra for it. Many mention that Taormina offers fantastic restaurants and cafes, so you could easily spend extra to sample Sicilian cuisine or pick up souvenirs.

Timing and Pacing

With a total duration of around 5 to 6 hours, the tour is paced comfortably—enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Reviews highlight that the drive through the mountains provides stunning vistas, making the journey as memorable as the stops themselves. One guest noted how Valentino, the driver and licensed guide, made the ride special with his local insights and friendly attitude.

Value for Money

At just over $200 per person, this tour offers a personalized experience, flexibility, and visits to some of Sicily’s most beloved spots. While entrance fees and meals aren’t included, the value lies in the convenience of private transportation, local insights, and the ability to tailor your time in each location. For travelers who prefer avoiding crowded tours and want a more intimate look at Sicily, this experience hits the right notes.

What the Reviews Say

• Guests rave about guides like Lorenzo, Salvo, and Valentino, who bring warmth, knowledge, and humor to the trip.
• Many mention that Savoca is a highlight, with one guest saying it “might be the highlight of their two-week trip.”
• Taormina’s Greek theater is repeatedly called “a must-see,” with stunning views making the entrance fee worthwhile.
• The quiet, authentic atmosphere of Savoca and the scenic drive make this tour memorable.
• Some reviewers appreciated the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing them to enjoy cafes, shopping, or simply relax and take in the scenery.

The Sum Up

This private tour is a wonderful way to experience Sicily’s cinematic, historical, and scenic highlights without the hassle of managing transportation or large groups. It combines the charm of Savoca with the glamour of Taormina, offering a balanced mix of film history, local culture, and spectacular views. The option to include guides makes it adaptable for those wanting a deeper understanding or simply a relaxed day exploring at their own pace.

Perfect for travelers who value personalized service, authentic Sicilian towns, and stunning coastal vistas, this experience is especially suited for those who appreciate cultural stories and scenic drives. It’s also ideal if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Sicily’s iconic spots in one day.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively your group. You can book it as a private experience, which means no large crowds or rushed schedules.

Can I include a guide?
Guides are optional and can be booked for around €180. Having a guide enriches the experience with local stories and context.

What attractions are included?
You’ll visit Savoca’s Bar Vitelli, the film-famous scenes, and have free time in Taormina to explore on your own. Entrance to the Greek theater and other sites are not included.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 5 to 6 hours, from pick-up to return, making it a manageable, full-day experience.

What is the transportation like?
Depending on your group size, you’ll travel in a private car or minivan, providing comfort and flexibility.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have the chance to buy lunch in Taormina or enjoy small bites in Savoca.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the relaxed pace and private transport make it suitable for all ages, though walking up and down some historic sites may require moderate effort.

In short, this private Sicilian tour offers a thoughtful, scenic, and cinematic journey perfect for those wanting to enjoy authentic towns, stunning vistas, and a touch of Hollywood history—all in a flexible, comfortable setting.