Taormina: Food and wine tour near Etna

A Taste of Sicily Far from the Tourist Trail

This Taormina-based food and wine tour offers a refreshing look at Sicily’s authentic culinary and cultural gems, far from the usual crowds. Led by local guides Chris and Barbara, this experience takes you to small villages at the foot of Mount Etna, where the pace is slower, and genuine hospitality is the norm. The tour’s charm lies in its focus on local people, traditional foods, and regional wines, all enjoyed in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What I love most about this experience is the opportunity to meet real locals—from producers of olive oil and hazelnuts to shepherds and family dairy owners. These encounters make the flavors much more meaningful. Another highlight is the vintage car rides, which add a touch of fun and nostalgia to the day, making it feel less like a typical tour and more like a local adventure. Plus, the tasting sessions—ranging from cheeses to Sicilian pastries—are thoughtfully curated and reveal the depth of small-scale Sicilian craftsmanship.

One potential consideration is the tour’s pace, which is quite leisurely and focused on local interactions. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-energy experience, this might feel a bit slow. Also, since the tour involves some walking and outdoor tastings, comfortable shoes and insect repellent are advisable. Overall, if you prefer authentic experiences over touristy attractions, this tour will hit the spot.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Encounters: Meet farmers, shepherds, and artisanal producers directly, gaining insight into Sicilian food traditions.
• Immersive Experience in Small Villages: Explore Linguaglossa and Randazzo, two towns that remain largely untouched by mass tourism.
• Vintage Car Rides: Enjoy scenic, nostalgic drives that add a special touch to the journey.
• Culinary Highlights: Taste Etna olive oil, local hazelnuts, cheeses from Nebrodi Mountains, and regional sweets like ricotta cannoli.
• Regional Wines and Meals: Savor a traditional Sicilian lunch with a glass of Etna red wine, making the experience both delicious and educational.
• Leisurely Pace With Personal Touches: The tour’s 7-hour duration offers plenty of time for relaxed exploration and meaningful conversations.

Entering the Heart of Real Sicily

The experience kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel—either in Taormina, Naxos, or Catania—making it convenient and straightforward. From there, a vintage car whisks you off into the Sicilian countryside, a lovely change from crowded bus tours. The first stop in Linguaglossa is not just a breakfast break but a chance to sample local snacks and regional foods. Here, you’ll taste olive oil from Etna, fresh from the farm, and some of the best hazelnuts Sicily has to offer, grown amidst ancient forests.

The small farm visit is a highlight, as you’ll see the hazelnuts growing in their natural environment before sampling hazelnut creams and regional snacks. These tastings are more than just bites—they’re a chance to understand the land and the people behind these products. Reviewers often mention how engaging the hosts are, with one noting, “Chris and Barbara are fantastic at sharing stories and making you feel part of their community.”

Next, a scenic drive takes you to Randazzo, where a family dairy awaits. Here, you’ll meet a local shepherd and sample hot ricotta and cheese from the Nebrodi Mountains—delicious, fresh, and a true taste of traditional Sicily. The cheese tasting is a real treat, especially for cheese lovers looking for authentic flavors. One visitor shared, “The cheese was so fresh, and talking to the shepherd made me appreciate the effort behind each piece.”

The afternoon continues with regional desserts—ricotta cannoli and Sicilian granita—at a local artisan pastry shop. These classic sweets are a perfect way to indulge after a day full of exploration and tasting. Then, a farmhouse lunch offers a hearty meal of local sausages, regional antipasti, and a glass of Etna red wine, all served in a relaxed, farm-to-table setting.

Throughout the day, the vintage cars add a nostalgic charm, making each transfer between stops a memorable part of the journey. The final hours are filled with more tastings, including regional wines, and a leisurely return to your original pick-up points.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience isn’t just about tasting food; it’s about connecting with Sicilian culture. Chris and Barbara don’t just lead the tour—they share their passion for their region. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the mix of scenic drives, local encounters, and authentic foods creates a balanced, memorable day.

The price, which includes transport, all tastings, and lunch with wine, offers great value considering the depth of experiences packed into seven hours. While some may find the pace slow, it’s ideal for those wanting to truly understand and appreciate Sicily’s rural heart. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy good food, authentic interactions, and a bit of nostalgic fun in vintage cars.

It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with lactose intolerance, so plan accordingly. Also, packing insect repellent and comfortable shoes will help you enjoy the outdoor elements fully.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys meaningful, behind-the-scenes experiences, this tour offers a genuine slice of Sicilian life. It’s perfect for foodies eager to taste regional delicacies and learn about their origins, as well as those interested in meeting local producers firsthand. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drives and rural stops, while history and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in the authentic villages.

The tour’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for anyone who prefers a slower, more personal approach to travel. It’s especially suited for those staying in Taormina or Catania who want a memorable day outside the usual tourist spots, seeing Sicily’s culinary traditions and village life.

Price and Logistics

The full price covers transportation (within Taormina, Catania, and the villages), all tastings, and the hearty lunch with wine. The inclusion of vintage cars and multiple tasting stops makes it a solid value for a full-day experience. The tour is also flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

Pickup is included from central locations, simplifying logistics. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with scheduled stops every couple of hours, allowing plenty of time to savor each experience without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This food and wine tour near Etna offers a rare glimpse into authentic Sicilian life, away from the crowded tourist spots. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy regional specialties, meet passionate locals, and experience Sicily’s rural beauty—all in a relaxed, personable setting. The vintage cars provide a nostalgic touch, and the thoughtfully curated tastings deepen your appreciation for the land’s culinary heritage.

Ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone craving a slow, genuine connection with Sicilian traditions, this tour balances fun, learning, and deliciousness. If you’re looking for a meaningful day that combines scenic drives, authentic encounters, and exquisite flavors, this might just be your perfect Sicily experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included within the Taormina, Catania, and village areas, with vintage cars used for scenic transfers between stops.

What should I bring to the tour?
Bring insect repellent and comfortable shoes, as the day involves outdoor tastings and walking in rural areas.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is around 7 hours, including all stops, tastings, and meals.

Are there vegetarian options available?
The tour mainly focuses on local Sicilian foods like cheese, meats, and regional desserts. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the leisurely pace and tasting focus make it suitable for families with older children interested in food and culture. However, very young children might find the pace slow and the outdoor environment less engaging.

In summary, this Taormina food and wine tour offers a genuine taste of Sicily’s rustic side, with memorable local encounters, scenic vintage car rides, and authentic regional flavors—all wrapped into a relaxed seven-hour journey that’s perfect for anyone wanting a deeper connection to Sicily’s culinary roots.