Cruise port Giardini Naxos (Sicily)
Port information & tips for Giardini Naxos (Sicily)
Giardini Naxos is a picturesque coastal town on the sun-drenched east coast of Sicily and serves as an enchanting gateway to the world-famous Taormina. The idyllic bay impresses with its crystal-clear water, the spectacular panorama of the majestic Mount Etna, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Cultural highlights in the immediate vicinity include the Archaeological Park of Naxos with ancient ruins, as well as the magnificent Teatro Antico di Taormina and the elegant Corso Umberto promenade. Cruise ships usually anchor in the protected bay, with tender boats bringing guests directly to the central Porto Scaro Nuovo pier. From this landing stage, the lively beach promenade and cozy cafés are reachable within a few minutes, and shuttle connections also enable a comfortable ride into the historic center of Taormina.
Giardini Naxos is a picturesque tender port located below Taormina and serves as an ideal gateway to the sights of eastern Sicily. Since cruise ships usually drop anchor in the bay, guests can conveniently reach the centrally located pier on Via Calcide Eubea by tender boat.
Airplane
Catania-Fontanarossa International Airport (CTA) is located approximately 55 kilometers south of the port and is served by direct flights from many German cities as well as from Vienna and Zurich. The onward journey is easy by rental car or private transfer via the A18 motorway in about 50 minutes; additionally, bus companies such as Etna Trasporti offer regular direct connections from the airport directly to the center of Giardini Naxos.
Train
Taormina-Giardini station is located on the scenic coastal route between Messina and Catania and is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in Italy. From there, you can reach the tender boat landing stage in just a few minutes by taxi or a short walk along the coast, while regional trains provide direct and regular connections to the island's major transport hubs.
Auto & Parking
Via the A18 motorway Messina-Catania, you can easily reach the port town via the Giardini Naxos exit and follow the signs towards Lungomare. For parking, supervised parking spaces are available in the city area as well as the large Lumbi parking garage in Taormina, which guarantees good accessibility to the port area thanks to comfortable shuttle buses.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Please plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
