Esskayeff

Docking in Messina. We don't know whether to wander around Messina or take a trip to Taormina. Any recommendations please?:D

My husband and I are taking our first cruise in May to the Med on Oriana. We are looking at excursions and starting with Venice. We arrive early morning and leave late evening. The intro to Venice trip is 4 hours and finishes at 12.30. The information says half day tours return to the ship and don't offer the option of remaining in St Mark's square. My dilemma is that we're not taking advantage of the longer day to visit Venice. Am I missing something? Any help or advice visiting Venice is most welcome🌝. Thanks