Private Tour in Savoca and Taormina

Sicily is a destination renowned for its stunning landscapes, historic towns, and legendary film settings. This private tour, offered by Sicily Tour with Angelo, promises an intimate and flexible way to experience some of the island’s most iconic spots, all within about six hours. While we haven’t been on this exact journey ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s well worth considering.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized attention that comes from booking a private experience, allowing you to customize your stops and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Second, the combination of cultural sights and breathtaking scenery, from Savoca’s cinematic charm to Taormina’s lively streets and the famous Isola Bella viewpoint. On the flip side, a possible consideration might be the long drive from Messina, which could be tiring for some, especially if you prefer to stay longer at each stop.

This tour appears to suit travelers who crave an authentic, flexible experience that balances history, scenery, and local flavor without the crowds of large group excursions. It’s ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience designed for a comfortable, personalized visit.
• Includes key sights like Savoca’s film-famous church and Taormina’s charming streets.
• Ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time but wanting a full, authentic taste of Sicily.
• Stunning viewpoints such as Isola Bella and the Strait of Messina enhance the visual experience.
• Cost-effective considering the private nature and inclusions like local tastings.
• Highly rated guides provide engaging and informative commentary, making every stop meaningful.

The Itinerary: A Day Filled with Highlights and Charm

Starting from Messina: A Scenic Drive to Savoca

The tour kicks off at the Messina Passenger Terminal. The roughly 50-to-60-minute drive to Savoca offers travelers a chance to relax and get a glimpse of Sicilian landscapes—think rolling hills and quaint villages. The journey itself sets the tone for an engaging day, as your guide shares snippets of local life along the way.

Savoca: The Cinema and Culture Hub

Once in Savoca, you’ll spend about an hour exploring. This small hilltop town has earned international fame as a filming location for “The Godfather”, particularly the Vitelli bar and the church—scenes with Al Pacino were shot here. Many visitors enjoy strolling its narrow streets, browsing local shops, and soaking in the quiet, authentic atmosphere.

Reviews highlight how the local shops and the church create a tangible connection to movie history, making it a memorable stop. One reviewer mentioned, “Loved going to Savoca and Taormina—more personalized than a ship excursion,” which hints at the value of a private, tailored experience.

Taormina: The Queen of Sicilian Towns

Next, about two hours are spent in Taormina, Sicily’s crown jewel for travelers. The town’s Corso Umberto is lined with shops, cafes, and historic sites, all easily explored on foot. The ancient Greek theater is a major draw and offers spectacular views of the coast and Mount Etna, if visible.

You can also indulge in local tastings—from Sicilian pastries to fresh produce—if you choose to extend your stay here. The possibility to stay longer gives you an opportunity to enjoy lunch or absorb more of the town’s artistic vibe.

The Panoramic View of Isola Bella

On the way back, the tour makes a brief stop at the “balcony”, where you can admire and photograph the Isola Bella—an iconic, rocky island just off Taormina’s coast. This quick, 10-minute stop offers some of the best photo opportunities of the day.

Messina: Panorama and Sweet Tastes

Back in Messina, the tour pauses at the Cristo Re viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the Strait of Messina. This is a great spot for photos and soaking in the maritime atmosphere.

To top off the experience, the hosts offer a taste of Sicilian treats—such as arancini, granita, or cannoli—a gesture many reviewers appreciated as authentic and friendly.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Messina Cathedral with its renowned astronomical clock—a perfect ending that combines Sicily’s architecture and playful craftsmanship.

Transportation and Timing: What You Should Expect

The entire journey is conducted in a private vehicle, allowing for a more relaxed experience and flexibility on stops and timing. The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with specific durations allocated for each stop—about one hour for Savoca, two hours in Taormina, and an hour in Messina, plus short scenic breaks.

Departure begins early, around 7:00 AM, and runs until about 6:00 PM, giving ample time to see the sights without feeling rushed. The pickup at the port is included, making logistics simple for cruise travelers or those arriving by ferry.

Cost and Value

At $160.80 per person, this private tour offers excellent value for a tailored experience. When you consider the personalized attention, private transportation, and included tastings, it’s a worthwhile investment for those wanting more than a cookie-cutter group tour.

Why This Tour Really Works: The Strengths

The high praise for guides like Angelo and Alexandra shows how much engaging, knowledgeable guides can elevate the experience. Travelers mention their friendly attitude and deep local insights, which transform sightseeing into storytelling.

The stunning views at Isola Bella and the spectacular panoramas of the Strait of Messina are repeatedly highlighted as highlights. These are the moments that stick with travelers, making the trip memorable beyond just walking through towns.

The value for money is evident, especially given the private setup. Many reviews note how this experience felt more tailored and relaxed than large group excursions, with the freedom to focus on what interested them most.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration of the drive—from Messina to Savoca, it’s about an hour. Some might find this tiring if they prefer shorter rides or more time in each location. Also, if you wish to spend more time in Taormina, you might want to extend your stay or arrange a longer visit personally.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a perfect fit for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who want a personalized, hassle-free day. It suits those interested in film history, scenic views, and authentic Sicilian towns. If you enjoy guided conversations and local tastings, you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially recommended for travelers who appreciate flexibility and independent exploration within a structured, well-organized itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as it’s a private tour with flexible timing and moderate walking.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, admission tickets are free for the sights visited, such as the church in Savoca and the Greek theater in Taormina.

Can I stay longer in Taormina?
Yes, the tour allows for the possibility of extending your time in Taormina if you wish to explore more or have lunch there.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup at the Messina port, simplifying logistics.

How long is the drive from Messina to Savoca?
Approximately 50 to 60 minutes each way, providing a scenic introduction to the countryside.

Can I get local snacks or drinks as part of the tour?
Yes, local tastings such as arancini, granita, or cannoli are offered, adding an authentic touch.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, operating hours are from April to June 2024 through June 2026, daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring an intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Savoca and Taormina combines the best of Sicily’s picturesque towns, film fame, and panoramic vistas—all delivered with a personal touch. You’ll enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace, guided by friendly locals who know the ins and outs of the area. The cost, considering the private nature and included tastings, offers good value, especially for travelers seeking a more tailored experience beyond crowded bus tours.

Ideal for cruise visitors, couples, or small groups wanting an authentic taste of Sicily, this tour promises memorable sights and stories that will stay with you long after you leave. If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the chance to experience Sicily’s charm without the rush, this could be your perfect day out.