Taormina’s charm isn’t just in its ancient streets and stunning vistas—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. Its local markets, family-run wineries, and traditional eateries offer authentic flavors you can’t find in tourist traps. Among these options, we especially appreciate tours that combine exquisite regional wines with Sicilian delicacies or those that offer a genuine look at local life, like the private wine tasting on Etna or the guided street food tour. Whether you’re after a luxury experience or a budget-friendly tasting, Taormina’s food scene won’t disappoint. For a comprehensive taste of Sicily’s culinary treasures, these tours give you a real sense of place, with plenty of opportunities to learn, sample, and enjoy.
Quick Overview
This list features ten of the best food tours in Taormina, ranging from private vineyard visits and multi-day culinary journeys to short walking tastings. You’ll find options focused on Etna’s volcanic wines, local street food, countryside farmhouses, and even combined cultural and food experiences. Some tours offer full-day immersion, like the 8-day Sicily food & wine tour, while others provide shorter, intimate walks through Taormina’s historic streets. Each offers a different way to experience Sicily’s incredible cuisine, making it easier to pick one that matches your interests and schedule.
1. Private 6-Hour Tour of Three Etna Wineries with Food & Wine Tasting
At number 1, this private wine tour takes you through three distinct wineries on Mount Etna, famous for its volcanic terroir that produces vibrant reds, whites, and rosés. For six hours, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, stopping at family-run wineries where you’ll taste wines infused with Mount Etna’s volcanic minerals. The tour includes plenty of regional gastronomic delicacies—cheeses, salami, and other Sicilian treats—paired perfectly with your tastings.
This experience is praised for its personalized approach and deep regional insights. Guests note the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the variety of wines they sampled—highlighting the “fabulous” hospitality and “delicious food.” The tour is priced at $359.16 per person, which is a fair value considering the all-inclusive food, wine, and transportation. If you’re keen to explore Sicily’s volcanic wine heritage in an intimate setting, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Etna’s vineyards, with a focus on regional flavors and a personal touch.
2. Private tour of Etna and Winery Visit with Food and Wine Tasting from Taormina
Number 2 offers a luxurious, private exploration of Mount Etna, led by your own guide in a comfortable car. This tour emphasizes scenic drives through mountain villages and includes a stop at a local honey shop to taste volcanic honey, cheeses, and olive oils. The highlight is ascending Mount Etna to the Rifugio Sapienza, where you can visit Silvestri Craters and enjoy panoramic views.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizable itinerary and the inclusion of a local honey tasting, giving a true taste of Sicily’s natural bounty. Guests rave about guide Alessandro’s knowledge and the variety of activities, from crater visits to wine tasting at a local winery. For $387.24, it offers a comprehensive experience suitable for those wanting to combine adventure, nature, and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible tour that mixes mountain scenery, local produce, and wine in one day.
3. Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour (Small Group or Private)
Number 3 is a culinary journey through Etna’s scenic countryside, offered either as a small group or private experience. It starts with a hotel pickup and takes you via scenic villages, highlighting lava-stone architecture and vineyard views. The tour includes a visit to a family-run winery for tastings of Etna wines paired with cheeses, salami, and olives.
What makes this tour appealing is its authentic, hands-on approach—you visit a working winery and an antique farmhouse for tastings. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the delicious local food. Priced at $184.90, it’s a more affordable way to enjoy Sicily’s countryside and sample regional specialties.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a more intimate, relaxed experience with plenty of tastings and authentic charm.
4. Etna Panoramic Private Tour + Wine Taste & Food Combination (AMAZING)
Number 4 provides a private, panoramic exploration of Mount Etna. Starting with pickup from your accommodation, the tour visits Zafferana Etnea, famous for its honey, and the Silvestri Craters. The highlight is the easy trek around the craters, with optional cable car ascent to 2900 meters at an extra cost. The tour also includes tastings of local liquors and wines, paired with regional delicacies like honey and oils.
What makes this tour truly special is the spectacular views combined with food and wine tastings at key stops. Reviews highlight the expert guide Sergio, who shares passionate insights and local secrets. At $229.28, it offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting breathtaking views combined with food and wine in a luxury private setting.
5. Taormina Food and Wine Walking Tour (Small Group or Private)
Number 5 is a short but flavorful walking experience through Taormina’s historic streets. Starting in the evening, it takes you to three different venues, sampling fresh seafood, Sicilian wines, and local sweets. Your guide will share stories of Taormina’s culinary traditions and introduce you to local chefs and vendors.
Guests love it for its small-group intimacy and the variety of tastings packed into just a few hours. At $105.46 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic Sicilian bites paired with Prosecco and local liqueurs.
Bottom Line: A perfect evening introduction to Taormina’s culinary scene with a relaxed pace and authentic atmosphere.
6. 8 Days Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily
Number 6 is the ultimate multi-day culinary adventure. Spanning eight days, this tour visits farmhouses, markets, wineries, and street stalls in Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo. It includes five lunches, two dinners, and seven specialized experiences, all led by a passionate foodie guide. Accommodation is at 4-star hotels, ensuring comfort after busy days sampling Sicily’s best.
Reviewers highlight the personalized insights and varied experiences—from olive oil tastings to pastry bars. The price, $3,083.18, might seem steep, but it’s a comprehensive, all-inclusive immersion into Sicily’s culinary culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for devoted food travelers wanting an in-depth, multi-day exploration.
7. 3 Days Tours Offer: Etna Wine; Taormina Food & Wine; Godfather
Number 7 groups together three distinct experiences—a food and wine walk in Taormina, a Godbather-themed tour including film locations, and the Etna wine tour. It’s designed for travelers who want variety and convenience—saving money and time.
The Taormina walk includes sampling seafood and local cheeses in historic venues. The Godbather tour taps into Sicily’s cinematic fame. The Etna winery visit combines mountain scenery and wine tasting. For $341.40, it’s a great way to sample multiple facets of Sicily’s food and culture without booking separate trips.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a multi-faceted experience and limited time.
8. Taste of Sicily: Taormina, Messina + Sicilian Street Food Tasting
Number 8 offers a full-day experience that combines city exploration and street food. Starting with a guided visit of Messina, tasting arancini and cannoli, and followed by free time in Taormina, this tour gives you a taste of both urban and coastal Sicily.
Reviews mention the convenience of port pickup and the opportunity to sample local delicacies in both cities. At $190.15, it’s an excellent option for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Sicilian street food and sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise visitors seeking city highlights and authentic snacks in one day.
9. Body Rafting Alcantara Gorges with Traditional Food and Local Wine
Number 9 combines adventure and local cuisine. After body rafting in the Alcantara Gorges, you’ll enjoy traditional Sicilian lunch in Giardini Naxos, complete with local wine. The thrilling canyon descent is perfect for active travelers wanting something different from typical wine tours.
Guests rave about Marco’s guidance and the delicious regional food. Priced at $303.79, it provides a memorable mix of adventure, scenery, and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers craving adventure and authentic Sicilian flavors.
10. Private Etna Tour with Lunch in Traditional “Trattoria” with Organic Food
Number 10 offers a half-day private exploration of Etna with a focus on organic, farm-to-table cuisine. Led by a private guide, you visit Zafferana Etnea for honey tasting, ascend Mount Etna, and enjoy lunch in a local trattoria featuring organic Sicilian dishes.
Reviewers mention the personalized service and delicious food. Costing $314.16, it’s ideal for customized experiences, especially if you prefer private guided tours and a culinary focus.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for travelers wanting a tailored, intimate experience with organic local cuisine.
$314.16 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Taormina
When selecting a food tour, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. Want to explore Etna’s volcanic wines and scenery? The Private 6-Hour Tour of Three Etna Wineries could be perfect. Looking for a culinary deep-dive with multiple experiences? The 8-day Sicily Food & Wine Tour offers an extensive journey. For a short, intimate walk through Taormina’s streets, the Food & Wine Walking Tour provides a relaxed introduction.
Budget travelers might prefer the Taormina Food and Wine Walking Tour, while those seeking an adventure combined with tasting should consider the Body Rafting and food experience. For customized private experiences, the Private Etna tour with organic lunch is an ideal pick.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the 8-day Sicily experience or private excursions. In high season, these tours fill quickly, and securing your spot ensures you don’t miss out on Sicily’s delicious offerings.
Final Thoughts
Taormina offers a diverse range of food tours that suit all tastes and interests—from volcano-side wine tastings to street food adventures. For wine lovers, the private Etna wineries are a highlight, while culinary enthusiasts will enjoy the multi-day Sicily tour or the walking food tour. Active travelers should check out the body rafting experience combined with local dining.
In any case, these carefully curated tours promise a genuine taste of Sicily’s culinary culture—authentic, flavorful, and memorable. To ensure the best experience, book your preferred tour early, especially in peak season, and get ready for a delicious journey through Taormina and beyond.