Excursion Mount etna & catania tour at Syracuse
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Experience Sicily's magnificent volcanic splendour and historic past during this memorable full-day visit to Mount Etna, and a sightseeing tour of Catania. Mt. Etna is Europe's most active volcano soaring to a height of 10,813 feet (3,296 metres).
Depart the pier for a brief sightseeing drive through Siracusa.
Siracusa
Partially-located on the mainland of Sicily's east coast and partially on an island connected to the mainland by three bridges, this powerful city-state was once the bulwark of Greek civilization and continue on through the main streets of this historic town. Leaving Siracusa, drive to Catania.
Catania
Upon arrival at the Catania Centre, take a brief sightseeing drive past Via Etnea, Villa Bellini and Piazza Stesicoro. Next, proceed to Piazza Duomo for a short walking tour past the Cathedral, University and other scenic landmarks. Following your walking tour re-boarding your coach for the 45-60-minute drive to Mount Etna.
Mount Etna
Mount Etna is Europe's most active volcano. Its slopes soar to a height of 10,813 feet (3,296 metres) above sea level, and are covered with cones and craters. Upon arrival at the 6,398-foot (1,950-metre) Crateri Silverstri, you may opt to visit one of the bars or restaurants, or walk around the visitor area for magnificent panoramic vistas and photos over woods, orchards, vineyards and the Catania Gulf. The highlight of your visit is the sight of the awe-inspiring crater and lava streams, including those stemming from eruptions in 2001 and 2002.
Following your visit, proceed to Cantine Nicosia Restaurant in Trecastagni for a typical Sicilian lunch accimpanied by wine of their own production. After lunch, re-board your bus for the approximate 90-minute return drive to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Siracusa, Ortygia Island, Catania, Piazza Duomo, Cathedral, University, Mount Etna, Crateri Silverstri, Catania Gulf, Lunch
Note
Please note: This tour involves minimal walking of approximately .50 miles (800 metres) in Catania, and uneven ground at the Crateri Silvestri area, and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to bring a winter jacket with a windproof outer-layer, as the temperatures atop Mount Etna can be windy and cool, even during the summer months. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for guests who opt to walk around the Crateri Silvestri at their discretion. Caution is also advised when walking across lava and rocky ground, where crevices still exude fumes and heat. Guests who do not wish to walk here may relax in the bars and restaurants in front of the coach parking area. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.