After our sunrise sail-in and food tour through Valletta, our ship docked in Messina.

A Return to Messina, This Time by Land

A number of years ago, we came to Messina on a cruise and spent a magnificent day touring a vineyard and having lunch on Mount Etna — you can read about that day in our post on Sicily’s Etna wine country. This time, we decided to explore some new areas with Discover Messina.

Castelmola: A Village Perched Above the Sea

Pick-up was right at the pier, and we were off to Castelmola, way up high overlooking the sea from this tiny, picturesque village. It’s a natural terrace built around the ruins of an old Norman castle. A taste of almond wine was offered and accepted — a sweet dessert wine with toasted marzipan flavors.

Taormina and Corso Umberto

From there we went on to Taormina for a longer visit, walking the streets, shopping, and lunch. The main street, Corso Umberto, is lined with shops, cafés, and historic gates. Everywhere you turn feels so very Sicilian: the views, the colors, and the aromas.

Lunch with a View

After touring and shopping, it was time for lunch. We took the tour guide’s suggestion for a restaurant with a view. We chose an eggplant appetizer and pizza with local red wine on the terrace, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Grazie mille, Sicily!!

Quick Tips for a Messina Port Day in Castelmola and Taormina

• Book an organized tour, like the one with Discover Messina, if you want pickup right at the pier and a route that covers both Castelmola and Taormina in one day without needing DIY travel arrangements.
• Try the almond wine in Castelmola a sweet, marzipan-forward dessert wine worth the small detour.
• Budget real time for Corso Umberto in Taormina — it’s the kind of street made for wandering, shopping, and stopping wherever looks good.
• Ask your guide for a lunch recommendation — a terrace table over the Ionian Sea turned out to be exactly right.