Our most recommended things to do in Corso Umberto

From Catania: Taormina, Savoca, & Castelmola Tour w/ Brunch

1. From Catania: Taormina, Savoca, & Castelmola Tour w/ Brunch

Embark on a fascinating cultural adventure in Sicily and discover 3 charming towns on a day trip from Catania. Marvel at the picturesque streets if Savoca, Taormina, and Castelmola, and visit their most remarkable landmarks. Enjoy a delicious lunch of typical products. Start your experience, being picked up from your local accommodation by a comfortable 8 seat air conditioned vehicle. The first stop of your Sicilian trip will be Savoca, a characteristic medieval town. Visit one of the fascinating catacombs of the Cappuccini convent which hosts the mummified bodies of monks and nobles from Savoca. Next, visit bar Vitelli, famously known as the bar from the film "The Godfather", where you can taste delicious Sicilian granita and look at photos which were taken during the shooting of the film. Then, travel to the second town on the tour, the majestic Taormina. Visit the Greek Theatre, or one of the major ancient sites in Sicily which offers a unique panoramic view of the sea and Mount Etna. Walking along Corso Umberto, you can also visit the Cathedral and enjoy the stunning view of Capo Taormina bay. While in Taormina, enjoy a rich brunch made of a delicious products from the Sicilian culinary tradition, water and red Etna wine (included in the price). Afterwards, arrive at the final stop, Castelmola, a characteristic medieval suburb suspended between the sky and the sea. Enjoy a fantastic view of Etna on one side and the Ionian sea on the other, then, from Sant’Antonio square, begin your walk through the alleys. Around the small streets, it’s possible to see quaint shops that sell souvenirs, laces, and embroideries made by locals women.  Finally, visit Bar Turrisi for a coffee or some almond wine, a typical Sicilian dessert wine.

Taormina Half-Day Private Walking Tour

2. Taormina Half-Day Private Walking Tour

Experience the magic of the Sicilian resort of Taormina, and discover why it is called the “Pearl of the Mediterranean” on a walking tour tailored just for you. Avoiding the crowds as much as possible, the half-day tour typically starts at Catania Gate, the main entrance to Corso Umberto, an elegant shopping street of boutique stores and chic restaurants. Continue to the 13th-century cathedral on Piazza del Duomo, and wander into the narrow streets of the Jewish Ghetto. Panoramic views are offered from IX April Square and the Clock Tower, while other enchanting sights include the 10th-century Palazzo Corvaja and the façade of the San Domenico cloister, now a beautiful 5-star hotel. Go to the Greek-Roman Theater for sweeping vistas of the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The view of Monte Tauro and Castelmola add to the charm. You will be following in the footsteps of Wagner, Oscar Wilde, Cary Grant, Ingmar Bergmann, and many more celebrities that fell in love with Taormina to help put it on the map.

Taormina: Audio Guide Sightseeing Tour on Your Smartphone

3. Taormina: Audio Guide Sightseeing Tour on Your Smartphone

The hilltop town of Taormina is the ideal place to get a sense of the rich blend of cultures that have made Sicily what it is today. From the arrival of the Greeks almost two and half thousand years ago, to the Romans, the Arabs and, eventually, the Spanish, each culture left their own discernible mark on this charming town overlooking Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. On this walking tour, you’ll have an opportunity to see some of Taormina’s highlights, and to soak up the atmosphere of typical Sicilian life and find out why this little town has so much to offer. Our tour starts in the southern part of the town with magnificent views over Mount Etna and the sea below, at one of the entrances to the original ancient city, Porta Catania. You’ll follow the town’s pedestrianized main street, Corso Umberto, to another original entrance gate, Porta Messina, where our tour ends. On the way, I’ll tell you about the history, archaeology and customs that remain preserved in Taormina. Corso Umberto, with its stores and cafes, is also popular with shoppers and foodies. At the town’s most beautiful square, Piazza di Duomo, I’ll explain the significance of the statue of a female centaur gazing down from the top of the fountain (Fontana di Piazza Duomo), and tell you how Taormina came to adopt this as the town’s symbol. I’ll point out the ancient and well-preserved Duomo di Taormina, the main church, and show you how the cultures that intermingled over the centuries are reflected in this important monument’s architectural styles. On this tour, you’ll have a chance to: • Wander down Vicolo Stretto, the narrowest street in Taormina • Find out how to correctly order cannoli, a sweet Sicilian delicacy • Be treated to one of the most captivating panoramas in Sicily at Piazza IX Aprile • Hear about the building that was once a church and now is a shop where you can also have cooking lessons • Learn about Palazzo Corvaja, a palace that was built in the 10th century and still inhabited until relatively recent times • See layers of history at the Church of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, which was built upon the remains of a Roman theatre with an ancient Greek and Roman road beneath it • Soak up breathtaking panoramic views By the end of this tour, you’ll have a new appreciation for the heritage, art, and traditions of beautiful Taormina. You’ll also know how to recognize a 15th-century palace.

From Catania: Full-Day The Godfather Tour

4. From Catania: Full-Day The Godfather Tour

The tour will begin with a visit to Savoca, one of the most picturesque medieval villages of Sicily, inserted in the circuit of the most beautiful villages in Italy since 2008. Also named Terra Ferace of Gagliardi Ingegni and country of seven faces, this delightful city of art has been chosen as a set for several important films including The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola. You will start from one of the most important places in Savoca, the Vitelli Bar, then go on a stroll through the alleys of the village, immersed in a suggestive landscaping setting. Admire the ruins of an ancient synagogue, a precious mullion in a pure 15-century style and you will reach the historic center of the country, which, according to some historians, is rooted in Roman times. Visit the church of San Nicolò, built in the 13th century and restructured in the 18th century, where some well-known scenes of the renowned cinematic work were also filmed.  Continue by moving to Forza D’Agrò, immersed in the D’Agrò Valley. During the journey, you will be able to enjoy a breathtaking view and admire the obvious traces of an intense and previous farm activity which took place in the valley thanks to the terraces. You will also be able to enjoy a beautiful panorama that opens up towards the Ionian Coast. Here, you will make a small stop to visit the Cathedral of Mary S.Annunziata and Assunta dating back to the 15th century immersing yourself even more in a pure medieval context that exudes the Sicilian tradition at every corner. The excursion will end with some free time to visit the picturesque town of Taormina. Along the main road of this town, Corso Umberto, with the Messina Gate below and the Catania Gate on the mountain side, you will admire the most important monuments: Palazzo Corvaja (The Corvaja Palace) the Teatro Antico* (The Old Theatre), Piazza IX Aprile, the Torre dell’orologio (The Clock Tower), the Cattedrale Fortezza (The Fortress Cathedral), the Badia Vecchia (The Old Abbey), the Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano (The Duke of Saint Stephen Palace) and much more. It will also be possible to go shopping in the exclusive shops which alternate with workshops.

Giardini Naxos, Taormina and Castelmola 5-Hour Tour

5. Giardini Naxos, Taormina and Castelmola 5-Hour Tour

Benefit from pick-up at your accommodation in Catania, and then travel by bus to the seaside resort of Giardini Naxos. Continue to the beautiful almond wine village of Castelmola on the Ionian coast. View the small and lovely island of Isola Bella from above, connected to the mainland by a thin strip of sand. Get stunning views of the bay and promontories of Capo Sant’Andrea. Move on to the pretty resort town of Taormina and get a stunning view of the Messina Gate from the Corso Umberto on arrival. See the important monuments of the historic town center, including the Palazzo Corvaja, Teatro Antico, and medieval Cattedrale Fortezza. Get some time to browse the boutique stores and handicraft shops before the return trip to Catania.

Taormina: Sunset Walking Tour & Aperitif on Rooftop Terrace

6. Taormina: Sunset Walking Tour & Aperitif on Rooftop Terrace

Meet your professional local guide at a centrally located point in the historic center of Taormina - Porta Messina, and start your small group 2.5-hour sunset promenade, or like Italians say 'paseggiata.' You will walk the main street of Taormina – Corso Umberto - vibrant and lively, but still relaxed and romantic when the sun goes down. Walk from the ancient historic gates of Porta Messina to Porta Catania and see such important monuments like Palazzo Corvaja, the 2nd century Roman theatre Odeon, ancient Roman naumachia, old churches of San Pancrazio, Santa Caterina, San Giuseppe and other. Stop to admire a spectacular view of Mount Etna and the Ionian coastline opening from the terrace of Piazza IX Aprile, then continue to Piazza Duomo to see the main cathedral of Taormina and the symbol of the town – ancient fountain holding a centaur with a female head. From your friendly licensed local guide, who is truly in love with his home town, you will hear about the history and interesting facts of Taormina, learn about the influence of the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards presented at each step, each stone and in the everyday life of the town – its architecture, culture, cuisine, language and even the Sicilian mindset.  You will feel the unique atmosphere of Taormina at sunset, when its charming streets are lit with romantic lights, the air is full of beautiful scents of citrus and fresh seafood and local musicians perform live on the streets and squares. You will end your sunset tour on the terrace of one of the best restaurants in Taormina with a glass of Aperol spritz or wine accompanied with light appetizers, admiring the incredible view of Mount Etna and illuminated Ionian coastline.

From Catania: Day Trip to Giardini Naxos and Taormina

7. From Catania: Day Trip to Giardini Naxos and Taormina

Discover some of Sicily’s most stunning villages: Giardini Naxos, Castelmola, and Taormina. Travel along the island’s eastern coast, and visit the scenic Isola Bella and taking in the spectacular vistas of Castelmola and Taormina. Start the tour by visiting the seaside town of Giardini Naxos, the first Greek colony in Sicily and an ancient fishing village. Take the opportunity to enjoy walking along its beautiful promenade.  Next, take a short break to enjoy the Isola Bella Natural Reserve, considered the pearl of the Ionian Sea for its wild beauty. The high walls around Cape St. Andrew protect this famous bay and are home to the Blue Grotto and Cape Taormina.  From Isola Bella continue your tour to scenic Castelmola and walk through the characteristic streets of this ancient town, admiring the ruins of its Norman walls. Once there, discover Piazza Duomo, with its Mother Church, rebuilt between 1934 and 1935 and dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari. After that, gaze upon the Sicilian landscape and Mediterranean sea through the Ancient Roman Arch. Finally, visit picturesque Taormina overlooking the sea. Wander along Corso Umberto and observe its most important monuments like the Ancient Theatre, Palazzo Corvaja, and the Clock Tower. Wrap up by indulging in some shopping in the fashionable characteristic craft shops of the city.

3-Hour Taormina Segway PT Authorized Tour

8. 3-Hour Taormina Segway PT Authorized Tour

One of the world's oldest tourist destinations, Taormina delights visitors with its Greek-Roman ruins and charming medieval streets. Today, you'll get to discover it on swift and comfortable city glide by Segway! Your tour begins on the terrace above the parking lot “Porta Catania” where you will meet your guide and learn how to operate the Segway. You will enter the city through the arch of Porta Catania. The first stop is the Piazza Duomo, where the fountain with the "Centauressa" - symbol of Taormina - and the City Hall are located. Next, continue towards the ancient monastery of San Domenico, now one of the most luxurious hotels in Sicily. After passing Porta di Mezzo, you will arrive in Piazza IX Aprile, known as the Belvedere, the continue to the park. Leaving the park, you will head towards the town's most famous monument, the Greek-Roman theatre. After your visit, you will follow Via Teatro Greco and Corso Umberto towards Porta Messina. Finally, you will pass in front of the Capuchin church and return to the parking lot "Porta Catania."

Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour

9. Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour

Following a convenient pickup at a time of your choosing, enjoy a quick observation of Messina’s main streets as your head for the highway. Taormina is where you’ll focus first, with a stop at a glorious balcony from which to admire the view of the cliffs and Isola Bella island. Embrace the views and take some beautiful photos to remember the moment.   Next, arrive in the heart of Taormina, passing through the famous Corso Umberto street before reaching the main attractions including the Greek theater, shops, delicious restaurants, and monuments. After 1 or 2 hours spent here, head for Castelmola at 450 meters above sea level offering splendid views over the bay of Giardini Naxos and a unique view of Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. For those who want to have lunch while admiring the beautiful view of the volcano, there are typical restaurants where you can taste local specialties of fish or meat, or simply sip the region's excellent almond wine. After this, take in views of Messina and see the Sanctuary of Christ the King church and Messina Cathedral containing the biggest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world. End the day by tasting an excellent Sicilian cannoli at one of the most famous pastry shops in Messina before returning to the starting point of the tour.

From Messina: Mount Etna and Taormina Trip with Tastings

10. From Messina: Mount Etna and Taormina Trip with Tastings

The tour starts from the pier in Messina port or other point agreed. Pick up time provided by the customers. After a quick presentation of Messina through it’s main streets we reach the highway Messina/Catania. Reached Giarre, we leave the plains behind us and start our climb through the villages to the slopes of Etna, Santa Venerina and Zafferana. We will make a stop at a local company dedicated to beekeeping where customers can enjoy a taste of honey and typical products of Sicily like oil, olives and famous limoncello made with lemons of this wonderful land. It continues to climb to reach Mount Etna and in this ascent can be have views overlooking the Catanese coast, Until you get Ai Silvestri Craters coveted stage Dai Tourists from around the world for a breathtaking view and observe Near Le latest castings of past Years of lava. Then we walk to Taormina is where we focus first on a balcony from which you can admire the view of Taormina’s cliff with the famous Isola Bella and take very beautiful photos. After you arrive in Taormina village and accompany clients to pedestrian entrance which leads into the heart of Taormina. You passing the famous Corso Umberto (Ancient Roman road Valeria) reaching the main places of attraction the Greek Theater, shops, delicious restaurants and monuments after 1 or 2 hours spent at the discretion of the customer. It returned to Messina making a quick stop on a vantage point of Messina where stands a monument / Mausoleum with bronze statues (Sanctuary of Christ the King) and then we stop in Messina’s cathedral, where stands the largest astronomical and astrological clock world.

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What people are saying about Corso Umberto

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 11 reviews

Salvo is an excellent guide, very knowledgeable of the history of Taormina. We enjoyed the tour of the Greek theatre, the walk through the 3 gates of the historic city and several stunning lookouts of the surrounding area and the sea, we would highly recommend this guide and the tour.

We really enjoyed this tour: the film locations are interesting and it was fun to visit them. The towns and their locations are stunning and worth visiting. Nando, our guide, was very informative, friendly and professional throughout. Recommended.

We had an amazing time; the tour guide was very informative and explained everything in detail. I only wish we had more time spent at Taormina, but apart from that, amazing experience. thank you.

Guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, the tour was brilliant from start to finish.

Excellent day . Friendly guide with lots of information. Well worth it