Summary of Taormina
Taormina, Sicily, has been one of the Italian islands’ top travel destinations since the era of the European Grand Tour. During this period, wealthy young men, including celebrated English poets and painters, traversed the classical sites of Italy and Greece. Consequently, Taormina emerged as Sicily’s first beach resort.
This charming town boasts well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins, a fine medieval quarter, and modern shops and restaurants. Nestled on the slopes of Monte Tauro, Taormina provides breathtaking views of the coast and Mount Etna volcano. Below the town lie excellent beaches where visitors can relish swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Although Taormina is a year-round destination, Spring and Fall are ideal times to visit as July and August tend to be hot and crowded with vacationers.
What to See
Top attractions in Taormina include the Greek theater, medieval quarter, shopping, and stunning beaches.
- Greek Theater: Dating back to the third century BC, Taormina’s Greek theater was renovated by the Romans and is utilized for summer performances. This historical site, built into the hillside, offers excellent acoustics and spectacular views of the sea and Mt. Etna.
- Medieval Quarter: Begin your exploration at a clock tower gate leading to Taormina’s picturesque medieval section, featuring narrow streets with old shops that now offer modern clothing, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Corso Umberto: As the lively main street through town, Corso Umberto is adorned with shops and bars. This vibrant street features bustling squares, ideal for enjoying an outdoor drink or people-watching, with Piazza IX Aprile being one of the best spots due to its impressive sea views.
Beaches:
Taormina is home to beautiful beaches, coves, and tranquil seas perfect for swimming. Visitors can easily access the coast through paths or take the cable car to Mazzaro, located just below Taormina. Additionally, regular bus services run to various beaches.
Hotels
For a luxurious stay, the El Jebel is centrally located. Other notable options include the 4-star Villa Carlotta, set in a garden with sea views, and Hotel Villa Angela, nestled in a park with dramatic views of Mount Etna and the bay. A budget-friendly choice within the historic center is the 2-star Hotel Victoria.
If proximity to the sea is a priority, consider Atahotel Capotaormina, which features its own private beach, or the 4-star Panoramic Hotel, directly on the waterfront near Isola Bella. Additionally, Taormina Park Hotel is conveniently located on the way down to the sea.
Location
Taormina is situated 200 meters above sea level on Monte Tauro, along Sicily’s east coast. It lies 48km south of Messina, the closest city in Sicily to the mainland. Mount Etna can be reached within a 45-minute drive southwest, while Catania, one of Sicily’s largest cities, is located farther south.
Transportation
Taormina can be accessed via the rail line connecting Messina and Catania, allowing for direct train travel from Rome. The Taormina-Giardini train station is 2 km below the town center and is connected by shuttle buses. Additionally, regular buses operate from Palermo, Catania, the airport, and Messina, arriving right in the town center. The nearest airport, Fontanarossa in Catania, is about an hour’s drive away and accommodates flights to various Italian and European cities. For those driving, a car ferry services from the mainland to Messina, from which you can take the A18 along the coast for approximately 30 minutes. Note that driving in the town center is restricted, but there are two large parking lots located on the outskirts.
Restaurants
Taormina is celebrated for its diverse dining options catering to various budgets, particularly known for seafood and delightful outdoor dining experiences often accompanied by stunning views. Ristorante da Lorenzo, located at Via Roma 12, serves fresh seafood on a delightful terrace overlooking the sea. For traditional Sicilian cuisine, Ristorante la Griglia at Corso Umberto 54 offers an inviting outside terrace during pleasant weather. If you’re seeking a more affordable option, visit Porta Messina, located beside the city walls at Largo Giove Serapide 4.
Shopping
The bustling Corso Umberto in the town center serves as an excellent shopping destination. Here, you’ll find many shops offering high-quality items from Sicily, along with designer fashion and jewelry from mainland Italy. Unique souvenirs including fashion items, jewelry, crafts, mosaics, ceramics, puppets, porcelain dolls, and typical tourist t-shirts can be found to commemorate your journey.
Festivals and Events
The Taormina Arte festival, running from June to August, features plays, concerts, and a film festival taking place outdoors at the Greek Theater. Furthermore, the Madonna della Rocca festival is typically celebrated during the third weekend of September with a religious procession and feast. Additionally, Taormina boasts one of the finest Carnival celebrations in Sicily.
