How to Plan Your Ultimate Sicily Day Tour: The Godfather, Taormina Town and Modica from Messina

Are you looking for a day trip to discover the Baroque beauty secrets of Sicily? Join the full-day tour of two fascinating UNESCO heritage sites: Ragusa Ibla and Modica. You will also have the chance to explore the filming locations of the famous movie “The Godfather” and visit the charming town of Taormina. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your ultimate Sicily day tour.

Experience

This Sicily day tour is designed for those who want to experience the best of Sicilian Baroque art, discover the charm of small yet fascinating towns, and indulge in the local specialties. You will start with a visit to Ragusa Ibla, one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily. You will have free time to explore the old part of the city, discover its numerous eighteenth-century churches and buildings, and admire the lush Gardens. Next, you will discover Modica, another jewel of the Sicilian Baroque. Here, you will have lunch in a typical trattoria and taste the food specialties of this side of Sicily, where a strong Spanish influence is still alive. But that’s not all! This tour also includes a visit to the charming town of Taormina, where you can stroll along the picturesque streets, admire the ancient Greek theater, and enjoy the spectacular views over the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. And for all the “The Godfather” fans out there, you will get the chance to explore the filming locations of this iconic movie, including the picturesque village of Savoca, where Michael Corleone married Apollonia.

Highlights

• Explore two fascinating and breathtaking UNESCO heritage sites
• Enjoy Lunch in a typical trattoria and taste the local specialties
• Discover how local chocolate is made following the original Aztec recipe
• Visit the charming town of Taormina and admire the ancient Greek theater
• Explore the filming locations of “The Godfather” movie

Full description

The Sicily day tour to Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Taormina, and “The Godfather” filming locations starts from the city of Messina. You will meet your local guide and driver at the designated meeting point and board a comfortable air-conditioned minivan for a scenic journey through the Sicilian countryside. The first stop of the tour is Ragusa Ibla, a picturesque hilltop town that boasts enchanting views and stunning Baroque architecture. After a scenic ride, you will arrive in the town’s historic center and have free time to explore its charming streets, elegant palaces, and ancient churches. You can admire the breathtaking view of the valley below and the spectacular Iblei Mountains on the horizon. And if you’re a gardens enthusiast, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Giardino Ibleo, a lush green space dotted with fountains, statues, and colorful flowers. Next, you’ll board the minivan and drive along the scenic route towards Modica. The town is renowned for its chocolate, and a stop at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto is a must-see. Here, you can learn how local chocolate is made following the original Aztec recipe and sample some of the most delicious chocolate in Sicily. After the sweet encounter, you’ll head to a typical trattoria for lunch, where you’ll enjoy some of the best food specialties of this side of Sicily, prepared with local ingredients and spices. After lunch, the tour will head to the charming town of Taormina, one of the most famous and beautiful towns in Sicily. You can stroll around the picturesque streets of the town, take in the magical atmosphere, and visit the ancient Greek theater, which boasts stunning views over the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The last stop of the tour is the village of Savoca, which was used as the backdrop for some of the most iconic scenes of “The Godfather” movie. You’ll get the chance to visit the Church of Santa Lucia, where Michael Corleone married Apollonia, and the famous Bar Vitelli, where the characters enjoyed an “arancini” and a glass of wine. After a full day of exploration, you will board the minivan and head back to Messina, where the tour will end.

How to Book the Tour

If you’re ready to book your ultimate Sicily day tour, you can click on this link book the tour here to visit the official website of GetYourGuide. You can choose your preferred date and time, pay securely online, and receive instant confirmation of your booking. The price of the tour includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, lunch in a typical trattoria, and the services of a local guide and driver throughout the day.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sicily day tour to Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Taormina, and “The Godfather” filming locations offers an excellent opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and charming towns in Sicily and indulge in the local culture and traditions. You’ll get the chance to admire stunning Baroque architecture, taste delicious food, and learn about the history and culture of the island. And for all movie buffs out there, this tour is a must-see! So why wait? Book your ultimate Sicily day tour today and start your adventure!

FAQ about Modica, Sicily

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, the charming town of Modica is a must-see destination. With its gorgeous Baroque architecture, rich history, and delicious food, there’s always something to discover in the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Modica to help you plan your trip.

1. What is Modica known for?

Modica is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, which is best seen in the town’s numerous churches and historic buildings. It’s also known for its chocolate, which is made using a traditional Aztec method and is a must-try for food lovers.

2. How do I get to Modica?

The closest airport to Modica is Comiso Airport, which is about 30 minutes away by car. You can also fly into Catania Airport, which is about 1.5 hours away by car. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Modica. If you prefer to take public transportation, there are buses that run from Catania to Modica.

3. What are the best things to do in Modica?

Some of the best things to do in Modica include visiting the town’s many churches, exploring its historic center, and trying the famous Modica chocolate. You can also take a guided tour of the town or explore the surrounding countryside, which is dotted with olive groves and vineyards.

4. What is the best time of year to visit Modica?

The best time of year to visit Modica is in the spring (April-June) or fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, Modica is a year-round destination, and even in the summer, when the weather is hot, there’s always plenty to do and see.

5. What should I eat in Modica?

Modica is known for its traditional Sicilian cuisine, which includes dishes like arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant and tomato sauce), and cannoli (pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese). And of course, no trip to Modica is complete without trying the town’s famous chocolate.

6. What are the best day trips from Modica?

There are plenty of day trips you can take from Modica, including visits to nearby towns like Ragusa, Noto, and Siracusa, all of which are known for their stunning Baroque architecture and rich history. You can also take a trip to the nearby Vendicari Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of bird species and offers some of the best beaches in the area.

7. Is Modica safe for tourists?

Yes, Modica is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions like keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

8. What is the currency in Modica?

The currency in Modica, as in the rest of Italy, is the Euro. You can easily exchange money at banks or ATMs throughout the town.

9. What languages do people speak in Modica?

The official language in Modica is Italian, but many locals also speak Sicilian, a regional dialect of Italian. English is also widely spoken in the town’s tourist areas.

10. What are some cultural events in Modica?

Modica is home to several cultural events throughout the year, including the famous Chocobarocco chocolate festival in December, which celebrates the town’s chocolate-making tradition. In the summer, there are also concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions held throughout the town. In conclusion, Modica is a beautiful, fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just soaking up the sights and sounds of a traditional Sicilian town, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Modica.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Modica

If you’re planning to visit Sicily, Italy, Modica should definitely be on your list of places to see. Modica is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, delicious chocolate, and rich history. Here’s your guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Modica.

1. Take a Walking Tour of Modica

Modica is a hilltop town, so you’ll get some exercise while exploring it. Taking a walking tour of Modica is a great way to learn about its rich history and discover all the hidden gems the town has to offer. Modica has many walking tour providers that you can choose from. You’ll learn about the history, architecture, and culture of the town while taking in the beautiful views.

2. Visit the Churches in Modica

Modica is home to many Baroque-style churches that are worth visiting. One of the most famous is the Cathedral of San Giorgio, which was built in the 18th century. The church is known for its stunning architecture and impressive artwork by local artists. You’ll also want to visit the Church of San Pietro and the Church of Santa Maria di Betlemme.

3. Try the Chocolate in Modica

Modica is known for its traditional chocolate-making techniques, which date back to the 16th century. The chocolate is made by hand and has a unique texture and flavor. You can try the chocolate at one of the many chocolate shops in Modica. Make sure to try the chocolate with chili pepper for a spicy twist.

4. Learn About Modica’s History

Modica has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was an important town during the Norman period and played a significant role in the Sicilian Baroque era. The best way to learn about Modica’s history is by visiting the Museo Civico di Modica, which houses a collection of archaeological artifacts and artwork.

5. Explore the Caves in Modica

Modica is famous for its underground caves, which were used as homes and storage spaces hundreds of years ago. You can explore the caves by taking a guided tour of the town. The caves are a unique way to learn about the town’s history and see how people lived in the past.

6. Visit the Beaches near Modica

Modica is located near some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. You can take a short drive to the nearby towns of Marina di Modica, Sampieri or Pozzallo to enjoy the beaches, swim in the ocean or take a relaxing walk on the sandy shore. Make sure to try some fresh seafood while you’re there.

7. Enjoy the Local Cuisine in Modica

Sicilian cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients, and Modica is no exception. You can enjoy traditional Sicilian dishes like arancini, pasta alla Norma or caponata at one of the many restaurants in Modica. Make sure to pair your meal with a local wine from the nearby hills.

Book Your Tour Now

Modica is a must-visit town in Sicily, Italy. You can enjoy its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious chocolate while exploring the town. Don’t forget to visit the nearby beaches, try the local cuisine and take in the views of the beautiful hills. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or just want to relax on the beach, Modica has something to offer everyone.