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 Taormina. Get to know its history, culture and spectacular sights on a half-day excursion designed for history lovers, photographers and architecture enthusiasts.

After you've put on your walking shoes and grabbed your camera you'll board the coach bound for one of Sicily's most picture-perfect destinations. Sit back and relax as you travel along the island's mountainous eastern coast to the village perched 700 feet above the sea.

Founded by the Greeks in 358 B.C., Taormina is a sparkling jewel with many facets. From its exalted 2,300-year-old Greco Roman Theater to its bustling 12th century piazzas, the city is a historical treasure that will delight, inspire and surprise.

When you arrive you'll board a lift that will take you from the parking area to the town center. Then, your friendly and knowledgeable guide will points out areas of interest as you stroll along the cobbled streets once trod upon by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and French.

One of the first sites you'll visit is perhaps the city's most popular attraction-the Greco Roman Theater. Carved out of the hillside by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. the theater was reconstructed 500 years later when Taormina fell under Roman rule. Imagine being a theater-goer 2,300 years ago intently watching a gladiator fight or a play as you walk past the well-worn seats. The theater is still in use today as the setting of the International Film, Music, Dance and Theatre Festival.

During the days of the Renaissance Taormina transformed into a stylish and cosmopolitan city with many of its most beautiful buildings displayed on the pedestrian-friendly Piazza Vittorio Emanuele such as the lovely 17th century Church of Santa Caterina.

Further along you'll meet Corso Umberto, Taormina's main thoroughfare and home to the Cathedral of Taormina, or the Duomo. Built around 1400 on the ruins of a medieval church dedicated to St. Nicholas, this fortress-like cathedral still conducts services every Sunday.

If you have the opportunity to explore on your own be sure to check out one of Sicily's most beautiful gardens known as Villa Comunale, located just off Corso Umberto. Another Roman treasure is the 1st century A.D. Roman Odeon, which sits on the other side of Piazza Vittorio Emanuele; although it's much smaller than the Greco-Roman theater, it boasts similar architecture.

Finally, you'll begin your return to Messina. With a camera filled with memories, you'll settle in and relax on the ride back to port, chatting amicably with your fellow travelers about your memorable day.