Taormina Savoca and Castelmola Day Tour with Brunch Catania

Savoca, the medieval village

Savoca is a small medieval village clinging to a hillside above the Ionian coast, with steep lanes, stone houses and a quiet atmosphere that feels far from the coast's crowds. It has appeared as a location in a famous film, which is one reason many visitors add it to a Sicily itinerary. Its narrow streets and old churches are a pleasure to walk.

The village is also known for the catacombs of the Cappuccini convent, where the mummified bodies of monks and local nobles are displayed. The visit is short and unusual, and entrance fees are paid on site, not included in the tour. You have about an hour in Savoca, which is enough to walk the main streets, visit the catacombs if you wish and try a Sicilian granita in a cafe.

Castelmola, the village between sky and sea

Castelmola sits on a peak high above Taormina, so it feels suspended between the sky and the sea. From its central square, Piazza Sant'Antonio, you look out over Mount Etna on one side and the Ionian Sea on the other. The ruins of a small castle stand above the village, and the lanes below are lined with small shops selling souvenirs, lace and embroidery made by local women.

Brunch is served here in a local venue and is made of typical Sicilian products such as bruschette and pasta alla norma, with water. It is a good moment to slow down. If you are looking for a place to eat in Castelmola, the tour arranges it for you. Allow about an hour of walking and an hour for the meal.

Taormina and the Greek Theatre

Taormina is the most famous town on Sicily's east coast, built on a terrace above the sea. You spend about two hours there at your own pace. Walk along Corso Umberto, the main street, past the cathedral and through the old town gates, and enjoy the view of the bay of Capo Taormina from the terraces.

The Greek Theatre, built in the third century BC and later enlarged by the Romans, is the town's highlight, with a stage framed by the sea and Mount Etna. Entrance is not included, so you pay at the gate if you want to enter. Many visitors ask what to do in Taormina with limited time, and the theatre, Corso Umberto and a coffee with a view are the classic answer.

The day from Catania: transport, brunch and timing

The tour leaves Catania at around 8:30 with pickup from your accommodation, in an air-conditioned vehicle of up to eight seats. The driver speaks English and takes you between the three towns, with an online brochure and maps to help you find your way. The full day lasts about eight to nine hours.

Because the driver does not act as a tour guide, entrance fees and any guided visits are separate. The itinerary runs Savoca, Castelmola with brunch, then Taormina in the afternoon, and the return drive to Catania takes about an hour. Time in each town is flexible according to the day's traffic and weather.