Taormina, Sicily

Taormina sits on the eastern coast of Sicily, within the island’s province of Messina. This small charming town was constructed on a hillside and is overlooked by the imposing and dramatic Mount Etna. The town’s beautiful surroundings have served as inspiration throughout history for some of the world’s most famous artists, writers and directors including Oscar Wilde, Francis Ford Coppola and Woody Allen, to name just a few, who often enjoyed a sojourn in the town whilst staying in Sicily. The region’s natural beauty is not the limits of its charm, as the area also boasts a collection of remarkable ancient ruins dating back to the Roman era, alongside a variety of stunning modern developments. Although Taormina may be associated with the rich and famous the town is accessible to all, combining historic elements with terrific contemporary design to create a unique and enchanting ambience.

Sightseeing in Taormina

The picturesque town of Taormina boasts a wide range of excursion possibilities and sightseeing opportunities for people of all ages and interests. Day trips to the many ancient sites located across the town are especially popular, as well as hiking around the surrounding areas of natural beauty, which have captured the imagination of tourists for years.

Mount Etna

Overlooking the town of Taormina is the remarkable and volcanic Mount Etna, which lies between the Sicilian regions of Messina and Catania and covers an area of nearly 500 square miles. It is the tallest volcano in Europe and the highest Italian mountain south of the Alps. Thousands of tourists visit Mount Etna every year, making it one of Sicily’s most popular tourist attractions. Many visitors simply drive up the side of the volcano but there is an operational cable car to transport guests to the top quickly.

Isola Bella

Isola Bella, sometimes referred to as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, is a tiny islet situated just off the coast of Taormina. The islet is a nature reserve and also contains a splendid beach that is particularly popular with sunbathers. Isola bella is home to a collection of wonderful flora and fauna including several species of birds and lizards.

Ancient Theatre of Taormina

The Ancient Theatre of Taormina is a Greek theatre, constructed in the early 7th century BC. The theatre is one of Sicily’s most importance sites of archaeological significance and with a diameter of 120 metre is the second largest of its kind on the island. 

Shopping in Taormina

Many quirky souvenir shops and larger department stores are situated around Taormina and across the island of Sicily, at which visitors can buy a range of gifts, mementos and general provisions during their sojourn on the island. Limoncello is a particularly popular alcoholic drink across Sicily and is widely available in the town.

Eating out in Taormina

Taormina has a number of sophisticated and comfortable restaurants serving a variety of traditional Italian pasta and seafood-based dishes. Visitors will also find a variety of other international cuisine for everyone to enjoy whilst staying in this delightful region of Sicily.