Things to do in Sicily, Italy: the 20 best experiences

The Naxos Bay and Taormina boat tour gives you a unique nature experience off the Sicilian coast.

You will be accompanied by a skipper who will tell you stories and interesting facts about the places you will visit (languages spoken: Italian and English).

You will depart from the port of Giardini Naxos and sail along the entire coastline of the bay until you reach the Grotta dell'Amore (Cave of Love), so called because, when looked at upside down, it appears to be in the shape of a heart.

The navigation will then continue to the coast of Cape Taormina and the Grotto of the Sirens, until you reach the bay of Isola Bella: a small islet connected to the beach by a tongue of sand that can only be crossed when there is low tide.

You will then reach the Blue Grotto, famous for the play of light that is created inside and that makes the mirror of water appear blue and crystal clear, giving an evocative view of the seabed.

The tour will then continue to the Grotta del Corallo (Coral Cave) and the Scoglio dell'Elefante (named for its peculiar shape).

You will then head to the bay of Isola Bella or Mazzarò for a stop of about 20 to 30 minutes during which you can enjoy a soft aperitif with prosecco and/or almond wine accompanied by almond pastries and savory snacks. During this stop you can take a swim in the Taormina waters.

The horseback ride along the seashore of Catania's Playa is also suitable for children and beginners.

The hour-long horseback ride starts from the stables and takes place on the shoreline of the long beach in the Gulf of Catania: the Plaja.

In front of you you will admire the volcano Etna towering over the city, making a unique panorama, perfect for your souvenir photos.

Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed-toe shoes. The facility will provide you with all the equipment you need to ride a horse, including helmet (mandatory).

The group sunset tour in search of dolphins departing from the port of Giardini Naxos gives you a unique experience off the Sicilian coast.

You will be accompanied by a skipper who will tell you anecdotes and trivia about the places you will visit (languages spoken: Italian and English).

You will head about 2 miles off the coast in search of dolphins-a nature experience that will remain etched in your memories.

You will then head to the coast of Naxos and Taormina for a short swim stop.

On board you will be served a reinforced aperitif with prosecco, almond wine, savory snacks and typical Sicilian rotisserie that you can enjoy at sunset.

Depending on the sunset times, departure times may be brought forward to 17:00 and the itinerary may be subject to change. In that case you will be contacted by the facility.

Experience a shared boat ride from Giardini Naxos and discover the Taormina coastline from the sea, along a route past bays, sea caves and stops in the area's clearest waters, with prosecco on board.

The excursion takes place aboard a modern boat with capacity for up to 10 people and takes you along the coast between Giardini Naxos and Taormina. Along the way you also visit sea caves, observing the coastline from a different perspective.

The cruise takes about 2 hours and includes swim stops in the sea, ideal for swimming and relaxing. You are also offered prosecco on board, while the skipper accompanies the experience with stories and trivia about the area.

Experience a group boat excursion from Isola Bella and discover the Taormina coastline from the sea, along a route past bays, sea caves and panoramic views.

The excursion takes place aboard a modern boat with capacity for up to 10 people and takes you along some of the best-known stretches of the Taormina coastline. During the tour you sail past caves and bays, viewing the coastline from a different and more open perspective.

The navigation lasts about 1 hour and includes stops dedicated to souvenir photos and moments of relaxation. Throughout the entire experience you are accompanied by an experienced skipper, who shares curiosities and information about the area along the way.

Experience a boat excursion in the Bay of Taormina among the sea, coastal views and a dedicated stop at Isola Bella, one of the area’s best-known sites, with lunch, comfort zone with reserved umbrella and sunbeds and bag with mini guide and characteristic souvenir.

The experience includes an approximately 1 hour and 30 minute sail along the coast, accompanied by a skipper who shares curiosities and information about the area along the way.

The tour takes you to Isola Bella, the central point of the excursion, where you have about 7 hours to relax, swim or explore the area.

The experience includes access to the Isola Bella Museum, a full lunch and a reserved comfort zone with 2 premium loungers on a stone platform, 1 umbrella per couple, positioning in the viewing area and a small bottle of water for each participant.

Discover the beauty of the Palermo sea aboard a comfortable boat for a half-day excursion to discover hidden beaches and pristine bays of the Sicilian coast.

The excursion lasts 4 hours and will introduce you to hidden beaches and coves and you can also admire the Sicilian coastline from the sea.

Bath stops are planned in the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and diving in the seabed with the snorkeling kit provided. Stops planned by the excursion are Mondello, Addaura, Capo Gallo and Grotta dell'Olio. 

Cool drinks and fruits will be served during the tour to make your day even more enjoyable.

In case of bad weather, the facility may change or cancel the itinerary and its duration.

The day boat ride between Palermo and the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve is a relaxing experience that allows you to discover the Sicilian sea, perfect for groups of friends or families with children.

You will depart by 10:30 a.m. from Marina Villa Igiea and head north, pushing as far as Isola delle Femmine. Return is scheduled for 5:30 pm.

This tour will allow you to make swimming stops with the possibility of snorkeling at some of the most beautiful spots along the coast.

An experienced skipper will be on board at all times to attend to your every need.

You will be offered a welcome cocktail when you arrive on the boat, and at lunchtime you will be served Sicilian dishes to eat on board.

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility following your reservation.

Enjoy the sunset aboard a Motor Yacht while enjoying a great aperitif with your friends or partner.

You will depart at 7 p.m. from Addaura Harbor and continue until you reach Mondello for a swimming stop, followed by the Gallo Trench, the Capo Gallo Lighthouse and the Grotta dell'Oglio Cave where you can swim and enjoy a sunset aperitif.

Aboard the boat you will be served an aperitif consisting of some typical Sicilian snacks, prosecco and other drinks.

The return is scheduled for 21:00 always at Marina Villa Igiea.

For the entire duration of the outing you will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will be ready to meet your every request.

We recommend clothing suitable for the evening weather.

Explore the sea outside Palermo with this relaxing excursion, perfect for groups of friends or families with children.

You will depart from Marina Villa Igiea at 9 a.m. or 2 p.m. and head north to Mondello and Capo Gallo.

On arrival, you can stop to swim in the sea and choose whether to relax in the sun or enjoy the music on board.

As soon as you board you will be offered a welcome cocktail and afterwards you can enjoy an excellent aperitif of local products.

An experienced skipper will be always present on board to meet your every need.

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility after booking.

Enjoy a wine tasting at Gandolfo vini winery in Marsala, where you can savor local labels accompanied by locally produced olive oil and typical products in a relaxed, family atmosphere.

During the visit you will enter the winery and discover up close the stages of production of Marsala wines, between tradition, passion and stories related to the territory. The Gandolfo family will accompany you on this journey, letting you know their history and the philosophy that has guided the production of their wines for generations.

The tasting will also allow you to enjoy a selection of local labels paired with typical Sicilian specialties, designed to enhance the aromas and flavors of the wine itself.

The boat excursion to Favignana and Levanzo departing from Marsala is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable day discovering the Egadi Islands.

You’ll board a comfortable boat equipped with a restroom and shower, with a maximum capacity of 25 people to ensure a relaxed and pleasant experience throughout the day.

The trip begins at the Marsala Tourist Port, where you’ll be welcomed with breakfast on board before setting sail towards Favignana.

Once you arrive on the island, you’ll stop at some of its most beautiful spots: Cala Rossa, Bue Marino, Cala Azzurra, and the Lovers’ Cave. Here, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters.

Back on board, a traditional lunch will be served, featuring seafood pasta and a selection of drinks (water, cola, iced tea, and wine).

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Levanzo, with more swimming stops planned at Cala Minnola and the Faraglioni. Snorkeling equipment is available for guests who wish to explore the underwater scenery.

Before returning to Marsala, fresh seasonal fruit will be offered to end the day on a sweet note.

When booking, you can choose between a group tour or a private excursion. The private option allows you to customize the itinerary in agreement with the skipper.

The dinghy aperitif at the Stagnone in Marsala is a unique opportunity for a romantic sunset experience along the coast of Sicily.

During the excursion, the dinghy will sail slowly to give you the opportunity to relax and take photographs of the islands and the sea. Once you arrive near Isola Lunga, you will have a panoramic view of everything around you: the island of Mozia, the Egadi Islands, and the open sea.

You will be offered an aperitif on board of different kinds of appetizers and fresh fruit, accompanied by music. You will be able to sip Sparkling Wine and other wines produced by Commander Ignatius' local winery in his wine cellar.

The excursion lasts about 3 hours and is suitable for everyone. The dinghy trip is ideal for a romantic sunset experience for couples in Sicily.

The dinghy excursion to Favignana from Marsala is an experience invites you to explore the beauty of the Egadi Islands. You'll dive into the crystal clear waters with dives straight from the dinghy and discover marine life with surface snorkeling.

During the excursion, either group or private, you will enjoy a typical Sicilian aperitif on board with wines produced by the Gandolfo family and take a walk through the narrow streets of the ancient village, getting in touch with local life and meeting the famous "Tuna Fishermen."

The experience lasts one day and the excursion departs from Marsala. The dinghy will reach the waters of Favignana in about 30 minutes and here you will admire the coastline, caves and the most striking coves, such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra and Bue Marino, with the skipper accompanying you at all times.

At lunchtime an aperitif of flatbreads, with fresh cold cuts will be organized by Simona, the hostess, along with a mix of typical appetizers.

The navigation continues and you will reach the port of Favignana. You will have the opportunity to explore the heart of the town, immersed in the charming historic center. Afterwards, navigation resumes and the dinghy will reach Marsala in the late afternoon.

The dinghy excursion to Favignana from Marsala is a unique opportunity to learn about the Egadi Islands and have an unforgettable experience in Sicily.

Discover Favignana on a day or sunset excursion accompanied by a skipper.

You can choose from 3 different tours:

Daily tour

The itinerary for this tour includes:

•    Departure from marsala for 9:00 a.m.
•    Arrive in Favignana with visit to Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa 
•    Landing on the island of Favignana for 12:30 and lunch stop
•    Departure for Levanzo at 2 p.m. and swimming stop at the Faraglioni 
•    Swimming stop at 15:00 at Cala Fridda and subsequent swimming stop at Cala Minnula at 16:00 
•    Aperitif to end the day on a high note
•    Arrive in Marsala for 17:30

The excursion is guaranteed with a minimum of 6 participants.

Sunset tour to Favignana

The itinerary for this tour includes:

•    Barking and departure from Marsala for 6:30 pm
•    Arrival in Favignana, music and aperitif on board in Cala Rotonda from 7:00 to 9:00 pm
•    Arrive in Marsala for 21:30

Sunset tour to the Stagnone Lagoon

•    Barking and departure from Marsala for 6:30 pm
•    Arrive at the viewpoint, music and aperitif on board while watching the sun set
•    Arrive in Marsala for 9:30 p.m.

For each tour you will be accompanied by a skipper who will know how to tell you the best anecdotes about the area.

An aperitif will be served on board, but not lunch. You can bring a packed lunch or eat on the island of Favignana, where you will stop from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

In case of bad weather the excursion could be cancelled or the itinerary and its duration could be changed.

Embark on a unique excursion to Marzamemi and enjoy an aperitif or lunch on board in excellent company, overlooking Sicily's most fascinating beaches. You can choose from two tours:

Sightseeing Tour (4 hours)

After visiting Tafuri Castle, you will head to the enchanting island of Capo Passero and then return to Marzamemi to explore its quaint old harbor. Afterwards, you will dive into the waters above the ancient Roman columns, then end the day with a refreshing swim at Vendicari Island.

Delicious bruschetta with Pachino cherry along with fresh seasonal fruit, local wine and water are offered on board to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Snorkeling equipment is also provided.

Exclusive (6 hours)

You may also choose to have lunch or dinner on board. The itinerary remains the same and the menu includes:

•    bruschetta with Pachino cherry tomatoes
•    grilled fresh fish
•    peperonata
•    Pachino salad
•    seasonal fruit, local wine, water

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change. The menu is subject to change related to seasonal availability.

The boat tour in Marzamemi lasts half a day, departing at 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM or from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, during which a full lunch will be served on board.

The boat tour includes two or three stops in the crystal-clear waters of Sicily and offers a unique culinary experience.

In the morning, you’ll be greeted with a delicious breakfast, followed by a lunch featuring a variety of local seafood specialties, including seasonal fruit and beverages.

Typical Sicilian dishes include fresh seafood, fresh fruit, and beverages.

This boat tour will allow you to explore the sea, enjoy local delicacies, and experience an unforgettable day on a boat in Marzamemi.

Group boat excursion departing from Marzamemi to explore the coast of southeastern Sicily.

On board you will find a large sun deck at the bow to relax and a galley, where dishes are freshly prepared in front of you.

You can choose between two options:
Half-day: lasting 4 hours including an aperitif.
Full day: lasting 8 hours, including aperitif and lunch.

The experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 5 participants; otherwise you will be contacted to move or cancel your reservation.

Discover the Sicilian coast thanks to this 3-hour group boat excursion departing from Marzamemi.

This evocative tour will allow you to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters and admire unique landscapes, thanks to stops at the most striking destinations: Capo Passero Island, Marzamemi, Vendicari Nature Reserve.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you stories and curiosities of the area.

During the excursion you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products accompanied by a glass of wine, water or soft drinks.

You will board a comfortable boat equipped with seats with cushions, sunshade awning, bluetooth speaker and freshwater shower.

Boat excursion along the southeastern coast of Sicily from Marzamemi to Portopalo di Capo Passero, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, fresh fruit, and a generous aperitif on board. Half-day or sunset tours to the Vendicari Nature Reserve are available.

Visit the historic tuna fishery in Portopalo, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters before continuing on to the island of Capo Passero, admiring the picturesque sea caves and the imposing Spanish fortress that dominates the landscape. Here, another stop for swimming awaits you, followed by a delicious aperitif with focaccia, pane cunzatu, and Sicilian beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

On the way back, the skipper will take you to see the famous Roman columns resting on a seabed about 5 meters deep, perfectly visible from the boat.

On board, you’ll also have access to snorkeling gear and floating mats so you can relax and fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters off the Sicilian coast.

We’re scheduled to return to port around 12:30 p.m.

Morning boat excursion, leaving from Avola and skirting the beaches and coves to Marzamemi.

You will leave by about 9:00 a.m. and visit from the sea Noto Marina, Calamosche, the Vendicari Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo and Marzamemi until you arrive at Capo Passero Island. Return is scheduled for 1:30 pm.

There will be several stops for swimming in the sea and you will be able to use the equipment on board for snorkeling.

In addition, you will be served an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products accompanied by prosecco.

For this experience you can choose from 3 options with the same itinerary:

•    Excursion shared with other participants on board a raft, for a maximum of 12 people
•    Private excursion with the entire raft exclusively, for up to 10 people
•    Private excursion aboard a boat, for a maximum of 5 people

In each of these cases, an experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can assist you with any of your needs.

The group experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 6 participants.