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

Traveling from Malta to Sicily for a day-long adventure might sound ambitious, but this guided tour makes it surprisingly doable and rewarding. While it’s a packed itinerary, it offers a taste of Sicily’s diverse landscape, historic towns, and volcanic wonders—perfect for those eager to maximize an island-hopping trip without staying overnight.

What we love about this trip? First, the smooth high-speed ferry ride that gets you across the Mediterranean in comfort. Second, the expert guides who bring Sicily’s history to life with engaging commentary. And third, the varied scenery—from volcanic landscapes to charming hilltop towns—that’s hard to match in a single day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the long hours on transport and limited time at each stop mean it’s best for travelers who enjoy a whirlwind experience. If you’re after the deep dive or a relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it suits those eager to tick off Sicily’s highlights in one go. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or wine enthusiast, this tour offers an impressive snapshot of Sicily’s many faces.

Good To Know

• Efficient transport via high-speed ferry and air-conditioned coach ensures comfort during a long day.
• Guided experience provides local insights and historical context, adding depth to the visit.
• Visit to Mount Etna offers stunning views, volcanic landscapes, and the chance to see Europe’s largest active volcano.
• Syracuse and Ortigia showcase ancient Greek influences, baroque architecture, and vibrant street life.
• Limited time at each site means some highlights, like the cable car ride, might be cut short or require additional costs.
• Value for money is rated well, especially considering the inclusion of ferry, transport, and guided commentary.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

Early Morning Departure and Ferry Ride

The tour kicks off bright and early at 6:30 AM from Malta, with passengers gathering at the designated meeting point in Marsa. After a roughly two-hour ferry ride on a high-speed vessel, travelers arrive in Sicily around 8:15 AM. The ferry ride itself is smooth and comfortable, giving you an effortless way to cross the sea without the worries of driving or navigating.

From reviews, travelers found the ferry to be large and very smooth, making the crossing pleasant even for those who can get seasick easily. However, note that travelers are responsible for making their own way to the ferry terminal in Malta, and no guide accompanies you on the ferry, which might require some pre-planning.

Mount Etna: Europe’s Most Active Volcano

Once on the island, the journey to Mount Etna begins. The drive from Pozzallo takes about three hours, during which you’ll pass through picturesque villages and witness the ever-changing landscape of Sicily. Many visitors are captivated by the fertile lower slopes of Etna, where orange and lemon groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean flora flourish. Along the way, you’ll see forests of chestnut, oak, beech, and pine—each zone telling a story of Sicily’s natural richness.

At Mount Etna, the main highlight is the view of the crater and the volcanic terrain. Although cable rides are not included (and might be limited due to time constraints), you can still take in the majesty of Europe’s largest active volcano. Reviewers mention that timing can be tight for the cable car, with queues and extra costs (around €83 for two). Therefore, if seeing the crater up close is your priority, be prepared for a quick visit or consider extra expenses.

What to expect: The landscape here is striking—the sulfurous craters, rugged lava flows, and the contrast with lush greenery make for memorable photos. The guide typically shares insights about Etna’s activity and significance, making the experience more meaningful.

Journey to Syracuse and Ortigia

After roughly six hours at Mount Etna, the coach takes you south to Syracuse, a journey of about two hours. Syracuse was once one of the most important cities in Western Europe, founded by Greek settlers in 733 BC. Its historic significance is evident as you walk through streets that have seen thousands of years of history.

The highlight here is Ortygia, the island that forms the heart of Syracuse. In recent years, it has undergone a face-lift, making it a vibrant spot to explore with its charming narrow streets and lively atmosphere. Reviewers note that free time in Ortigia allows for sightseeing and even catching the sunset, although the bus leaves at 7 PM—so you’ll want to plan your dinner accordingly.

The Iconic Piazza Duomo and the Duomo

Centered on Ortygia, the Piazza Duomo is a must-see. The Duomo itself is a fascinating structure, built on what was once a Greek temple dedicated to Athena. Over centuries, it’s been transformed from a Greek temple to a Christian church, with Byzantine and Norman influences visible in its architecture. The earthquake of 1693 led to the baroque façade we see today, giving the cathedral a unique layered history.

Travelers have mentioned that this site is one of the oldest places of continuous worship, adding a profound sense of connection to the past. The guide’s commentary enhances this experience, providing stories about how different civilizations adapted and preserved the site.

Return Journey and Ferry Back to Malta

From Syracuse, the coach heads back to Pozzallo, taking about an hour. The ferry ride back to Malta is approximately two hours, completing a long but fulfilling day. The tour typically wraps up around 11:15 PM, leaving travelers exhausted but enriched.

Some reviewers comment on the tight schedules and transportation times, noting that it can feel like a race to see as much as possible in one day. However, the overall experience is often praised for its coherence and the opportunity to see a diverse slice of Sicily’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are the air-conditioned vehicle, local guide, and the high-speed ferry—elements that ensure comfort and informative commentary without additional costs.

Meals and beverages are not included, so plan ahead for breakfast, snacks, or the possibility of a quick lunch in Ortigia. Reviewers suggest bringing some snacks for the coach rides to keep energy levels up.

One important point from reviews is that guides meet travelers mainly in Sicily, so travelers need to coordinate their own transportation to the ferry terminal in Malta. Once in Sicily, the guide helps navigate the day’s stops, but there’s a bit of a “self-start” element at the beginning.

The Experience of Traveling in a Group

The tour caps at 78 travelers, which means it’s a fairly sizable group but still manageable. Many reviews mention the professionalism of the guides and drivers, noting that their knowledge and friendliness enhance the day.

Some guests appreciated the clear explanations and engaging commentary, especially at sites like Mount Etna and Piazza Duomo. However, a few found the schedule a bit rushed, especially during coach rides, suggesting that small stops for restroom breaks would improve the experience.

Transport and Timing

The long journey involves about 17 hours from start to finish, including travel, sightseeing, and the ferry. While this might seem lengthy, it’s quite efficient for a day trip covering such distance and diversity.

The ferry’s comfort and the coach’s air-conditioning help mitigate fatigue, but be prepared for a lot of sitting. Reviewers recommend bringing entertainment or a book for the coach rides and snacks for the long stretches.

Value for Money

Considering the ferry, transportation, and guided insights, most travelers find the price reasonable, especially since it covers a full day of sightseeing. However, some mention that the limited time at Mount Etna and Syracuse means you might only scratch the surface, which is worth keeping in mind if you prefer in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want a snapshot of Sicily’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but craving the experience of seeing a volcano, exploring ancient Greek ruins, and soaking in Sicilian scenery.

It also works well for those who don’t mind a full day of travel and want an organized, guided approach. If you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration or want to spend more time at each site, this might not be the best fit.

People who appreciate guided commentary, value comfort, and enjoy scenic drives will find this trip engaging. It’s also a good option for solo travelers or small groups who want to connect with others during a well-organized day.

FAQs

Do I need to book the ferry separately?
No, the ferry is included in the tour package. You will need to check in at the ferry terminal in Malta but won’t need to handle tickets yourself.

Is lunch included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so bring snacks or plan to buy food in Ortigia or Syracuse.

Can I see Mount Etna’s crater up close?
You can see the volcano from a distance, but cable rides are not included and may be limited by time or weather. Extra costs apply if you want to go higher.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most reviews indicate shoulder seasons like early March are ideal—less crowded, good weather, and a more relaxed pace.

How long is the ferry ride?
Approximately 2 hours each way, with a smooth and comfortable crossing.

Where do I meet the guide in Sicily?
Guides meet travelers after disembarking in Sicily; no guide is with you during the ferry ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially if your kids are comfortable with long days and coach travel, but check with the operator for age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, especially for Mount Etna’s cooler, volcanic environment. Bring sunglasses and sun protection, and layered clothing for varied weather.

Final Verdict

This Sicily day trip from Malta offers a well-structured, scenic, and educational experience that packs in some of the island’s most iconic sights. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to get a taste of Sicily’s volcanic landscapes and ancient ruins without the need for overnight stays. The guides’ local knowledge and the comfortable ferry make it a practical choice, while the limited free time at each site encourages an efficient, if somewhat hurried, visit.

For those willing to embrace a full day of travel and exploration, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of one of Europe’s most compelling islands. It’s a fantastic way to add Sicily to your itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but want to experience its diversity firsthand.