About this tour
A six-hour private excursion from Messina that combines coastal exploration with Sicilian culinary discovery. You'll visit Isola Bella's crystalline waters and pebbled beach, then head to Taormina for a guided walk through its hilltop lanes lined with baroque architecture. Along the way, taste arancini at a family-run kitchen and sample seasonal produce at a traditional restaurant, learning how locals eat rather than how tourists are fed.
Highlights
- Isola Bella's turquoise waters and protected marine reserve
- Baroque streets and sea views in Taormina on foot
- Arancini tasting from a working Sicilian kitchen
- Organic food experience in a traditional restaurant
- Private vehicle with air conditioning throughout
- Expert local guide sharing regional history and stories
What to expect
Your driver collects you from accommodation in a climate-controlled car and heads toward the coast. At Isola Bella, you'll have time to swim or wade in shallow, protected waters ringed by limestone cliffs. Afterwards, climb into Taormina's compact centre on foot—expect narrow staircases, tight corners, and rewarding vistas across the Ionian Sea. Your guide points out architectural details and historical layers as you move. Mid-tour, you'll sit down to taste arancini warm from the pan, then settle into a genuine family restaurant for a meal built around what's in season. The pace is leisurely; this is about savouring rather than ticking boxes.
Good to know
Wear comfortable walking shoes for Taormina's uneven cobbles and stairs. Bring swimwear and a towel for Isola Bella. The Greek Theatre entrance fee is separate. Masks and hand sanitiser provided; service animals welcome. Suitable for all fitness levels, and infant car seats available on request.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.