Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

The rise and fall of some of the world's greatest civilizations have left an indelible imprint on the cities of Taormina and Castelmola. Get to know the history, culture and spectacular sights on a full-day excursion that also includes lunch and shopping.

There will be a lot of walking so you'll want to wear comfortable shoes and don't forget the camera to show the folks back home what they're missing.

After boarding your coach sit back and relax as mile after scenic mile passes by your window en route to the stunning hamlet of Taormina. Perched atop weather-beaten cliffs, it's considered Sicily's most beautiful resort. Founded by the Greeks in the 4th century B.C., a Roman colony a century later and ruled by Arabs, Normans and France, Taormina wears its historical legacy very well. Remnants of each conquering nation can be found throughout the town and once you arrive your guide will escort you to many of the picture-perfect sites.

However, since coaches are not permitted to enter Taormina you'll first board a lift that will take you from the parking area to the town gates.

Then, have your camera handy as you amble along the streets lined with medieval mansions, Gothic ruins and charming homes adorned with flowerboxes.

Lively Corso Umberto is Taormina's main street and filled with shops and restaurants. A walk to Piazza IX Aprile will reward you with sweeping views of the bay and Mount Etna.

One of the sites you'll encounter is the Palazzo Corvaja. Dating back to the 14th century, the fortress is a lively mix of Arab, Norman, and Catalan-Gothic architectural embellishments.

From here you'll walk to Taormina's most popular attraction-the Greco Roman Theater. Carved out of the hillside in the 3rd century B.C., the theater boasts panoramic views of the Sicilian coastline, the mountains of southern Calabria and Mount Etna. Feel the centuries unfold as you walk past seats that were once occupied by happy theatergoers and a stage where actors stood reciting popular plays of the day.

Following this pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming moment, you'll walk back to Corso Umberto for an hour of shopping before rejoining your coach.

Next on the agenda is lunch in the tiny village of Castelmola followed by a walking tour along its narrow, cobblestone streets. From the picturesque Piazzetta del Duomo are glorious views of Mount Etna and the beaches.

When it's time to call it a day, you'll reboard your coach for the scenic ride back to your ship.