How to Plan Your Catania: Etna Nord and Alcantara Gorges Tour with Pickup in Messina

If you’re planning a trip to Messina, Sicily, one of the must-see attractions is the impressive Mount Etna. The natural beauty and majesty of this active volcano attract many visitors to the area to explore its slopes and enjoy its stunning views. The best way to enjoy Mount Etna is through a guided tour, which will take you on a journey through the volcano’s unique geological features and offer you an unforgettable experience. One of the most popular tours is the Catania: Etna Nord and Alcantara Gorges Tour with Pickup. In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour and what you can expect to see and do.

Experience

Enjoy this 8-hour tour through Mount Etna and Alcantara Gorges. See the beauty of the active volcano and explore the stunning canyon of Alcantara with a professional guide.

Highlights

• Experience the beauty of Etna’s slopes on this full-day guided tour
• Ascent all the way up to 3000m above sea level with off-road vehicles
• Discover Bove Valley and the main craters with a soft trekking
• Explore the famous Alcantara Gorges, a unique lava canyon with a freezing river
• Taste typical Sicilian products
• Enjoy the Botanical Park, where you can buy food and drinks

Full Description

The tour begins with a comfortable pickup from your accomodation in Messina. After meeting with your guide, you’ll travel by bus to Piano Provenzana. Once you arrive, you’ll embark on a thrilling ascent up to the top of Mount Etna aboard an off-road vehicle. You’ll be accompanied by an alpine guide who will introduce you to the unique features of this active volcano. At the top of the volcano, 3000 meters above sea level, you’ll enjoy a soft trekking experience with breathtaking scenery. The guide will take you to see Bove Valley and the main craters, where you’ll learn about the geological history of the area. After that, you’ll travel by bus to the famous Alcantara Gorges, a unique lava canyon with a freezing river. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the different corners of the park with your guide and taste typical Sicilian products. Note that entry to the gorges is not included in the price of the tour. At the Botanical Park, you can buy food and drink for an extra charge.

Inclusions

• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Pick up and drop off next to your accommodation
• Trekking shoes
• Wind jacket
• Trekking clothes
• Food and drink
• Entry to the Alcantara Gorges

Things to Know

This tour is not suitable for anyone under 3 years old, pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, people with respiratory issues, people with altitude sickness, or people with high blood pressure.

Book the tour here

If you’re ready to explore Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges during your trip to Messina, book the Catania: Etna Nord and Alcantara Gorges Tour with Pickup by clicking here. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Sicily and make unforgettable memories on this guided tour!

Frequently Asked Questions about Messina, Italy

Messina is a beautiful city situated in the northeast of Sicily, Italy. With its rich history, jaw-dropping scenery, and friendly locals, the city is a must-visit for tourists. If you’re planning to visit Messina, you might have some questions in mind. In this post, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

1. What is the best time to visit Messina?

The best time to visit Messina would depend on your preferred holiday. If you’re aiming to have some seawater fun, the summer months will be the best time to go. June to September is usually the peak season with high temperatures, bustling bars, and clubs. However, if you’re more inclined to the peaceful, eat and drink-filled excursions, then spring and autumn are good times to go, where the weather is usually mild and comfortable.

2. How do I get to Messina?

Messina is easily reachable from the mainland by ferry, bus or train. You can take a direct train from Rome or Naples to Messina as there are daily train connections with high-speed trains taking up to 8 hours. You can also take a ferry from the mainland, for example, from Calabria to Messina. The ride lasts about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a bus from your preferred city or the airport.

3. What are the best places to visit in Messina?

Messina is a city that has a lot to offer including its vibrant nightlife scene, the Messina Cathedral, and the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani Church. The Regional Museum of Messina is also worth a visit to see some of the ancient artifacts, art, and archaeology of the city. Additionally, the Strait of Messina is a popular spot for tourists as it separates Italy from Sicily.

4. What are some outdoor activities to do in Messina?

There are many outdoor activities to do in Messina, especially during the summer months, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are many beaches in the city and the surrounding areas, including the Lido di Nettuno Beach. You can also go hiking in the hills surrounding the city or visit the nearby nature reserves.

5. What are the typical dishes to try in Messina?

When visiting Messina, you should definitely try the city’s local cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include pasta with sardines, swordfish, calamari, and other seafood delicacies. Also, be sure to try the city’s famous lemon granita or a glass of red wine paired with some tasty cheese.

6. What is the nightlife like in Messina?

Messina offers a vibrant and exciting nightlife, particularly during the weekends, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. If you’re looking for live music, head to Pagana Beach, where you can enjoy jazz, rock, and blues music alongside a cold beer or a cocktail.

7. What is the currency used in Messina?

Messina uses the Euro as its currency, the same as the rest of Italy.

8. Is English spoken in Messina?

English is not widely spoken in Messina, but many locals do have basic knowledge of English. It is always advisable to carry a translation app or a phrasebook to help you communicate effectively.

9. What are the rules on tipping in Messina?

Tipping is not expected in restaurants and cafes as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you like the service you received, you can leave a small tip ranging from €5-€10 depending on your bill.

10. What are some safety tips for tourists in Messina?

Messina is a relatively safe city, but like all places, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be careful when using public transport. Keep your valuables in a safe place and avoid flaunting expensive jewelry, watches, and cameras.

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Messina is a city filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With its warm and friendly locals, rich culinary delights, and various outdoor activities, it is worth the visit. This FAQ has provided you with some helpful tips and information that can help make your experience in Messina a memorable one.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Messina

Messina is a stunning city located on the east coast of Sicily. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and fascinating culture. Messina has a lot to offer to its visitors, and it can be overwhelming to decide what to do and see. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Messina, so you don’t miss any of the highlights.

1. Head to the Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is a large square located in the heart of the city. It is home to many historical monuments, such as the Cathedral of Messina, which was built in the 12th century. The cathedral is a must-visit for its unique architecture, beautiful interiors, and historical significance.

Tip:

Take some time to explore the bell tower of the cathedral, which stands at 60 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city.

2. Visit the Regional Museum of Messina

The Regional Museum of Messina is located in the former Bourbon Prison, which was built in the 18th century. The museum houses a large collection of paintings, sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and historical objects that illustrate the history of Messina and Sicily.

Tip:

Don’t miss the section dedicated to the famous Messina painter Antonello da Messina, who was a prominent figure in the Italian Renaissance art movement.

3. Discover the charming streets of the historic center

The historic center of Messina is a maze of small streets, ancient buildings, and hidden squares that are worth exploring. Take some time to wander around the city center and discover the local shops, cafés, and restaurants, which offer the best of Sicilian gastronomy.

Tip:

Make sure to visit the famous Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, a covered walkway that connects the Piazza del Duomo with the Piazza Bra. The gallery is home to many high-end shops, cafés, and restaurants.

4. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Messina

Messina is surrounded by beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some of the best beaches in Messina are the Capo Peloro beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views, and the Mortelle beach, which is perfect for families with children.

Tip:

Take a boat tour to the Aeolian Islands, a group of seven islands located north of Sicily. The islands are known for their unique landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and active volcanoes.

5. Explore the medieval fortress of Castello di Ruffo

The Castello di Ruffo is a medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking the city of Messina. The fortress was built in the 11th century to protect the city from invading armies. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the city and the sea.

Tip:

Visit the fortress at sunset, when the light is soft and the views are magnificent.

Book Your Tour Now

Messina is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in art, history, or simply want to relax and enjoy the beach, Messina has something for everyone. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you will have an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful cities of Sicily.