Volcano Hiking & Culture in Taormina and Mount Etna
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; expect uphill hikes over rough volcanic surfaces for several hours.
Overview
Discover Mount Etna’s volcanic wonders and Taormina’s rich heritage on a 7-hour tour that blends hiking with Sicilian culture and cuisine.
Day Tour: Taormina and Etna tour "Gold of Gods"
From 100€ • For all ages • 7 hours tour • Explore the volcanic nature of Mount Etna
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 7-hour journey to Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, and the charming town of Taormina. Explore ancient villages, marvel at the Silvestri Craters, and savor local Sicilian delicacies. Experience breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, making this tour a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Discover the lunar landscapes of the largest active volcano in Europe.
Rates
- Adult (group max 30 people): 105 €
- Adult (group max 16 people): 135 €
- Adult (private tour): 165 €
- Child: 70 € (does not apply to private tours)
- Infant: Free (does not apply to private tours)
Duration
7 hours
About
Choose this Etna tour and Taormina from Messina Sicily and experience the volcanic nature of the huge Mount Etna and the fancy atmosphere of Taormina.
This is one of our most popular tours from Messina port and city center, so it is suitable even if you are traveling on a cruise ship.
On our way from Messina to Etna, we will go through many ancient villages located on the volcano slopes, and during the journey, you will get an idea about the fertility of the volcanic soil: lush vegetation made by vineyards, citrus and fruits trees are grown everywhere!
The first stop of the Etna tour is at Rifugio Sapienza, at 1.900 meters above sea level, and here you will enjoy 1.30 h visiting the “Silvestri Craters”, surrounded by the black color of the lava stone and the blue of the sky.
Before reaching Taormina we will have a stop at the Gold of Gods, a local factory on Etna slopes, where to taste Sicilian products such as honey and much more.
After having explored the beauty of Mt. Etna, in the second part of this Sicily day trip, you will visit the elegant town of Taormina, the so-called “Pearl of the Mediterranean".
You can decide to have a stroll in Corso Umberto with our guide or to enjoy your free time by yourself visiting the Greek theatre, the oldest churches and monuments, high fashion shops, restaurants, pizzerias, and pastry shops to taste the legendary Sicilian food.
More information
When there are more than 15 people on the tour, headsets will be provided so everyone can hear the commentary.
What to bring
comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, light clothes, wind jacket, umbrella.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The volcanic terrain is uneven and rocky; proper footwear ensures safety and comfort.
Bring sun protection
Sicily’s sun can be intense, especially on exposed lava fields, so wear sunscreen and a hat.
Stay hydrated
Carry ample water as natural sources are scarce near the craters.
Dress in layers
Weather can shift quickly on Etna; layers help adjust from coastal warmth to cooler elevations.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sicilian rock lizard
- Eurasian hoopoe bird
History
Mount Etna has been revered since ancient times; local mythology connects it with the forge of Vulcan, god of fire.
Conservation
Tour operations adhere to strict environmental guidelines to protect fragile volcanic ecosystems and minimize visitor impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Catania
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking boots
Supports your ankles and provides grip on volcanic rocks.
Sun hat
Protects against intense sun exposure on exposed trails.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the dry volcanic landscape.
Light windproof jacket
Useful for cooler temperatures and gusts at higher elevations.
spring specific