Full Day Sicily Tour from Malta. Visit Mt Etna and Syracuse

Setting out on a full-day trip from Malta to Sicily offers an adventurous way to see some of Italy’s most iconic sights in just a single day. The tour, organized by Virtu Ferries LTD, takes you across the sea in a sleek catamaran, then dives into Sicily’s diverse landscape—climbing Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, and wandering through the ancient streets of Syracuse, especially the charming Ortigia. It’s a whirlwind, but packed with memorable moments.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances natural wonders with cultural treasures. First, the stunning scenery along the way — from the fertile lower slopes of Etna, bursting with citrus groves and vineyards, to the atmospheric streets of Syracuse. Second, the expert local guides who bring history and geology to life, making ancient sites engaging rather than just photo ops. However, a major consideration is the long hours on the road — with around 17 hours scheduled from start to finish, it’s a hefty day, especially if you’re not used to spending so much time traveling.

One potential hiccup is the timing of stops. Several reviews mention that the limited time at Mount Etna, just about 2 hours, might feel rushed, especially if you want to take the cable car or explore the summit in more depth. Also, the logistics of getting to the ferry terminal and navigating the schedule can seem a little confusing, since there’s no guide at the initial meeting point, and you’re responsible for your own ferry check-in. That said, most travelers seem to agree that the experience is worth it, especially if you’re eager to tick Sicily off your bucket list in a day.

Key Points / Takeaways

Quick cross-sea transfer: The high-speed ferry makes the journey from Malta to Sicily comfortable and scenic, with approximately 2 hours on the water.
Expert guides and local knowledge: Guides like the one praised for professionalism help bring Sicily’s sights and history alive.
Limited but meaningful stops: About 2 hours at Mount Etna and 3 hours in Syracuse give you a taste without delving too deep.
Timing considerations: The early start and long day mean you’ll need stamina, but most find it manageable and rewarding.
Authentic Sicilian landscapes: From volcanic craters to baroque architecture, the scenery is diverse and striking.
Value for money: While no meals are included, the tour provides a rundown for a very full day, making it a good deal for those short on time.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at the Highlights

Starting Early and Crossing the Sea in Style

The trip kicks off at 6:30 AM from Malta’s Marsa, with a smooth high-speed ferry ride that lasts about 1 hour 50 minutes. The boat, described as huge and very smooth, is a comfortable way to begin what will be a very long day. Most reviews highlight that travelers must manage their own check-in at the ferry terminal, which can be a bit confusing since guides meet you later in Sicily, not at the start.

If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate how efficiently the ferry gets you across the channel, making the most of your limited time in Sicily. You’ll arrive in Sicily around 8:15 AM, ready to hit the ground running.

Up Close with Mount Etna

Mount Etna is the star of the show — Europe’s largest and most active volcano. The drive from the port of Pozzallo to Etna takes about 3 hours, winding through picturesque villages and landscapes that seem constantly to change under your eyes. You’ll pass through groves of oranges, lemons, and vineyards that produce some of Sicily’s best wines, along with forests of chestnut, oak, beech, and pine.

Most travelers love the way the landscape morphs as you ascend — fertile lowlands turning into stark volcanic terrain. Climbing to the crater itself might be limited, as cable rides are not included and sometimes unavailable due to weather or maintenance. Still, many mention that just being close to the volcano — feeling its power and observing the changing geology — is unforgettable.

One thing to note from reviews is that the time spent at Etna is roughly 2 hours, which some consider insufficient to fully appreciate the volcano or take a cable car ride. If you’re especially keen on getting a close-up view of the crater, you might find this a bit rushed.

Syracuse: An Ancient Marvel

After leaving Etna, you’ll head south for about 2 hours to Syracuse, a city that once ruled Western Europe. Its history as a Greek colony from 733 BC is etched into every stone, and wandering its streets, especially the island of Ortigia, feels like stepping back in time.

Most visitors find Syracuse deeply charming, especially Ortigia, which has undergone recent renovations and is now a lively hub of cafes, shops, and historic sites. The highlight is the Piazza Duomo, where the cathedral is a unique fusion of Greek, Byzantine, Norman, and Baroque architecture. Its origins as the Temple of Athena, later converted into a Christian church, make it a layered monument.

You’ll get about an hour to stroll around and soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention how the sunset here can be particularly beautiful, especially if you have a little extra time in Ortigia after the tour.

Navigating the Schedule and Time Management

The tour wraps up with about 4 hours in Syracuse, including travel back to Pozzallo and the ferry crossing back to Malta. The bus departs Syracuse at 7 PM, so dinner options in Ortigia are limited since most restaurants open late, around 7 or 8 PM. This timing may catch some travelers off guard, especially if they want to sit down for a proper meal.

Most travelers agree that the long day on the coach, combined with limited free time at each site, can be tiring. However, the opportunity to visit such iconic highlights of Sicily in a single day makes it an attractive option for those with tight schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day trip is best suited for travelers who want a taste of Sicily’s highlights without committing to multiple days. It’s perfect if you’ve got limited time and are eager to see Etna’s volcanic landscape and walk through historic Syracuse. If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural sights, and natural wonders all in one package, this tour offers solid value.

However, if you’re a slow traveler, crave more in-depth exploration, or dislike long hours on a coach, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, if getting to the ferry and managing logistics sounds complicated, be prepared for some initial effort.

Ideal for:

• Time-strapped travelers eager to see Sicily’s top sights
• Those interested in volcanic landscapes and ancient ruins
• Visitors who don’t mind a long, full day of travel and sightseeing
• Anyone looking for good guides and a reliable, well-organized trip

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

Since the tour is listed as $0.00, it’s likely a package included in a broader travel itinerary or perhaps a promotional offering. Still, most reviews mention that meals and beverages are not included, so budget for lunch and snacks. The ferry and guides are included, making this a straightforward experience.

The logistics require some self-organization — you need to arrive at the Malta meeting point and handle your own ferry check-in. The tour’s timing is tight, with around 17 hours from start to finish, so be prepared for a packed schedule. The ferry ride, the drive, and the site visits mean you’ll spend most of your day on transportation rather than leisure, but the payoff is the chance to see two of Sicily’s most compelling sights.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour provides a lively, engaging way to get a snapshot of Sicily’s diverse landscape and history. The guides are praised for their professionalism, and many travelers mention their appreciation for the scenic drive and historical insights. The views from Mount Etna and the allure of Syracuse’s streets are genuinely memorable highlights.

It’s a long day with some logistical hurdles, but most feel it’s a worthwhile adventure — especially if you’re curious about Sicily but don’t have the time for a multi-day trip. It’s an experience that combines natural grandeur with cultural richness, making it a good value for those wanting a quick, rundown.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long coach rides, and limited free time, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just pack your walking shoes, some patience, and an appetite for discovery.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Malta to Sicily?
Yes, you’ll travel in a high-speed catamaran ferry that takes about 2 hours, included in the tour.

Do I need to arrange my own ferry tickets?
You do need to check in at the ferry terminal yourself, as the guide meets you later in Sicily. It’s worth arriving early to avoid confusion.

How much time do I get at Mount Etna?
Approximately 2 hours, which some reviews suggest is enough to see the volcano but may feel rushed if you want to explore more or take the cable car.

What about Syracuse and Ortigia?
You get around 3 hours for sightseeing in Syracuse, including Ortigia, the historic heart of the city. You can enjoy walking around and maybe catch a sunset.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are extra, so plan accordingly for lunch or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for families or all ages?
Most travelers find it suitable, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved. Younger children might find it tiring.

This full-day excursion offers a well-organized way to sample Sicily’s volcanic landscapes and ancient streets, making the most of a day if you’re pressed for time. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a taste of history, it’s a memorable way to add a slice of Italy to your Malta holiday.