Sicily is a fantastic stop for cruise ships, offering a bounty of sights, flavors, and stories packed into this island’s lively ports. Unlike many destinations, Sicily’s diverse landscapes — from the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna to charming hill towns and bustling city squares — make it ideal for a variety of shore excursions. Whether you’re after a scenic drive, an active adventure, or a cultural walk, there’s something for all. Our favorite? The private tour of The Godfather Country—it’s a film lover’s dream combined with a taste of authentic Sicily.
If you’re looking for a dynamic way to see the city, the Messina City Segway Tour offers a fun, informative ride through historic streets and landmarks. Or, for a full-day immersion, the Exclusive tour from Messina to Taormina and Mount Etna makes it easy to see both a stunning Greek theater and Europe’s most active volcano in a single trip. Whatever your style, Sicily’s shore excursions promise memorable experiences that blend scenery, history, and local flavor.
Quick Overview
We’ve rounded up five of the best shore excursions in Sicily, each offering something special. From private cultural explorations and active city tours to scenic drives with personal guides, these options cater to different tastes and energy levels. For those dreaming of movie scenes, the Private Shore Excursion from Messina Port: The Godfather Country offers visits to iconic film locations. For a quick city fix, the Messina City Segway Tour combines fun and history in a three-hour ride. Looking for a full day of adventure? The Exclusive tour to Taormina and Mount Etna will take you up close to Europe’s tallest active volcano and through the charming streets of Taormina. And for a more relaxed sightseeing pace, the Taormina City Segway Tour and the Palermo City Segway Tour offer quick, fun ways to see major landmarks with expert guides.
1. Private Shore Excursion from Messina Port: The Godfather Country
This full-day private tour takes you into Sicily’s countryside, where many scenes from The Godfather trilogy were filmed. If you’re a film buff or just love authentic villages, this is a memorable way to connect with Sicily’s rural charm. The itinerary begins in Taormina, a town that gained fame after Goethe praised its beauty in the 1800s. You’ll have about an hour to explore its narrow streets, shops, and views over Mount Etna. Next, you’ll visit the Greek Theatre, perched on a scenic hillside with breathtaking views that stretch to Calabria when the air’s clear. It’s a prime photo spot and a window into ancient history.
The highlight is a visit to Savoca, a village famous for its connection to The Godfather. You can walk through the same streets where Michael Corleone was filmed, and enjoy the tranquil, timeless vibe. This tour is ideal for film fans, those wanting a personalized experience, and travelers who want to avoid the hassle of self-driving in unfamiliar terrain. At $496.27 per person, it’s an investment for a comprehensive, private adventure.
Bottom line: A highly recommended way to combine Sicily’s cinematic landscapes with its authentic villages, perfect for film lovers who want a flexible, in-depth day.
2. Messina Shore Excursion: City Segway Tour
For a quick but immersive experience, the Messina Segway Tour offers a lively way to explore the city’s highlights in just three hours. Ride along broad boulevards built after the devastating 1908 earthquake, and glide past architectural marvels like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III and the Palazzo dell’Università. Your guide will share stories about the city’s reconstruction, featuring Arab-Norman architecture and the role of Don Juan of Austria in regional history.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to see major sights comfortably. It begins with a brief training session, ensuring even first-timers can master the self-balancing Segway. Highlights include panoramic stops at Piazza Duomo, the Church of Santissima Annunziata, and the Madonna di Montalto shrine. Reviewers praise Francesco for his engaging storytelling and the fun of riding the Segway, with many noting it’s a unique way to learn about Messina.
At $126.76 per person, this tour offers great value for an active, efficient way to see the city’s key sites. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of fun, have limited time, and want a guided overview rather than a deep dive.
Bottom line: An entertaining, quick way to get a feel for Messina’s architecture and history — especially ideal for active travelers and first-time visitors.
3. Exclusive Shore Excursion from Messina port to Taormina and Mount Etna
This full-day private adventure combines mountain volcano and coastal town in one smooth trip. For around $442.25, you get a driver who takes you directly up to Mount Etna’s upper slopes, reaching 1,800 meters to see the Silvestri Craters. This is a more personalized experience than the usual bus tours, giving you time to marvel at the volcano’s activity and incredible landscape. The tour then continues to Taormina, a hilltop town famed for its Greek Theatre—a highlight for history lovers and photo buffs.
Guests rave about the convenience of avoiding public transport and the flexibility of a private driver who tailors the day to your pace. During the Etna stop, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the coastline and the volcano’s rugged terrain. In Taormina, you’ll have free time to browse shops, dine, or simply enjoy the stunning vistas.
This tour is perfect for travelers craving a flexible, all-in-one experience, especially if volcano and coastal scenery appeal to you. The cost reflects its private nature and the hassle-free logistics, making it a worthwhile splurge for those who want depth and comfort.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who want to see Sicily’s volcanic heart and its charming seaside town in one day, with the freedom to explore at your own pace.
$442.25 per person
4. Taormina Shore Excursion: City Segway Tour
If you want to maximize your limited time in Taormina, this 3-hour Segway tour offers an active, engaging way to see the town’s most iconic sights. Starting with a quick training session, you’ll glide through Borgo Medievale, the oldest part of the city, and stop at Villa Comunale, a lush park with spectacular views of Mount Etna and the coast. A highlight is the Ancient Theatre, where you can take photos and imagine the performances that once drew crowds here.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of history, viewpoints, and fun. The guide shares interesting stories about the landmarks, such as the San Domenico Palace Hotel, once a monastery, and the best spots for photos. Reviewers mention the guide’s engaging personality and the ease of riding the Segway, even for beginners.
At $127.34 per person, it’s a great way to cover a lot of ground without tiring your feet. It suits travelers who prefer a more active sightseeing option and enjoy small-group guided experiences.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Taormina in a fun, efficient way, especially if you like a little adventure.
5. Palermo Shore Excursion: City Segway Tour
For travelers stopping in Palermo, the 3-hour Segway tour offers a lively overview of Sicily’s capital. Glide past landmarks like the Palace of the Normans, Piazza della Vittoria, and Villa A Mared. Your guide will explain Palermo’s mix of Arab-Norman, Baroque, and Neo-Classical architecture, making it a rich cultural tapestry in motion.
The route includes stops at the Cattedrale di Palermo, where you can admire its impressive façade and learn about its history. You’ll also pass through the Market of Capo, getting a feel for local life. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the fun of riding a Segway through the lively streets. The tour’s compact size makes it easy to navigate busy areas comfortably.
At $144.70, this tour offers good value for a quick, engaging way to see Palermo’s main attractions without spending hours walking. It’s ideal for first-time visitors interested in a broad overview with a dash of adventure.
Bottom line: A fun, fast-paced way to get acquainted with Palermo’s key sights, perfect for those who want a lively introduction to the city.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sicily Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interest in history or film, and activity level. For example, if you’re a film fanatic craving The Godfather locations, the Private Shore Excursion from Messina Port is hard to beat. Want a mix of volcano views and coastal charm? The Exclusive tour to Taormina and Mount Etna offers flexibility and depth. For a quick city overview with fun and photos, the Messina City Segway or the Palermo Segway Tour are excellent.
Practical tips: book early during peak season, especially for private or guided tours. Check the tour duration and inclusions—some tours include free time, while others focus on sightseeing with minimal stops. If you’re interested in active exploration, tours that include Segways or walking are better, but if comfort and personalized attention matter, private excursions are worth the extra cost.
Final Thoughts
Sicily offers a diverse array of shore excursions that match every travel style — whether you’re after cinematic scenery, volcanic adventure, or cultural discovery. For a full day, the private Godfather tour delivers an immersive experience into film and tradition. For those short on time but eager to explore, the Segway tours in Messina, Taormina, and Palermo bring a fun twist to sightseeing.
If you want to cover the most ground and enjoy personalized service, the Taormina and Mount Etna tour is unbeatable. Meanwhile, active travelers will enjoy the energy of city Segway rides. Whichever you choose, Sicily’s landscapes, history, and lively street scenes won’t disappoint. Be sure to book early to secure your preferred time slot — these popular experiences fill quickly!
Happy exploring, and remember: Sicily’s magic is best enjoyed with plenty of flexibility and an open mind.