visit taormina by car

One Day In Taormina Sicily Itinerary: What To Do & See

Chic, compact, and colorful – that’s the city on the cliff for you – Taormina! There is no shortage of things to do in Taormina, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Here is the perfect one day in Taormina itinerary to make the most of your visit.

The “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” Taormina is spectacular. The old world resort town is perched on a dramatic promontory that drops 700 feet down to the blue Mediterranean. The town looks out over a fiery volcano in the distance.

It’s a touristy town that’s been attracting travelers for centuries. However, to remark that Taormina is a tourist town in no way disparages its beauty.

Taormina is steeped in everything “old town charm” from cobbled lanes, Baroque churches, sweeping sea views, and a buzzing foodie scene. Orange and palm trees swing in the sea breezes.

At a glance, your one day in Taormina will look like this:

• Greek Theater

Villa Communale

• Palazzo Corvaja

Corso Umberto

Piazza ix aprile.

• San Guiseppe Church
• Clock Tower
• Porta Catania
• Isola Bella, Castelmola, or Mt. Etna

A Short History Of Taormina

Taormina is a small mountain town on the east coast of Sicily. It was first inhabited by the Sicels, an ancient people who pre-dated the Greeks.

In 734 B.C., the Greeks arrived from the island of Naxos looking for fertile land in the west. They founded the little village known today as Giardini Naxos. 

Unfortunately, the colony was at near constant war with its neighbors. In 403.C., the town was crushed by Syracuse . The survivors moved further up the hill and founded Tauromenion , which means “the mountain shaped like a bull.”

The Romans arrived in 212 B.C. Roman aristocrats viewed Taormina as a restful retreat, thereby kickstarting the town’s reputation as dreamy holiday spot.

After the fall of Rome in the 5th century, the Byzantine rulers took over, followed by the Arabs in 962. In 1079, the Normans conquered the Arabs and expanded the city until it fell under Spanish control. The town slowly declined in importance.

But, in the 19th century, Taormina was rediscovered. It became a popular destination of the “Grand Tour” itineraries.

These tours were undertaken by wealthy Europeans seeking out the ancient world. It was considered a rite of passage and part of their education. 

A long list of celebrities visited Taormina including D.H. Lawrence, Greto Garbo, Truman Capote, Cary Grant, and Elizabeth Taylor.

One Day In Taormina Itinerary

This one day in Taormina itinerary assumes you are in the city the night before or have arrived early in the morning to make the most out of your day.

Start off your one day in Taormina with breakfast at Bam Bar . Have what the locals do — granita on a warm brioche. Granita is an icy gelato-type confection that’s less creamy and more grainy (almost glassy).

I know it sounds like an odd thing to have for breakfast. But it’s the Sicilian way.

Taormina is a tiny and immaculate town. “Downtown” Taormina centers around a single .5 mile pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, that tumbles past chic shops and tempting restaurants.

A slow stroll down this scrupulously clean route is a lovely way to acquaint yourself on a first visit.

For more of the historic backdrop, you might considered starting your sightseeing with a guided walking tour . I had a walking tour with Franco D’Angelo and he was excellent.

Greco-Roman Theater

After you’re fueled up, head to Taormina’s top attraction, its Greco-Roman Theater . It opens at 9:00 am. An early visit is ideal if you want to beat the cruise ship crowds.

The theater has a spectacular setting, hanging off a cliff between sea and sky and boasting killer views of Mt. Etna and the Ionian Sea. It’s the second largest Greek theater in Sicily and Italy, after the one in Syracuse .

Theaters were important to the Greeks and this one was dedicated to Dionysis. In its glory days, Taormina’s theater could hold crowds of up to 10,000 people and was likely acoustically perfect.

The theater’s scenic location was chosen intentionally. It combined four elements important to the ancient Greeks — earth, water, air, and fire. The fire was provided by the smoking volcano in the distance. The sea breezes helped clean the theater.

The theater was semi-circular in shape ensuring everyone had a good view of the stage. The red wall on the top level once held bronze urns and marble statues.

We know from the writings of Vitruvian that the Greeks built the original theater in the 3rd century B.C. But most of what you see today came courtesy of Romans, who significantly remodeled the theater in the first half of the 2nd century.

Five centuries after it was built, the theater was “Romanized,” an amphitheater superimposed upon it.

The Romans removed the first 10 rows of seats to make an arena space large enough for gladiators and built a wall to prevent the wild beasts from having the spectators for dinner. The wall, however picturesque, essentially blocks the view.

It’s not a perfect blending of styles, and perhaps why the theater is not a UNESCO site.

Excavations of the site began in 1748. The theater is still in use today and concerts are held in the summer. There’s a small museum onsite and a wonderful viewing platform next to the museum.

Click here to pre-book a ticket and guided tour of the theater.

Taormina’s lush pubic gardens are just below the theater and worthy of a short stroll. They were once the private gardens of Florence Trevelyan, an English ex-pat.

Florence fell in love with Sicily on her “grand tour.” At the end of the 1800s, she and her husband moved permanently to Taormina.

Florence loved nature and was an expert gardener. To enjoy her garden and have a place to take tea, she built some quirky Victorian follies that she called “beehives.”

The gardens are at their prettiest in June and July when the flowers are blooming.

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

After your garden stroll, head toward Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. Here, you’ll find some Roman ruins, Palazzo Corvaja, and the Church of Santa Catarina.

The Arab palace was built in the 10th century on top of a Roman forum. Its crenelated roof shows that it was intended as a defensive tower. The Spanish expanded the palace in the 15th century.

Today, Corvaja Palace houses the tourist office and the Museo di Arte e Tradizioni Popolari, which consists of a collection of Sicilian puppets and folk art.

Santa Caterina is a 17th century church that was built on top of a Greek temple. Glass panels inside the church reveal traces of the Greek ruins. Behind the church are some ruins of a Roman theater.

Turning onto the main drag, Corso Umberto, you’ll find another Roman ruin, the Naumachie. It’s a 400 foot long Roman wall dating from the 1st or 2nd century A.D. intended to support a large water reservoir.

The word Naumachie refers to the mock naval battles the Roman liked to stage. Though there’s no evidence they took place here.

The reservoir was used as a gymnasium. The 18 red brick niches once held sculptures overlooking the athletes.

Now, it’s time to just enjoy Corso Umberto and its piazzas. The pedestrianized Corso is flanked with designer shops, bars, galleries, and boutiques. You’ll see some beautiful ceramics, antiques, and leather goods.

None of it comes cheap. Taormina is not the place to get a bargain. So you can either splurge or window shop with a gelato in hand.

Be sure to head down the tiny side streets spoking off the Corso. It will involve some uphill climbing. But the back streets are less crowded and you’ll discover secret restaurants or shops.

Along the way, stop to admire the beautiful balconies. Many have “Head of the Moor” planters, with the head of an Arab and the head of a fair skinned women.

They’re not very politically correct, but based on an old legend about an illicit love affair. Depending on which version you hear, either one or both of them ends up dead.

Soon enough, you’ll arrive at Taormina’s grand central square, Piazza IX Aprile. It’s known as Taormina’s “living room.” From its balcony, you’ll have views of the Bay of Naxos and Mt. Etna that can only be described as scenic overkill.

The piazza is dominated by the severe facade of the Church of San Guiseppe, which is known locally as the Purgatory Church. This was where people came to pray for relatives in purgatory.

The square is also home to the Porta di Mezzo gates and is topped by a 16th century clock tower. As you pass through the gate, you’ll a well preserved mosaic of a madonna.

You may want to plop down at the iconic Caffe Wunderbar for a glass of wine or aperitivo . It’s been a Taormina landmark since the 1960s and is the quintessential Taormina watering hole.

If you’re up for a hike, a staircase next to the bar leads up to the Madonna della Rocca sanctuary. It’s 500 steps to the church.

Piazza del Duomo

Further along, you’ll land in Piazza del Duomo. Taormina’s small cathedral resembles a mini fortress.

Its blocky exterior its from the 13th century. Inside, you’ll see 6 massive pink granite columns. They were likely plundered from the theater.

There’s a Baroque fountain in the center of the piazza. Its minotaur-like sculptures represent the ancient city, which was a “bull shaped mountain.” A crowned women sits on top holding a globe and scepter.

You’re almost at the end of the road. You can stop to admire San Domenico Church (now a luxury hotel), the small church of San Michele, and Porta Catania. The mighty gate marks the end of the city. There are some fresco fragments from the 9th century.

Don’t forget to admire the Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano. The exterior is a combination of Norman and Neo-Norman styles, with some pointy Gothic windows thrown in for good measure. The rooftop is decorated with lava stone.

Today, the palace hosts modern art exhibitions.

Break for lunch. Consider avoiding eateries on Corso Umberto and find a small trattoria on a side street. Save room for a freshly filled  cannolo  from Pasticceria D’Amore or Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto for dessert.

In the afternoon, you have 3 options to fill your time. You can take the gondola down to Isola Bella and its pebbly beach; (2) visit the clifftop village of Castelmola; or (3) take a sunset tour to Mt. Etna.

Isola Bella

Beach lovers should head to the photogenic Isola Bella for the afternoon. The “beautiful island” is tucked below Taormina.

The island is tethered to the mainland by a pebbly beach. There’s not much to see on the island itself.

To get there, you take a gondola that leaves from Via Pirandello near Porta Messina and the Greek Theater. They leave every 15 minutes and cost 3 euros.

You can also book a snorkeling tour around Isola Bella and the famous Blue Grotto or take a boat tour .

About a mile from Taormina, and on an even higher perch, is the charming medieval town of Castlelmola. It’s worth a visit just for the eye popping views of Taormina and Mt. Etna. Plus, its twisty cobbled alleys are a delight to strolll.

The main square is Piazza Sant’Atonio. Uphill from the piazza are the ruins of a Norman Castle, with terraced viewpoints. You can sit down at a cafe, have a gelato, or browse the cute shops.

There are several ways to get to Castelmola — car, bus, taxi, or hiking. You can hop on the local blue bus (pay when you board). I wanted to use this option. But if the bus is full, it will whiz past you. That happened to me and the next bus was in 2 hours.

So, I opted to hop in a cab on the way up. It’s $30 dollars one way. You can also negotiate for a $60 round trip, which includes a quick stop at the Madonna della Rocca sanctuary.

You can also walk the 2 miles up to Castelmola. This option is for fit adventures.

It’s a 1,200 foot vertical gain. The roads zig zag back and forth, so it’s not incredibly steep.

But you’ll also be sharing the road with cars. I walked down and it was an easy hike of about an hour.

If you are driving, look for the big pay and display parking garage at the bottom of the town. This is the easiest parking option because the town is a ZTL zone (prohibiting non-local cars). Then, hoof it up to the center square.

A third way to spend the afternoon of your one day in Taormina is to visit Mt. Etna. “Mamma Etna,” is the world’s most active volcano. One of the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Eastern Sicily, Mt. Etna has been erupting for 500,000 years. 

She’s perpetually smoking. My guide called her a “chain smoker.” Etna’s fertile soil provides some of the best produce and wine in Sicily.

To experience the volcanic landscape, you can hike around Silvestri Crater. The lower crater is easy to navigate. The upper crater has a steep climb. To go up even higher on the mountain, hop on the cable car.

This 6 hour guided sunset tour leaves at 5:00 pm. You can scamper around lava caves, hike the craters, and sample honey, olive oil, and wine. With more time, you can tour the Etna wineries and sample the distinctive wines.

In the evening, have an apertivo in Piazza IV Aprile. Or, head to Sky Rooftop Bar in the Hotel Continental for great views. Another popular spot for innovative cocktails is Daiquiri in Pizza Paladini.

Then, tuck into some food at a restaurant on a side street away the main drag. I can recommend Adduma . It’s tucked away at the top of Vico Giordano Bruno.

Adduma is a relatively new restaurant with a great menu and fine service. We enjoyed the grilled octopus, pasta dishes, and the lamb ragu.

Ristorante Duomo is a good choice too. It’s set on a romantic terrace overlooking the Duomo.

If you want Sicilian pizza, I had a good meal at Pizzeria Villa Zuccaria. You can even take a pizza cooking class or sample more things on a street food tour .

Tips For Visiting Taormina

Here are some must know tips for spending one day in Taormina.

1. How To Get To Taormina

If you’re driving to Taormina, you’ll need to deposit your car in one of the three car parks outside the historic center. Non-local cars aren’t allowed in the town.

The nearest airport is in Catania. You can hop in a taxi or book a private transfer .

Taormina has a train station and trains run frequently from Catania, Syracuse, and Messina. But the station isn’t well-located, being at sea level. You’ll need to take a taxi or shuttle bus 20 minutes into town.

Bus is the easiest way to get to Taormina. The bus station is on Via Pirandello near the Greek Theater.

You can also visit Taormina on a guided day tour from Catania or visit both Taormina and Mt. Etna on a full day tour from Catania . You can also day trip to Taormina from Syracuse .

2. How To Get Around Taormina

Taormina is a very small town so you can walk everywhere unless your going further afield to Castelmola or Isola Bella.

You can also zip around on a Segway tour or rent bikes or scooters.

3. Where To Stay in Taormina

As a famous resort town, Taormina is overflowing with luxury hotels where you can truly experience la dolce vita .

Grand Hotel Timeo is a 5 star Belmond hotel in the perfect location near the Greek Theater. It boasts incredible views, pools, spa and restaurant. The rooms are decorated in an Italian Baroque style.

Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea is the understated and elegant sister hotel of the Timeo. It’s a short (and free) shuttle ride from town and has its own private beach and cabanas. So this is a great option for relaxing and escaping the crowds.

The San Domenico Palace Hotel is a Four Seasons Hotel housed in a one-time 14th century convent. It’s been featured in some Italian movies and the second season of the TV series White Lotus .

Even if you don’t stay there, it’s a great place to grab an aperitivo perched on a cliff looking out over the Ionian Sea.

Recently, San Domenico was the main filming location for season 2 of the TV series White Lotus.

An easier on the budget option is the Hotel Continental near Porta Catania. The rooms are pretty utilitarian. But the staff is friendly and there’s a stunning terrace with views over the sea, another classic place for an aperitivo .

4. Is Taormina Too Touristy?

Taormina often gets a bad rap for being overly touristy. During high season, it can get crowded, especially when the cruise ships are in port.

For this reason, it’s better to visit in shoulder season. Though even in October, I found it fairly crowded.

But Taormina is still well worth visiting. It’s not a theme park. It’s a stunning and immaculate town that’s popular for a reason.

Nothing obscures the stunning view of Mt. Etna. And you can always detour off Corso Umberto to escape the maddening crowds.

To have the best experience, it’s best to stay overnight and try to avoid weekends. You will have the city to yourself once the day trippers and cruisers depart.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Taormina itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 2 Weeks In Sicily Itinerary
• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 11 One Week Itineraries for Italy
• Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• Hidden Gems in Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 1 Week In Umbria Itinerary
• 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy
• Tips for Visiting Italy
• 5 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
• 1 Day itinerary for Milan

If you’d like to spend one day in Taormina, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “One Day In Taormina Sicily Itinerary: What To Do & See”

Thank you for such a perfect day! We will be arriving from one of those dreaded cruise ships! 😂 Can you recommend the best way to get from our port in Messina to Taormina. Thank you!!!

Probably the easiest way is to take the train from Messina to Taormina. Book a ticket on Trenitalia. The train station in Messina is near the port. Hope you love Sicily!

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Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Visit Taormina: The 13 best Things to Do and See

Things to do in taormina: the best places to visit and highlights.

About an hour’s drive north of Catania is a small town considered one of the jewels of Sicily . Perched on a cliff at 200 meters high, Taormina offers an incredible view of the sea and the Etna volcano.

In this guide, I will first present you the 13 best things to do in Taormina . Yep, you will know everything you need to visit the must-see attractions of the city and its surroundings!

And if you are wondering where to stay in Taormina , I have selected for you the best hotels depending on your budget.

So, what are the best points of interest in Taormina?

1. The Corso Umberto

2. piazza ix aprile, 3. st nicolas cathedral of taormina, 4. public garden – villa comunale, 5. greek theatre of taormina, 6. chiesa madonna della rocca, 7. isola bella, 8. castelmola, 9. alcantara gorge, 10. the etna volcano, 11. visit the aeolian islands from taormina, 12. visit “the godfather” filming locations, 13. discover the best etna wineries, taormina: what to do in 1 day, 2 days in taormina, 3 days in taormina, where to stay in taormina , where to eat in taormina , renting a boat in taormina, how to go to taormina , you’re traveling in sicily these articles will help you, visit taormina: the 13 must-see attractions.

The first thing to know before visiting Taormina is that the city center is a pedestrian only area .

It’s really a great thing, but also something important to know if you arrive by car , as you will have to leave it at one of the 2 paid car parks located at the extremities of the city. In high season, needless to say it can quickly become very complicated!

So if you spend at least a night in Taormina, it’s very important to choose an accommodation with private parking.

Alternatively, you can also park in the lower part of the city and take a bus that will take you directly to the old town. It’s a backup solution as it can be really crowded in summer.

Now you know this, let’s discover the city of Taormina!

The Corso Umberto is THE main street that crosses the whole center of Taormina .

Flanked on both sides by a succession of luxury boutiques, clothes, jewellery,  and souvenirs, it makes you understand why Taormina’s nickname is “the Sicilian Saint Tropez” .

You will also find many grocery stores, bakeries, cafés and restaurants, and you will certainly hesitate where to go for your lunch or dinner.

Speaking of dinner: How about joining a gastronomic tour of the city to discover the best bars and restaurants in Taormina?

This tour will allow you to taste local wines and typical Sicilian dishes!

Simply click here for more information about this activity.

To visit Taormina in an original way, you can also opt for a Segway tour !

You will discover all the best points of interests without getting tired and at the same time, benefit from the explanations of your guide .

To book your Segway tour in Taormina , just click on the button below:

On your way, you willl find the Piazza IX Aprile , one of the best viewpoint in Taormina , with a huge panoramic terrace overlooking the bay below and the Etna .

It’s the perfect place to take beautiful photos, especially at sunset.

Enjoy its typical atmosphere with musicians, acrobats and painters.

You will also see a small church that adds to the charm of this small square, the Chiesa de San Giuseppe . Its baroque facade is very beautiful, but the interior is quite classic.

If you wish to visit a typical Sicilian church, choose the cathedral of Taormina (also name Duomo di Taormina in Italian).

Located at the end of the Corso Umberto or at the beginning, depending on where you entered the city, its medieval facade and baroque door are its main attractions .

The interior is worth a visit, and it also offers another appreciable thing in summer: It remains quite cool even if it’s hot outside!

You’re going to Taormina?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Taormina on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Taormina.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Taormina, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Taormina!

To get away from the crowds, don’t hesitate to visit the Villa Comunale , which houses a large public garden.

This villa belonged to a rich Englishwoman, passionate about birds and who decided to build many structures such as feeders and nesting boxes.

The view of the bay is magnificent and it is the ideal place to enjoy a picnic in the shade of the vegetation. If you plan to buy sandwiches for lunch, it’s definately the best place in town to enjoy them!

The most famous monument of Taormina remains its Greek theatre .

It dates from the 3rd century BC and is remarkably well preserved. It can accommodate more than 5,000 people and is home to theatrical performances and concerts.

An important thing to know is that if you visit it a day of  concert, you will see a huge stage in the middle, which removes a bit of magic from the place.

Admission for this ancient theatre is 10€ , which is a bit expensive, especially considering that the visit is done quickly without any explanatory panels or brochures. Only about 30 minutes to take a few pictures but again, it is mainly for the view that we go there.

Despite the prize, the Greek theatre remains an absolute must see in Taormina .

For those who still have some energy left, go to the via Circumvallazione .

From there, a staircase of more than 300 steps and without any shade (bring a bottle of water), will bring you to the heights of Taormina in about twenty minutes on foot. You will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city and the Greek theatre.

Also worth seeing: the sanctuary of Madonna della Rocca , a small chapel partially dug in the rock.

It’s true that the view from the small church is beautiful, but if you want to see Taormina from even higher , I have the perfect activity for you: paragliding!

What’s great is that the price of this activity includes the pick up from your hotel and photos/videos of your flight!

For more information and to book your activity, click on the button below:

You can’t miss it, it’s the little island at the bottom of Taormina, the one you can see on every postcards!

You can reach Isola Bella on foot in half an hour from the top of Taormina (going back will be harder on your legs!) or by car (good luck to find a parking space nearby!).

This cove is simply stunning, with its pebble beach and crystal clear waters.

At the beach, you can also enjoy many activities (click on the links to book):

• 2-hour kayak tour with an instructor who will show you the marine reserve around Isola Bella.
• 4-hour kayak tour , to explore a good part of the Taormina’s coast.
• Boat tour + Snorkeling : Get on the boat and enjoy several stops to observe the underwater fauna and flora around Isola Bella!

At Isola Bella, you can go diving, take a boat trip , rent a jet ski or just relax!

The best way to discover Isola Bella is to go on a boat trip , and this one is clearly amazing.

There is a swimming and snorkeling stop in Isola Bella bay and you will see, Graziella and her husband, the boat owners, are super friendly!

To book your boat trip, simply click on the button below:

The 6 Best Things to Do Around Taormina

Located 5km from Taormina, the small village of Castelmola is worth a visit for its ruined medieval castle and its charming little streets.

In the village and from the castle, there are some of the best sightseeing points on the valley below and on Etna . Don’t forget to taste the almond wine , a speciality of the village.

You can park your car at the villages’car park , it’s only 1 euro per hour.

Less touristy than Taormina , Castelmola is the perfect place to have a drink or go to the restaurant!

Located 50 minutes drive from Taormina , this site is a geological curiosity. The Alcantara Gorge are more than 25 meters high and only 2 to 4 meters wide.

The particularity of this narrow canyon lies in the formation of its walls, which are the result of several lava flows coming from the northern slope of Etna .

This volcanic material cooled down in contact with the waters of the river and drew original shapes. This place is not necessarily the best for swimming, because the water is very cold!

The Alcantara Gorge, on the other hand, is the ideal place to try canyoning . As you will be well equipped, you will not feel the cold and the descent of the river by canyoning in the middle of the gorges is really great!

This activity includes pick up at your accommodation (at all hotels located between Taormina and Catania).

Book your canyoning tour in the Alcantara Gorge by clicking on the button below:

If you don’t need the included transport because you have rented a car for your roadtrip to Sicily , you can drive to the meeting point for your canyoning tour by yourself.

You should thus click here to book the Canyoning tour without transport (it’s obviously a bit cheaper!).

There are several ways to reach the gorge .

The first one is by the main tourist spot, there is a big sign at the entrance and a large parking lot that will allow you to park your car easily.

You will then use an elevator to go down to the gorges and will be have a guided tour. The minimum entrance fee is 15€.

The 2nd possibility (which I advise you) is to continue a little bit further along the road , where you will find a small hut on the right side.

Starting from Taormina, many tours operators offer one-day Etna excursions . They will take you to the foot of the volcano, provide a guide and equipment, and organize the 4×4 ascent to the crater. Probably the safest option to visit the Etna!

You can of course go there by yourself, with your car. It’s about an hour’s drive from Taormina.

If you want to do go to Etna during your stay in Taormina, I highly recommend you to book your trip with Getyourguide. It’s simple, they have the best English speaking guides! And the price is very good too.

Click on the following button for more info about the trip to Etna volcano:

If you want to enjoy a unique experience during your trip to Sicily, you should book a private helicopter tour over Mount Etna!

It’s of course a bit expensive, but it is not every day that you can fly over one of the most active volcanoes in the world!

You need to click on the following button to book your helicopter flight:

From Taormina, you have to opportunity to visit the Aeolian Islands as a day trip.

This tour includes:

• Bus transport and then the cruise
• A stop at Panarea island , where you will be able to visit the village and enjoy the beach
• Going around Stromboli island coastline by boat to admire the volcano
• A stroll in San Vincenzo village
• A magical moment: at the end of the day, you will enjoy the sunset on Stromboli volcano

To book this your, simply click the button below:

Another version of this tour will allow you to discover 2 more Aeolian islands :

• Lipari, the largest of the islands: You will have some free time to visit the old town and the archaeological museum .
• Vulcano: you will be able to enjoy the beach or take a bath in the hot springs .

The transportation and the boat trip are included in this tour . For more information and to book your activity , click on the button below:

You may know that the famous “The Godfather” movie was shot in Sicily.

Well, I have a great new for all the Michael Corleone fans: you will be able to visit some of the filming locations during an amazing guided tour!

During your trip, you will discover Savoca village, the Vitelli bar, the Chiesa di San Nicolo/Santa Lucia where Corleone got married or Forza d’Agro village.

This day trip also includes a typical Sicilian lunch , with sea view.

To visit the filming location of “The Godfather” , you need to book your tour by clicking the button below (limited availability):

And if you prefer to book a “The Godfather” filming locations private tour, you need to book it there:

Sicilian wine is getting more and more famous around the world, and some of the best wineries are located around Taormina and the Etna Volcano.

From Taormina, you can go on a guided day trip to learn more about the unique wines produced on Etna’s volcanic soil . Your guide will give you all the info about the local wines and of course, you will have the opportunity to do amazing wine tasting!

And as we all know it’s not good to drink on an empty stomach, you will also enjoy local food tastings of cheeses, deli meats and pastries.

To book your wine and food tasting tour, simply click on the button below:

If you prefer, you can opt for a luxury private tour.

You will visit the 3 best wineries of Mount Etna (12 wines – unlimited tasting), and do food tasting too. It’s simply fantastic!

It needs to be booked there:

How many days in Taormina?

The time you spend in town will depend on what you want to visit, but I recommend spending at least 2 days in Taormina . In my opinion, this is the minimum for enjoying the must-see attractions of the region.

Here is a short itinerary for one day in Taormina , so you will not miss any major attractions of the city!

• Visit of the old town in the morning and climb to the Madonna della Rocca sanctuary to enjoy the view.
• Go back downstairs and lunch break
• Swimming at Isola Bella beach in the afternoon and visit of the Greek theatre of Taormina.

I recommend that you visit the Greek theatre at the end of the day, that’s when the light is most beautiful!

But if you’re in a hurry, there’s nothing to stop you from visiting it in the early afternoon and then going down to the beach (and so you don’t have to go back up to Taormina ).

If you’re spending the afternoon in Taormina, you can also do the boat trip in Isola Bella Bay I talked about in this guide. Click here for more info.

For your 2 days in Taormina , take the itinerary of the first day mentioned above, and then:

• Start with an excursion to the village of Castelmola , which offers a magnificent 360-degree view of the entire region. A must-see place near Taormina!
• Eat on site
• Then head to the Alcantara Gorges for a refreshing moment in the shade of its walls made of columnar jointed volcanics with improbable forms.

If you have 3 days in Taormina , I strongly recommend you to go on a trip to Etna , it’s an unforgettable moment! You need to click here to book it .

Beach lovers will certainly also want to go back to Isola Bella . If you like snorkeling, you can go for a walk in the Grotta Azzura of Isola Bella. Just be careful with the boats, because there are organized tours to this place.

Other options (or if you spend 4 or 5 days in Taormina!) are:

• Do the boat trip to Aeolian Islands. To book it, you just need to click here.
• Visit “The Godfather” Filming locations as a semi-private tour or private tour
• Discover Etna’s best wineries as a small group tour or private luxury tour.

If you have planned to visit Taormina and its surroundings with a guide , you can save money by opting for a 3 activities day trips package doable in 2 or 3 days.

You will be able to enjoy:

• A guided 2h30 walking tour of Taormina with wine and food tasting
• An excursion to the “The Godfather” filming locations.
• A tour of the best vineyards of Etna and wine tasting

To book these 3 tours, you just have to click on the button below:

• Hostel Taormina :  Youth hostel located in the heart of Taormina. Bed in dormitory from 22.50€. Free Wifi. Breakfast not included. A little extra: a large panoramic terrace.
• Casa La via del Mare : Located halfway between the beach and the historic city centre of Taormina. Modern and bright room from 80€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wifi. The plus: Free parking!
• Medea Residence : Located close to the main street of Taormina. Apartment with kitchen, modern and bright. very quiet. Outdoor swimming pool. Free Wifi. Private paid parking: 10€ per day. Minimum of 3 nights rental for 210€ = 70€ per night.
• Hôtel Villa Diodoro: Located at 5 minutes on foot from the historical center. Large and bright double room starting at 190€ per night, breakfast included. What we loved: the free private parking, the location, the swimming pool, the outstanding view, the very helpful staff. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Taormina!

• Tiramisu Trattoria : Nice decoration and friendly welcome with a quiet terrace. Excellent cuisine based on fresh produce. Copious dishes for a reasonable price. Not to be missed: tiramisu, the house specialty. Reservation recommended.
• Trattoria Don Ciccio : Located in a quiet street. Very good cooking with quality products. The pasta is succulent. A Prosecco cup and a small bruschetta are offered  in case you need to wait. Reservation recommended.
• Pizzeria Villa Zucaro : As the name suggest, you go there if you want to have a good pizza! Impressive choice, delicious, copious and original pizzas. Choose the terrace over the noisy interior. Attractive and thoughtful waiters.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Taormina, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sicily? 😊

To get to Taormina , you must first take the plane to Catania.

From Catania airport:

• By car: 1 hour drive via A18 and E45
• By bus: One bus every hour from Monday to Saturday and 2 on Sunday; 1h30 by road; 5.60€.
• By train: The train is not recommended because the train station is located 2km downhill from Taormina and you will then have to take a bus to get to the city.

Check flights ticket prices now with our flight comparator: This is the solution to find the best price for your flight to Sicily!

So, when are you going to visit Taormina? 🙂

Sicily travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sicily : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sicily are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to Do in Sicily – The ultimate bucket list!
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East + West)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East coast)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (West coast)
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (Full Sicily tour)
• Agrigento: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Catania: The 12 must-see attractions
• Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital
• Syracuse: The 15 best things to discover
• Trapani: The 10 best things to do
• Agrigento Valley of the Temples: visit the archaeological site with my detailed guide!
• Zingaro nature Reserve: All my best tips to enjoy this wonderful hike

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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4 days in Milan: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

Discussion 4 comments.

Please send me more info on Taormina Syracuse and agrigento. Things to see??? Thank you.

Hello Marina,

You can find my other articles on these cities in Sicily here: – What to do in Syracuse? – The best things to do in Agrigento? – Visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Enjoy your trip to Taormina and Sicily!

Hi, once we take a bus from Catania, and arrive at the station, are there taxis or ground transportation to take us to our accommodations in City Center? Which you say is pedestrian only.

Hello Robina,

It depends on the location of your hotel in Taormina. The taxi may be able to take you a little closer, but you may have to finish on foot if your accommodation is in a pedestrian area.

The easiest way is to ask your hotel directly how to get there.

Enjoy your stay in Taormina!

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Explore Taormina like a Sicilian. An authentic insider’s guide

Last Updated on April 20, 2024 by

Taormina, the pearl of the Ionian Sea. A perfect place to escape the bustling chaos of the Sicilian main cities without losing an easy access to the beaches and a jaw-dropping view on the Mt. Etna. With this insider’s guide to Taormina, you can explore it like a Sicilian. Moreover, you will discover not only all the best things to do, but also the things to avoid (e.g. tourist traps).

Table of Contents

Why an insider’s guide?

For half of my life, before moving to the UK, I lived in Sicily. My parents live in Catania and that’s is just a half an hour drive from Taormina. As a good Sicilian, Taormina was kind of a constant presence in my life since my childhood. From my family summer visits to the beach of Isola Bella with afternoon strolls into Taormina to my Christmas trips to visit the city’s decorations to my date nights with my husband strolling with a gelato in the Ancient Theatre. I know Taormina VERY WELL. I’ve seen it in all her four seasons and I can literally take you around and being your tour guide with my eyes closed.

Therefore, when I tell you this is an insider’s guide to Taormina, it’s not just a random title. I am not just a tourist who visited the town and pretend to give you nonsense suggestions copying the contents of this blog. I tell you this, because since this guide was published in 2021 (and updated several times since then), I seen 3/4 other bloggers copying the exact title and content of this blog pretending to be the “insiders” when they just stayed in Taormina one hour of their life.

This guide has this title because it’s the original one. I am an insider because I am Sicilian! Plus, I visited Taormina probably a three thousand times during my life and I can give you the best advice for visiting the town. I feel responsible for people having a good time when visiting Sicily. Therefore, be wary of these fake insiders when taking suggestions for your trips!

10 Things to know before visiting Sicily

• Sicily is an Italian REGION like Lombardy or Tuscany. Sorry for specifying this, but not much time ago I’ve seen an article talking about Sicily as a generic “Italian island” and this made me realise that people don’t know much of Sicily. Yes Sicily it’s also an island but, like Sardinia, it has a major administrative role in Italy compared to smaller Italian islands like Elba, Lipari or Lampedusa.
• Sicily’s capital city is Palermo but the second largest city is Catania (where I am from!). Both cities are beautiful and worth visiting for different reasons. If you are planning a trip to Sicily, it’s a good idea to visit both.
• Please ignore everything people tell you about mafia. It happened to me very frequently (sadly more frequently than I wished) that foreign people (and even some Italians from the north) were scared or concerned about visiting Sicily because of what they heard about mafia. I could write an entire article about this, but for the moment, let me tell you that people in Sicily don’t go around with guns and shooting everyone on their way (yes someone asked me also this). Sicily is generally very safe. Yes mafia is still present in certain parts of the island but it’s not something a common tourist or even a common Sicilian inhabitant will experience. Most of the news people hear about mafia are related to corruption in public institutions or pizzo (money asked to people in exchange of “protection”) asked to certain shopkeepers. Many of these shopkeepers are actively fighting mafia and, in this regard, I invite you to watch the episode Antony Bourdain did about Sicily especially when he talks about the movement addiopizzo (goodbye pizzo).
• You will need a car to go around Sicily. Yes we do have public transport but, as a Sicilian, I would not rely on that unless you have plenty of time to loose. Public transport in Sicily is very slow and most tourist areas are not even connected to the main cities. So, it’s better to get a car.
• Except highways and main city roads, countryside roads are pretty rough to drive. Be prepared to some bumps along dusty roads.
• Food is exceptionally good in Sicily! It’s very rare to find a place that is not good. However, if you are vegetarian/vegan or you are allergic to gluten pay attention to the menus. If you are insecure, don’t be afraid of being direct and ask what you want. Some people, especially the older ones, are still not familiar with the terms “vegan” “vegetarian”. It’s better to say “I don’t eat meat”.
• Pay attention to scams. If you are asking yourself why in Egypt I was totally fine with “the scam thing”, it’s because Sicily it’s quite the same. I was already used to this approach. Tourists (sometimes even residents) are frequently scammed for restaurant bills, car rentals, shopping or even their hotels. I’m not proud of this, but it do happens. Of course, not all the people are the same and most Sicilians are honest and kind people but if something smells you wrong, probably it is.
• Abusive valet. Small and big cities in Sicily are unfortunately affected by the plague of “abusive valets”. People who want money to “keep your car safe” on the street when is parked. While these people are endlessly persecuted by the police, they continue to appear here and there especially in big cities like Catania and Palermo. If it happens to meet one, try to not give him money. When is possible, try to use official parking spaces or the one called “blu stripes – strisce blu ” where you can pay the time you stay at a designated machine.
• Don’t leave your personal belongings unattended. Small thefts are particularly frequent, especially in tourist areas. Never ever leave your stuff alone. Especially in bars, beaches, cars etc. it’s unfortunately very likely that you won’t find it anymore.
• The sun is quite strong all year round. Temperatures in Sicily are warmly high for most of the year, even in winter. It might happen that around January-February temperatures go a little lower (6-15°) but most of the times they stay around 15-23°. Summer are roasting hot and it is better to have with you a good sun protection.

A history of Taormina

The Greek Age

The origins of Taormina lie between history and myth. Indeed, the city was born with the Greek name of Tauromenium , that means “place/dwelling on the Taurus”, the mountain where the city was founded.

According to the historian Diodoro, the city belonged to the Siculi population long before becoming a Greek colony. Indeed, it was around 396 – 406 BC. that the Greeks from Naxos (the first Greek colony in Sicily) took over the city from its local inhabitants. Sources on the colonisation of Taormina are actually contradictory. In fact, they state also that the city was used as a refuge by the inhabitants of Messina after the arrival of the Greeks.

The truth would probably lies in the middle and, at one point, Taormina became a Greek colony and remained so for a long time, surviving also to the Puniche wars. The Greek period came to an end with the Roman conquest of Sicily in 212 BC.

The Roman Age

To avoid the destruction as the nearby Syracuse, Tauromenium accepted the rules of Rome. Thanks to this “friendship”, Tauromenium became one of the first civitas libera et foederata of Sicily. This means that the city was considered as a precious ally for Rome and could enjoy a nominal independence from the Roman tributes (e.g. providing ships for wars) and other privileges. Among these, the Roman citizenship for its inhabitants.

Initially, the Roman domination brought innovation and peace in Tauromenion. In fact, many of the still surviving monuments were built or renovated during that age and the city flourished in peace until 135 BC. However, with the Servile War (134-132 BC), the city fell under the hands of the insurgent slaves, suffering great damages. From that moment onward, Tauromenion was part of all the wars undertook by Rome in that area of Sicily. Unfortunately, the city lost the charm and splendour of the Greek and early Roman age. However, it continued to have a political and economic relevance in Sicily. Indeed, it’s condition was widely remembered by the historians of that period, especially Strabo, Pliny and Ptolemy.

The Middle Ages

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Arab incursions started throughout Sicily. Like many other cities on the island, Tauromenion couldn’t escape Arab attention. In fact, the city was under siege for about 30 weeks before falling on Christmas Day 962, under Fatimid rule. The inhabitants were sold as slaves to the Fatimid Caliph al-Muizz, and Tauromenion was renamed Almoezia (al-Mu’izziyya). The fall of Tauromenion marked the end of Byzantine rule in Sicily. The independent Emirate of Sicily lasted until 1091. This brought cultural and agricultural innovation to the island. Regarding architecture, the Arabs adapted existing models to new uses.

The Norman Conquest and the Hohenstaufen

In 1060, Robert Guiscard invaded Sicily splitting the island between Normans and Arab population. One of the last acts to conquer the island, was the fell of Taormina (at that time still named Almoezia). This was completed by Roger I of Sicily, (younger son of Tancred), in 1078 after a battle famous as the “Siege of Taormina”. Almoezia became again Tauromenion and it was placed under the Catholic supervision of the cities of Troina and Messina.

With the Normans and, after, with the German heirs, the Hohenstaufen, Tauromenion experienced a long period of prosperity and cultural renaissance. The city was still involved in local wars, especially after supporting the Hohenstaufen against the Angevin. However, with the shift of power to the Crown of Aragon in 1282, Tauromenion experienced also peace and political stability for more than three centuries. In the 17th century, Taormina gained also the status of city belonging to the Spanish Crown.

Under the Bourbon dynasty (1534 -1860), Taormina was part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. In 1675 the French besieged Taormina destroying part of its Medieval architecture. Nevertheless, this occupation didn’t last long. Indeed, Taormina was again under the Spanish rule in 1678. As a sign of loyalty toward the Spanish crown, Taormina was granted Isola Bella (at that time named Rock of St. Stefano) under its jurisdiction. Thanks to the Bourbon, Taormina became more accessible. In fact, a new road connecting the city to Messina and Catania was opened (until that moment, the only way to reach it was through the mountains).

Taormina, a paradise for elite tourists

A great contribution to modern Taormina was given by Florence Trevelyan (the cousin of Queen Victoria) who moved to Taormina in 1884. She bought the Rock of St. Stefano and transformed it into a beautiful garden today known as Isola Bella. Miss Trevelyan was responsible also of the construction of the actual Villa Comunale, at the time famous as “Hallington Siculo”. Taormina was no longer important from a strategic point of view in Modern Age. However, it aroused the interest of artists, writers and academic scholars becoming an important spot for elite tourism.

People like Friedrich Nietzsche, Gustav Klimt, Sigmund Freud and even the King Edward VII decided to spend sometimes in this beautiful city. For this reason, Taormina was known as an exclusive holiday location for elite tourists and this still hasn’t changed today.

Bibliographical sources for the history of Taormina

If you are interested in a more detailed history of Taormina, you can read these sources:

•  Krueger, Hilmar C. (1969). “Conflict in the Mediterranean before the First Crusade: B. The Italian Cities and the Arabs before 1095”. In Baldwin, M. W. (ed.).  A History of the Crusades, vol. I: The First Hundred Years . Madison: University of Wisconsin Press. pp. 40–53
• Giovanni di Giovanni,”Storia ecclesiastica di Taormina” , Volume unico, Palermo, Tipografia Barcellona, 1870
• J. B. Bury, A History of the Eastern Roman Empire From the Fall of Irene to the Accession of Basil I (A.D. 802-867), 2015
•  John Julius Norwich, Paul Duncan, Sicily. A Short History, from the Greeks to Cosa Nostra, 2015
•  Leonard C. Chiarelli, A History of Muslim Sicily, 2018

A local guide to Taormina. Essential things to know

When is the best time of the year to visit taormina.

Sicily’s climate is generally good all year round. Ergo, Taormina is a good place to visit at any time of the year. However, you have to make a few considerations. If you go during summer, you can enjoy the sea in the nearby coast. Nevertheless, this means also that you will likely find much more crowd and higher prices. In pre-pandemic times, during summer, hordes of tourist were crowding the little streets of the city at any time of the day. Especially when cruise ships stopped near the coast. It might not be the same this summer, but when life will return normal, this is what you can expect.

During the rest of the year, Taormina is more quieter. It is generally visited by Sicilian residents as a day trip or by a few tourists going around off season. Taormina is particularly popular to visit during festivities like Christmas and Easter when Sicilians have days off from work and like to go to “ passiari ” (i.e. stroll around). If you visit Taormina off season, you can expect to find some shops closed (e.g. my favourite place where to have gelato closes during winter). However, most of the attractions remain open to the general public. During Christmas, you can find also the traditional presepi exhibited in local churches.

Is Taormina expensive?

Taormina is considered as an expensive place by Sicilians. This because, thanks to the great influx of tourists, most of the restaurants/hotels adopt higher prices compared to other places in the island. However, if you compare Taormina to other touristic places in Italy, e.g. Positano/Amalfi or even Milan prices won’t be so excessive. Ergo, I think you should put this in perspective.

How many days should I spent in Taormina?

Taormina is a small city. You can easily see everything you need in just one day. However, if you want to take it slowly or want to enjoy some day trips, two-three days will be enough.

How do I reach Taormina?

Taormina is located between Catania and Messina (the city is part of the Messina’s municipality). You can easily reach it from both cities by car, train or coach.

If you are travelling by car from Catania, the motorway A18 towards Messina is the fastest route. Just enter the motorway and exit at “Taormina”. Please be aware that the motorway has some tolls to pay. From Catania it will take about 50 minutes to reach Taormina.

If you are travelling by car from Messina, you have to take the motorway A18 towards Catania and exit at “Taormina”. Even in this case, there are tolls to pay. From Messina it will take about 50 minutes to reach Taormina.

Parking in Taormina

Please be aware that most of the Taormina streets are labelled as “ZTL” or “Zona a Traffico Limitato” which means limited traffic area. Ergo, you can’t enter or park in these streets unless you are a resident. Therefore, you should park your car in one of the official city parking.

There are many parking in the city, some of them are privately managed, but the official parking managed by the Taormina council are Parcheggio Lumbi , Parcheggio Porta Catania and Parcheggio Mazzarò. You can’t buy the ticket in advance but you have to pay on the spot.

Parking is crazy expensive in Taormina and you can easily spend € 50 for a one-day parking spot during the high season.

Tips for Parking in Taormina and save money

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money in parking but you want to enjoy Taormina for a day, you can use a little trick that most Sicilian do. Indeed, there are two things you can do and both of them involve going to Isola Bella instead of Taormina (use the appropriate exit after going out of the motorway). In fact, if you get to Isola Bella early enough in the morning, you can park for free in the street! Indeed, there is no ZTL in the area of Isola Bella and usually Sicilians get there early to avoid paying the parking.

From there you can reach Taormina with the cable car. This goes up and down every 15 minutes and the tickets cost € 3 (one way) and € 10 (day ticket). This would save you a lot of money during the high season!

If you don’t get in time for a free parking spot, (during summer it’s quite hard to find a free spot), you can use the Mazzarò parking. This is less expensive than the one in Taormina (about €23 for a day) and from there take the cable car.

If you don’t want to pay the cable car, you can walk up to Taormina, but I warn you. It’s quite a steep climb.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a train station in Taormina. The nearest one is in Giardini Naxos. You can take a direct train from Catania Centrale or Messina Centrale to Giardini/Taormina. From there, you can proceed by walking. This is a good 40 minutes walk for about 2,5 km. Otherwise, you can take the Interbus to Taormina which cost about £1,67 and will reach the city in 15 minutes. You can buy tickets in advance from Trenitalia.

If you are travelling from Catania, you should take the coaches Interbus or Etna Trasporti at the Catania bus station (Via Archimede). These are direct coaches and will take between 1.10 -1.55 hours depending on how many stops they do. The ticket is between 4-6 euro for a return trip depending on the season.

If you are travelling from Messina, you should take the coach Interbus to Taormina from Piazza della Repubblica. This will take between 1.00-1.20 hours depending on how many stops it does. The ticket is between 4-6 euro for a return trip depending on the season.

How do you get around Taormina?

Taormina is pretty easy to get around and you don’t need a car. Just a good pairs of shoes to walk!

An insider’s guide to Taormina- Must-see places

Below you can find a list of places you can’t miss to visit during your trip to Taormina!

The Ancient Theatre

The Ancient Theatre in Taormina dates back to the III century BC and it’s the second largest theatre of this type in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Despite it is still called as “Greek Theatre” by Sicilians, the architecture surviving today is fully Roman. Indeed, it seems that already under August the theatre was renovated and a second renovation happened during the late Roman Antiquity.

Differently from the theatre in Syracuse, the Ancient Theatre in Taormina was used for the venationes . Venatio in Latin means “hunting”. During the Roman age, it was a type of entertainment involving the hunting and killing of wild animals. This was usually performed in Roman amphitheatres equipped for the “special effects”. For this reason, the Ancient Theatre of Taormina was modified and the area of the orchestra was replaced with an arena connected by a subterranean corridor. This allowed the beasts to come out at the centre of the scene from the hypogeum (a subterranean chamber) where they were kept.

Today, the theatre is used mostly for concerts and shows and it is part of the archaeological area of Naxos and Taormina.

Information for your visit

• Address: The Ancient Theatre is located in Via del Teatro Greco, 198039 – Taormina (ME)
• Opening Times: Sun – Mon 9.00 – 16.45 (last entrance at 16.00). The Theatre is currently closed due to the pandemic of Covid-19
• Tickets: € 10 – € 5 reduced for EU citizen aged 18-25. The entrance is free the first Sunday of each month.

Tips from a Sicilian

If you want to get spectacular pictures of the Mount Etna in eruption, the Ancient Theatre is the place to go! In fact, the visual is perfect and if you go at night (for one of the shows), you can have the occasion to capture the eruption from a very different perspective. In fact, Mount Etna gives the impression of being very close to Taormina from that point of view.

Corvaja Palace

One of the first attractions you will find arriving from the Messina Gate is Palazzo Corvaja. This is named after one of the most powerful and oldest families of Taormina who hold it for more than four centuries (XVI- XX centuries).

Palazzo Corvaja dates back to the X century. It is one of the few remaining architectural examples of Arab architecture in Taormina. Indeed, the palace incorporates an early Arab fortress built over a former Roman structure. Of this fortress you can still see the lower tower and the inner courtyard. The building was expanded already in the 13th century. During this period, the first floor and the ornamental balcony were added. This feature panels carved from the Syracuse stone and representing scenes from the creation.

The right wing was added during the XV century to host the Sicilian Parliament. The palace currently features a mix of architectural styles (Arab, Norman, Gothic). Unfortunately, it was held in a terrible state until its most recent renovation in 1945. Now, in addition of being the Tourist Office of Taormina, it’s used also for exhibitions and events.

The entrance is free.

Piazza IX Aprile

Piazza IX Aprile is the most popular square of Taormina. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view on the Jonian Sea, admiring all the coast the city. Moreover, the square host some of important historical sights and famous bar.

Torre dell’Orologio

The clock tower is one of the best sights of Piazza IX Aprile. It is famous also as Porta di Mezzo (midway gate) because you can find it in the middle between the Catania and Messina gates. It was built around the XII century as part of the oldest defensive walls of the city.

During the French siege of 1676, it was destroyed and rebuilt in 1679. In 1966 a mosaic of Byzantine inspiration was added to remember the city’s past.

(Ex) Church of St. Agustin

The Church of St. Augustin was built in honour of St. Sebastian during 1486. The style is late Sicilian Gothic. The church now hosts a library with more than 22.000 volumes. Part of the church is used also as a space for exhibitions.

Church of St. Giuseppe

The Church of St. Giuseppe is famous for its intricate Baroque style. Despite the external facade is pretty simple, the internal space is a masterpiece of Baroque style with beautiful frescoes and spectacular stucco works.

Villa Comunale

If you want to escape the crowd populating the streets of Taormina, the Villa Comunale is the place to be. This beautiful garden is, indeed, a little oasis of peace if you need to relax and enjoy a bit of shade from the warm Sicilian sun. The construction of this Taormina gem is due to a British noblewoman, miss Florence Trevelyan who was cousin of Queen Victoria.

Accused of having a relationship with the future king Edward VII, she was exiled from the royal court. In 1884 she decided to leave the UK and move to Sicily, particularly to Taormina. Here, she married the mayor of the city Salvatore Cacciola and she gave a major contribution to the community.

Hallington Siculo

As a passionate for gardening and botanic, she decided to buy some land on the slope of the city. This was used to built a residence and a garden that she called “Hallington Siculo” to remember her home in the UK. The garden, that now is owned by the Taormina Council, has one of the best views of the city and features peculiar constructions still known as the “Victorian follies”. Moreover, the garden hosts several rare plants and flowers.

The entrance is FREE.

Piazza Duomo

Piazza duomo in Taormina is home of its beautiful medieval cathedral and its peculiar Baroque fountain, famous as the “4 fountains” for its peculiar shape and small side fountains.

Taormina Cathedral

Taormina Cathedral resembles more a fortress than a church. Built around 1400 over a former thirteenth century church, the building has undergone several renovation during the centuries.

The external facade still maintain the Sicilian Romanesque-Gothic architecture characterised by different rose windows and battlements all over its perimeter.

The features I love most of this church are its intricate portals, one different from the other. There are three main portals. The portal in the main facade was renovated in 1636. However, it still keep it original medieval frame in white marble that dates back to 1400. This, features 11 biblical figures carved into the marble. The west portal dates back to the fifteenth century. This is rimmed with lava stone from the Etna and features a frame in white marble carved with natural motifs. The east portal dates back to the middle of 1500. It is simpler compared to the other two but still representative of the Sicilian Gothic style.

Rediscovered only in 1943, the Naumachie in Taormina is a long Roman wall measuring around 122 meters in length and 5 meters in height. This wall is the oldest structure built in Taormina after the Ancient Theatre. It was built close to the Taormina’s Gymnasium and scholars are still debating about its use.

In fact, the naumachia during the Roman Age were a fictitious naval battle organised to entertain the public. The naumachia were organised in structures that could host water or be located near a water basin.

It’s unclear if the purpose of Taormina’s Naumachie was that of entertain people. In fact, scholars advanced the hypothesis that it was used, instead, as water supply for the city and the Gymnasium.

An insider’s guide to Taormina – Underrated attractions

If you completed the tour of the main attractions in Taormina but you want to explore more, consider the additional sights below.

Badia Vecchia

Badia Vecchia (Old Abbey) it’s a fourteenth-century tower that used to be part of the defensive walls of Taormina connecting to the Saracen castle. The name “abbey” is due to the theory that the tower was once inhabited by Mother Abbess Euphemia. She was a regent of the Kingdom of Sicily from 1355 until 1357 in the name of her younger brother Frederic III, The Simple.

Badia Vecchia, is not easy to find because it’s well hidden among Taormina’s higher alleys. However, once you find it, you will admire its magnificent architecture that mixes Gothic and Norman styles with precious Arabic details.

Palazzo dei Duchi di St. Stefano

The Dukes of St. Stefano Palace dates back to the same age of Badia Vecchia. Indeed, it seems that shared with the “Abbey” the same defensive purposes. However, the palace became famous for being the residence of the Spanish noble family of De Despuches. They hold the property for centuries until one of the youngest heirs sold it to the Taormina council in 1964.

From that moment onward, the residence is used for art exhibitions during summer and permanently hosts the Mazzullo Foundation.

Hidden Mosaics in Taormina

If you have some spare time, you can go and search the surviving mosaics of Taormina.

The mosaic of Salita Santippo

The first one is called Mosaic of Salita Santippo and it dates back to the II century AD. It is a pavement pertinent to the peristyle of a private house featuring geometrical patterns and natural motifs. I have to warn you that it’s in very bad conditions.

Indeed, due to the lack of money, the care of the mosaic is nonexistent and you can’t actually see the mosaic because it’s covered in moss and grass. Well done Comune di Taormina!

The Hellenistic Mosaic

The second mosaic you can find is that called “Hellenistic Mosaic”. This dates back to the II century BC and it’s slightly in better conditions than the previous one. It was originally made with coloured pebbles (yellow, red, white, grey and black). However, due to the lack of maintenance, you can see only the black and white tesserae.

The mosaic features four side dolphins and a central six petaled flower inside a diamond shape. This used to be part of the courtyard of a private house.

Corso Umberto

Corso Umberto is the main street of Taormina enclosed between the Messina and Catania Gates. It’s famous for its luxury shops and for the possibility to find some exclusive traditional souvenirs. If you want to find something special, it’s here that you have to search for it!

Saracen Castle

If you are up for an adventure and are brave enough to climb the steep Tauro mountain, you can reach the ruins of the Saracen Castle. Unfortunately, you can’t visit the castle but you can walk up to its imposing walls. If you have a drone, you can have also a better view!

An earlier version of the fortification was likely existent already during the Roman Age. Indeed, scholars think that the castle was built over the former acropolis of Taormina. The current castle architecture is the one modified during the Arab conquest.

Church of Madonna della Rocca

On the same way to the Saracen Castle, you can follow the path to the Church of Madonna della Rocca. Don’t be fooled by the Google suggestion that is a 15 minutes walk from the Taormina city centre. That’s not true. The climb is slightly less steep that the one to the castle (even if the initial path is the same) but it will take a good 25-30 minutes to reach it.

The church is located in one of the highest point of the city and even if the climb itself is not pleasant, the view is certainly worthy. Madonna della Rocca is entirely carved into the rock (even if you can’t guess this from the external facade). It dates back to 1640 and since then remained pretty much the same.

I wouldn’t go up the hill during the day in summer. The sun is very strong in Sicily and it may become a challenging walk. A better time to visit is late afternoon.

Explore the Alleys

One of my favourite activities in Taormina is exploring its side alleys. You can find these on the left or right of Corso Umberto. Usually connected to the main road throughout small staircases. These little alleys are very surprising as you can find things that you don’t expect. This includes mosaics, medieval gates, beautiful palaces, cute restaurants, hidden churches etc.

One of my favourite alleys is Vico Venezia. Here you can find a little medieval gate surrounded by very photogenic orange trees. Furthermore, walking along the way, you can find some elegant palaces with lovely pink facades.

Best places to stay in Taormina

There are many hotels in Taormina. It is understood that a great part of those with a magnificent view are also the most expensive ones. However, because these are not within everyone’s reach, I divided them into three categories.

Luxury Hotels in Taormina

Taormina is famous for its luxury hotels. Places where exceptional service is complimentary with the most breathtaking view. Luxury stays in Taormina are not for everyone pocket but, if you are lucky enough to be able to face the cost, here are some of the most exclusive 5 stars hotels in Taormina.

Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo is among the top choices in Taormina, with its exclusive terrace and timeless atmosphere. Belmond Villa Sant’ Andrea is closer to the beach and offers spectacular views and everything you can expect from Sicily. San Domenico Palace is a Four Seasons Hotel located in Taormina city centre. This former fourteenth-century monastery combines perfectly Sicilian historical tradition and all the luxurious style provided by the Four Seasons chain. The hotel has undergone a complete renovation and looking more stunning than ever in the HBO series, The White Lotus. This year the hotel will close for the season on 28th November 2022 and will reopen on 14th March 2023.

Lastly, The Ashbee Hotel . You can find it in the magnificent setting of Villa San Giorgio. This historical palace was built by Charles Robert Ashbee on commission by Colonel Shaw-Hellier, a British veteran who moved to Sicily. In this construction, Ashbee wanted to incorporate the elegance of the British architectural style with the warm tones of the Mediterranean tradition and Sicilian history. The result is a very unique place to stay.

The price range for these hotels go from £570 for a standard double room in high season to £5,200 for a presidential suite for one night.

Boutique Hotels in Taormina

Boutique Hotels are generally my favourites because they combine style and moderate luxury with a more budget friendly stay. Taormina has many boutique hotels and usually they get booked pretty fast during the high season. Among the top places, you can stay at T aodomus Small Boutique Hotel , Hotel Villa Carlotta and Hotel Villa Belvedere . Price range from £310 to £500 for a double room for one night. Be aware that some of these hotels require a minimum stay of three nights.

If you are visiting multiple locations in Sicily and want a place in a good location Donna Carmela Resort is a reasonable option. It’s quite close to Taormina and at a driving distance from Mount Etna too. Here you can read about our experience at Donna Carmela.

Budget Hotels in Taormina

Budget hotels in Taormina are in great demand during the high season. If you want to stay in one of those places, you should think to book well in advance. Among the best budget stays in Taormina you can find the Hotel Continental , Medousa Bistrot & Suites and La Malandrina Apartments & Suites . Prices range from £ 150 to £400 for a double room for one night.

Best places to eat in Taormina

While wandering around Taormina, you will notice a great abundance of restaurants and on-the-go places. After all, Sicilian food is one of the best in Italy and you can taste some wonderful traditional dishes in Taormina. However, all that glitters is not gold and most of the times tourists have to face inflated prices for what Sicilians consider as average food.

Tips to remember when eating out in Taormina

For this reason, when it comes to visit places like Taormina, I always follow three rules and I invite you to follow them as well.

• Go Small . Big restaurants trying to capture the attention of tourists with their terraces on the coast are not always the best. Usually, the freshest and most delicious food is served by small places (these usually go under the name of bottega , osteria or trattoria ). These places are generally managed by families who make feel their clients very special.
• Try to avoid the “fixed price” menu places. If you see a restaurant with an inviting sign stating that you can have a full lunch for only €15 in Taormina, there is something smelly. Especially if the offer a fish menu. These places are generally famous for using frozen food, of which quality is not guaranteed. This is such a shame considering how good is Sicilian food! Ergo, avoid them.
• If you have little time, use the traditional Sicilian take away. Italians are famous for spending hours sit at their tables during lunch. If you seat at a restaurant, be prepared to stay seated for 2-3 hours. So if you have a little time you should opt for a take away. With “take away” I don’t mean you have to go to the first Mc Donal’s you see. In fact, you can use little places called “ rosticceria “. These are a kind of hybrid between street food stalls and bakeries selling everything from pizza, tavola calda (small savory pastries), pasta dishes, second dishes, sides and even desserts. The food is always incredibly fresh, the quality is excellent and the price very cheap. Some of these places have also tables and chairs where to consume your food. They are the perfect places when you don’t have much time.

Where to eat in Taormina

I have to confess that I am not a big fan of the restaurants in Taormina. This because I found that most of them are just tourist traps and, as a Sicilian, I would never pay for €20 for a pasta with tomato sauce that I would cook better at home. However, it’s also true that not all the restaurants inflate their prices for average dishes and if you know where to look at, you can find some very nice (and honest) places where to eat.

For example a very nice place where to taste traditional fresh cheese and meat boards is La bottega del Formaggio . For a great pizza go to Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro . The same owners have also a restaurant called Osteria Villa Zuccaro but I haven’t been there yet. One of my favourite places for a lunch/dinner on the go is l’Arco about Pizza . This is located after Piazza Duomo. Here you can find everything from fresh pasta dishes to arancini, pizza and traditional tavola calda (filled savoury pastries). Moreover, it’s very cheap! I warmly recommend you to try the pistachio arancini that are delicious!

For a fresh dessert, my favourite place is Gelato Mania ! This place is just after Porta Messina and it’s often crowded because it’s small. I always take the same gelato flavour that is pistachio, hazelnut and Ferrero Rocher. You won’t regret it! The only bad thing of this place is that it’s open only during summer.

Fancy a granita? Plan a stop at the famous Bam Bar

As said before, there are a lot of touristy places in Taormina. Nevertheless, Bam Bar is famous for a reason. Indeed, in addition to be one of the most photogenic places in Taormina, it serves also delicious granita! We often stop there for a tasty breakfast when in town and the chocolate granita never disappoint!

Be aware this place is often very crowded during summer and it’s actually challenging to find a space. Moreover, it looks like it’s the mandatory stop for numerous VIPs. Indeed, the owner regularly picture himself with actors, singers and various celebrities. So, if you know someone famous that is in Taormina, he’s likely having a granita at Bam Bar.

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to book a table in advance. So you have just to pass there and try your luck.

Address: Via di Giovanni, 45, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy

Taormina one day itinerary with map

Below, you can find an example for a one-day itinerary of Taormina. This follows the following points:

• A – Start point from Porta Messina
• B – Visit to Palazzo Corvaja (10-15 mins)
• C – Visit to Teatro Antico (1-2 hours)
• D – Relax at the Villa Comunale Gardens (30 mins)
• E – See the Naumachie (5-10 mins)
• F – Visit Piazza IX Aprile and its monuments (30 mins – 1 hour depending how many pictures you take)
• G – Visit to Piazza Duomo (15 – 20 mins)
• H – Visit to Palazzo dei Duchi di St. Stefano (max 20 mins without exhibition entrance)

This itinerary will cover all the best things to see in Taormina. Moreover, you can plan a lunch break between point C and D to divide the day into two parts. Of course, you can add more spots and take inspiration from the other sights in Taormina I’ve listed before!

Best day trips from Taormina that are not Catania or Messina

It’s very likely that if you are visiting Sicily, you will fly over Catania and possibly include a trip to Messina in your itinerary. For this reason, I decided to exclude these cities as a day trip from Taormina. Below, you will find some places that are very convenient to reach from Taormina and are perfect as a day trip.

Isolabella is a small little island very close to Taormina. It’s connected to the mainland by a thin strip of land and it’s the best place to enjoy a day out at the beach from the city. My typical day out in Taormina usually includes a half day spent at the beach in Isola Bella and the afternoon spent in Taormina. As I previously said, Isola Bella was bought by Miss Trevelyan and transformed into a beautiful botanical garden that you can still visit. The later constructions built into the rock were added by the Bosurgi family. Now, Isolabella it’s part of the Archaeological Park of Naxos-Taormina.

Things to do in Isola Bella

Apart from enjoying a day out at the beach, there are other things to do in Isola Bella. For example, you can follow the little strip of land up to the island and visit the Museum and Botanical Garden . From the island you can enjoy a very different view of the coast and admire rare plants and peculiar construction build into the rock. Tickets cost € 4.00 and you can book them online here .

Moreover, if you want a little more adventure, you can jump on one of the little red boats on the shore and go to an excursion of the coast . These will usually tour the coast of Naxos and will bring tourist to the famous Grotta Azzurra. Excursions usually cost between €10-20 per person.

Lastly, if you are an expert swimmer with a PADI certification, you can also go to scuba diving . The main centre in Taormina and Isolabella is the Nike Diving Centre . Among the top things to see underwater near Isolabella there are the Roman Columns of Cape Taormina. These are at about 24 mt under the sea, lost from a Roman ship that sunk more than 2.000 years ago.

Tips for visiting Isolabella

Isolabella is particularly coveted during summer. Ergo, if you want to spend a half day at the beach, or even a whole day without annoyance read below!

The beach in Isola Bella is not so big and during summer it gets full of people soon. Moreover, (I don’t know why) it looks like the very thin layer of land connecting to the island is the most coveted spot where to put a towel. Therefore, if you want to act like a typical tourist and want to stay on that spot at any cost, go super early. Most of the people tend to arrive after 10.30 and those spots are the firsts to be gone. However, be aware that when the beach become full and there’s no place where to walk (because the space on that thin layer is very small), people start walking over other people towels and stuff to enter the sea or go to the island. Ergo, don’t complain if a 10-years old broke your sunglasses.

The second thing you can do is staying on the side of the mainland. Here you should not have the overcrowding problem and enjoy a little bit of more relax. Moreover, if you want even more space, you can rent a sunbed in one of the lidi (bathhouses) on the beach. These are quite expensive but worthy if you want a little peace from the crowd.

How to get to Isola Bella from Taormina

There are three ways to reach Isola Bella from Taormina. By car via the SP10 (10 minutes). However, I don’t recommend you this because it’s very hard to find a free parking space and the Parking Mazzarò is more expensive than the other options. You can reach Isola Bella also with the cable car. Tickets cost between €3-10 and the cable car is every 15 minutes. Lastly, you can go on foot. There is a staircase connecting Taormina to Isola Bella. However, be aware that despite the downhill is nice, the return is quite steep.

Castelmola is a village located above Taormina. It was listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy and it’s one of the places I love most when I am in that area of Sicily. The name Castelmola means “Castle over a mola “. Mola (in dialect) is the big rock where the castle was built during the Middle Ages.

Actually, the origins of the village dates back to the Greek age and its history is connected with that of Taormina. The old name of the village was Mylai .

What to visit in Castelmola

Castelmola is one of those places where is nice just to walk around and explore without nothing in mind. However, if you want to check out some spots, you can’t miss a visit to the ruins of the Mola castle, the church of St. Nicola di Bari and the view from Piazza Sant’ Antonio square.

If you go during the Christmas period, you will likely find some decorations all around the city and you can’t miss a hot chocolate with a view at the historic Antico Caffè S. Giorgio.

How to get to Castelmola from Taormina

You can reach Castelmola in several ways. If you go by car, it will take about 16 minutes from Taormina via the SP10 (SP means Provincial Street). You can’t enter in the village with the car. You must leave your car in one of the public parking just out the village. Please be aware that the road connecting the two cities is quite winding and during winter it gets very foggy.

If you don’t have a car, you can take the Interbus to Castelmola from Taormina bus station. It’s a 15 minutes ride and won’t cost you more than €5. If you are brave enough, you can also walk up to Castelmola. It’s a 47 minutes walk (2.6 km).

Giardini Naxos

Giardini Naxos was the first Greek colony established in Sicily (at that time it was called just Naxos). Now it’s famous for its crystalline waters and romantic promenade. Among the top things to visit there is the Archaeological Park of Naxos, the Castle of Schisò and the Nike of Kalkis.

How to reach Giardini Naxos from Taormina

Giardini Naxos is at a very short drive from Taormina. Indeed, it’s at just 18 minutes car via the SS114. If you don’t want to drive, you can take the Interbus from Taormina bus station. The ticket is about €3.

Alcantara Gorge

The Alcantara river is one of the most famous in Sicily. It flows from the Mt. Nebrodi to the Jonian Sea. Despite the river has many touristic points, particularly interesting for trekking and outdoor activities, the most unique part is that famous as “ Gole dell’ Alcantara ” (Alcantara Gorge).

This is a natural canyon formed by 25 mt high basaltic rock walls. These walls have been eroded and shaped by the river for thousands of years assuming very peculiar prismatic shapes. It was estimated that these walls date back to eruptions happened about 8.000 years ago.

What to do at the Alcantara Gorge

The Alcantara Gorge attracts tourist from all over the world and it’s perfect for water trekking, body rafting, rafting or just chilling near the river. If you go just for walking through the river be aware that the water is freezing even during summer. Moreover, it’s better to wear waterproof shoes and protect your feet from the sharpest rocks. If you want to undertake more adventurous activities, like body rafting, you should go with an authorised tour company. For more itineraries check the park website here .

How to get to the Alcantara Gorge from Taormina

The Alcantara Gorge is at just 34 minutes by car from Taormina following the SS114 to SS185 (there will be probably tolls to pay). If you don’t have a car, you can take the Interbus to “Gole dell’ Alcantara” from the Taormina bus station. This bus is operated only during the summer season.

Want to visit more places in Sicily? What about Cefalù ?

Taormina Bucket List

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Yes please! I was here before I was married and would love to go back with my husband! The food! That gorge!

Thanks! Yes the food in Sicily is amazing and I miss it a lot! Cant’ wait to go back!

Thanks for sharing such a great thorough guide! I think it’s great to know how much time is needed to explore a place. Most times we think we need more which we end up paying extra accommodation for that wasnt needed.

You’re welcome! Yes, knowing more or less hoe much time you need for a visit is essential for planning! Of course, everyone has his own pace but a general guideline is always useful!

This is an amazing post! I love that you included the history but also everything there is to do in Taormina! Saving it for when we make it to Europe again!

Thanks a lot for reading it! I hope you can visit one day!

This looks like the type of place I would be heading to straight away! I’ve never heard of it before but it’s for sure going on my bucket list.

That’s great! Taormina is very famous in Sicily, almost like Positano for the Amalfi Coast!

Oh my gosh, I am so excited to use this post when we’re able to take our van down to Italy. We live in Munich and it’s the first trip we’re planning once we’re allowed to travel. Sicily is high on our list and I’m thrilled to learn more about Taormina. I can’t wait to eat my way through the town, making sure to avoid big showy restaurants between wandering those charming alley ways. Thanks for such a thorough and detailed guide. Saving it for our trip.

That’s amazing! I hope they will lift soon some restrictions! I would love to visit my family in Sicily but I’m stuck in the UK at the moment! finger crossed for better times! Good luck for your future Italy trip!!!

What a thorough in-depth guide and what a fairy tale destination. It really makes me want to visit

I hope you can visit one day!

What a fantastic and thorough post. I LOVED all the history you provided. Great tips too on food, parking and all. I was planning a trip for this June, but tabled it until 2022, because it is is not looking promising that Italy and Sicily will open by June. Taomorina looks gorgeous. I can only imagine how lovely it must be to live there. Pinned your post for my soon-to-be visit!

Yes, at the moment the situation is not good throughout Italy. Sicily, however, has encouraging data. I hope they will reopen soon so I can visit my family!(I live in the UK at the moment). Taormina is a beautiful gem and definitely a must-visit while in Sicily! I hope you can visit in 2022!

This is a fantastic guide, thank you for the tips and recommendations, I used this itinerary as the bases for my holiday to Taormina, I fell in love with the place.

Wow, thank you so much for such an informative post!! Saved me a ton of time.

Thanks for reading! Enjoy Taormina! 🙂

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An Insider’s Guide To Taormina, Sicily

• June 15, 2023

The ancient hilltop city of Taormina is arguably the most famous and popular destination in Sicily . Backdropped by the smoldering force of Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the city is a tapestry of winding cobblestone and marble streets.

Steep cliffs plunge down to coves with pebbled beaches surrounded by dense Mediterranean shrubs and sea grottos that dwell beneath the turquoise waves of the Ionian Sea. Numerous civilizations have left their imprint on Taormina over the millennia. As a result, traces of the ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish can still be seen and felt today.

The city and its hotels, restaurants, beaches, and cultural sites were recently featured as the setting for season two of Mike White’s award-winning series “The White Lotus.” While the show reinvigorated the city’s image as a dreamy and upscale seaside getaway, Taormina has been a resort town for hundreds, even thousands of years. When the city fell to the Romans after the Second Punic War in 212 BC, it became a favorite getaway for wealthy members of the Roman Republic, including senators and patricians.

It’s no wonder the city is known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea. Read on to discover the best beaches, bars, restaurants, hotels, and activities Taormina has to offer.

The Best Beaches in Taormina

Mazzarò beach.

Mazzarò is the easiest beach to access from the town of Taormina. It is located directly in front of the parking lot and cable car that connects the area to the town. This crescent-shaped beach is made up of small pebbles and is freckled with stabilimenti . These beach clubs rent out loungers and umbrellas and supply bars and restaurants for their clients. The area of Mazzarò is surrounded by craggy hills, old palm trees, steep walkways, as well as budget and boutique hotels.

Isola Bella

Around the bend from Mazzaró Beach is Taormina’s most famous landmark – Isola Bella, or Isola Bedda in Sicilian dialect. Meaning “beautiful island” in English, the small island is connected to the coast by a narrow strip of sand that comes and goes with the tides. Lush vegetation sprouts from its rocky surface, and a former privately-owned villa teeters at its top. The island, surrounded by a number of sea grottos, has been a national nature reserve since the 1990s.

How To Reach The Beach

• The Funivia Taormina is a cable car system that connects the city to Mazzarò Beach in just two minutes. Cables leave every 15 minutes, and in the summer the service operates until 1 a.m. Tickets cost €3 each way or €10 for a day ticket. The ride has great views of the rocky landscape and sea.
• Taxis operate frequently between Mazzarò and Taormina. The 10-minute drive will cost at least €15.
• InterBus is a Sicilian bus company that departs from Taormina to Mazzarò every hour for roughly €2 each way. Make sure to check the local bus timetable for a detailed schedule.
• If you are feeling particularly daring, you can also reach Mazzarò (or the city of Taormina) through a steep walking path.

What to See and Do in Taormina

Explore the teatro antico di taormina.

Located near the end of the city’s historic center is the ancient theater of Taormina . It’s one of the best preserved ancient Greco-Roman theaters in Italy. The ancient horseshoe-shaped structure is set on a hill slightly above the city and backdropped on one end by the imposing shadow of Mount Etna. On the other, it is surrounded by rolling green hills and stretches of azure Ionian sea coastline.

The theater was built in the 3rd century BC by the Greek tyrant Hiero II as a stage for theatrical performances. When the ancient Romans conquered the area in the 2nd century BC, they renovated and modified the Greek theater with bricks and marble columns. This transformed it into an amphitheater for bloody gladiator games and battles between exotic wild animals.

Today, the original Greek structure remains, as does a decent amount of the original bricks laid during the Roman era. At the height of its splendor, the structure could host up to 10,000 spectators. Today, it still hosts operas and theatrical performances alongside events such as the Taormina Film Fest. It can seat roughly 4,500 people. For €10, guests can explore the ancient structure and enjoy the theater’s expansive panoramic views of the city and coast.

Stroll through Town and Enjoy the Views

The cobblestoned street of Corso Umberto, which winds through the heart of Taormina, is a shopper’s paradise. Wander past artisan shops and upscale boutiques as well as restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Terraces dripping with succulents sprout from pastel-colored buildings while colorful flowers grow out of traditional moor’s head vases. The pedestrian thoroughfare stretches for roughly 1 km and feeds into Piazza IX Aprile , the city’s main square.

Located in the center of Corso Umberto, this black-and-white marble-tiled square is the very center of Taormina. Peppered with outdoor cafes and red oleander trees, it’s dominated by the 17th-century Chiesa di San Giuseppe . This faded pink Sicilian Baroque church is dramatically set against rocky cliffs. And the square is particularly notable for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the coastline.

Visit the Ancient Hilltop Town of Castelmola

Castemola is built atop a natural terrace and surrounded by the ruins of a 16th-century Norman castle. It’s perched on a hill just above Taormina. This lovely town can be reached by car or via a 15-minute bus ride from the Taormina bus station .

Castelmola’s tree-lined main square is composed of geometric black-and-white lava stones that open up to a belvedere . A panoramic vista of green hills snaked with dizzying winding paths, Mount Etna, and the vivid turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Narrow streets are freckled with pastel-colored buildings, shops, and cafes. Many of which, sell the town’s famous vino alle mandorle , a sweet almond dessert wine.

One of Castelmola’s most famous attractions is Bar Turrisi . Since 1947, this three-storied bar has been passed down from generation to generation. While the bar is a standout for its almond wine and terraces with views of Mount Etna, its fame comes less from its views and more from its decor. Bar Turrisi is entirely covered in wooden and ceramic phalluses – even faucets in bathrooms spout water from the male genitalia. While unusual, the purpose of these decorations is not to be crude. Rather it’s meant to embrace and celebrate male fertility, as phalluses have long been considered to be a sign of abundance and good luck. This symbolism echoes Hellenic tradition. After all, the ancient Greeks and Romans worshipped Priapus, the god of fertility, freedom, and good fortune.

Learn about Sicilian art at Palazzo Corvaja

Palazzo Corvaja is a historic palace located in the heart of Taormina’s city center. Built upon the ruins of an ancient Greek agora and Roman forum, it is distinctive for its mix of Arab, Norman, and Spanish architecture. This eclectic mix highlights Sicily’s centuries-long history of successive invasions. Its prominent cube-shaped Arab tower dates back to the 10th century. A wing was even added in the 13th century when the Normans invaded the area.

In the 15th century, under Spanish rule, the palace was further modified and yet another wing was added. In the 16th century, it became the residence of the wealthy Corvaja family, who owned it until the end of World War II. Today, the structure houses the Sicilian Museum of Popular Art and Traditions as well as Taormina’s tourist information office.

The Best Bars and Restaurants in Taormina

Da giovanni.

Da Giovanni has been a quaint, family-run restaurant since 1973. It is located in Mazzarò and has floor-to-ceiling windows that slide open for views of the beach and Isola Bella. The white tablecloth eatery serves up traditional Sicilian fare. This includes penne alla norma with tomato sauce and eggplants, spaghetti e bottarga , spaghetti with cured fish roe, as well as Zuppa di pesce , a tomato-based soup heaped with redfish, shrimp, clams, mussels, squid, and mackerel.

Trattoria Tiramisù Mimmo & Son

Trattoria Tiramisù Mimmo & Son , a father-son duo, was included in Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice for 2022 as one of the top restaurants in Taormina. Located in the historic city center, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the ancient Greek theater. This restaurant serves upscale bites with generous portions at budget-friendly prices. Order raw fish of the day such as tuna, prawns, and shrimp, or an au gratin mix of calamari, prawns, and swordfish sprinkled with almonds and pistachios. The first and second courses include Sicilian busiate noodles served with shrimp and pesto, and grigliata di pesce , a grilled mix of fish.

Laboratorio Pasticceria di Roberto

A trip to Sicily is never complete without eating a cannolo . And Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto is one the best bakeries in Taormina to sample the traditional tube-shaped dessert. The family-run bakery also sells artisanal Sicilian treats like cassata cake, marzipan, and strudel stuffed with peaches, lemons, or tangerines.

One of Sicily’s most iconic food addresses, Bam Bar serves up the best granita in town. This island specialty is made with fresh fruit or nut pastes, sugar, and water. As a result, it’s naturally gluten and dairy free! Not to mention, the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Grab a seat at one of the quaint little tables outside and order a granita con brioche , a fluffy bun for dipping. There are dozens of flavors, from lemon and strawberry to almond and pistachio. Gelsi (mulberry) and fichi bianchi (white fig) are seasonal specialties only available in August.

Daiquiri is one of the hottest cocktail bars in Taormina. This is thanks to its extensive cocktail menu which includes cucumber margaritas and various delicious fruit daiquiris. Most of the lounge’s seating is located outside in a charming courtyard overflowing with bougainvillea and palm and banana trees. In the busier summer months, the area almost feels like a block party.

The Best Hotels in Taormina

San Domenico Palace

The set of “The White Lotus” season two, San Domenico Palace is a 5-star resort housed in a former 14th-century convent. Soaring on a rocky promontory overlooking the glittering Ionian sea, the sprawling Four Seasons hotel is decorated with original Renaissance-era frescoes. Additionally, it has two restaurants (including the Michelin-starred Principe Ceramian) an outdoor infinity pool, and a fitness center. Not to mention beautifully manicured gardens and two bars. Elegant rooms come with flat-screen TVs and minibars. The upgraded rooms feature terraces with sea views. And the suites have living rooms with private plunge pools as well as hot tubs.

Mazzarò Sea Palace

Mazzarò Sea Palace was recently added to the list of Leading Hotels of the World. As another upscale hotel, it promises a truly unforgettable stay in Taormina. Set in a pretty bay, it has its own private beach, swimming pool, al fresco restaurant, and fitness club. Basic rooms have flat screens and marbled balconies or terraces large enough for two sun loungers. Upgraded rooms and suites have terraces with beach and sea views, separate living rooms, marble bathrooms, as well as two-person private pools.

Mendolia Beach Hotel

Mendolia Beach Hotel is an ideal pick for budget travelers looking for a more affordable stay in Taormina. It is located right in front of the Mazzarò and Isola Bella’s beaches. So what the hotel may lack in amenities and services it makes up for in spectacular views. Almost every room in this 3-star hotel has a small terrace with a sweeping vista of the Ionian Sea and Isola Bella.

The hotel also offers complimentary access to their Mazzarò Mendolia Beach Club with sun loungers, umbrellas, and showers. The beach club has an excellent restaurant. Try the fried calamari and shrimp before enjoying a heaping bowl of spaghetti with clams. The snack bar also sells Sicilian classics like arancini (rice balls), pizza, and sandwiches.

Hotel Continental Taormina

Hotel Continental Taormina is a casual 3-star, family-run hotel located in the historic center. It’s only a two-minute walk from Corso Umberto, the city’s main street, and a 13-minute walk from the city’s ancient Greek theater. As a result, the property is an ideal pick for those looking for an unpretentious stay in the city. Most rooms come with private balconies or small terraces with views of the sea, the city center, or the hotel’s gardens. Hotel Continental’s crown jewel is its rooftop terrace and Sky Bar . Here, you can sip on an Aperol Spritz and take in views of Mount Etna, the Ionian Sea, and Taormina’s historic center.

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5 things to know about visiting Taormina 

Last updated on March 16th, 2024.

The hilltop town of Taormina is one we know very well.  

From our base in Sicily (where we live part of the year), Taormina is a 20-minute drive away. 

We typically visit Taormina for special occasions like a wedding or anniversary, or on Christmas Day. Given that we’re regular visitors places me in a good position (I think) to write this post. 

One of Sicily’s most popular destinations, I’ll be sharing 5 top things to know about visiting Taormina.  

An essential read if you’re planning on visiting Taormina, these Sicily travel tips will help you plan your Italy trip . 

Where is Taormina? 

One of the first things to know about visiting Taormina is its location. The town is situated on the eastern coast of Sicily, near where we live , surrounded by the towns of Letojanni and Giardini Naxos. 

Its prime spot along the coast makes Taomina an ideal place to add to your East Sicily itinerary .  

Where is the closest airport?  

Taormina’s closest international airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport . If renting a car , the journey from Taormina to Catania Airport takes approximately 1 hour (not including traffic or stops).  

Another option, which we’ve frequently taken, is to take the train from Taormina. A straightforward route to get to Catania Airport, the entire journey usually takes around 1hr 20mins. 

Train travel is a great way to get around Sicily and it’s pretty affordable too. 

What is Taormina famous for?  

Taomina is famous for several reasons. Its attractions, historical landmarks and views all contribute to its popularity.  

The Sicilian hilltop town gained more notoriety after the TV show  The White Lotus was filmed in Taormina and Sicily . 

To give you an idea of why it’s so popular, here are some of the best things to do in Taormina. These travel ideas will make great additions to your Taormina itinerary. 

Best things to do in Taormina

Visit teatro antico di taormina  .

The Ancient Theater of Taormina ( Teatro Antico di Taormina ) was originally built in the 3rd century BC. Offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, it’s one of the world’s most well-preserved theaters. 

Book a tour with this skip-the-line ticket and learn about the history of Taormina, or book to watch a performance. The theater hosts a variety of shows ranging from international film festivals to top music icons. 

Ancient Theater of Taormina (Teatro Antico di Taormina), Via Teatro Greco, 1 

Relax on Isola Bella  

The small nature reserve of Beautiful Island ( Isola Bella ) also doubles as a popular beach destination come summer.  

Connected to the mainland by a narrow sandbar, Isola Bella is accessible on foot (during low tide) or by boat.

On the island is a historic villa that was built in the 1950s. It was originally intended to be the residence of the English aristocrat and art collector Florence Trevelyan. Villa Isola Bella has been owned by the Region of Sicily since 1990. 

Enjoy the views from Belvedere di Taormina 

Belvedere di Taormina is one of the best viewing spots in Taormina. You’ll find it in Piazza IX Aprile, a large square filled with outdoor bars and the Church of St. Joseph. 

Granted, this square and viewing spot are typically packed with visitors, especially around sunset. But wait your turn and secure your spot to enjoy colorful sunsets over the Ionian Sea.  

Stroll through the town center 

Via Roma is the main street that runs through Taormina’s town center. Incredibly charming, with narrow side streets filled with Sicilian testa di moro, Via Roma makes for some very pretty pictures. 

Explore Taormina’s churches 

There are several historic churches to see when in Taormina. They include: 

• The medieval Taormina Cathedral, ( Duomo di Taormina ), Piazza Duomo 
• The baroque Church of St. Joseph ( Chiesa di San Giuseppe ), Piazza IX Aprile, 8 
• Church of Madonna of the Rock ( Chiesa Madonna della Rocca ), Taormina 
• Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria ( Chiesa di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria ), Taormina 

Discover Taormina’s communal park 

A gorgeous and green place to escape the crowds is Taormina’s communal park ( Villa Comunale di Taormina ). 

With landscaped gardens and picturesque sea and city views, it’s one of my favorite places to visit in Taormina. 

Taormina Communal Park (Villa Comunale di Taormina), Via Bagnoli Croci 

Enjoy aperitivo at sunset  

One of my top things to do in Taormina is to watch the sun set. And there’s no better place to do that than from the terrace at Hotel Metropole Maison d’Hôtes – Taormina . 

Order a cocktail, a glass of prosecco or something non-alcoholic, it doesn’t matter. What does matter is securing a table with a good view so you can savor the sunset hues over Taormina. 

Hotel Metropole Maison d’Hôtes – Taormina, Corso Umberto, 154 

Now that I’ve covered what you can see and do, here are 5 things to know about visiting Taormina. 

Map of Sicily

Things to know about visiting Taormina 

Taormina is overcrowded  .

Visit Taormina during July, August or at Christmas and prepare to feel like a stuffed sardine.  

During these periods, Taormina is crowded, with every nook and cranny seemingly filled with people. 

In the low season (autumn and winter in Sicily) Taormina can still get extremely busy. Its narrow main street and side roads can only handle so many visitors.  

When planning to visit Taormina, the best advice I can give is to come early. You’ve got more chance of beating the crowds and enjoying the town before it gets too crowded.

My guide on when to visit Sicily outlines this in more detail. 

Taormina is expensive 

One of the most important things to know about visiting Taormina is that it’s expensive. 

And the reason why Taormina is expensive can be explained by several reasons.  

In Taormina’s heyday (1960s and 1970s), the town was renowned for being a high standard destination. It attracted the crème de la crème of Italian elite and its prices reflected that. 

Fast forward to today, and Taormina’s standards haven’t maintained those from its golden era. However, its prices have continued to rise.  

But while Taormina may not hold the same allure for elite guests, it still attracts masses of international tourists. Which brings us to the second reason why things cost more in Taormina. To put it simply, the demand for goods and services from tourists adds to the growing costs. 

On the plus side, Taormina has several free things to do , some of which have already been mentioned above.

The traffic can get bad 

The drive leading to Taormina is a scenic one. It’s surrounded by dazzling sea views and the pretty Sicilian coastline. 

However, once you get near the exit to Taormina, prepare to play the waiting game. Naturally, the lines are longer during peak seasons or when there’s a show playing at the Ancient Theater. 

Thankfully, the traffic is nowhere near as bad as what we experienced driving around the Amalfi Coast . 

At its worse — things to know about visiting Taormina 

We’ve found that the traffic gets worse in Taormina from about 6pm. People may be heading to Taormina for dinner, drinks or to watch a performance.  

Another reason for the heavy traffic (in summer) is Isola Bella. Getting around by car is the most popular mode of transportation, and everyone has the same goal in mind. 

Parking can be a headache 

To be blunt, parking in Taormina can be a nightmare.  

In a town consisting of narrow streets and tight passageways, any on-street parking fills up very quickly. 

What’s left (near Taormina town center) are the private parking lots. They can be useful if you plan to spend a good few hours in Taormina but it comes at a cost. We used one while attending a friend’s wedding and paid around €30 ($33/£26) for about 2 hours. 

Covered parking 

A place where we usually park in Taormina is Lumbi Parking ( Parcheggio Lumbi ). It’s one of the first covered parking lots you see when exiting the roundabout for Taormina. 

One plus is that there’s plenty of space and the cost is reasonable — depending on how long you stay. The downside is that you must either walk up several flights of stairs or take the bus to reach the town center. 

The bus ticket may be included in your parking ticket but check this beforehand. We usually take the stairs so I’m not 100% sure.  

Lumbi Parking (Parcheggio Lumbi), Via Mario e Nicola Garipoli 

Cable car parking 

Another of the top things to know about visiting Taormina is the Cable Car Tormina Parking (not a typo). It’s located a slight distance from the town center in Mazzarò.  

From here you can take the cable car all the way to Taormina’s town center.  

Cable Car Tormina Parking, Mazzarò 

Avoid visiting when there is a show 

One of the most important things to know about visiting Taormina is to avoid visiting when there is a show. 

By this, I specifically mean when there are performances at the Ancient Theater. 

The shows typically attract not just the locals but also the tourists. What this means is double the traffic and the number of people filling the streets, bars and restaurants. 

My advice is to check the theater’s website to see the events listing. This way you can be prepared by planning ahead.

Is Taormina a tourist trap? 

Like many popular destinations, Taormina has its parts that can be considered as tourist traps. However, there are plenty of options to eat, drink and shop, so be sure to keep your wits about you. 

One example I can give is a gelateria we like visiting in Taormina called Don Diego Gelateria Caffeteria. It’s situated in Taormina’s town center but not right on Via Roma. The gelato and cakes are excellent, and they serve one of the best granita Siciliana in Taormina. 

Don Diego Gelateria Caffeteria, Via Luigi Pirandello, 1 

Is Taormina worth visiting? 

Taormina is 100% worth visiting, especially if it’s your first time traveling in Sicily. By knowing these Taormina travel tips, it’ll help you better prepare for your trip. 

As someone who’s visited Taormina many times, I’d say there are other charming places nearby to consider visiting. Take the hilltop town of Castelmola . Much smaller than Taormina, it’s also less expensive, crowded and has incredible views. 

For me, it’s one of the best things to do near Taormina. 

Castelmola doesn’t have the upmarket profile associated with Taormina, but it’s a tranquil low-key alternative. 

What do you think of this Taormina travel guide on things to know about visiting Taormina? Does it look like somewhere you’d like to visit? Let me know in the comments below. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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32 thoughts on “ 5 things to know about visiting Taormina  ”

I’ve never heard of Taormina before but it sounds and looks like a wonderful spot to visit and tour…a perfect vacation destination!

It’s a very popular destination here, I hope you get to visit one day

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Taormina Travel Guide – Our incredible trip to Sicily

Jayne Gorman

May 18, 2023

Taormina has long been one of the most popular holiday spots in Sicily and yet it was never really on my travel radar until I binge-watched a certain TV show last year. ( Coughs *ahem* White Lotus .) It’s a fantastic place to holiday though, as not only is it so aesthetic, but there are so many varied things to see and do in Taormina too.

What I loved about Taormina is that it offers visitors a little bit of everything – from a chic beach scene, to the history of the Ancient Greek Theatre, and refreshing cups full of granita.

Disclosure: Our trip was self-funded but this post contains some affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra expense to you if you book via my links.

What is Taormina like?

Taormina is an elegant hilltop town overlooking snow-capped Mount Etna and the jewel-like waters of the Ionian Sea. I read it is sometimes dubbed the Amalfi of Sicily, and I can see the correlation both in terms of the landscape and the overall atmosphere.

We spent 4 nights in Taormina as part of a week long trip to Sicily in early May 2023. We spent the other 3 nights in Cefalu and felt this struck a good balance between 2 coastal towns with completely different personalities.

We flew into Catania Airport and out of Palermo Airport and hired a car for the week to get around. The drive from Catania Airport to Taormina takes approximately 1 hour.

Best things to do in Taormina, Sicily

To be perfectly honest, my favourite thing to do in Taormina was to laze on Mazarro Beach by day and enjoy fantastic food with jaw-dropping views of an evening. (I mean, who doesn’t like the sound of that?!)

There are a definitely some sights you shouldn’t miss while in this part of Sicily, so here are all the best places to visit in Taormina, along with my favourite things to see, eat and do.

Teatro Antico di Taormina

Possibly the most impressive sight in Taormina is the Ancient Greek Theatre, which dates back to the 3 rd Century BC. Perched at the top of the town, the theatre has spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Calabrian Coast. Taking a seat in the stands, where it feels like you can touch the clouds, it’s just incredible to imagine the drama, musical and gladiatorial battles that have been held here over thousands of years.

Personally, I don’t think you don’t need to spend very long here. We snuck in at 18.30 just before they closed at 19.00 and bought tickets on the door. (€10 per person.) If travelling in peak season you can book skip-the-line tickets here .

I’d also recommend checking out the events schedule in case you are lucky enough to be visiting when a concert is being held at the Teatro.

Isola Bella

If you’ve seen White Lotus Season 2 you’ll probably recognise Isola Bella – it played quite a key role in the final episode, didn’t it!

Isola Bella has long been a popular place to visit in Taormina due to it being both a picturesque island (connected to the mainland by a thin strip of sand at low tide) and an ex-private residence turned nature reserve with an interesting history.

Since 2011 Isola Bella has been open to the public for a cost of €4 per person.  ( Every day except Monday, from 9am until one hour before sunset. ) We didn’t end up going inside the Museo as we found it extremely crowded but I think it would be worth arriving at opening time if you’re interested to see the rare tropical plants that the previous owner, Lady Treveylan, planted here in the 1890s.

How to get to Isola Bella

It’s easy to reach Isola Bella from Mazzaro – it is clearly signposted from the Mazzaro cable car station. You will need to take a number of stairs down to the beach but I’m not terribly fit and still found it doable!

You can also take a boat to Isola Bella from Mazzaro Beach – more on that below.

Private boat cruise

Our 4-year-old’s highlight from our time in Taormina was the boat trip we did along the coast, which departed just outside our apartment in Mazzaro.

As it was a little too cold to swim in May we negotiated a private 1-hour Taormina boat cruise along the coast to see emerald green grottos, Isola Bella, Taormina & Mount Etna from the water.

Check out this reel to see some of the highlights.

We paid €40 per adult, our child was free. We were offered the option to share with another couple in order to reduce the price but we decided to cruise privately.

We negotiated a time and fee for our boat trip directly with the tour company who were based on the beach outside our apartment in Mazzaro. (On the far left near Trattoria Il Barcaiolo – a wonderful little restaurant for lunch before/after!)

If travelling in peak season I would recommend booking in advance. The company we used are Boat Excursions Taormina . They offer custom tours include sunset sails and dinner on board and their boats are beautiful and well cared for. They offer a luxury experience that’s perfect for a special occasion.

I also found more affordable Taormina boat tours departing from the nearby coastal town of Giardini Naxos.

Villa Comunale di Taormina

A wonderful place to wander for free while in Taormina town centre is Villa Communale . It’s a historic landscaped garden with amazing views and shaded spots you can sit with a gelato or arancini.

Interestingly, it was originally the garden of the villa of Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman who fled to Taormina after a scandalous affair with the future King Edward VII. She ended up marrying Doctor Salvatore Cacciola, who was to become mayor of Taormina, and together they bought a number of properties, including Isola Bella, building the well-known house and exotic gardens I mentioned earlier.

The most famous parts of Villa Comunale of Taormina are the so-called ‘Victorian Follies’, which are whimsical towers or pavilions that were created by Lady Trevelyan as bird watching posts. But there are also interesting statues, cannons and a children’s play area, so it’s a great place for families to visit.

Piazza IX Aprile

The centre of Taormina is a pedestrianised zone encompassed by ancient gates, Porta Messina and Porta Catania. At the heart of Taormina is its main square, Piazza IX Aprile, and you’ll no doubt find yourself here at some point if wandering the main street of the town, Corso Umberto.

The square is a great place to people watch, perhaps with an Aperol Spritz from Café Wunderbar , and soak up the view of Mount Etna in the distance.

It also has a number of notable buildings to check out including the Church of San Giuseppe, a Sicilian Baroque building from the 17 th Century, and the distinct clock tower, Torre dell’Orologio, originally built in the 12 th century but restored over the years.

Sunbathing on Mazzaro Beach

As I mentioned at the start of this post, my personal favourite thing to do in Taormina is relax on Mazzaro Beach and soak up the scenery. Mazzaro is quite an exclusive bay with a couple of notable 5* hotels occupying prime seafront locations. If you have the budget to stay at Villa Sant’Andrea or Mazzaro Sea Palace then they have private areas on the beach for guests. There are, however, a couple of lidos you can rent sun loungers from if you’re not a guest of the hotels.

We recommend Lido Il Delfino which charges €30 for 2 sunbeds and an umbrella and includes the use of their toilets and showers.* They also have a snack bar and restaurant, which we thought were reasonably priced for the location.

Another option is Lido La Pigna . We didn’t use their sunloungers but we really enjoyed dining on their terrace, tucking into pizzas & sharing a tiramisu in a teacup! (Pictured above.)

There is also a tiny amount of public space to the far left of Mazzaro Beach where you can just lay down a towel.

If you have a car you can drive to Mazzaro and park at the cable car station. The front section is operated by the council and you pay by the metre. But behind that are several sections run by private operators. As we were staying in Mazzaro for 4 days we approached one of these companies and arranged a flat rate of €15 per day (paid in cash) so we could come and go as we pleased.

Speaking of parking…

In Taormina we found the best place to park was Parcheggio Lumbi , a multistorey car park close to the city centre that accepts card payments. We walked into the town centre from here, it was short and not too steep, but Google reviews suggest there is a free shuttle bus if you need it.

*Prices correct as of May 2023

Day trips to Mount Etna

The most popular day trip from Taormina is to Mount Etna. There are a couple of different ways to visit but we opted not to this time as our son thought the idea of visiting an active volcano was scary – which is fair enough! If we had, we would have chosen to drive ourselves and take the cable car so we wouldn’t be tied to a full day trip.

If you want to visit Mount Etna on a self-guided trip you can take the cable car to 2500 metres for a fee of €30 for adults and €23 for kids 5-10 years old. This is the highest you can go without a professional guide.

If you wish to ascend higher to 2900 meters, the ticket price is €68 for adults and €50 for kids aged 5-10 years old; this price includes the cable car, a 4×4 vehicle, and a 60-minute walk led by a guide, which sounds awesome.

If you wish to visit the active craters, which are found at an altitude of 3320 meters, you must buy a guided excursion from a tour operator.

Another option if you don’t have young kids, is this Mount Etna sunset tour with wine tasting , which sounds amazing.

White Lotus Season 2 filming locations in Sicily

Just in case you’re as hooked on the scenery in White Lotus Season 2 as I am, here’s a little info I’ve uncovered about the filming locations.

Firstly, if you want to stay in THE White Lotus Hotel then make a reservation at the (very spendy) Four Seasons San Domenico Palace Taormina . However, the show also used as filming locations the unique rock pool and waterfront restaurant at the much more affordable UNAHOTELS Capotaormina . We cruised past this hotel on our boat trip and it looked incredible.

But if you’re wondering where the sandy beach featured in the show is in Taormina, the truth is it isn’t! According to an interview I read, the beach scenes were shot on the sandy shores of Cefalu, as no one looks sexy tripping on the stones you’ll find at beaches close to Taormina.

Where to eat & drink in Taormina

Granita & brioche at bam bar.

If there is one local speciality food you must try in Taormina, it’s granita from Bam Bar . Sharp lemon granita served with a warm fluffy brioche is a distinctly Sicilian way to breakfast and Bam Bar is the most famous place to try it in Taormina.

The colourful décor at the café is as mood boosting as the exuberant owner. This place does get busy but it turns over tables quickly, so it’s worth joining the queue and waiting for a sugar-laden refreshment.

Sundowners on the terrace at Grand Hotel Timeo

For a chic aperitivo with one of the best views in Taormina, you must go to Bar Timeo at the Grand Hotel Timeo . Found right next to the Ancient Greek Theatre, this 5* hotel combines incredible views with spectacular service on its ambient terrace.

We didn’t want to ruin the bar’s ambiance by bringing a 4-year-old so booked an evening meal at Ristorante Timeo instead. We were really impressed with the food and service here. I had the pasta alla norma, which is prepared fresh at the table. My husband had the lamb and said it’s the best he’s ever eaten. We were seated inside due to the time of year but the view was still magical and the staff were great with our little one. They have a kid’s menu and activities and it was just wonderful for us to have an elegant evening without feeling out of place as a family.

Cocktails on the steps outside Timoleone Café

A great casual place to have cocktails before dinner is Timoleone Café, just down the road from Grand Hotel Timeo. We sat at one of the tables lining the stairs outside the café and I had, genuinely, one of the best cocktails of my life here. It was called the Sicilian Spritz – please order one and thank me later!

Cannoli at Fanaberia Cafe Gelateria Siciliana

I don’t honestly know if Fanaberia is the best place to try cannoli in Taormina. We just stumbled into their cafe on Corso Umberto due to the giant model of a cannoli on the front of it! I went for the traditional Sicilian style cannolo with ricotta filling and it tasted pretty good to me.

Seafood with a view at Trattoria Il Barcaiolo

Finally, the very definition of hidden gem is tiny Trattoria Il Barcaiolo , which is a family-run Sicilian restaurant tucked away in a corner of Mazzaro beachfront. Their speciality is seafood, which I’m not a huge fan of (I know, such a shame) but a number of people recommended this place to me and judging by the fact there was never an empty table of an evening, I suspect they were onto something.

The restaurant was right next door to our apartment so I can also attest to the view being awesome.

Where to stay in Taormina

My first ever viral reel was a 3 second clip of the view from where we stayed in Taormina. (Perhaps you are reading this post because you saw it?)

About 5 months before our trip to Sicily I stumbled across this apartment on AirBnb and couldn’t believe the price. (Approx £175/night compared to £1000+/night for everywhere else with the same view.) I immediately made a booking and was so relieved to find the view was even better than it looked in pictures.

The apartment itself is super quirky. It has a citrus colour scheme with fruit-filled art, vibrant tiles and bold orange bedspreads. It’s old-fashioned but well cared for – the pictures online don’t do it justice. I thought it was really charming and a great price for the location.

This isn’t a luxury property, but waking up to the sound of the sea,  enjoying coffee on the balcony, soaking up the scenery and having all that Mazzaro Beach and Taormina town centre offers within easy reach, was priceless.

I wouldn’t recommend this apartment for people with mobility issues and, if you do book it, try not to pack an extra large suitcase. The closest you can get to the apartment with a car is the top of main steps that lead down to Mazarro Beach, which is fairly far to carry heavy luggage.

Families with babies and toddlers might need to be on high alert here due to there being a large number of breakable décor, including a glass dining table.

But for myself, my husband and our 4-year-old son it was perfect being able to self-cater a few meals, have the beach mere steps away, and enjoy an Aperol on the balcony overlooking the moonlit bay once the little one was in bed of an evening.

You can book this apartment on AirBnb . You can also contact them directly via their website or Instagram .

More great places to stay in Taormina that I recommend are:

UNAHOTELS Capotaormina – A clifftop hotel with a unique pool cut out of the rocks that featured in White Lotus.

Paradisea Taormina – 1 bedroom villa with a stunning garden terrace overlooking Isola Bella.

Isola Bella Infinity Suites – Modern apartments with infinity pools & sensational views of Taormina. Perfect for honeymooners but also has family suites.

Villa Belvedere Hotel – Traditional rooms close to Villa Comunale and the centre of town.

I hope that helps you have a wonderful holiday in Taormina, Sicily. Check out my Instagram highlights if you’d like to know more about our time in Sicily.

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I’m Jayne, a travel blogger, content creator and mum to a 4-year-old son. I’ve been blogging since 2010, travelled to 65 countries and share travel guides and tips to help you plan stylish, stress-free trips.

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Taormina Day Trip from Catania: A One-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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As one of the top destinations in all of Sicily, planning a Taormina day trip from Catania is a very popular option for those looking to get the highlights out of this historic place without sacrificing a good portion of their Sicily itinerary.

Located only about an hour from the city of Catania , Taormina is easy to reach from Sicily’s second-largest city and is compact enough to see within the span of only a few hours.

Known for its impressive Greek-Roman Theatre, striking seaside views and being the filming location of season 2 of HBO’s The White Lotus , Taormina attracts flocks of tourists each day and it’s not hard to see why.

The town itself is absolutely beautiful and the pedestrianised city centre is one of the most “tourist-friendly” in Sicily. Coupled with beautiful nearby coastline and its location in the foothills of Mt Etna, Taormina is truly a breathtaking destination.

Though this town can get incredibly busy, spending at least one day in Taormina is an essential addition to any trip to Sicily!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Taormina from Catania

Taormina is located only about 50km (~30 miles) north of Catania and it is easily reached in under an hour from the city. There are several ways to get to Taormina that can be worth it depending on what you’re after for your day in this town.

By Organised Tour

For those who aren’t keen to travel independently, the best way to get to Taormina from Catania is via an organised tour. There are lots of tour options available that will not only include the highlights of this hilltop village but also take you to some other sites along the way.

This full-day tour from Catania will pick you up from your accommodation before taking you to explore the lava caves and extinct craters of Mt Etna. You will then have a few hours in the afternoon to explore the highlights of Taormina.

Alternatively, this small-group tour also includes a stop at Mt Etna (where you can explore the lava caves and ride the cable car) before taking you to explore Taormina in the afternoon. It also includes pick-up and drop-off in Catania. You can also organise a similar private tour if you prefer not to go in an organised group.

If you want to visit Taormina independently, then going by train is an excellent option. There are lots of trains that run between Catania Centrale and Taormina daily and the journey time is roughly an hour depending on the train you take. You can view schedules here.

Keep in mind that the train station in Taormina (Taormina-Giardini) is located at the base of the hill – a few kilometres from the Taormina centre. This should not deter you, however, as there is a shuttle bus that will take you directly from the train station to the city centre.

The bus is red and called Taormina Link. Tickets are €1.10 each way and you can purchase them directly from the driver — make sure you have cash as they did not accept cards when we were there!

You can catch the bus back to the station from the town centre in the same place that it lets off. The shuttle bus takes about 10 minutes from the station to Taormina proper.

Another great option to reach Taormina is via bus, particularly if you’re trying to reduce your costs in Sicily. Buses tend to have a similar price to train tickets and leave very frequently – and a bus journey takes roughly an hour in total.

The main companies between Catania and Taormina are Etna Transporti and Interbus and you can purchase tickets online or at the bus station. In the summer months, it’s probably a good idea to purchase tickets in advance. You can view schedules here.

The central Taormina bus station, contrary to the train station, is located much closer to the town centre at the top of the hill, so there is no need to grab a shuttle bus.

Getting to Taormina by public transit is easy and there is no need for a car while in Taormina itself, however, it can give you a lot of flexibility to make some stops along the way – particularly to Mount Etna and the wineries surrounding it.

The drive from Catania to Taormina is about an hour in total, however, especially in the high season, you may have trouble finding a place to park in the town centre itself.

So if you plan on visiting by car in the summer months, consider getting to Taormina as early as possible in order to beat the crowds.

You can browse options on Rentalcars.com which compares prices for several different car hire companies.

Taormina Day Trip Itinerary

Messina gate.

If you’ve taken the train or the bus, your first point of entry into Taormina will be through the Messina Gate, a beautiful gate that was once part of the old city walls. Walking through this gate is a great way to set the scene for how old Taormina really is.

Greek Theatre

The main draw of a visit to Taormina is undoubtedly the ancient Greek-Roman Theatre. An imposing amphitheatre, this is an incredibly popular site to visit and get packed very early on.

In fact, if you don’t purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance (which you can do online here ), be prepared to spend quite a lot of time waiting in a queue in order to enter.

Entry into the theatre is €12 per person and will allow you to see and climb all over this incredible structure.

Public Gardens

Another of Taormina’s top attractions are the beautiful Public Gardens, located on a cliff’s edge where you can see stunning views of the sea amongst a lush backdrop of palms, flower bushes and plenty of benches to relax on.

The public gardens are free to enter and are an incredibly tranquil place to take in – especially considering how packed and crowded the centre of Taormina can be.

The gardens also provide a great view of the Chiesa Madonna della Rocca, a historic chapel built into the cliffs above Taormina. If you’re feeling adventurous or up for a climb, you can make your way up there to see it up close and tour the interior.

Belvedere di Via Pirandello

Wandering around the edge of the city, you will end up at the Belvedere di Via Pirandello – a viewpoint that can give you panoramic views of the sea and the scenery below the town.

From here, you can get an excellent view of Isola Bella, the beaches and the coastline surrounding Taormina. There are benches where you can sit and enjoy the views for as long as you’d like.

Corso Umberto

Weaving back into the centre of the town, you cannot miss a stroll along Corso Umberto when on your Taormina day trip. This cobbles, pedestrianised street is the main artery in Taormina and it is lined with countless shops, cafes and restaurants.

It can be incredibly busy, but for those who are interested in browsing some of the souvenir shops or simply love a bit of hustle and bustle, you’re sure to enjoy wandering along Corso Umberto.

Piazza IX Aprile

Along Corso Umberto lies Piazza IX Aprile, the main piazza in Taormina and an absolutely essential stop on any day trip to the town.

This piazza is like many in small Italian towns – it is lined with cafes and restaurants, there are a few benches to enjoy, you may enjoy a street musician and there is a grand church as a focal point (in this case, the Chiesa di Sant’Agostino).

The square also boasts great views into the valley and surrounding area and makes for an excellent place to kick back and people watch – with the number of people who flock to Taormina each day, there is a lot to take in here!

Keep in mind that the main cathedral of the town, the Duomo di Taormina, lies a few hundred metres from the main piazza in its own small square.

After a morning of exploration, it’s time to head out for lunch. It can be tricky to find a great restaurant in Taormina as many places are catered more toward the crowds and, while they may have fine quality of food, often the prices are quite inflated comparatively.

If you want a great place for a bite to eat, we highly recommend heading to La Locanda dei Mori. This little eatery is located on a quaint and quiet side street. They have plenty of bruschetta options along with salads and homemade wine and drinks to enjoy.

For those looking for something a bit more active, then you may be interested in this food and wine walking tour . There you can sample traditional Sicilian specialities with some local wine pairings.

And if you’re interested in learning Sicilian cooking techniques for yourself (the ultimate souvenir, if you ask me!), then consider taking this Sicilian cooking class!

Isola Bella

Make your final stop on your one-day Taormina itinerary be the iconic Isola Bella. Located below the Taormina centre, this small island is sometimes referred to as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea and it is a striking and beautiful part of visiting this town.

Once owned by English conversationalist Florence Trevelyan, the island was purchased by the Region of Sicily and turned into a nature reserve in 1990. As such, only a handful of people are allowed on the island at one time.

You can reach the island via cable car from the Taormina centre. The cable car is €3 each way and runs about every fifteen minutes. You can also opt to take the staircase down the hill and only catch the cable car to save your energy on the way back up.

If you’re interested in seeing the world underwater near the island, consider taking this semi-submersible tour or this boat tour that will take you to the seabeds of Naxos Giardini and Isola Bella.

Have More than One Day in Taormina?

Taormina makes for a very popular base in the east of Sicily and there is a lot to do should you plan to spend a bit more time in the town – especially if you’re interested in exploring the surrounding area.

Obviously, Taormina is situated in the shadow of Mt Etna and it makes for a great base for visiting this iconic volcano.

If you’re interested in seeing Etna for yourself, this full-day tour will allow you to visit and trek around the volcano all day. Alternatively, this sunset tour of Etna is a great choice for those who don’t want to spend an entire day trekking around the volcano.

For those who are more interested in food and drink than active adventure, then this small-group tour to Etna’s world-class wineries is a great option.

Where to Stay in Taormina

Hotel Continental – This lovely hotel is located in the centre of Taormina within easy walking distance of the main piazza and the Greek theatre. They have a range of bright and comfortable room, beautiful sea views from their on-site bar and they offer breakfast each morning.

Casa Turissi – For those looking for a bit of luxury in Taormina, you can’t go wrong with this 4-star bed and breakfast. They have a number of great rooms on offer, an excellent location in the centre of the old city and even have an airport shuttle.

Hostel Taormina “Homstel” – If you’re sticking to a tight budget or travelling solo and looking for a good social atmosphere, then this hostel is a great option. They have a great, central location and they have both dorm beds and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Taormina hotels!

Whether you only have one day in Taormina or more, there is no denying that this is a popular and exciting place to visit in Sicily.

Are you planning a day trip to Taormina? Have any questions about visiting? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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12 Best Things to do in Taormina, Sicily

Welcome to Taormina, a place that falls straight from the scenes of an old Italian movie with its pastel-colored houses, ancient churches and palazzos, and panoramic views. The picturesque clifftop town overlooking the shimmering Ionian Sea and Mount Etna is one of the most beautiful and luxurious places on the island of Sicily. Spend a few days exploring the narrow alleyways and tiny staircases, eating fresh seafood by the beach, and swimming in crystal clear water — all the while enjoying the authentic ‘dolce vita’ atmosphere.

Things to do in Taormina

This charming Sicilian town is more than just beauty; there are also plenty of things to do in Taormina, Italy ! The center is mostly car-free which makes it a very relaxing place to stroll around discovering cute cafes and Sicilian ceramic shops. Plus, its clifftop location means there are stunning views on every corner.

Did you know? Although it is one of the more expensive destinations in Sicily, many museums and historic landmarks offer a half-price deal for Europeans under 25!

Here are all your hotel options in Taormina.

1. Discover Isola Bella

Isola Bella, which translates to ‘beautiful island’, is a stunning peninsula and nature reserve. It’s also one of the most iconic things to do in Taormina! Connected to the mainland beach by a thin strip of sand, Isola Bella is an idyllic place to spend an afternoon by the water. 

Also visit: The charming old town of Cefalu, Sicily .

From the beach, walk across shallow water (at low tide) to reach the peninsula. Once here, you can explore the protected area, home to rare plants and trees, and visit the museum in the house on the hill. The museum was closed when we visited, but you can check their website for updates and opening times.

There is an excellent view of Isola Bella and the beautiful surrounding bay from the viewpoint Belvedere di Via Pirandello . We recommend walking down the steps to the beach from here.

Tip: Alternatively, you can use the Taormina – Mazzarò cable car. The cable car costs 3 EUR / 3.25 USD each way. Please check in advance that it’s running (it was out of order for our visit).

Facilities and Activities at Isola Bella

The area around Isola Bella is excellent for swimming as the water is crystal clear. However, the beach is both sandy and stony, so you might want to bring water shoes to save your feet! 

For sunbathing, take your own towel or rent a daybed at one of the beach clubs. These clubs also serve drinks and food to go, so you won’t need to bring a picnic with you. Massage therapists stroll the beach, but make sure to agree on the price beforehand. 

You can visit Isola Bella every day (except Monday) from 9 AM until one hour before sunset.

Good to know: Other lovely beaches nearby are Naxos and Mazzarò Beach (close to the cable car).

Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, you can also take a boat tour to explore the area’s bays, grottos, and caves. This coastline is one of the most special things about Taormina, Italy !

See tickets and availability for a semi-submarine tour to Isola Bella

2. Villa Comunale di Taormina, Sicily

Villa Comunale is a public garden filled with beautiful trees, flowers, and cacti. It’s free to visit and offers some of the best views over the coast and Mount Etna. Interestingly, the remains of the villa and the gardens were cultivated by Lady Florence Trevelyan, a British aristocrat rumored to have fled the UK in the late 1800s after a scandalous affair with the future King!

The unusual buildings dotted around the garden were built by her as birdwatching stations and make for lovely photo spots.

We recommend buying a panini in town ( StritFUD is the best!) and escaping the heat for a few hours in this relaxing and peaceful place. Explore the gardens, sit quietly in the shade, and enjoy a picnic lunch with a view.

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open daily from 9 AM until sunset. Free entry.

3. Palazzo Corvaja

The Corvaja Palace was built in the 10th century by the conquering Arabs to defend the town. It’s also named after one of the oldest aristocratic families in Taormina, Sicily, who lived there from 1538 to 1945.

The beautiful building has a variety of architectural styles, including Arabic, Norman, and Gothic. These days, it’s home to the tourist office and the Sicilian Museum of Art and Popular Traditions, and well worth a visit!

Grab a gelato at nearby Don Diego Gelateria , and wander around the building to admire its old stone stairs, quiet courtyards, and fresco-filled halls.

Join this private walking tour of Taormina

4. Teatro Antico di Taormina

This beautiful Greek-Roman amphitheater built in 3 BC is still used today for concerts, plays, and film festivals. Come first thing in the morning before the daytrippers arrive to wander around the ancient remains of this stunning stage. You’ll immediately be in awe of the impressive backdrop of Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea!

Although the theater is one of the top things to do in Taormina, it’s not a large area, so you won’t need more than an hour here. However, it is definitely worth a visit to appreciate the historical atmosphere and incredible views.

Getting there: It is easy to reach from the main street Corso Umberto and just a five-minute walk from Villa Comunale. You can do a guided tour or just explore by yourself, and there is a cafe with a terrace where you can relax with a coffee afterward.

Book your skip-the-line ticket in advance here (we recommend choosing the earliest available slot).

Opening Hours & Entrance Fee: Open daily from 9 AM – 7:45 PM in the summer and from 9 AM – 4 PM in the winter. Free entry on the first Sunday of the month!

5. Enjoy the Cultural Ritual of an Aperitivo

The pre-dinner ritual of enjoying an aperitivo with friends in the evening sun is a highlight of Italian culture. While you’re in Taormina, head to La Locanda Dei Mori , a lovely cafe away from the main street, serving big colorful plates of salads, bruschetta, and pasta. Enjoy the slower side of Sicilian life with a refreshing cocktail. This Italian happy hour typically happens around sunset—a relaxing way to wind down the day and start the night! Just make sure to book ahead.

See availability for a private sunset walking tour of Taormina (including an aperitivo!)

6. Piazza IX Aprile

The heart of Taormina, and referred to by locals as Taormina’s ‘living room’, the Piazza IX Aprile is the main square where everyone gathers. The square always has a lively atmosphere, with kids playing, musicians busking, and families meeting for dinner. The piazza also offers an incredible viewpoint over Mount Etna and the sea, which is especially stunning at sunset. 

Also visit: Valley of the Temples in Sicily .

Wander through the square, which has two beautiful churches and an old clock tower, and outdoor terraces. Order an evening aperitivo to accompany the spectacular view, as one of the top things to do in Taormina!

Good to know: The cafes and restaurants on this piazza charge double for a coffee. For this reason, we recommend searching for your morning brew elsewhere in Taormina.

7. Chiesa Madonna della Rocca

Visiting this tiny chapel perched high on the mountain above the town is one of the best things to do in Taormina! From the city center, it’s a 30-minute hike up steep stairs to the ancient church, which was built directly into the hillside. In fact, part of its roof and walls are actually carved from the rock itself! Come here at sunset for spectacular panoramic views over the coastline and beyond.

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open daily from 9:30 AM – 12:30 AM and 4 PM – 7:30 PM during the summer. During winter, it is only open during the morning. The chapel is free to enter.

8. Corso Umberto

Corso Umberto is the lively main street in Taormina that connects the old gates of Porto Messina and Porto Catania to the town center. Spanning half a mile, the street is home to beautiful old churches, palazzos, clothing boutiques, ceramic studios, and colorful gelaterias.

The area can get busy, especially during the summer. However, it is pedestrianized, and you can escape the crowds by heading off down the narrow alleyways that lead to quiet, pretty squares. 

9. Duomo di Taormina, Sicily

The Duomo di Taormina is the town’s main cathedral and one of the top things to do in Taormina. You’ll find the magnificent building located in the pretty Piazza del Duomo off the main street. Built in the 12th century and nicknamed the ‘fortress cathedral’, it looks more like a military building than a church. This makes sense, considering that it was once used as part of the town’s defense.

Tip: Fill up your water bottle at the lovely stone fountain in the square, which is safe to drink from. Learn more about traveling plastic-free !

10. Take a Ferry to the Islands

The Aeolian Islands off the north coast of Sicily are a stunning place to spend a day or more exploring. The seven volcanic islands are a UNESCO world heritage site and home to charming villages, unique black sand beaches, volcanos, and vineyards. Rent a scooter to explore the countryside, hike up the Mount Stromboli volcano (which erupts daily!), or sunbathe and swim in the clear blue water.

Ferries depart daily from Milazzo, which is a 1-hour 15-minute drive from Taormina, Italy. Alternatively, join an organized tour with return transportation.

11. Visit Mount Etna

Just one hour’s drive from Taormina is the incredible Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe at 3300 meters. Hike to the summit for panoramic views over the island, and explore volcanic craters, lava fields, and ice caves. What’s more, some of the best wines in Sicily are produced in this area, so if you have time, consider combining the hike with a winery tour and tasting on your way back to Taormina. 

Book this popular food and wine tour near Etna

Half-Day or Day Tour from Taormina, Italy

There are lots of tours available depending on your time and budget. It is quite expensive, as you have to be accompanied by a guide to reach the summit for safety reasons. However, it’s well worth it! The tour usually includes transport up the volcano, return tickets for the cable car, and the cost of a 4×4 van, which drops you off at the summit hike starting point. 

It is possible to explore Mount Etna independently, but you can only go as far as 2900 meters without a guide.

Tip: The best time for this trip is during spring or autumn when there are fewer tourists, and it’s not too cold. Make sure to book in advance, as it’s one of the best things to do in Taormina, Italy.

Getting to Mount Etna

It is a one-hour drive from Taormina to the car park at Rifugio Sapienza, also known as Etna South, which is located at around 2000 meters. You can park your car for free here, and there is also a visitors’ center. From here, you can either walk (although this stretch takes two hours and is not that scenic) or take the cable car up to the Mountain Hut, which costs 35 EUR (38 USD) for a return ticket.

We recommend to rent a car in Sicily through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Once you’ve reached the Mountain Hut, either walk up to Torre Del Filosofo (around 40 minutes), which is where the summit hike begins at 2900 meters, or you can opt to take a 4×4 (30 EUR / 32.55 USD return). However, make sure to double-check your tour details, as some don’t include these additional transport costs.

Tip: It can be very cold and windy even in summer, so take layers and wear good walking shoes like hiking boots or sneakers.

12. Visit Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park

The Gole Alcantara is a beautiful blue river that runs through a dramatic volcanic gorge and is only a 30-minute drive away from Taormina, Italy. Very cold fresh water flows through the canyon from the mountains, so it is the perfect place for a refreshing swim in nature in the scorching summer months! 

Discover one of the lovely walking trails that worms its way along the top of the canyon. It leads through botanical gardens, a variety of local wildlife and plants to spot, and gorgeous views of the Alcantara. There are also lots of tours and activities in this area, including hiking, biking, and body rafting.

It gets extremely busy during August, so avoid visiting during this time if you want to enjoy these stunning natural surroundings without the crowds.

Opening Hours & Entrance Fee: 8 EUR / 1.50 EUR (8.68 USD / 1.63 USD), depending on where you enter. Open daily from 8 AM – 7 PM.

See availability for a tour to the Alcantara Gorges (including a visit to Mount Etna!)

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Taormina

Taormina is Italian foodie heaven, with loads of incredible (and scenic) places to eat and drink. Try a traditional Sicilian summer breakfast of granita and brioche, eat fresh seafood by the beach, and slow down with an aperitivo at sunset. Here are some of our favorites:

• Ristorante Aranciara
• La Locanda Dei Mori
• Osteria da Rita (dal 1911)
• Osteria Villa Zuccaro
• Morgana Lounge & Bar
• La Napoletana
• Osteria Le Tre Vie

Remember that restaurants rarely open before 7 PM; 9 PM is the normal time for dinner, and you should never assume a restaurant is open despite their opening times on Google Maps. Book ahead for lunch and dinner as places fill up very quickly, even in the off-season.

Where to Stay in Taormina, Italy

Taormina has two main areas: the town on the hillside and the main beach area called Mazarrò. The town is very hilly, so if you don’t want to climb, getting a hotel in the historic center, close to Piazza IX Aprile and Corso Umberto, is better. Very few hostels are in the center, but you can find reasonably priced B&Bs and hotels. We stayed at B&B Teatro Greco 39 , just three minutes from the theater and the main street.

Hotels in Taormina 😴

If you’re all about the beaches, get a hotel in Mazarrò (which may be slightly pricier), and take the cable car up to town. For the real luxury Taormina experience, the Belmond Grand Hotel and Hotel Villa Belverde are some of the most sought-after hotels in the area.

Tip: Taormina is one of the most popular places to visit in Sicily, so book your accommodation in advance as everything fills up quickly, particularly in the summer season.

How Many Days in Taormina?

We recommend between two or three days in Taormina. However, a week is ideal if you want to explore all the beaches and enjoy the slower pace of Sicilian life. This amount of time also gives you time for day trips and island hopping.

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How to Visit Taormina, Italy

The closest international airport to Taormina is in Catania , which is an hour’s drive away. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Italy to Messina, which is an hour away by train or car.

You can rent a car at the airport, which is the best option if you want to enjoy all the top things to do in Taormina, particularly if you plan to visit other places in Sicily.

It is an hour’s drive to Taormina, and you can park your car in the Lumbi parking garage , which provides a free shuttle bus into the center ( it drops you off at this location ). We paid 5 EUR (5.42 USD) for two and a half days.

By Public Transport

If you just want to visit Taormina, public transport is easier, as you won’t need your own transport in Taormina. 

From the airport, take the bus to Catania center and jump on the train to Taormina from there. The train ride takes you through the countryside and along the coast, so it is a relaxing way to see the island. The entire journey from the airport only takes an hour and a half.

Book your train tickets in advance here

Getting Around

Taormina has very few cars, so it is enjoyable to walk around, and most places can be reached on foot. There is a cable car that travels between the town and the beach area at Mazarrò, which is worth a ride just for the lovely views!

Tip: If you’ve arrived by car, it is almost impossible to park in the town. However, there is a parking area with a free shuttle to town.

How Much Does Taormina Cost?

Taormina is one of the more expensive places in Sicily due to its popularity, and it is especially pricey during the summer. If you are on a budget, opt for a hostel or B&B, make picnic lunches to take to the beach, and use public transport instead of renting a car .

Costs of Traveling in Taormina

Travel on a budget in Taormina, from $760 − $620 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1480 − $2490 USD, and high-end from $2370 − $3070 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $100 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $30 − $60 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $6 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $100 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $50 − $100 USD
• Activities: $20 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

During the summer months, from mid-June to September, it is extremely crowded in Taormina, Italy . As expected, prices increase in line with this influx of visitors. However, this is the perfect time for visiting the beaches. 

There is the option to come during the winter when it is very quiet, particularly as the weather is unlikely to drop below 15°C (59°F). However, many places close for the season during this time, and it is more difficult to climb Mount Etna because of the snow. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are an ideal time to visit when the weather is lovely and warm. Best of all, there are fewer tourists, and prices are slightly lower. April/May and September are the most ideal months, as places will be open and activities available.

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We were in Taormina Easter weekend 2023. Unfortunately, the cable car to Mazarro was closed for “extraordinary maintenance” and Isola Bella was closed that Saturday too. And we had to cancel our hike on Mt. Etna on Easter because the condition were 0 Celsius, snow and wind (we hiked at the Necropolis of Pantalica instead on our way to Siracusa). Our guide said the Mt. Etna summit has been closed for a year because of volcanic activity and hikers can only get to the base (3000 meters). We really enjoyed lunch at La Locanda dei Mori too!

Hey Jade, really sorry to hear a lot was closed whilst you were visiting. But glad you enjoyed your lunch at La Locanda dei Mori!

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11 Best Things to Do in Taormina, Sicily

Beautiful, busy, and home to some of the best views in all of Sicily, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of fun things to do in Taormina, Italy!

We adored this small city and definitely plan to revisit any time we’re in eastern Sicily.

If the delicious food, proximity to Sicily’s most famous volcano, and charming downtown weren’t enough reasons to love Taormina, the views of the Ionian Sea alone would make it worth checking out.

Planning a trip soon?

Whether you’re visiting Taormina for a day as part of a cruise or you’re settling in for a longer trip, you’re bound to love it.

Here are the best things to do in Taormina, Sicily!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Taormina, Sicily

Where to stay in taormina, how long to spend in taormina, italy, getting to + around taormina.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Visit the Greek Theatre.

Of all the Greek theatres we have visited in world–including ones in Greece itself–this one is by far the prettiest we have ever seen, and a visit here absolutely belongs on the top of your list of things to do in Taormina, Italy.

On a perfectly clear day, you’ll have an epic view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea visible behind the Greek Theatre of Taormina.

Even on a slightly cloudy day like when we visited (at least over Mount Etna), though, the views are still pretty phenomenal.

Stroll through the Public Gardens at Villa Comunale.

These stunning gardens boast incredible views of the Ionian Sea and are an unmissable stop when exploring Taormina.

In our opinion, the views from here are just as stunning as from the popular Piazza IX Aprile… and there are far, far fewer crowds at Villa Comunale!

These gardens are free to visit and are sometimes also called Parco Duca Di Cesarò.

Meander down the Corso Umberto.

Corso Umberto is the major pedestrian street of Taormina–as major as anything in Taormina gets, anyway.

Stuffed to the brim with restaurants and shops full of wares that spill out into the street, Corso Umberto is incredibly fun to walk through. 

Be sure to stroll all the way from Porta Messina to Piazza IX Aprile (or visa versa).

Bonus: visit the Corso Umberto at night.  

As lovely as Corso Umberto is, the daytrippers and cruise ship visitors who come through during the day can also make it very, very congested.

If you’re staying overnight in Taormina–and you definitely should!–be sure to visit Corso Umberto in the evening, long after the daytrippers have left.

The vibe is definitely more relaxed, and you’ll have far more space on the street!

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

Want to add a little thrill to your list of things to do in Taormina? Book a day trip to the crater of an active volcano!

On a clear day, the views of Mount Etna from Taormina are fantastic–but there’s still nothing like standing on an active volcano with your own two feet.

Whether you want to book a morning hike , a scenic tour , or a full-day trip that also includes a visit to the beautiful Alcantara Canyons, you’re bound to find a visit to Mount Etna that appears to your travel style.

Book your day trip to Mount Etna today! Morning Hike | Scenic Tour | Full Day Trip

Stop by the Piazza del Duomo.

Home to both Taormina’s lovely Duomo and an impressive Baroque fountain, the Piazza del Duomo is a quick and interesting place to visit in Taormina.

The Duomo itself is fairly understated as Italian cathedrals go, but it’s still a peaceful, beautiful spot and worth checking out.

Enjoy a granita at BamBar.

Meet the best slushie–for lack of a better descriptor–you’ll ever meet in your life: a granita.

Served all over Sicily, these semi-frozen desserts are made only with water, sugar, and flavorings like fruit or coffee… and yet, they’re so creamy and delicious that you’ll swear there has to be dairy in them.

While you can have them served with milk or cream, the standard version is not.

And, especially if you’re visiting during a hot summer day, you’ll likely find granitas utterly irresistible (we sure did)!

Head to BamBar for some of the best granitas in Taormina that are definitely served with some of the prettiest decor.

We adored all of the tile work here!

Admire the view from Piazza IX Aprile.

Possibly the most famous viewpoint in Taormina, no visit to the city is complete without walking across this checkered piazza and admiring the views below.

If possible, aim for a sunset visit!

Sure, you’ll no doubt share the view with quite a few others at that point–but the views are magical.

Head to the countryside on a food + wine tasting tour.

The area surrounding Mount Etna isn’t known just for its views or the history of the volcano!

The food and wine produced in the rich volcanic soil is also an absolute treat for the tastebuds, and exploring the local cuisine is one of the best activities in Taormina.

Head out from central Taormina on a food and wine tour of the Etna region , and you’re bound to return to town at night stuffed to the gills with local food, wine, and knowledge of the area .

This tour gets rave reviews and is a fantastic addition to your Taormina itinerary.

Book your food and wine tour of the Etna region today!

Ride the cable car to the beach.

Due to Taormina’s location high on a cliff, in order to reach the local beaches, you’ll need to board the cable car.

Inexpensive and home to great views, head this way if you want to check out the beaches of Mazzarò or Isola Bella… or if you just want to gape at the view on your way down.

The cable car tends to run every 15 minutes during the summer, and much less in the winter.

Check the updated schedule and ticket prices here .

Pay a visit to Isola Bella.

Home to what are widely considered to be the best beaches in Taormina, summer visitors should definitely add a visit to Isola Bella to their list of things to do in Taormina!

A day spent soaking up the sun and views here make for an absolutely idyllic day in Sicily.

Though you can easily reach the island yourself from Taormina via the cable car, a cruise along the coast paired with visits to the island’s best swimming spots is an excellent day to spend a hot day in Taormina!

Book your boat cruise around Isola Bella today!

Just stare at the sea for a while.

Sound silly? 

Honestly, staring out at the Ionian Sea from all angles was among our favorite things to do in Taormina.

The views from this tiny town are absolutely stupendous, and they alone are worth visiting Taormina for.

The two most important things to consider when deciding where to stay in Taormina are whether it’s within walking distance of the center of the city (you can check the walking time to Piazza IX Aprile from the hotel you’re considering for a good estimate), and, if you have a car with you, whether they have parking available.

Hostel Taormina — Boasting great reviews and a perfect location in Taormina’s Old Town, Hostel Taormina is the perfect place for budget travelers looking to keep costs down in what is arguably Sicily’s most expensive city.

Both private rooms and dorms are available, and a shared kitchen is located in the hostel.

The only downside?

No parking options–so keep that in mind if you choose to book a stay here!

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

Hotel Natalina — We had a great time at this little hotel!

The location is a short walk from Taormina’s Old Town, the included breakfast quite large by Italian standards, and the customer service excellent. The staff helped us park our rental car for free nearby, which we greatly appreciated!

The rooms are large, but a bit dated–this certainly isn’t a luxury hotel, but it’s definitely a cozy enough place to stay while visiting Taormina, and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

Hotel Continental — Want to admire the sea views that Taormina is famous for from the comfort of your hotel, while also staying in the lap of luxury?

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

Known for its superb location in the heart of Taormina, its views, and its wonderful included breakfast, luxury travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

The major sites of Taormina can easily be covered with one full day in the city, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to hurry on!

A three-day stay in Taormina would allow you to spend one day enjoying the town, one day relaxing on the beach, and one day taking a day trip to Mount Etna. 

It will also allow you to be a bit flexible with your trip to Mount Etna and essentially give you three possible days to visit the crater.

If you get unlucky with the weather like us and find Mount Etna stubbornly covered in clouds when you arrive in Taormina, you’ll be happy for the extra time! That being said, if you’re short on time in Sicily, you can get a great taste of Taormina without sticking around more than one full day and night (not counting visiting Mount Etna).

You can reach Taormina fairly easily via train from Catania, or with some effort, from Palermo .

However, the absolute best way to reach Taormina from either of Sicily’s two major cities with an airport (aka most likely the place you’ll be coming from unless you’re visiting Taormina via cruise ship) is with a rental car.

Sicily is the perfect island for a road trip , and Taormina makes an excellent stop.

Within the center of tiny Taormina itself, though, you can give your rental car a break–central Taormina is small and extremely walkable, so you’ll only need a car for day trips once you arrive in the city.

If you do plan to explore the best things to do in Taormina as part of a Sicily road trip, though, we recommend shopping through Discover Cars  in order to search through multiple companies at once.

Not only will you be able to compare prices easily, but you’ll also be able to compare rental inclusions (like insurance, kilometers allotted, etc.), which we found varied dramatically among different rental car companies in Sicily!

Shop rental cars for your trip to Taormina, Sicily today!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “11 Best Things to Do in Taormina, Sicily”

Loved reading all this!! However, are things open there in Mid November? That’s when we were planning on going. Thanks!

Hi Tawney! That’s definitely the off-season, but yes, most things will still be open, including day trips to Mount Etna, most restaurants, etc. Some things will probably be closed for the season, but you’ll find plenty to do–and you’ll be able to avoid the summer crowds, which is a big perk!

Hi there , I’m from Australia and holidaying in Europe (currently in Taormina). I read your bio at the end of the article and think that’s so great! Good for you. I think more people need to do that.

Thanks for the write up, it’s definitely an amazing little town.

Thanks, Orlando! We cherish all of our adventures. 🙂

Enjoy Sicily!

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The 2024 Guide to Taormina – Beaches, Hotels & Restaurants

The island of Sicily sits perfectly positioned off the toe of Italy. The island of Sicily is famed for its rugged beauty and is hugely proud of its rich heritage and culture. One of the most famous towns on the island of Sicily is Taormina. With this handy guide to Taormina, you can explore the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat.

Guide to Taormina

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On my first visit to the island of Sicily when I was 13 years old, we stayed in Taormina where every single night we would watch rivulets of lava from Mount Etna run down its side.

We joked about what we would do if it were to erupt like its neighbor and former active volcano in Naples, Mount Vesuvius. My mother was heavily pregnant with my sister at the time, so our plans had some sort of seriousness to them amidst the joking.

Upon visiting Sicily earlier this year, I was surprised to find Mount Etna ringed with snow in May. Only for the snow to vanish a few days later and plumes of smoke to start billowing from its funnel. 

It felt like a familiar scene that decades earlier had been a point of conversation for most of our stay in Taormina. It’s hard not to visit Taormina and not be hugely impressed (and a little intimidated) by the very active volcano of Mount Etna . It looms in the distance and adds to the backdrop of one of Sicily’s most incredible towns . 

Things to do in Taormina

Taormina is one of those places that encourages you to slow down, look around and take in the scenery. The town of Taormina soars high over the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea (and from certain points, the tip of Italy appears in the distance). 

Throughout this guide to Taormina, you’ll discover that the best thing to do is to explore the quaint town and main street, dip your toes into the nearby beaches, and stumble over ancient ruins.

Villa Comunale di Taormina

The magnificent city park of Taormina is best explored in the early evening as the sun descends behind Mount Etna. Stroll around one of the most beautiful parks that takes in views of the coastline, stunning Mt. Etna and the town of Taormina in the far distance.

Villa Comunale di Taormina is exquisitely planned with pinewoods, bougainvillea, and a number of pavilions, as well as war memorials of World War 1 & 2.

The pavilions known as ‘ Beehives ‘ were created in the late 19th century by Englishwoman Florence Trevelyan who lived in the area after marrying a local Taormina resident and created the pavilions and further creation of the park after the death of her young son.

The main street of Taormina is a long esplanade that is largely pedestrianized. Ambling along the incredible walkway of Corso Umberto is one of the top things to do in Taormina and an absolute highlight.

With seemingly endless stores of high-end and luxury goods , sitting alongside pastry shops and gift stores, you can easily spend hours shopping.

Splintering off the sides of Corso Umberto is a maze of side streets that contain more restaurants, bars, and stores. You can easily spend days navigating the backstreets of Taormina and uncovering more gems.

Taormina has a long and varied history that dates back to Ancient Roman times. One of the relics left behind and in impeccable condition is the Teatro Antico di Taormina . Visiting the Ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina is an unmissable experience not only for its fascinating history but also for the unparalleled views across the region.

Dating from the 3rd Century BC , the Teatro Antico di Taormina was used to host performances, speeches, and gatherings of people over the centuries. Nowadays it’s a well-preserved amphitheater that also plays host to concerts and the Taormina Film Festival . 

Entry to the Teatro Antico di Taormina is from 9 am and varies depending on the time of the year. Last entry during the summer months is at 7 pm. Whereas in Spring access is closed at 5 pm. 

The entry ticket is priced at €13.50 per adult.  

Best Hotels in Taormina

There are many areas to base your stay in Taormina in. Over the years I’ve spent a mixture of time either based in the town of Taormina or down by the sea.

The introduction of the cable car in Taormina is a welcome addition to the town and accessing the beaches down below.  In this part of your guide to Taormina, uncover whether you want to be based by the beaches of Taormina or up in the town.

Located on the edge of Mazzaro Beach, the 5-Star Villa Sant’Andrea is one of the most luxuriant Taormina hotels on the beach that oozes class and refinement. Being a part of the Belmond Family, you can expect 5-Star service and the most exquisite of stays. The hotel has its own private section at the end of Mazzaro beach. The views from the balconies across Mazzaro Beach are jaw-droppingly beautiful.

During my last stay in Taormina, we based ourselves in the delightful Hotel Villino Gallodoro . A 2-Star hotel of Hotel Villino Gallodoro offers some of the most incredible views that looked over Mazzaro Beach and Villa Sant’Andrea in the background.

Hotel Villino Gallodoro has an adjoining restaurant, and the bedrooms have been recently updated. Waking each morning and stepping out onto the balcony and admiring the stellar view was truly an out-of-body experience.

If you are looking for one of the loveliest Taormina hotels on the beach that won’t break the bank, then look no further than Hotel Villino Gallodoro.

With one of the best locations for any of the Taormina Hotels on the list, Valentina Taormina is located in the heart of the historic center of Taormina.

Less than a 5-minute walk from the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, Valentina Taormina offers a series of apartments that are stunningly designed.

One of the most famous hotels in Taormina , Grand Hotel Timeo ‘s location beside the Ancient Theatre of Taormina is unparalleled. As you approach the hotel you’ll be met with a series of concierges that will take care of your every need.

The hotel’s grounds are beautifully manicured lawns , with an outdoor swimming pool that begs to be swam in. The rooms are tastefully decorated in a style that is sophisticated yet simple.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with the sheer amount of restaurants in Taormina. I’ve enjoyed some really excellent meals, and some equally terrible meals when visiting Taormina. Below are some of the places that I’ve really enjoyed and keep adding to my list of places to experience at least once during a visit to Taormina.

Ristorante Rosmarino Taormina | Via Bagnoli Croci, 88/B, 98039 Taormina

Located just beside the Villa Comunale di Taormina, Ristorante Rosmarino Taormina is my newest and favorite restaurant. We luckily squeezed into the last table available for the evening in June and it was such a treat.

Starting with ‘ Ricotta Clouds ‘ – deep-fried deliciousness served on a bed of leaves. I enjoyed a deboned chicken thigh served with a citrus dressing, and joined by delicious roasted potatoes. B had pasta with pork ragu and it was to die for.

Make sure to reserve a table in advance.

Adduma | Vico Giordano Bruno, 2, 98039 Taormina

After a week of solid pasta and pizza, we needed a break. After enjoying some truly superb cocktails in Chapeau! (See below for more information), we took a few steps across the pathway to Adduma and enjoyed a meat and fish dinner.

We started with fried fish selection, before enjoying a tuna steak and brisket. The wine list was extensive and the cocktails looked sublime.

Trattoria Tutti Cca | Via Fratelli Ingegnere, 12, 98039 Taormina

Hidden up a little sidestreet that adjoins an art gallery, we enjoyed dining in Trattoria Tutti Cca so much we returned the following night. The setting is really quite something special and the food was quite tasty.

• Tischi Toschi Taormina // Vico Cuscona-Paladini, 98039, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy

Chapeau! Cocktail Bar | Piazza Carmine, 10, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy

Like most of the gems in Taormina, Chapeau! is hidden away up a small side street and serves some of the best cocktails we tried in Taormina. With each drink order, you’ll receive a selection of bar snacks (huzzah!) and the cocktails were decently priced.

SkyBar Taormina

Located on the top floor of Hotel Continental, Skybar Taormina enjoys spectacular views across the town and Mt Etna and is one of the most popular cocktail bars in Taormina. We personally thought the cocktails were much better in Chapeau!, a few steps away.

Bam Bar | Via di Giovanni, 45, 98039 Taormina

One of the most popular places to eat and experience a true Sicilian breakfast staple is Bam Bar . Granita is a Sicilian slushy ice that is typically eaten with a Brioche bun. It comes in a variety of flavors and is a fantastic and delicious way to cool down or enjoy your breakfast.

Bam Bar in Taormina is a must for experiencing a multitude of flavors – pistachio, mulberry, lemon, blood orange etc. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!

A quick journey on the cable car from the town of Taormina will leave you at the foot of some of the nicest beaches in the region. One of the most popular things to do in Taormina is to spend a day lounging at the beach. And thankfully Taormina has a solid choice of beaches – for more read my guide on the best beaches in Taormina .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Missy Cahill | Travels with Missy | Content Creator (@travelswithmissyc)

The infamous Isola Bella in Taormina is a short walk from the cable car and is one of the loveliest beaches and settings in all of Sicily. A bold statement, but I’ll stand by it. 

The horseshoe bay in which Isola Bella sits is backed with restaurants and views over the small island that is only accessible at various times throughout the day. 

Popular for all the right reasons, Isola Bella is a large stone beach that makes it worthwhile purchasing a sun lounger for the day from the many beach clubs on this stretch. 

A smaller, but equally popular beach is Mazzaro Beach which is directly opposite the cable car access point. 

With various beach bars and sun loungers for rent, you have your choices of a small section of the beach that is free, whereas the majority is taken up by two beach bars – Lido Delfino & Lido La Pigna . 

The beaches of Taormina are worth visiting especially when the weather is sunny and warm. 

The weather in Taormina is beautiful in April & May , with mild almost summer-like temperatures. The sea remains chilly, but in May you can expect to lay out on the beaches of Taormina.

During the summer months of June – August , the temperature climbs, the beaches get busy and the town of Taormina is at its peak. Expect long hot summer days and soaring temperatures .

In September and October, the weather remains glorious and temperatures are still in the mid-20s celsius/80s Fahrenheit.

The winter months in Taormina are mild and often Mount Etna is covered in a thick layer of snow as the temperatures plummet closer to the summit.

When planning your trip to Italy, check out the packing list for Italy to help with essential items for your vacation to Taormina.

Guide to Taormina – Getting Around

The main street of Taormina is paved and no vehicles are allowed in the town (except for early mornings when deliveries occur). 

The addition of the Taormina Cable Car has provided access to the beaches ( Mazzaro Taormina Funivia ) below and vice versa.

During the year it operates from 8 am until 23 pm (dependent on the season and it’s best to check the timetable for accuracy). The Taormina Cable Car is fairly frequent and operates every 15 minutes and costs €3 per ride. 

If you are planning on staying down at the beach, you should consider purchasing a weekly pass to save on costs. 

Taxis in Taormina appear to operate on a flat rate of €15 to go anywhere in the vicinity. We traveled 2 minutes with suitcases from Taormina Train Station to our hotel and were charged €15. Always make sure to ask the price before you get into the taxi so you don’t end up with a large and nasty bill. 

If traveling by cable car or taxi doesn’t sound appealing to you, consider the local bus that takes 10 minutes from Taormina Bus Terminal to Isola Bella. Departing every hour, you can take the InterBus for €1.90 each way to the beaches of Taormina. Check the local bus timetable for a more detailed and up-to-date version. 

The Etna bus operator also has a hop on – hop off service that tours the area and local sights, which also has stops in Mazzaro beach. If you are visiting the town on a short visit and want to hit all the tourist attractions, this is a great option to explore the area. 

How to get to Taormina

There are a range of ways of getting to Taormina, be it plane, train or automobile. In this final section of the guide to Taormina you’ll discover how to get from the airport in Catania to Taormina and how to catch either a bus or train.

The closest airport to Taormina is Catania–Fontanarossa Airport . Several low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Tui, and Easy Jet operate daily services from April through to October. Flights also connect via Rome and other larger Italian cities. 

The airport is a rather large regional airport, and inside the departures of Catania Airport, you’ll find stores selling locally produced Sicilian goods and lots of delicious snacks from the region. 

The cheapest and easiest way to get from Catania to Taormina is to take the local bus. The bus from Catania to Taormina takes 1 hour and 25 minutes and costs €7 for a single journey. The operator of the bus is Interbus (Blue Bus) .

If arriving at Catania Airport you can purchase tickets outside the arrivals terminal , and they will advise you of where to wait. There is a more up-to-date bus schedule at the ticket office for the Catania-Taormina bus route.

The bus journey has several stops along the way including Catania Train Station & Centro and Naxos if Taormina is not your final destination.

The bus from Catania to Taormina ends in the Taormina Bus Terminal and it is a short 10-minute walk uphill to the main center of Taormina. If returning to Catania, this is where you can catch your return bus back to the airport.

If arriving at Catania Airport, there is a train station a 10-minute walk from the arrivals terminal called Catania Fontanrossa Airport Station . There is a shuttle bus that navigates between the train station and the airport, which you can take for €1.

The train from Catania Airport Fontanrossa departs once an hour. There are more frequent buses that depart from the airport to Catania city center and the journey to the Catania train station takes less than 20 minutes.

Once you arrive at Catania Train Station ( Stazione di Catania Centrale ) you can purchase tickets either at the train station or online via Omio .

Catania Train Station is one of the largest stations in this part of Sicily and connects the island with Palermo and Syracuse. The train journey from Catania Centrale to Taormina Giardini takes around 50 minutes and costs €5.

Once you arrive at Taormina Giardini Train Station, you will need to take a taxi (€15 regardless of this distance – but double check with driver) or a local bus up to the town.

You can also walk 3 KM to the Taormina Cable Car and then catch the cable car up to the town. Depending on your luggage and tiredness levels, this could either be refreshing or a nightmare walk. There are also large sections of the road that have no pavement .

Taormina Giardini Train Station is unfortunately located nowhere near the town of Taormina, so you will need to take an additional mode of transport to get to your final destination.

If the hassle of trying to get from the Catania to Taormina is too taxing, consider arranging a private transfer. Welcome Pickups are a superb service that offers private transfers across the world and takes the stress out of your journey.

If you’ve found this guide to Taormina helpful, consider checking out some of my other posts related to Italy. If you’ve been wondering if Venice is worth visiting , or whether you need reasons to visit Italy , then check out those posts.

Meet Missy…

Missy spent the first 2 decades of her life living in her native Dublin, Ireland. Before a life living overseas called to her, and she spent the next decade living in China, Laos & Belgium. She now splits her time in Antwerp, Belgium, and wherever the sun is currently shining. You can follow Missy’s real-time travels on her Instagram .

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10 Day Trips From Taormina: Places to Visit Near Taormina Under 2 Hours Away

Author:  Caroline

Hiking up Mount Etna, purchasing artisanal ceramics or catching some sun rays at the sandy beach in a tiny village are but a sprinkling of the day trips from Taormina on offer. Find my 10 favorite places to visit near Taormina, all reachable in under 2 hours from the village.

Taormina is a great place to base yourself if you are looking to explore the eastern part of Sicily. It contains some of the most famous Sicilian villages including Noto and Ortigia as well as the active Mount Etna volcano. Southern Italy is not known for its public transport. Therefore, despite it not being the most sustainable form of travel, I do recommend driving in Sicily if you are short on time. With that said, there are plenty of good value-for-money day tours from Taormina that will avoid you from having to face the adventurous drivers in Sicily. These are listed both at the beginning of the article as well as in the individual places to visit around Taormina. Whenever possible, I have added the best means of getting there with public transport too. This way you can decide to go either via car, tour or public transport and have all the necessary information at hand for your Taormina day trip.

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

Most Popular Tours From Taormina

This section covers the most popular tours from Taormina and is perfect if you do not want the hassle of renting a car and navigating the traffic or figuring out the Sicilian public transportation. If you are not looking to take a tour, simply scroll to the next section which contains the various day excursions from Taormina you can undertake without a tour.

RECOMMENDED – AEOLIAN ISLANDS FULL DAY TRIP : One of the prettiest boat trips from Taormina is to the nearby Aeolian Islands. Depart bright and early, explore the luxurious island of Panarea and lounge on the black sandy beaches of Stromboli island before viewing the active volcano from the water. Check rates & availability .

GODFATHER PRIVATE TOUR + FOOD : A 4 to 7-hour tour that runs through the history of Sicilian Mafia, the iconic filming locations for the Godfather movie and offers a possibility to try local delicacies paired with delicious Sicilian wine. Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Taormina. Check rates & availabilities

MOUNT ETNA WINERIES PRIVATE TOUR: A 6-hour tour of three of the famous wineries on Mount Etna. Taste local red, white and rosé wine in family-run wineries. Check rates & availabilities .

VALUE FOR MONEY – SIRACUSA & NOTO FULL-DAY TOUR: Depart early in the morning for a full-day tour from Taormina to visit the beautiful Baroque villages of Siracusa (Ortigia) and Noto with a knowledgeable local guide. Check rates

WHERE TO STAY IN SICILY

The island of Sicily is the largest in the Mediterranean. Find the best part of the island to stay on according to your type of travel, and your travel companions.

Day Excursions From Taormina: How to Get Around

Eastern Sicily is reasonably well connected through a network of busses and trains. In recent years the government has started investing in new trains, making travel surprisingly comfortable and easy. In my personal experience, buses tend to run on their own time oftentimes not following the “official” schedule. Be mindful of this fact and make sure to calculate extra travel time when plotting out your day trips in Sicily.

TRAIN/BUS : Check schedules and book tickets online

RENTING A CAR : Drivers need to be at least 18 years old and in possession of a valid driving license. If you are from outside of the EU, an international driving license is required to drive in Italy. Find prices and book online .

Useful Reading : If you are exploring the island by car, make sure to check out my detailed local guide to driving in Sicily , brimming with very practical information and the necessary safety tips.

10 Day Trips From Taormina

READ | 15 Boutique Hotels in Taormina

Taormina is perched firmly in Eastern Sicily and is ideally located to explore this part of the island. Eastern Sicily receives the highest amount of visitors yearly and, as briefly touched upon, has the best public transportation and tourism infrastructure.

Western Sicily is equally worth a visit. This part of the island is slightly more rugged, yet is home to a wealth of castles, natural parks and of course the famous Valley of Temples in Agrigento. But, despite outward appearances, Western Sicily is at least 2h30 and sometimes 3 hour drive from Taormina.

To avoid endless time spent on transportation (be it in the car or on public transport) the below listed Taormina day trips are maximum 2 hours drive. This will allow you ample time to get lost in the alleys of tiny villages and to have languorous Sicilian lunches. TIP: If you would like to venture into Western Sicily, I suggest basing yourself out of Palermo instead and taking day trips from Palermo instead.

Four Taormina day trips under one hour from the village

1. ACI CASTELLO & ACI TREZZA

Getting there from Taormina: Will require your own car Travel time: 50 min car Combine with: Taormina or Mount Etna

Beautiful coastal towns Aci Castello & Aci Trezzi provide a welcome escape from the overcrowded streets of Taormina. These little villages are a favorite getaway for the local Catanese, yet somehow have remained firmly off the grid for most tourists. They are perfect for travelers looking to catch a glimpse of authentic Sicilian culture.

Both villages are connected to each other by a lungomare or beach promenade. A 15-minute walk will take you from one town to the next. As is the case for many beaches in Sicily, the shoreline is lined with rocks making sunbathing a bit of an uncomfortable experience.

Instead, opt to visit the 11th-century Norman castle which looms over Aci Castello. When we went it was sadly closed, but the views are reportedly unbeatable. We ended up parking in Aci Trezza, as it has a well-known little restaurant called A Putia di Colpesce . The eatery offers plenty of fried fish, arancini and other delicious typical Sicilian foods. Ask to have your meal to go and eat it in front of the sea, just opposite the restaurant.

Getting there Taormina: 50 min drive or 44 min train ride from Taormina-Giardini to Catania Centrale. To get to Taormina-Giardini is a 25-minute walk. Tour: Local food tour in Catania Combine with: Mount Etna or Aci Castello

There are private transfers that will get you from Taormina to Catania, but they will set you back $/€150. This price will easily give you a rental car for two days on the island. Forego the private transfer, instead, try the very convenient direct train!

Catania itself is one of the most popular day trips from Taormina. My number one recommendation is to spend half a day on a food tour. No really! Explore the historic fish market, learn all about the typical snacks (which are different from the famous Palermitan street food ) and the age-old feud between Catania and Palermo that was sparked by the queen of all street food: The Arancina.

After having filled your belly with plenty of delicious foods, meander around the historical center of Catania. While I have more of a soft spot for Pale rmo, Catania and its famous Via Etnea with looming Mount Etna in the background are undeniably beautiful. Make sure to check out the Piazza del Duomo, the Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena and Villa Bellini.

3. CLAMBER UP OR VISIT MOUNT ETNA

Getting to Mount Etna from Taormina: Drive to Rifugio Sapienza. There are no busses between Taormina and Mount Etna. Travel time: 1-hour drive Tours: Value for money – Mount Etna day trip from Taormina Combine with: Catania or Aci Castello

Traveling to Sicily without hiking up Mount Etna is a real pity. The active volcano is one of the most iconic natural attractions in Italy and continues to appear in the news regularly as it rumbles to life every few years. The possibilities to climb Mount Etna are virtually endless, or so it seems at least. All hikes (solo or guided) start from Rifugio Sapienza. The rifugio consists of a visitor’s center with a large (free) parking space in front of it. Rifugio Sapienza is located at 1900 meters, the summit is well past the 2900 meter mark. When booking a tour, be mindful to double-check what is included in your tour, as getting from Rifugio Sapienza to the summit entails a few additional costs.

Step One: Rifugio Sapienza (1900 meters) to a mountain hut (2500 meters). This can be done either by hiking (free) or via a cable car (€35/$35 return)

Step Two: Mountain hut (2500 meters) to Torre Del Filosofo (2900 meters). This part of the route can be undertaken by hiking (free) or via a 4×4 jeep ride (€65/$65 return).

Step Three: Torre Del Filosofo to the summit. Here you are obliged to take a guide (mandatory by law)

TOUR OPTIONS FROM TAORMINA/CATANIA

• Basic Package: Taormina to Rifugio Sapienza, hike around the foothills of Mount Etna
• 6-hour tour: Private tour of Mount Etna with a visit to a local winery (Silvestri Craters not the summit)
• From Catania: Sunset tour of Etna Park (Silvestri Craters not the summit)

TOUR OPTIONS IF YOU DRIVE TO ETNA YOURSELF

• Summit & Crater Guided Hike (does not include ticket price for cable car)
• Mount Etna Summit Hike including cable car & jeep ride (all tickets included + option to rent gear)

4. TAKE A BOAT TOUR FROM TAORMINA TO THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS

Getting from Taormina to Milazzo: Requires your own car Travel time: 1-hour drive Tours: Taormina to Panarea and Stromboli full day tour Combine with: /

The Aeolian islands are a cluster of 7 islets located off the coast of Messina. Each island is distinct and well worth spending at least two days exploring and relaxing. However, if you are on a tight schedule consider either taking a tour from Taormina or, if you visit by yourself, sticking to just one island.

How to get to the Aeolian Islands from Milazzo

Liberty Lines run ferries multiple times a day departing from Milazzo. Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance, online . We tend to pre-book secure (guarded) parking when departing from Milazzo to the Aeolian islands. A quick google will provide you with ample options to choose from (for example ParkVia ). The ferries themselves are hydrofoils, which means they sit a little atop the water. For those who suffer chronic seasickness (like me), this is a lifesaver as it means a lot less rolling on the waves. Head to the port of Milazzo 30 minutes before boarding. You will see a line of people cueing up, join the cue and show your ticket to the ferry staff before boarding.

Six places to visit near Taormina between one and two hours from the village

The following 6 locations will take between one hour and two hours of journey time (each way) to get there. This timing is calculated based on the time it takes to drive, not public transportation. They include some of the most popular day excursions from Taormina to Noto, Ortigia and even the southernmost tip of the Island, Isole Delle Correnti.

1. THE PRETTIEST DAY TOUR FROM TAORMINA: ORTIGIA

Getting there from Taormina: Drive, public transportation entails taking a train from Taormina-Giardini to Catania and from there taking a train to Syracuse Travel time: Drive 1h30, public transportation 2h10 Tours: Syracuse (Ortigia) and Noto tour from Taormina Combine with: Noto

The beautiful Baroque pearl Ortigia is an islet next to the city of Syracuse. I absolutely love Ortigia, it is just the right size for the directionally challenged traveler (i.e. me) and is positively choc-a-bloc with the gently crumbling honey-colored palazzi lined with opulent Baroque Façades. I spent four weeks here in 2021 and would go back in a heartbeat. Ortigia is small and moves at its own pace. We went in spring when tourists had not yet descended in droves. It allowed us to take in the quaint alleyways, all of which seemed to lead either to the sea or the Piazza Duomo, dominated by the impressive Syracuse Cathedral. Summer tends to get very, very busy, not to mention swelteringly hot.

If you want to learn more about the history of Ortigia, then taking a tour is well worth it. If not, buy yourself a guidebook and be your own tour guide. Save some time for an aperitivo on the Lungomare di Levanto Ortigia or at the Fonte Arethusa Good to know: In case you reserved a hotel or Airbnb, ensure your host has your number plates and actually registers the car. This is the only way you can drive the car on the island and park there without getting a fine.

2. PURCHASING CERAMICS IN CALTAGIRONE

Getting there from Taormina: Will require your own car Travel time: 1h40 car Combine with: Piazza Armerina

For many Sicily is synonymous with lemons, voracious locals and colorful ceramics. The best place to get artisanal ceramics near Taormina is in the small city of Caltagirone. Originally known as the Arabic city Qal ‘at al Gharùn, which translates to “Fortress of Jars”, a reference to the centuries-old tradition of making ceramics. The Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, 142 steep stairs bringing you to the medieval center of Caltagirone are richly adorned with colorful square-shaped tiles. They are without a doubt the grandest display of ceramics in the whole city. At the top of the stairs, you are treated to uninterrupted views over both the city and its surroundings. We spent a few hours traipsing through the many tiny carrugi (alleys) before heading back down to munch on the local specialty cuddureddi   (biscuit from honey, wine & almonds). If the weather is simply too hot during your day trip out of Taormina, head to the Giardino Pubblico della Villa Comunale for some much-needed shade.

3. THE BAROQUE VILLAGE OF NOTO

Getting there from Taormina: Take your own car . Public transportation entails taking a train from Taormina-Giardini to Catania and from there taking a bus to Noto Travel time: 1h44 driving, 2h30 public transportation Tour: Syracuse (Ortigia) and Noto tour from Taormina Combine with: Ortigia

Noto is the most well-known of all the baroque cities in Sicily. It has been the set of countless TV productions (most recently the second season of White Lotus) and as such sees a lot of foot traffic, especially in the summer. I loved walking the streets in the early hours and exploring the gentle fading palazzos (Palazzo Ducezio, Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata) just as they opened. Breakfast was had in the iconic 1893 Caffè Sicilia, where one is morally obliged to try the unparalleled almond-flavored granita .

In the afternoon, however, the droves of tourists made me flee the city very quickly. By late afternoon, many of the daytrippers had left and we were able to explore the Cathedrale di Noto in relative peace. During the evening, we sat on the steps looking out over the Piazza Municiop and listened to a veritable live concert of street musicians, some admittedly more talented than others.

Tip: Have a few days to spare? Consider spending a night in Noto! Take a guided walking tour during the day and revisit your favorite places at sunrise the next day. Day trippers start arriving between 08.30 AM and 09.00 AM.

4. UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE MOSAICS IN PIAZZA ARMERINA

Getting there Tarmina: Will require your own car Travel time: 1h53 Tours: Valley of Temples & Piazza Armerina from Taormina Combine with: Caltagirone

Piazza Armerina is a hamlet in the middle of Sicily. Were it not for the UNESCO-classified Villa Romana del Casale, it would remain a sleepy village as opposed to one of the main tourist highlights of Sicily. What makes this Villa so impressive is the 4th-century BC Mosaic floor that has been beautifully preserved. The tiny little mosaics come together to depict various mythological stories and snippets of “everyday” life. It is through these snippets that we can catch a rare glimpse into life during Roman times.

If you are in the market for a jam-packed day trip from Taormina, you could consider driving to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento first (2h30) and visiting Piazza Armerina on your way back. This would however mean 5 hours in the car (roundtrip). There is one option to book a tour that combines both from Taormina, be aware it is however 12 hours long.

5. THE FISHERMAN VILLAGE OF MARZAMEMI

Getting there from Taormina: Will require your own car Travel time: 1h18 car Combine with: Isola delle Correnti or Noto

Marzamemi is the quintessential Sicilian village that looks like it belongs in the pages of a storybook. At its height, it was the most important tuna-fishing town of the island. These days the colorful fishing boats lie bobbing on the sea, making snap-happy travelers giddy.

A must-visit in Marzamemi is the renovated 16th-century former tonnara . This vast square, lined with brick buildings was once a factory for processing tuna and how now been converted into a beautiful al-fresco dining space serviced by a handful of restaurants. Make sure to try the Pomodoro di Pachino  (tomatoes from the nearby town of Pachino), washed down with a smooth glass of Nero d’Avola  wine. We spent a few hours sunbathing on one of the (free) beaches on the outskirts of the village. The crystal clear waters provided a welcome cool down from the blistering heat that is a typical Sicilian summer. Parking: We visited in July and the town center was closed off to cars. After circling around for half an hour we settled upon a (free) parking south of the Marina di Marzamemi and walked into town.

6. THE SOUTHERNMOST PART OF SICILY – ISOLA DELLE CORRENTI

Getting there Catania: Will require your own car Travel time: 2h08 car Combine with: Marzamemi or Noto

This is the southernmost point of Sicily! It has pristine sandy beaches and a lot fewer tourists fighting for a spot to place their tower. There does however seem to permanently be a lot of wind blowing towels away. We ventured out to Marzamemi first and continued our adventure to Isola Delle Correnti. The drive was one of the most picturesque on the island, and wonderfully calm (we visited in spring mind you). A large sign with “Parcheggio di Isola delle Correnti” informed us a (paid) parking lot was available right in front of the beach. The fee for unlimited parking was €4 (to be paid in cash). The beach opposite the actual Isola delle Correnti is lined with a few lidos and a bar or two. The island itself is very easy to reach, simply wade through the waist-deep water from the beach. Apart from a lighthouse and an abandoned building, there is however not much to see on the island itself.

The Various Taormina Day Trips Plotted on a Map

Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where the various day trips from Taormina are situation in relation to Taormina. Yellow pins are under one hour from Taormina while red pins are under two hours from the village.

Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Sicily

SUPPORT THE ADDIOPIZZIO COMMITTEE : Helps local businesses denounce the protection fee asked by the local Mafia. Set up in 2004 in Palermo, this grassroots movement has now expanded to encompass the entire island. Find a local business to support via their navigation tool (in Italian).

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR WATER USE: The island is relatively arid and the scarcity of water is further exasperated by the booming cruise ship industry and the water-intensive almond cultivation. Keep your showers short and opt to cool off in the sea (versus a pool) on your trip.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY: When entering a church or religious site make sure to cover your legs and shoulders as is customary. Some places (Monreale Cathedral) will offer visitors a shawl to cover up.

SOUVENIR SHOPPING: Don’t buy coral or pumice as souvenirs, as gathering or extracting these items is damaging to the environment. If you wish to buy a piece of ceramic head to Caltagirone or Santo Stefano di Camastra for Sicilian-made ceramics.

To Conclude on Day Trips From Taormina

Taormina is a great place to base yourself when visiting Eastern Sicily. That is provided you rent a car! The 25 min walk from Taormina to the central bus station does tend to become a little tiring, especially after a long day of exploring.

The good news is that there are plenty of day tours from Taormina leaving to the main highlight of Sicily, and even as far as the picturesque Aeolian islands. These will ensure you do not have to face the hair-raising driving in Sicily and still get to see a fair amount of the island!

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING SICILY

Accommodation: Where to stay in Sicily for a relaxing holiday Food: Streetfood in Palermo Food: Traditional Sicilian recipes you need to try in Sicily Food: Typical vegetarian dishes in Italy from every region Palermo: 14 Breathtaking churches in Palermo Palermo: A local’s guide to visiting Palermo Palermo : Day Trips from Palermo Sicily: 13 villages in Sicily to visit Getting Around: Driving or renting a car in Sicily

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Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

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Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline , and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism , and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

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Taormina was an unmissable stop of the Grand Tour , the journey of the nineteenth-century European aristocracy. Even today, the city is a popular destination for international tourism, with many tourists arriving each year from all over the world to discover its beauty.

Once you enter Porta Messina , the atmosphere is surreal: it is like living a dream.

Let’s discover the ten best things to see and do in Taormina.

Vista sull’Etna dal Teatro Antico di Taormina – ph. Archivio Regione Siciliana

• Corso Umberto

As soon as we cross the stone arch, we can see the sparkling modernity alongside the ancient splendour of the past.

We are on Corso Umberto , the shopping street . It is closed to traffic, and it runs through the whole city. Let’s take a struscio : a slow stroll. In Corso Umberto, there are clothing boutiques, jewellers, craft shops and antique stores. It will be easy to find the perfect souvenir .

We continue to enjoy a walk through the narrow streets, scented alleys, flowers and colourful objects.

• Palazzo Corvaia

The first architecturally interesting structure we see is Corvaja Palace . In the 15th century, the Sicilian Parliament had its seat in this medieval fortress. In its characteristic inner courtyard, we can admire reliefs and arched windows dating back to the Christian era. The style of the palace has Arabic influences. On the first floor, we can visit a museum and art gallery , and on the ground floor, there is a tourist information office.

Walking down a staircase that crosses Corso Umberto, we discover a hidden treasure. The Naumachia is one of Sicily’s most important Roman monuments and a must-see on a tour of ancient Taormina.

It is an impressive construction. The name comes from the games of historic naval battles that Romans used to play here.

• Piazza XXV Aprile

We continue our walk towards Porta Catania . The gate is at the opposite end of the Corso (about 800 metres away). On the right of Porta Catania, there is a sign saying “ Italy’s narrowest alley – 43 cm “. We record our visit with a selfie .

Taormina – ph. Archivio Regione Siciliana

Halfway down, we come to one of the most beautiful historic squares on the island . XXV April Square is a stunning sight. We can stop on its precious chequered floor to enjoy the Babelic chatter of tourists and watch the crowded benches. Many people look out from the magnificently carved stone balcony. The view from here is breathtaking.

We catch our breath and enjoy the landscape. In front of us, we see the Ionian Sea and prickly pears caressed by the sea breeze. The most inspirational time to look at the view is at dusk when the sun sets and the square starts to light up.

• Getting a glimpse of the Churches

Looking around, we notice the historic buildings surrounding the square. Among them is the church of Sant’Agostino , whose particular feature is its crenellated bell tower. Then there is the Baroque church of San Giuseppe . Its beautiful double staircase stands next to the impressive Clock Tower . The gate of the third city wall still exists and was once placed next to the tower.

• Duomo di San Nicolò di Bari

We continue our walk. Struciando (slowly walking), we arrive in the square of the Cathedral of San Nicolò di Bari . The imposing and squared Church silently observes the beautiful and lively Baroque fountain, called “ Quattro Fontane “. If opposites attract, together they are a perfect couple.

• Palazzo dei Duchi di Santo Stefano

Porta Catania is the southern entrance to Taormina. Here we can see one of the masterpieces of Sicilian Gothic art: the Santo Stefano Dukes Palace . The building dates back to the 14th-century, and its architecture blends features of Arab and Norman styles.

The Palace stands in the old Jewish quarter and is the former residence of the noble De Spuches family , of Spanish origin. In front of the two main facades, there is a beautiful garden. Today the mansion is the location for exclusive cultural events and wedding celebrations. It is also home to the Mazzullo Foundation , a brilliant sculptor who combined tradition and modernity. Many of his works are on display in the Palace.

Teatro Antico a Taormina – ph. Archivio Regione Siciliana

• Teatro Antico

So obvious that we were almost at risk of forgetting it. The Theatre of Taormina is the first site of archaeological interest in the Archaeological Park of Naxos and Taormina . It testifies to the taste of the ancient Greeks in choosing scenic places to build their buildings.

From the ancient theatre, you can see Mount Etna and the gulf of Giardini-Naxos : the view is breathtaking. On clear days you can even see the coast of Calabria. The theatre is the town’s main monument, both for its historical and architectural value and the spectacular location. The view from this place is called the panorama par excellence. Absolutely not to be missed, once in Sicily.

Discover more on Taormina Archeologica and Parco Archeologico di Naxos audio tour izi.TRAVEL

Not far from Piazza XXV Aprile, we visit the public garden . It is on the outskirts of Taormina but is one of the most beautiful and surprising places in the town.

The public garden history is related to the life of Lady Florence Trevelyan, a Scottish woman.

The park dates back to the late 19th century. It looks like a typical English garden. It develops on several levels connected by stairs. There are small squares hidden in the lush nature where we can see a botanical garden. The “ Victorian Follies ” are fabulous constructions in arabesque style: is where the Lady loved to welcome her guests or paint.

In spring or summer sunny days, the leafy trees provide shade and coolness, so the “Villa” is a true paradise. If we sit on a bench, we can admire the postcard view of the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna . It is a true joy for the soul.

Veduta aerea di Isola Bella a Taormina – ph. Archivio Regione Siciliana

• Isola Bella

Lady Florence definitely had good taste. In 1890 she bought the tiny island of Isola Bella and built a lovely house.

Isola Bella is not a proper island. A narrow strip of pebble beach connects it to the mainland. At high tide, the central part of the beach is underwater. Today the area is managed by the environmental protection centre of the University of Catania .

The beach is made of gravel and very large stones and is the perfect place for sunbathing. Let the calm waters of the Ionian Sea caress us.

To learn more about the history of Isola Bella, we can visit its natural museum .

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November 28, 2023

Taormina Sicily Travel Guide

TAORMINA SICILY TRAVEL GUIDE

This post is sponsored by Expedia Group! Thank you for supporting my partnerships.

One of the most stunning places I’ve ever traveled is for sure Taormina, Sicily and I was lucky enough to not only go once, but twice in 2023! With it’s incredible location and natural beauty surrounding it, there is a reason this quaint and charming town is nicknamed “Pearl of the Ionian Sea!”

I’ve traveled to Italy many times now but Taormina was one of the most unique places I’ve been. It offers the perfect mix of geology, historical legacy, archaeological sites, dreamy beaches, raging volcanoes and charming restaurants and shopping. According to the “Set-Jetting” trend from Expedia Group’s Unpack’ 24 report, TV shows and movies are inspiring people’s travel plans more than ever and my visits to Taormina are a prime example of that! I owe The White Lotus for inspiring my travel to this beautiful place and I’m so excited to share my travel guide on how to experience the best of Taormina here!

HOW TO GET TO TAORMINA

Some visits are worth the journey and Taormina is definitely that! There is no direct flight to Taormina so from New York we traveled to Rome and then a connecting flight to Catania, Italy. Once you land in Catania, it is a little less than a two hour drive from the airport to Taormina. Our VRBO host was wonderful and was able to connect us to a driver who met us at the airport and brought us right to our apartment, which was so helpful after a long journey. The train from Catania to Taormina is another great option!

Whatever route you decide to take to get there, finding the best deals and solutions was easy with Expedia , which I used to book all my flights for both my visits to Taormina.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TAORMINA?

I have always been a strong advocate that there is no better time to go to Italy than in September. Less crowds and perfect end of summer weather that still allows you to hit the beach but isn’t super hot for exploring (see what I packed in my suitcase !). My past visits to places like Lake Como and Positano were also during this time of year and I couldn’t recommend it more.

When I visited in November, the weather was still warm (mid 70’s!), but most of the town begins to close for the season after October. From the beach clubs to the restaurants to the stores, it’s much more hard to plan your schedule during this time of year so definitely recommend booking before October.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TAORMINA

San domenico palace, four seasons taormina.

If you’re looking for a splurge worthy hotel, there’s no better place than the real life White Lotus hotel, the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace. Allie and I were lucky enough to be hosted by Hotels.com and from the moment we arrived, we felt like we were transported to another world. From starting your morning with a cappuccino in hand on the balcony to a day under the blue and white umbrellas to ending with cocktails by the piano, every part of this property feels even more magical than the TV.

Another reason I loved the hotel was it’s incredible location in town. While we rarely left the property, when we wanted to go into town, we were less than two minutes away from shopping and restaurants.

Finally, the staff at San Domenico was truly the kindest and most helpful team I’ve ever had at a hotel. One of my favorite parts of our stay was grabbing a drink at the famous cocktail bar before dinner and chatting with the bartenders about life in Italy (and some White Lotus filming secrets!). The property features three restaurants and the pool and spa so there truly never feels like you need to leave!

Local VRBO On The Beach

For my first time visiting Taormina, we stayed at this charming VRBO beachfront rental that was ideal for our group of four. Much more quiet than staying in town, we loved being across from the water. We took morning beach walks and afternoon swims and loved being able to experience both the busy town and the quiet beach life. Whatever needs you need for your stay, there’s so many incredible VRBO’s to choose from when visiting Taormina.

HOW TO GET AROUND TAORMINA

I found Taormina very easy to get around once you arrive. While Uber isn’t an option here, the main area of Taormina has an area that you can easily catch a cab from, so we never had that issue when in town. However, if staying farther from town (like I did during my first visit), make sure to get the numbers of some of the taxi drivers so you can call ahead for a ride.

We also found the public bus a great option as there was a bus that picked us up near our VRBO every hour, so we could plan our schedule around that. There is also a cable car that can take you to the bottom by the water to the steep top for incredible views!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN TAORMINA

Spend a day at a beach club.

When in Italy, a day at the beach club is key to a dreamy vacation! Taormina has so many options along the water but we decided to visit Lido La Pigna , which came highly recommended from friends who had visited before. Call ahead to reserve a chair, where you can get drink and food service while soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches. You can’t beat an Aperol Spritz and pizza from your beach chair!

Shop For Local Souvenirs

I love bringing back a souvenir (or two!) to remind me of my favorite travels, whether that’s art, food or a Christmas ornament. Taormina had so many gorgeous shops, especially when it came to pottery. Sicily is famous for the ceramic heads that can be spotted all over town but it was the blue and white pottery I fell in love with! My favorite shop was called Blue Royal Ceramics right in town so highly recommend a visit there.

Another favorite shop that I went back to both visits was L’Agora Art Gallery . This quaint print shop had so many unique pieces and we all went home with one of their gorgeous fruit prints.

Explore Isola Bella

Isola Bella, or “beautiful island,” is a picturesque island surrounded by turquoise waters. During the warm season, you can come relax and rent a sunbed on the beach. To get to Isola Bella, you can either take the cable car or climb a steep flight of steps, then walk down the narrow strip of sand that connects the island to Taormina.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN TAORMINA

Even if not staying at San Domenico, booking a reservation is a must during your visit to Taormina. My first time to Taormina, we booked a lunch reservation at the poolside restaurant Anciovi . I highly recommend booking here so you can see the hotel in all it’s glory during the day, from the pool to the breathtaking views.

For a fancy night, their Michelin star restaurant Principe Cerami was an incredible meal – and experience. Multiple courses and the most attentive service, definitely recommend booking this for a special night. After dinner, head to the famous cocktail and piano bar in the lounge for one of their one of a kind cocktails.

Also as a reminder, during busy season, only hotel guests and those with dining reservations can come inside the hotel so if you’re wanting to visit, a reservation is a must!

Osteria Santa Domenica

Located right in the center of Taormina, this was the first dinner of my visit and was one of my favorite meals of the trip. A celebrity favorite, this authentic Sicilian spot features incredible wine pairings and local dishes for a truly special meal.

A Taormina must! Bam Bar is the perfect place for an afternoon espresso and a sweet treat, such as their famous granita and brioche rolls. Expect a wait but don’t worry it moves quickly so you can order one of their dreamy treats (make sure to get the fresh cream on top!).

Morgana Bar

Our favorite cocktail bar during our girls trip visit was the famous Morgana Bar. From the decor to the creative drinks, this popular tucked away cocktail bar is an absolute must visit when in Taormina. It can get quite busy and rowdy as the night goes on so come early to avoid cover and get a seat in the stunning space.

Next store to San Domenico Palace is every design lover’s dream of a restaurant! I visited this chic spot both times not only for the decor and details, but also because of their twist on classic Sicilian dishes. Make sure to get their arancini (a Sicily favorite!) and their chocolate dessert that is UNREAL!

Medousa Bistrot

A favorite of The White Lotus cast, this outdoor restaurant is tucked away in a magical garden and serves up some incredible seafood dishes and strong cocktails.

Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro

You can’t go to Italy without having pizza of course! I loved this spot tucked up in town for fresh pizzas during lunch, aka the perfect shopping snack!

Ristorante Rossopeperoncino

When you’re in need of all the pasta dishes, head to this charming local spot in town. We each ordered a different pasta and a few Negroni’s and had the best evening.

Wunderbar Caffe

Nothing beats aperitivo hour in Italy and this spot is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Located in the famous Piazza IX Aprile, sit here with cocktails and snacks and listen to live music to feel like a true local.

Gelato every day is a requirement in Italy and while I didn’t have any bad gelato while visiting, this one stood out as a favorite if you’re a pistachio lover! This all pistachio store features some of the freshest pistachio gelato I’ve ever had and you can choose a variety of toppings and sauces to make it an insanely indulgent cone.

WHAT I WORE IN TAORMINA:

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November 28, 2023 at 2:31 pm

Carly, I don’t see shopping information for that gorgeous blue dress you wore…please advise. Thank you

November 28, 2023 at 3:16 pm

Hi! Post is updated with shopping at the bottom but all outfits are all linked on LTK as well always! x

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Taormina: Italy's Unknown Dreamy Getaway

Check out this traveler's guide to the town of Taormina. This Italian destination is a not well known but is a significant area of Sicily.

Sarah Rand • Feb 21, 2024

Taormina is a town in Sicily that is known for its stunning views of the sea. It is lesser known than some of Italy’s more tourist-centered areas like Rome and Venice but has a lot to offer travelers. In fact, many weddings, movie filmings and shoots for the fashion industry have occurred in Taormina. It is an exceptional yet underrated destination with some picture-perfect attractions. This hilltop resort town has an array of accommodation options and is even considered one of the most popular tourist destinations within Sicily, making it a Mediterranean gem with a historic charm, unique local attractions and delicious culinary offerings.

Taormina is located in a hilly area, so it sits well above sea level. It sits near Mt. Etna which is the highest active volcano in Europe. This elevation adds to the picturesque destination’s appeal. It has striking natural beauty and has even been nicknamed the Pearl of Ionian Sea. A part of that natural beauty is in its diversity and elegance. Amongst much else, this dreamy town has a rich cultural background.

The Taormina that travelers can witness today is due to the influences of Roman, Greek, Spanish and French cultures. Travelers that enjoy history, nature, cultural exploration and taste tasting local cuisines will appreciate this city located on the east coast. Taormina is known for its architectural sites, sandy beaches, ancient ruins and Italian eateries. Check out all there is to know about this hidden gem on the Italian coast .

How To Get to Taormina

Taormina, Italy is a location that takes a bit of planning to get to. In fact, there are no direct connections from the United States to the destination. Travelers will have to book travel with connections or at the very least take local transport to get to Taormina. Travelers need to get to the Catania airport, since it is one of the closest major airports to Taormina. Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) is around 30 miles from town. From there, travelers should take the train. Trenitalia is the leading train company in the area. Travelers should expect to arrive in Taormina from the Catania airport in around an hour. The cost of that trip should be around $10. The route to the town is very scenic, so travelers can leisurely enjoy their journey to their final destination.

Transportation Around Town

Once travelers arrive in Taormina they should not have trouble getting around. The public transportation in the town is quite accessible and pretty enjoyable. Taormina has two main means of transport that are reliable for travelers. The cable car and Beachbus are popular options for tourists trying to get around.

To accommodate the high elevation and hilly terrain, the cable cars are a great option for transport. It is a fun and scenic way of getting around. The “funivia” or aerial tramway operates throughout the day year round. Usually cable cars are available from eight in the morning until eight in the evening. In the summer, travelers can catch rides up until the early morning. Rides on the cable car will cost travelers around $4 per ride (each way).

The Beachbus does exactly what its name suggests. It transports passengers to and from local beaches. The Beachbus does drop offs and pickups at the Mazzeo and Spisone beaches regularly. Fares will cost travelers around $1 per way. There is also a local bus which stops at nearby towns. The Interbus goes to Catania, Messina and Siracusa. The fare for the bus varies but travelers are able to purchase tickets at the ticket office or on the bus.

Things To Do in Taormina

There are plenty of things for tourists to do while in Taormina. Travelers of all kinds with varying interests will find something exciting to do while in town. But there are a few things that are essential for tourists to see while they travel through the town. Those experiences include the ancient theater of Taormina, Corso Umberto, Isola Bella and Casa Cuseni. The ancient amphitheater has been standing since the third century BC. It is a testament to the Roman and Greek influences still present in the town. Corso Umberto is the main street in Taormina.

It has plenty of opportunities to shop, eat and explore the local architecture. It is a great pedestrian area, so tourists commonly walk the streets comfortably. Isola Bella translates to beautiful island. The turquoise waters of the beach are famous and make for jaw-dropping photos. The island can be reached by the cable car or a steep set of stairs. Some travelers prefer to explore this pebble beach via boat tour. Casa Cuseni is a great attraction for art and history lovers. On top of the spectacular views, the museum offers travelers access to the historical garden, library and a historical hotel.

Best Time To Visit Taormina

The best time to visit Taormina depends on the traveler. For travelers who prefer a moderate temperature, it is best to visit Taormina between May and June or September and October. During the late spring and early fall, travelers should expect temperatures in the 70’s. This temperature is ideal for travelers who plan to do a lot of walking or partake in active excursions. To experience a warm European getaway, travelers should visit Taormina in July or August. Temperatures usually average around 80 degrees during the summer. This is the most popular season for tourists so travelers may encounter higher prices and crowds.

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• Getting from Catania to Taormina: 2024 Guide + 7 Best Stops

Traveling from Catania to Taormina

Are you looking to go from Catania to Taormina?

Taormina is a beautiful coastal town in Sicily, just north of Catania. It is popular for its epic location, stunning views, and old-world feel.

If you’re looking to make the journey from Catania to Taormina, you have a few options.

We love visiting Taormina when we are in Catania. In 2023 we made the journey and took detailed notes along the way. Here’s what you need to know for 2024.

Distance from Catania to Taormina

The distance between Catania and Taormina is 54 km or 33.5 miles . While the distance is not very far, Taormina is located on top of a massive hilltop.

In fact, when we first were driving up to it, Kelsea could not believe that people actually lived at the top of the “hill”. It felt a little like the childhood story of Jack and the bean stock.

For this reason, it can take 45 minutes to an hour to cover this distance when taking the most direct route.

Catania to Taormina by Bus

Catching a bus from Catania to Taormina is relatively easy. 🚌

Etna Transporti is a local operator who makes the trek between Catania and Taormina 20+ times a day.

Due to the number of bus time options, you can really pick when you what to go.

Be sure to look when booking, however, at the length of time. There is one route that is 1 hr 10mins and another that is 1 hr 55 minutes.

The bus ticket is relatively inexpensive at the cost of about €5 each way .

The bus leaves from Catania’s Via Archimede bus station which is close to the port. From the main road, Via Etna, it is about a 17-minute walk or 1.3 km.

In Taormina, the bus station is right on the perimeter of the town and is a quick 5-10 minute walk to the center of Taormina.

Catania to Taormina Bus Schedule

The bus runs from Catania’s Via Archimede to Tamornia every day at the following times:

07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 08:45 09:00 09:15 09:30 09:45 10:00 10:15 10:30 10:45 11:00 11:15 11:30 11:45 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:15 14:30 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:15 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 21:00 22:00

You can purchase tickets online , but they do not have a translate-to-English option. Alternatively, you can go to the Catania bus station and purchase a ticket there.

Catania to Taormina by Train

There is a rail train, operated by Trenitalia , that goes from Catania to Giardini. Giardini is a town at the base of the hill.

From the train stop, there is a Taormina bus, Taormina Link, that you can take up the hill to Taormina Central.

Depending on how close the bus is when you arrive at the Taormina-Giardini train station, this route will take you 1 hr 20 minutes to 2 hours and cost about €7 each way . 🚆

All tickets can be purchased at the time of the ride or you can book online ahead of time.

Catania to Taormina by Taxi

If you would like to take a direct route to Taormina but do not want to drive, taking a taxi or private transfer is a good option. 🚕

There are private transfers you can book online that will pick you up in Catania and take you directly to Taormina.

The benefit of private transfers is that you do not have to travel beyond your accommodations or worry about parking .

The other option is to get a Taxi or Uber to drive you. The best way to get a taxi is to ask the concierge at the hotel to help you.

Taxis will typically cost €70-€100 depending on the size of the taxi.

Uber is also available in Catania. You can book easily using the app. The ride will cost around €90-€130 depending on how busy it is.

Catania to Taormina by Car

Another great way to travel from Catania to Taormina is by car. 🚗

The drive is mostly on a highway until you reach the final part of the drive when you are going up the mountain/hill to Taormina.

There are a lot of tunnels along the way with cacti lining the road.

The highways on this route do have tolls . When you enter the highway, you will get a slip that says where you are entering. When you exit, you will pay the toll. It is best to have cash to do this ! 💶

The drive is easy and provides beautiful views of the countryside, as well as Mount Etna.

If you do want to rent a car, we HIGHLY recommend renting with AutoEurope and getting a $0 Deductible option. It is very normal for cars to bump into you in Sicily – the $0 deductible plan are well worth the extra fee for the piece of mind.

7 Best Stops between Catania and Taormina

Our favorite part of driving is being able to make stops along the way.

You could easily take a full day wandering your way from Catania to Taormina by stopping at some of these epic activities along the route.

Mount Etna is a beautiful but active volcano. 🌋

For this reason, it is not advisable to go too close to the top without a guide , but there are several lookouts on the main road of the volcano.

A great place to go to is Cratères Silvestri . Here, you can walk around craters and have a fantastic view of Etna. There is also easy parking and a couple of places to eat.

If you have a few hours to spare, we highly recommend taking a tour. You can:

• Go at  Sunset
• Take a  cable car
• Ride a  jeep
• Hike and then have a  food tour
• Go all the way to the  summit
• Hike by  lava flows

Choose whatever adventure fits your desires and schedule!

Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park

The Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park is a one-of-a-kind natural park that features a wide range of plants and animals.

The Alcantara Gorge and Basalt Columns are the major highlights of the park.

You can opt to explore the park either on foot or in small electric buses.

At the bottom of the gorge, there is an elevator that you can take to reach the water area. There, you can enjoy splashing around as the water is usually knee-deep.

The park offers exciting adventure activities like body rafting, canyoning, and trekking . We couldn’t try body rafting during our visit because of the weather, but we plan to return for this thrilling experience.

If you are traveling with your family to Catania, you should visit Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park gorge.

It has a playground and a spray park. It’s a lovely experience, plus the drive to the park is gorgeous!

Etna Adventure Park

The Etna Adventure Park is a massive park of adventure courses built in the air between trees. In fact, it is the largest adventure park in Southern Italy with 19 routes and over 150 tree-to-tree games.

All of the routes have either a continuous lifeline or intelligent Clic-it carabiners, which are the only carabiners that meet the new regulations for adventure parks. 

The are 2 climbing walls at the park as well. This is the perfect place for adventure seekers who would like to go high in the trees rather than in the water at the Alcantara Gorge.

They are open from June to September from 10:00 to sunset, but you must call a day ahead of time to make a reservation. We recommend asking your hotel for help calling!

Castle of Aci

Castle of Aci, also referred to as Castello Normanno , is a castle that is located on the coast just outside of Catania.

It was originally built in 1076 by the Normans and has since been through multiple conquerings, earthquakes, and has been surrounded by lava. Through the years, it has been restored many times.

Today, it serves as a museum to be explored. It is a cool castle in a stunning location.

Monteserra Butterfly House (Casa delle Farfalle)

The Monteserra Butterfly House is a beautiful butterfly house and garden located between Catania and Taormina.

The gardens are filled with tropical flowers, plants, and most importantly butterflies! You will be able to take a walk around the gardens and witness these beautiful insects in their natural habitat.

The most important butterfly they have is the Aurora dell’Etna.

It is the local butterfly known for its orange-tipped wings. The butterfly is currently facing a risk to its survival as a result of natural habitat changes.

The Monteserra Butterfly House is not open year-round. Check their website for the most up-to-date visiting information.

You will find fantastic  wineries  and olive oil producers all around Mount Etna.

Our preferred winery in the region is Gambino Vini . You can enjoy a fantastic tour and tasting experience with a well-informed guide who will enlighten you about their variety of artisanal wines, made using locally sourced lava and ash.

If you are looking for another great winery, Barone di Villagrande Winery is definitely worth considering. It is located at the foot of Mount Etna and has been managed by the same family for over a hundred years. Their commitment to producing top-quality wines is evident in the exceptional products they offer.

If you are someone who loves wine or simply wants to savor the taste of exquisite Sicilian wine, the wineries located around Catania provide an incredible experience.

We do not recommend visiting a winery and driving back between Catania and Taormina after a tasting. For a safer and more enjoyable experience, consider a wine tour that takes you to the top wineries in the region with a private guide.

Giardini Naxos

Giardini Naxos is a lovely little seaside town located between Catania and Taormina. It is home to a beautiful beach, arguably one of the best in Sicily!

The town has been heavily influenced by its original inhabitants, the Greeks, as well as by French, Spanish, and British settlers.

The result is an interesting mix of cultures that makes Giardini Naxos a great stop for anyone traveling from Catania to Taormina.

The town also offers an array of shopping opportunities and local restaurants where you can enjoy Sicilian cuisine.

We recommend spending some time exploring the beach and taking in the beauty of this charming little town.

Parking in Taormina

There is little to no street parking in Taormina. They do, however, have 3 paid parking deck options:

• Lumbi – 965 cars
• Porta Catania – 650 cars
• Porta Pasquale – 75 cars

We recommend parking at the  Lumbi parking deck. First, it has the most spots so you are the most likely to get a spot; and second, it has a free shuttle that takes you the rest of the way to Taormina.

The shuttle runs from Sunday to Friday from 7:00am to 0:50am and on Saturday from 7.00am to 1:50am.

Alternatively, there is a staircase with a beautiful view that will take you to the center of Taormina. This walk will take about 10 minutes and will definitely count as a cardio workout!

Day Trips from Catania to Taormina

The last great option to see Taormina is to take a day trip from Catania. There are a lot of options, most of which include another activity or two!

The main “bundle” is going to Mount Etna as well as Taormina.

We love this day trip because you have a guided tour at both Mount Etna as well as Taormina. The guide will help explain what you are experiencing and be able to answer questions.

Similarly, you could take this same-day trip but with a private guide .

Booking the private guide option allows for a customizable time. Want to spend more time at Taormina than Mount Etna or vice versa? You can ask for that!

The other main day trip from Catania to Taormina includes the other towns around the hilltop: Giardini Naxos and Castelmola.

This day trip is a wonderfully immersive experience in the charming beach towns of Eastern Sicily.

No matter what day-tip option you opt for, visiting Taormina from Catania will be a memorable experience!

FAQs for Getting from Catania to Taormina

Is taormina, sicily worth visiting.

Taormina, Sicily is absolutely worth visiting!

It is a beautiful, charming town with stunning views of Mt. Etna, the Mediterranean Sea, and an incredible selection of restaurants, shops, and activities.

In Taormina, you can experience the stunning Greek theater in addition to wandering the captivating cobblestone streets that are lined with beautiful gardens.

It is not surprising that Hollywood has shot so many famous movies/TV shows here ( The Godfather and White Lotus most notably). Taormina is truly magical and perfect for any trip!

How do I get from Catania to Taormina?

You have many options! The bus is the cheapest option while driving is the most convenient.

If you only want to spend a day exploring Taormina, a day trip with a tour company is the perfect option to get the most out of your day!

Is there a train between Catania and Taormina?

There is a train, however, it does not go all the way to Taormina. Taormina is built up on a hilltop.

The train station is at the base of the hill and you must take the bus to the top.

How much is the train from Catania to Taormina?

The train fare is about €5 and can be paid for at the time of use.

How long does it take to get from Catania to Taormina?

It takes 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes to travel from Catania to Taormina.

Overall, traveling from Catania to Taormina is an enjoyable experience.

The journey offers a variety of options ranging from taking the bus or train, booking a day trip with a tour company, or even driving yourself. Whichever way you choose to get there, it will be worth it!

From exploring the Greek theater in town to witnessing Mount Etna’s beauty, this charming hilltop town has something for everyone.

So don’t forget your camera when journeying from Catania to Taormina – you won’t want to miss out on capturing these amazing memories!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “ Out of Office !” 

🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️

Check out our other Sicily Travel Guides like Palermo to Taormina , Palermo to Cefalu , and Palermo to Catania .

Read About More Road Trips in Sicily

• Palermo to Cefalu: 9 DELIGHTFUL Things to Do
• Palermo to Taormina: 10 Best Reasons for Making the Trip
• Traveling from Palermo to Catania: 5 Options + 6 Top Stops
• Preparing for a Road Trip: 40+ Amazing Tips & Checklist

Read More About the Best Things to Do In Sicily

• What is Sicily Known For? Top 29 Secrets Unveiled
• Is Sicily Part of Italy? 25 Best Travel Tips
• Is Palermo Worth Visiting? Top 9 Things to Do + 9 Day Trips
• 24 Excellent Day Trips from Palermo
• Is Catania Worth Visiting? Top 15 Sites + 8 Best Day Trips
• 19 AMAZING Day Trips from Catania: Ranked
• Palermo vs Catania – Which to Choose? Top 15 Comparisons
• 18 Best Sicilian Cooking Classes
• The 21 BEST Mount Etna Wine Tours and Tastings

Sicily Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Sicily?

Yes  —  Renting a car  is a necessity in most of Sicily! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. AutoEurope is our go-to choice for zero-deductible car rentals in Sicily. Sicily is infamous for its drivers who sometimes pull off careless parking stunts. It’s a good idea to opt for a zero-deductible car rental given the high chance of your vehicle getting bumped or dented.

📲  Will my phone work in Sicily?

Maybe, but it will be expensive — Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in Sicily and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo . Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in Sicily, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Sicily?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Sicily accommodations?

Our go-to for Sicilian hotels is  Booking.com . They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Sicily f lights?

For finding cheap flights to Sicily, we recommend  Kayak . Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.

🚐 Should I book tours in Sicily? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Sicily. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk .

🚑  Should I buy Sicily travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Italy, including Sicily, has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Italian citizens and legal residents! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend  Safety Wing  – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!

💧 Can you drink the water in Sicily?

Sometimes  — In many areas of Sicily, the water is safe to drink. However, there can be variations in water quality from one location to another. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a  LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫  Do I need a visa for Sicily?

Likely Not  — US passport holders don’t need Italian visas for travel less than 3 months . If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa which should be obtained at an Italian consulate before coming to Italy. Upon arrival in Italy, you then must obtain a permit of stay at a national post office.

Meet Kelsea and Nicholas, the dynamic team behind Out of Office Mindset. They're on a thrilling quest to visit all 7 continents in 5 years, traveling non-stop. So far, they've had an epic year-long US road trip and visited 20 countries (and counting!). They're all about diving into different cultures and learning from their experiences. As avid explorers, they know how a well-planned trip can change you. Their mission? Helping every visitor to Out of Office Mindset plan their next awesome adventure with ease.

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• Giardini Naxos Port
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Cable car taormina.

WARNING: The cable car in Taormina is closed from February 22, 2023 for maintenance work. A bus replacement service has been arranged in place of the cable car.

DOWNLOAD THE SCHEDULES OF THE REPLACEMENT BUSES

A cable car  connects the historic center of Taormina with its beach area of Mazzarò. The beach of Isola Bella is far about 500m from Mazzarò.

The cable car station is situated in Via Luigi Pirandello, at 200m  from Corso Umberto.

Timetable cable car Taormina

The cable car goes every 15 minutes . In the winter season it runs from 8:00AM to 8:00PM. Instead, in the summer season, the cable car is open until 1:30AM.

The cable way is called Funivia in Italian.

In this video by crowd1011 a cable car ride from Mazzarò beach to Taormina town.

Deputies investigating the carjacking and death of a Florida woman say suspect car is linked to killing of tow truck driver

The vehicle driven by the attackers in the carjacking and slaying of a woman in Seminole County, Florida , is connected to the killing of a tow truck driver, authorities said.

Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma said investigators found the green Acura that followed Katherine Altagracia Guerrero De Aguasvivas, 31, before she was carjacked at an Orange County apartment complex over the weekend.

The vehicle had been "parked and abandoned," Lemma said at a news conference Monday. It was towed and taken to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to be evaluated for evidence.

Investigators are searching for the people who were in the Acura but were able to uncover details about it. Lemma told reporters that after a series of sales, he believes the car had been on the streets since February unregistered and that any license plate it had would have been stolen.

On March 19, before the deadly carjacking, the vehicle was towed from an Orlando apartment complex because it was illegally parked, Lemma said.

Investigators learned that the driver of the truck that towed the Acura, Juan Luis Cintron Garcia, 39, was killed about a month later, on April 10.

Lemma said that Garcia had been shot and that more than 100 rounds were found at the scene, as well as a green vehicle matching the description of the Acura.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said Garcia’s death is under investigation.

"We are still in the early stages of this open and active murder investigation, but we can tell you that this was not a random act and that detectives believe Mr. Cintron Garcia was targeted," a spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "We have no suspect or motive information."

Lemma said he "absolutely" believes the deaths of Garcia and De Aguasvivas are connected.

"But we’ll have to have physical evidence that absolutely proves that," he told reporters Monday.

Cellphone video from Thursday captured the Acura behind De Aguasvivas’ white Dodge Durango at a red light in Seminole County. The video showed a gunman force his way into the backseat of her vehicle. She drove away once the light turned green, and the Acura followed.

Lemma said the gunman was wearing a black hoodie and a "ski-type of mask" and carrying what appeared to be an automatic handgun. He said that it was not a random incident and that the attackers "knew exactly who they were following."

An SUV so badly burned that "you could not positively identify the vehicle" was found in a construction area about two hours after the carjacking, Lemma said. A body authorities believed to be De Aguasvivas’ was found inside, according to Lemma, who said DNA and dental records were needed to confirm the identity.

Twelve shell casings were also found at the scene.

Moments before the carjacking, De Aguasvivas had called her husband to tell him that someone had rammed the back of her vehicle and was following her. Her husband told her not to stop anywhere, but neither called 911, Lemma has said.

He said the husband is cooperating with the investigation but accused him of withholding information. The husband had told detectives that his wife, of Homestead in Miami-Dade County, was in Seminole County to visit family members.

"You don’t have your wife communicate with you that you’re getting rammed by a car and go two hours without calling anybody," Lemma said at the news conference Monday. "So he has cooperated; he has provided information. I think the initial story was she was up here to visit family members. I don’t know that we believe that. ... I think there’s a lot more blanks he could help fill in."

The husband is not a person of interest or a suspect, Lemma said.

In another twist, an Orange County sheriff's deputy was arrested and charged with five felonies and accused of leaking information about the case to De Aguasvivas' husband.

The deputy, Francisco Estrella, is accused of providing the man with details about the Seminole County investigation, as well as the lead detective’s home address. Lemma said Estrella's wife is a family friend of De Aguasvivas’ husband.

Estrella was charged with obstructing a criminal investigation, illegal disclosure of communication, accessing an electronic device without authorization, using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony and eavesdropping.

A call to a number listed for Estrella was not answered Tuesday afternoon, and it was not clear whether he had an attorney.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office said he has been relieved of all law enforcement duties without pay pending an investigation.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Movie cars, vintage cars, pricey cars this weekend at the Barrett-Jackson auction and show

Whether you're fast, furious or just nostalgic, for all things four-wheels, this is your moment to get up close and personal — and possibly even drive — the object of your desires. The Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction has returned to the South Florida Fairgrounds. The show and auction runs from Thursday to Saturday. 

Barrett-Jackson's chairman and CEO, Craig Jackson, said the company is excited to return to Palm Beach County, fueled by the success of the January auction in the company's hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona.

"We come off our biggest Scottsdale auction ever, and we have a great line-up of cars this year," Jackson said.

Barrett-Jackson in West Palm Beach: Three days, more than 600 cars and a tank

The three-day event features over 600 vehicles including a 1983 Honda ATC 110 three-wheeler and rare vintage cars such as the 1959 Cadillac El Dorado Brougham — one of 99 ever built.

"Across the board we have movie cars, the '68 challenger from 'Joe Dirt,' and a lot of very high end sports cars…multiple new Ford GTs coming over the auction block, Ferraris," Jackson said. "Barrett-Jackson is a little bit of everything."

Jackson said this year's lineup will also include a vehicle never sold before by Barrett-Jackson, a decommissioned but fully functional 1976 Leopard Battle Tank.

"It's fully restored, you can drive it around," Jackson said. "It's quite the piece."

Also up for auction are 11 vehicles from local celebrity and car enthusiast John Staluppi's "Cars of Dream Collection," including a 1962 Oldsmobile Starfire that features a striking maroon exterior with matching leather upholstery.

At Barrett-Jackson auction: Not just autos, but also 'automobilia'

The auction isn't limited to just automobiles, Jackson said, noting that hundreds of pieces of vintage automobile memorabilia, or "automobilia," are included in the auction's docket.

"Gas pumps, gas signs, '50s diner items, they're all authentic, original," Jackson said.

Unlike many auctions, he said, all vehicles and "automobilia" up for auction at Barrett-Jackson are marked as no reserve, meaning they will be sold at the price set before the hammer drops for the auction.

"So the last person with their hand in the air, if it's their dream car, they will own it," Jackson said.

How to bid at the Barrett-Jackson auction, and what to do if you aren't

To participate in the auction, bidders must have the required pre-registration forms, state-issued identification, insurance and payment method ready on-site.

For those not planning to participate in the auction, there's plenty more to check out. Vendors will be on hand selling a host of products such as hand carved sculptures, custom jewelry and unique home décor.

"We sell as I say, everything you don't need but want to have," Jackson said of the exhibitor marketplace.

Take it for a spin: Volvo offering test drives

Those looking for more excitement can check out the Dodge Thrill Rides and Ford Hot Laps, where attendees can jump into the passenger seat of the newest muscle cars from Dodge and Ford and experience their power as a professional driver races through the track.

For the first time in Barrett-Jackson's history, Volvo will be offering test drives of their newest models.

Food and live music will be on hand as well.

"It's a little bit of everything, and its fun for the whole family," Jackson said.

Watch Barrett-Jackson auction on TV

The auction will be livestreamed on the fyi and History Channel, though the history network will only present Saturday's auction. The auction also can be livestreamed via the Barrett-Jackson app .

General admission tickets for the three-day event are available for purchase online as well as at the box office and provide access to the entire event except for access to the auction block, which is reserved for bidders and private skyboxes.

For more information on the event and ticket prices, go to https://barrett-jackson.com/ . The South Florida Fairgrounds is at 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach.

Diego Diaz Lasa is a journalist at the  Palm Beach Daily News ,

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Germany’s Scholz calls for fair competition and warns against dumping during China visit

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visits Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd. in Jiulongpo District of southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality on Sunday, April 14, 2024. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has arrived in China on a visit focused on the increasingly tense economic relationship between the sides and differences over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. (Huang Wei/Xinhua via AP)

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz learns about a Sino-German cooperative scientific research project on water monitoring in Jiangbeizui, southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, on Sunday, April 14, 2024. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has arrived in China on a visit focused on the increasingly tense economic relationship between the sides and differences over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. (Huang Wei/Xinhua via AP)

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BEIJING (AP) — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for fair competition in trade relations with China while warning about dumping and overproduction as he spoke to students in Shanghai on Monday.

Scholz is visiting China against the background of looming EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles and other trade-related tensions . The two countries are also split over how to handle Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“The one thing that must always be clear is that competition must be fair,” Scholz told students at Tongji University in Shanghai, according to German news agency dpa.

“Of course we would like our companies to have no restrictions, but conversely we behave exactly how we are demanding here,” he said, adding there must be no dumping or overproduction.

The European Union is mulling tariffs to protect its producers against cheaper Chinese electrical vehicle imports , which some fear will flood the European market.

The head of Germany’s auto industry association, the VDA, expressed opposition to such tariffs ahead of Scholz’s visit. Hildegard Müller told the Welt am Sonntag newspaper in comments published Saturday the tariffs would not help the European and German auto industries and instead “could quickly have a negative effect in a trade conflict.”

“Current business with China secures a large number of jobs here in Germany,” Müller said.

Scholz made comparisons to reservations years ago when Japanese and Korean automakers entered the German market.

“There was great agitation in the newspapers: ‘Now the Japanese cars will come and clean up’ — nonsense,” he told the Tongji University students. He said there are German cars in China that were made with Chinese manufacturers, and at some point there would also be Chinese cars in Germany and Europe.

Scholz began his three-day China trip on Sunday in the industrial hub of Chongqing , where he and his delegation of ministers and business executives visited a partially German-funded company and other sites in the vast city, which is a production base for China’s auto and other industries.

He is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday in Beijing before returning to Berlin later in the day.

Scholz is expected to question Xi about China’s support for Russia’s economy two years into Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

Prior to his arrival, the German leader posted on social platform X that he had discussed the “massive” Russian air attacks on civilian energy infrastructure with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday, and declared that Berlin would “stand unbreakably by Ukraine’s side.”

China has refused to criticize Russia’s aggression. Beijing maintains trade relations with Moscow, and the two nations carry out joint military drills. A U.S. intelligence report last week found China has increased equipment sales to Russia to help in its war effort against Ukraine.

Berlin is also worried about a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan, a self-ruled island 130 kilometers (80 miles) off of China’s coast that Beijing claims as its own.

Scholz told students in Shanghai that borders “must not be moved by force.”

“We should not be afraid of our neighbors,” he said, emphasizing the importance of international institutions such as the World Trade Organization.

Despite the political and trade frictions, China was Germany’s top trading partner for the eighth straight year in 2023, with 254.1 billion euros ($271 billion) in goods and services exchanged between the sides, slightly more than what Germany traded with the U.S. but a 15.5% contraction from the year before.

This is Scholz’s second trip to China since he became chancellor in late 2021. His previous visit was in November 2022 and essentially was a one-day trip because of the strict COVID restrictions still in place at the time.

It is his first visit since the German government last year presented its China strategy, which met with criticism from Beijing . Premier Li and a delegation of senior officials visited Berlin in June.

Associated Press writers Simina Mistreanu in Taipei, Taiwan, and Geir Moulson in Berlin contributed to this report.

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What Happened When a German Car Factory Went All Electric

Volkswagen’s plant in Zwickau stopped producing Golfs and switched to electric vehicles, illuminating the risks and opportunities for factory towns and cities.

The Volkswagen factory in Zwickau, Germany, which makes six electric car models. Credit... Ingmar Nolting for The New York Times

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By Jack Ewing

Jack Ewing, who lived in and reported from Germany for 28 years, reported from Zwickau in the former East Germany.

• April 9, 2024

Zwickau, a city in Germany’s east, may not be as famous as Detroit, but its economy has revolved around internal combustion engines since August Horch established Audi here at the beginning of the 20th century.

So when Volkswagen announced in 2018 that it would convert its Zwickau factory, the largest private employer in the area, to manufacture nothing but electric vehicles, it was a big deal.

“A lot of people were skeptical,” said Michael Fuchs, who has worked at the factory for more than a quarter century. They wondered, “What’s going to happen?” he said.

Volkswagen shut down assembly lines churning out its popular Golf hatchbacks and converted the factory, which has its own exit on the autobahn, to make six electric models. The remodeled plant can produce a car a minute, shipping them out by train.

It was a rare case of a major car plant’s switching completely from internal combustion to battery power, making Zwickau a case study for a big question confronting the auto industry.

Electric vehicles have far fewer parts than gasoline cars — no radiators, exhaust pipes, fuel tanks, fan belts or complicated gearboxes. As a result, many autoworkers, executives and politicians have hypothesized that such cars would require fewer workers, leading to mass unemployment in factory towns and cities worldwide.

Zwickau, where more than 10,000 people work for Volkswagen and tens of thousands more for suppliers, appears to have avoided those dire consequences. Employment hasn’t fallen off a cliff, and suppliers of combustion vehicle parts haven’t been forced into bankruptcy en masse. Its experience offers some hopeful lessons for other places that depend on the auto industry.

Yet people in Zwickau, with its immaculate but sleepy downtown, are still uneasy.

While Zwickau’s experience suggests that conversion to electric vehicles will not itself lead to economic misery, this and other new technologies are shaking up the industry in ways that could still be very painful for established companies and their workers.

One big change already visible in Germany and the rest of Europe is the fast growth of young Chinese electric carmakers like BYD and SAIC , which are increasingly luring customers away from established rivals like Volkswagen, the world’s second-largest automaker after Toyota.

“The question is: How much will mobility change overall?” said Thomas Knabel, who leads the Zwickau local of IG Metall, the union that represents Volkswagen workers. “In the future, will Volkswagen still be present?”

The best-selling electric car in Europe is Tesla’s Model Y sport utility vehicle, built at a factory around 145 miles north of Zwickau near Berlin. Last year, Volkswagen sold fewer than half as many of its equivalent S.U.V., the ID.4, according to Schmidt Automotive Research.

Disappointing sales have prompted Volkswagen to cut a shift on one of its two assembly lines in Zwickau, where the company makes the ID.4, the ID.5, two Audi models and two small electric cars. The decision illustrated the downside of going all-in on electric vehicles. Other established carmakers have hedged their bets, producing electric vehicles and fuel-burning cars in the same factories , allowing them to adjust to fluctuating sales.

“It’s a much more ambitious project than anything I know about in North America,” said Ian Greer, a research professor at Cornell University who has studied the region around Zwickau. “VW has taken a much bigger risk.”

With the factory operating below capacity, some people in Zwickau wonder whether Volkswagen’s electric vehicles are appealing enough.

Max Jankowsky, president of the regional Chamber of Commerce, said he was disappointed that he hadn’t seen any Volkswagens during a recent trip to Dubai. “It was just Teslas, Teslas, Teslas,” said Mr. Jankowsky, who is also the president of a company that makes cast iron parts for Volkswagen suppliers and other manufacturers.

Volkswagen’s executives say they expect sales to pick up this year as it begins selling new models, including a station wagon and a van, targeting market segments that Tesla does not play in.

“We are aware of our current challenges and are tackling them rigorously,” Oliver Blume, the Volkswagen chief executive, said last month in a statement.

In the short term, at least, the pain to the local economy caused by the Zwickau factory’s conversion was surprisingly mild, local officials, business leaders and worker representatives say.

Increased demand for workers to manufacture electronic components largely compensated for job losses from production lines that made parts for combustion cars, according to a study by AMZ Saxony, a suppliers’ group.

“All in all,” said Dirk Vogel, chief executive of AMZ, “not that much happened.”

Volkswagen, local businesses and officials coordinated an effort to prepare workers and businesses, blunting the impact.

The carmaker expanded its training institute in Zwickau to teach employees about electric vehicle technology. To generate enthusiasm, Volkswagen allowed workers to borrow battery-powered cars for a few days. The West Saxon University of Applied Sciences in Zwickau, a state college that already had a strong focus on the auto industry, expanded courses related to electric vehicle technology.

Suppliers developed new components for electric vehicles to replace products in danger of becoming obsolete. Eberspächer, a German supplier that has a factory 60 miles east of Zwickau, near Dresden, began offering temperature-control systems for electric vehicles in addition to emission systems for conventional cars.

A few suppliers have suffered. GKN Driveline, which makes drive shafts not needed in most electric cars, is closing a factory in Zwickau and shifting production to Hungary. But GKN did not supply Volkswagen, and the closure appears to be a reaction to broader trends in the industry and German labor costs. GKN did not reply to requests for comment.

New technology has also created jobs, including 175 at FDTech, based in the nearby city, Chemnitz. The firm, partly owned by Volkswagen, is one of five companies in the area developing autonomous driving technology.

Zwickau benefits from some unique good fortune. Many local suppliers make seats, dashboards, painting equipment or other products that electric vehicles need just as much as gasoline cars.

Because of a shortage of electricians, engineers and other skilled workers, the unemployment rate in the state of Saxony, which includes Zwickau, has increased only modestly. It was 6.6 percent in March amid an overall economic slowdown, up from 6.3 percent a year earlier.

“There will be suppliers that disappear,” said Karsten Schulze, the managing director of FDTech. “But the skilled workers will be immediately sought after elsewhere.”

Volkswagen workers had some control because German law requires them to be consulted on changes that affect working conditions. The IG Metall union extracted a promise from the company not to lay off any full-time employees in Zwickau until 2030 at the earliest. The guarantee does not apply to temporary workers, however, and the company let 270 of them go after their contracts expired.

In the United States, unions are relatively strong in the Midwest and East, but most automobile factories in the South are not unionized. The United Automobile Workers is trying to change that. But even if the union is successful, U.S. companies will have no obligation to consult workers about changes that will affect their jobs, or to retrain them for new jobs. And there is no guarantee that new jobs making batteries, for example, will pay as well as jobs in factories where cars are assembled.

Residents note with pride that Zwickau has survived many upheavals. After Germany’s defeat in World War II, Soviet occupiers confiscated Audi’s manufacturing equipment. The carmaker moved to Bavaria and was later acquired by Volkswagen.

The Communist government that ruled East Germany converted the Zwickau factory to produce no-frills Trabant vehicles. The cars spewed blue exhaust and had a body made of plastic because of steel shortages. They could not compete with Western cars after the reunification of Germany in 1991. Thousands of Trabant workers lost their jobs. By the end of the 1990s, unemployment in the region exceeded 20 percent.

Volkswagen acquired the Zwickau factory after reunification and gradually expanded it into one of the company’s biggest production sites. The conversion to electric cars was momentous enough that Angela Merkel, the German chancellor at the time, attended a dedication ceremony in 2019, when the first battery-powered model rolled off the assembly line.

Not everyone in Zwickau is a fan of electric cars. The far-right Alternative for Deutschland party, which has 11 of 48 seats in the Zwickau City Council, has complained that Germans are being forced to buy electric vehicles, echoing comments from former President Donald J. Trump and other Republicans.

The national government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat, angered many in Zwickau when it abruptly slashed subsidies for electric vehicles last year to deal with a budget crisis. Sales of electric vehicles in Germany slumped 14 percent during the first three months of the year, though they still accounted for 12 percent of new cars.

Still, few people in Zwickau are pushing for Volkswagen to go back to building gasoline cars.

“With a transition to a new technology, the question is always: Are you the first or the last?” said Constance Arndt, the lord mayor of Zwickau. “I think it’s always better to be first.”

Jack Ewing writes about the auto industry with an emphasis on electric vehicles. More about Jack Ewing

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