Catania isn’t just a city with a lively street scene and historic charm — it’s an excellent base for wine tours that explore Sicily’s volcanic terroir. Here, vineyards thrive in the fertile ash of Mount Etna, producing wines with mineral-rich flavors that are hard to find elsewhere. We particularly love tours like the Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour – From Taormina, which combines hiking, local wines, and the stunning Alcantara Gorge — a full day of adventure with a taste of Sicily’s volcanic magic. Whether you want to explore caves, hike craters, or enjoy private tastings, Catania’s options won’t disappoint.
Catania is perfect for wine lovers seeking a combination of volcanic landscapes and authentic winemaking traditions. The region’s proximity to Mount Etna means you can easily visit multiple wineries, explore lava tunnels, and enjoy outdoor adventures all in one trip. Plus, many tours include local cuisine such as Sicilian lunches paired with regional wines, making your experience both flavorful and memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of wine tours around Catania that cater to different tastes, budgets, and activity levels. From full-day volcano explorations with wine tastings (Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour) to private experiences with personalized visits and lunches (Etna private tour with wine cellar Gambino), there’s something for all. Many tours include hiking, lava cave visits, and winery tours, ensuring an authentic connection to Sicily’s volcanic soil. Check out the full list below for details and insights to help you choose your perfect wine adventure.
1. Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour – From Taormina
At number 1, this full-day tour from Taormina offers a balanced mix of nature, wine, and geology. You’ll hike through Mount Etna’s ancient woodlands and lava caves, then enjoy a Sicilian lunch paired with regional wines. The tour also visits the Alcantara Gorge, famous for its basalt formations. It’s a hassle-free experience with hotel pickup and entrance fees included, making it excellent for travelers who want a comprehensive day without worries. Reviewers praise the knowledge of guides like Roberto C and the quality of the wine and food, though some note the Alcantara Gorge may be inaccessible during heavy rainfall. This tour suits active travelers who want to combine hiking with wine tasting and appreciate a good value, including lunch and transportation in the price.
Bottom Line: A great all-in-one option for those who want to combine volcanic landscapes, wine, and a splash of adventure in one day.
2. Mt Etna and Wine tasting tour from Catania
Number 2 takes you close to Mount Etna’s craters, lava caves, and old craters, with the added bonus of wine tasting at a local cellar. This 8-hour tour includes stops at Silvestri Craters and a lava cave called Grotta dei Tre Livelli — a highlight for geology buffs. Guests rave about the customizable options like cable car rides and the knowledgeable guides such as Enzo and Alessandro, who keep the day engaging. The tour also offers free time for hiking, perfect for those who want to explore independently. The wine tasting at Enoteca Dell’Etna provides a relaxed way to sample Sicily’s volcanic wines. For around $123, it offers a perfect mix of nature, geology, and wine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who enjoy a flexible day of exploration with a good wine after discovering lava flows and craters.
3. Tour Etna & Wine Tasting
This tour offers a smaller group experience exploring Mount Etna with a walk along craters and lava tunnels, followed by a wine tasting at a local winery. Starting from Catania, it emphasizes personalized attention, with guides sharing detailed stories about the volcano’s history and geology. The itinerary includes visiting Piano Provenzana, and optional cable car rides, making it a versatile option. Guests comment on the knowledge of guides like Enzo and Alessandro, and the delicious wines sampled in a cozy setting. It’s perfect if you want a more intimate experience that balances hiking and culinary delights.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a small-group feel and a more educational yet relaxed day.
4. Etna Tour and Lunch in a Winery with Wine Tasting
Number 4 is a luxury experience pairing Etna’s volcanic scenery with a private winery lunch. A private driver takes you through craters and lava flows, then to a local vineyard for tasting and lunch. The tour visits the Silvestri Craters at 6,500 feet, and includes stops at a farmhouse with honey and olive oil tastings. Guests rave about the personalized service and the delicious local products. It’s a bit pricier at about $290 per person but offers unmatched comfort and exclusivity. Best suited for travelers seeking a private, upscale experience with gastronomic delights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or groups who want to combine luxury, private guiding, and excellent food and wine.
5. Etna private tour with wine cellar Gambino lunch and wine tasting
At number 5, this private, fully tailored tour combines a full-day exploration of Mount Etna with a personalized visit to Gambino Winery. You’ll explore lava flows, the Cyclops Cave, and ancient eruptions while learning about the volcanic origin of Etna’s wines. The highlight is the lunch and wine tasting at the winery, accompanied by local cheeses and products. The custom nature makes it a favorite for those who want an intimate experience with a focus on history and wine. With a price of around $280, it offers both flexibility and depth beyond standard tours.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a bespoke experience with history, wine, and personalized service.
6. Etna trekking and wine tasting
Number 6 combines a guided trek across Etna’s lava fields with a wine tasting at a traditional cellar. Guided by expert Roberto and Janet, you’ll explore lava tunnels and extinct craters, reaching heights of 6,500 feet. The tour includes helmets and flashlights for safety and fun. Afterward, relax at a nearby winery with Sicilian wines and local delicacies. Guests note how smoothly the hiking and wine tasting were integrated, making it suitable for active travelers who want a balanced outdoor and indoor experience. It’s priced at about $184, offering good value considering the guided hikes and private tasting.
Bottom Line: A solid option for adventurers eager to walk volcanoes and sample authentic Sicilian wines.
7. Catania: Volcanic Wine Tasting in a Metropolitan Market
This short, city-based wine tasting takes place in Piazza Scammacca, Catania’s first metropolitan market. You’ll sample four types of Sicilian volcanic wines alongside local foods, all guided by an expert sommelier. It’s a great option if you’re tight on time but want to learn about local wine culture. Reviewers praise the depth of knowledge and the variety of wines paired with delicious local bites. It’s priced at just over $50, making it an excellent introductory experience for curious travelers wanting city-based wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, authentic taste of Sicilian wines without leaving Catania.
8. Private Etna tour from Catania + Lunch at Etna Winery
This private day trip offers an intimate exploration of Mount Etna’s craters, villages, and lava flows. The highlight is a lunch at a local winery, paired with regional wines. Guides like Leo and Davide ensure you see hidden spots and enjoy personalized attention. The tour includes an ascent to Rifugio Sapienza and optional cable car rides for spectacular panoramic views. For about $360, it’s excellent for families or couples who desire a tailored experience with flexibility and comfort.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a personalized, scenic day with wine and local food.
9. ETNA & WINE, TAORMINA TOUR FD from CATANIA
Number 9 combines a volcano hike with a visit to Taormina’s charm, including craters and lava caves. The tour offers a guided walk and a winery visit, with reviews highlighting guides like Giovanni and Andrea for their passion and knowledge. The tour includes a lunch at a vineyard and free time in Taormina for shopping or sightseeing. For around $163, it balances active volcano exploration with historic charm.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a full day combining volcano, culture, and wine.
10. Private Etna tour with wine tasting and lunch
This personalized tour covers craters, lava flows, and local wineries. Guides like Roberto lead you through 1669 eruption sites and Monte Vetore, ending with a lunch at a vineyard with regional wines. The custom route makes it perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, in-depth experience. The price of around $280 reflects its private nature and flexibility.
Bottom Line: An ideal pick for those wanting a tailored, in-depth volcanic and wine experience.
11. Sicilian Soul: Winery Tour, Wine & Food Tasting in Catania
Number 11 offers a guided tasting of three organic wines in an historic Palmento or garden setting. It’s short and sweet, perfect for those focused on local flavors and learning about Sicilian traditions. Reviewers note the passion of the guide and the delicious food pairing. At around $40, this is a budget-friendly way to experience Sicilian wine culture.
Bottom Line: Best for wine enthusiasts seeking a quick, authentic tasting in a charming setting.
12. Etna Private tour from Messina Cruise Terminal + Lunch at Winery
This luxury private tour allows ** cruise travelers** to visit mountain villages, lava flows, and a winery lunch. It’s highly personalized, with guides like Marco and Alberto ensuring an easy, informative day. The tour includes local honey, olive oil, and liquors, giving a full Sicilian sensory experience. The $410 price reflects its exclusive nature, suited for cruise visitors or those seeking more privacy.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise passengers or travelers wanting customized attention and a full day of culture and wine.
13. Private visit to the cellars of Etna with wine tasting
This private cellar tour focuses on Etna’s wine production. Guided by owners and sommelier experts, you’ll explore grape plantations and wine cellars, tasting local varieties like Grillo and Chardonnay. The 5-hour experience is perfect for wine connoisseurs interested in learning about Sicilian volcanic wines at a relaxed pace. Guests commend the friendly guides and delicious tastings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers eager to understand Etna’s wine-making processes.
14. Etna Classic & Winery (day trip)
This day trip offers a quick, efficient visit to the Silvestri Craters and the Gambino Winery. It’s a small group experience with light lunch and wine tasting included. It’s perfect for limited time travelers wanting a taste of Etna’s scenery and wines without a full day of hiking.
Bottom Line: Great for time-conscious travelers seeking a taste of volcanic scenery and regional wines.
15. Wine tasting on Etna: volcanic flavors, history, and tradition
This affordable, full-day wine tasting surrounds you in volcanic landscapes while learning about Sicilian viticulture. With guided tastings and stories about Etna’s wines, it’s a casual, educational experience perfect for first-timers. It offers a family atmosphere and a chance to sample diverse wines from the region.
Bottom Line: Recommended for budget-conscious travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed wine experience.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Catania
Picking the right wine tour depends on your interests and fitness level. If you want a full-day hike with geology and wine, try the Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour. For a private, customizable experience with gourmet lunch, consider Etna private tour with wine cellar Gambino. Travelers on a budget can enjoy the city-based wine tasting in Catania, while those seeking luxury might opt for the private Messina or Catania options.
When booking, think about your time constraints, physical fitness, and whether you prefer outdoor exploration, small private groups, or city-based tastings. Tours with lunch and wine tend to be more expensive but offer more complete experiences.
To Sum Up
Catania’s wine tours are a delicious way to combine volcanic landscapes, local culture, and regional wines. From hiking craters to private vineyard lunches, there’s an option for nearly every type of traveler. For adventure lovers, tours like Etna trekking and wine tasting give you a hands-on experience. If you prefer luxury and privacy, the private tours around Mount Etna provide personalized attention. Budget travelers will enjoy city-based tastings that highlight the flavorful wines of Sicily.
Whatever your style, booking early is wise — Etna is popular, and these tours fill up quickly. Now’s the time to plan your volcanic wine adventure in Sicily and taste the true essence of the island’s fiery soil.