Perched dramatically on a clifftop in eastern Sicily, Taormina stands as one of the most iconic destinations in Sicily, where the ancient theatre of Taormina frames breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip from the airport to Taormina (a 45-minute drive) or planning to spend a few days exploring the region, this enchanting town between Porto Messina and Porto Catania offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
🏡 Where to Stay in Taormina
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: San Domenico Palace
- ✨ 5-Star: Atlantis Bay - VRetreats
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Villa Taormina
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Bel Soggiorno
- 💸 Cheap: Taormina Garden Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Home Holiday Taormina
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Villa Nettuno
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Villa Ducale
From the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Greek Theatre to the crystal-clear waters of Isola Bella, Taormina’s top attractions are well worth a visit and easily accessible whether you’re renting a car or relying on public transportation. Central Taormina buzzes with life along Corso Umberto, while beach clubs provide refuge on a hot day, and the Chiesa di San Giuseppe stands as a testament to the town’s rich architectural heritage – making it the absolute best way to experience the charm of Sicily’s most glamorous coastal town.
👩🏫 Best Guided Tours
- Sicilian Cooking Course in Taormina by Chef Mimmo Siciliano from € 100 (⭐ 5/5)
- Etna Nature and Flavours Half Day Tour from Catania from € 80 (⭐ 4.7/5)
- Pizza Cooking Class in Taormina from € 70 (⭐ 4.9/5)
- Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour from € 125 (⭐ 4.8/5)
Best Things To Do in Taormina, Sicily
1. 🏛️ Ancient Greek Theatre
Historical Significance: The Teatro Antico di Taormina stands as a testament to Greek and Roman architectural brilliance, with its 10,000-seat capacity making it Sicily’s second-largest ancient theater. Built in the 3rd century BC and later renovated by the Romans, its perfectly preserved semicircular structure still hosts international performances and cultural events against the backdrop of Mount Etna.
Modern Marvel: The theater’s strategic position, carved into the mountainside at 250 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views stretching from the Calabrian coast to Syracuse. During summer evenings, the ancient stones come alive with world-class performances during the Taormina Arte festival, while the winter months provide peaceful moments to explore the remarkably intact stage, orchestra, and seating areas.
Time Saver: Purchase skip-the-line tickets online and arrive before 10 AM or after 4 PM to avoid cruise ship crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
⭐ Best Activities
- The Pearl of Sicily: Private Taormina Walking Tour: This private walking tour takes you through Taormina’s historic center, including visits to the ancient Greek Theatre, Palazzo Corvaja, and the charming Corso Umberto. A knowledgeable local guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s 2,500-year history while leading you through picturesque squares and hidden alleyways.
2. 🛍️ Corso Umberto
Historic Heart: Stretching for one kilometer between Porta Messina and Porta Catania, Corso Umberto represents the vibrant lifeline of Taormina, where every palazzo and piazza tells a story dating back to medieval times. The pedestrian street showcases an architectural timeline, from Arabic-influenced buildings to Norman structures, while housing designer boutiques, artisanal craft shops, and traditional Sicilian restaurants.
Evening Atmosphere: As evening approaches, the corso transforms into a sophisticated promenade where locals participate in the traditional passeggiata, and the atmosphere becomes magical with street musicians and artists performing against the backdrop of illuminated historic buildings. The numerous side streets, known as vicoli, hide charming restaurants and local craft shops away from the main tourist flow.
Insider Tip: Explore the quiet vicoli (alleyways) branching off Corso Umberto during peak hours to discover hidden restaurants offering authentic Sicilian cuisine at better prices than the main street establishments.
3. ⛪ Chiesa di San Giuseppe
Architectural Beauty: The 17th-century baroque church dominates Piazza IX Aprile with its distinctive pink marble staircase and ornate twin bell towers. The church’s elegant facade features intricate stonework and decorative elements typical of Sicilian baroque style.
Religious Heritage: Inside, the church houses remarkable frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Joseph, while the central altar showcases masterful marble work and gilded details. The ceiling’s trompe l’oeil paintings create an illusion of infinite height, demonstrating the skilled craftsmanship of the era.
Money Saver: Visit during the morning mass to experience the church’s beautiful interior with its original organ music, avoiding guided tour costs.
4. 🏛️ Corvaja Palace
Historical Marvel: Built in the 9th century as an Arab fortress, this remarkable palace showcases three distinct historical periods through its architecture. The central cubic tower, reminiscent of Mecca’s Ka’bah, dates from the Arab period between 902 and 1079. The palace stands as one of Sicily’s finest examples of medieval architecture, blending Arab, Norman, and Gothic influences.
Architectural Beauty: The palace features a stunning inner courtyard with elegant bifora windows and carved stone panels depicting biblical scenes. The 14th-century wing once served as the “Master Justice” court, while the 15th-century addition hosted the Sicilian Parliament. Today, the palace houses the Sicilian Museum of Art and Popular Traditions, displaying local crafts and cultural artifacts.
Time Saver: Visit between 9 AM and 1 PM to avoid afternoon crowds, and purchase your €2.60 entrance ticket in advance.
5. ⛪ Taormina Cathedral
Sacred Heritage: The 13th-century Cathedral of San Nicolò di Bari stands as a fortress-like structure along Corso Umberto. Its distinctive pink marble columns and wooden beam ceiling with Arabic motifs showcase Sicily’s diverse cultural influences. The cathedral’s imposing facade reflects the town’s medieval military architecture while housing precious religious artifacts.
Architectural Splendor: The cathedral features three naves and three apses, with remarkable Renaissance portals added in the 16th century and a baroque main entrance from the 17th century. Inside, visitors can admire valuable paintings, including the “Madonna with Child” from the 15th century and ornate chapels decorated with local marble.
Insider Tip: Visit during morning mass to experience the cathedral’s beautiful acoustics and original organ music. The piazza outside offers excellent photo opportunities and hosts local festivals throughout the year.
6. 🏺 Villa Romana del Casale
Ancient Splendor: This UNESCO World Heritage site houses the world’s finest collection of Roman mosaics, spanning over 3,500 square meters. The villa, built in the 4th century AD, showcases the luxury of Roman aristocratic life through its incredibly preserved artwork and architecture. The famous “Bikini Girls” mosaic remains one of the most photographed ancient artworks in Sicily.
Historical Significance: Each room tells a different story through its mosaics, from mythological scenes to daily life activities. The thermal baths, private apartments, and grand ceremonial rooms provide insight into the sophisticated lifestyle of Roman nobility. The recent restoration has made the site more accessible and better preserved than ever.
Insider Tip: Book a guided tour in advance to fully understand the significance of each mosaic. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid both crowds and heat, as the site has limited shade.
⭐ Best Activities
- Piazza Armerina and Agrigento: Villa Romana del Casale and Valley of Temples Tour: This full-day tour combines visits to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Villa Romana del Casale with its spectacular Roman mosaics and the Valley of Temples in Agrigento.
7. 🎭 Italian Opera at Teatro Nazarena
Performance Heritage: Since 2014, Teatro Nazarena has hosted over 150 opera performances annually, featuring melodies from legendary composers like Puccini, Verdi, Donizetti, and Rossini. The intimate 120-seat theatre, located in the heart of Taormina, provides an authentic Italian opera experience with professional performers from both Italian and international opera scenes.
Visitor Experience: Each performance offers a unique blend of arias and duets accompanied by piano, with audience interaction adding to the intimate atmosphere. During intermission, guests enjoy prosecco on the theatre’s panoramic terrace, making it a complete cultural evening. The program changes nightly, ensuring variety for returning visitors.
Money Saver: Standard tickets cost €30, including a drink during intermission, while VIP tickets (€50) offer early entrance, welcome drinks, and reserved seating. Children under 6 enter free. Book in advance during peak summer months to secure preferred dates.
⭐ Best Activities
- Italian Opera in Taormina: Live Performance at Teatro Nazarena: Experience the magic of Italian opera in an intimate 120-seat theater in the heart of Taormina. Professional opera singers perform famous arias from Puccini, Verdi, and other renowned composers, accompanied by piano in the historic Teatro Nazarena.
Things to do in Taormina with Kids
1. 🏖️ Isola Bella Beach
Natural Paradise: This protected nature reserve features a tiny island connected to the mainland by a delicate sandbar that disappears during high tide. The unique geography creates two distinct bays with crystal-clear waters, perfect for spotting Mediterranean marine life.
Beach Experience: The pebble beach offers excellent facilities including sunbed rentals and beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood. The shallow waters on both sides of the sandbar provide safe swimming areas for children, while the rocky outcrops create natural pools perfect for snorkeling.
Time Saver: Book beach chairs in advance during peak season (June-September) and arrive before 10 AM to secure the best spots near the sandbar.
2. 🚡 Cable Car Ride
Scenic Journey: The funivia connects Taormina’s historic center with the beach area of Mazzarò, descending 300 meters in a thrilling three-minute ride. Each cabin offers panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Etna, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Practical Transport: Operating every 15 minutes from early morning until late evening, the cable car provides an efficient alternative to navigating Taormina’s steep streets and numerous steps. The modern, air-conditioned cabins accommodate strollers and beach equipment easily.
Money Saver: Purchase a multi-day pass if staying longer than two days – it’s significantly cheaper than single tickets and allows unlimited rides.
Free Things To Do in Taormina
1. 🌸 Public Gardens (Villa Comunale)
Historical Gardens: Created by Lady Florence Trevelyan in the late 1800s, these meticulously maintained gardens showcase an eclectic mix of Mediterranean and exotic plants. The Victorian-era follies, known locally as “beehives,” provide unique architectural interest and serve as peaceful reading spots.
Scenic Beauty: Multiple terraced levels offer increasingly spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast, while hidden pathways lead to secluded benches perfect for quiet contemplation. The gardens’ design incorporates both English and Italian landscaping traditions.
Top Tip: Visit during the first hour of opening to have the gardens almost to yourself and catch the morning light illuminating Mount Etna.
2. ⛰️ Madonna della Rocca
Sacred Heights: This 17th-century church, carved directly into the mountainside, sits atop a steep stairway of 300 steps above Taormina. The sanctuary features simple yet beautiful religious artifacts and frescoes that have survived centuries of exposure to the elements.
Panoramic Views: The climb rewards visitors with unparalleled 360-degree views of Taormina, the coastline, and Mount Etna. The path up passes ancient fortification walls and offers numerous photo opportunities of the town’s terracotta roofs against the azure Mediterranean.
Insider Tip: Start the climb early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and pack water – there are no facilities at the top.
3. ⛲ Piazza IX Aprile
Historic Square: Often called Taormina’s living room, this elegant piazza offers one of Sicily’s most dramatic terraces overlooking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. The black and white marble pavement creates a striking checkerboard pattern that has witnessed centuries of local gatherings and cultural events. The square’s clock tower, dating from the 12th century, marks time as it has done for generations.
Architectural Ensemble: The piazza is framed by three remarkable buildings: the Church of San Giuseppe, the former Church of Sant’Agostino (now a library), and the baroque Church of San Sebastiano. The surrounding cafes and restaurants, with their outdoor terraces, create a lively atmosphere throughout the day and into the evening.
Time Saver: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best photography opportunities and fewer crowds. Consider having an early breakfast or late aperitivo here to fully experience the square’s charm without the midday tourist rush.
Seasonal Activities
🌸 Spring Events
Cultural Awakening: Spring brings Taormina to life with the start of the Italian Opera season at Teatro Nazarena, running through October. The season offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences with mild temperatures ideal for exploring outdoor venues.
Artistic Celebrations: The first Sunday of each month brings free entry to major attractions including the Ancient Theatre, Isolabella, and Naxos Archaeological Park, making spring an economical time to experience Taormina’s cultural heritage.
Spring Events:
- Easter Celebrations (Dates vary annually)
- Italian Opera Season Opening (March-October)
- Free Entry Days (First Sunday of each month)
Time Saver: Book evening opera performances to enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
☀️ Summer Events
Festival Season: Summer marks Taormina’s peak cultural period with the prestigious Taormina Film Festival (July 12-19) transforming the Ancient Theatre into an open-air cinema. The TaoArte Festival (June-August) brings a diverse program of music, theatre, and dance performances.
Cultural Performances: The Ancient Theatre hosts world-class performances under the stars, while the Trevelyan Public Gardens become a venue for intimate concerts and cultural events throughout the season.
Summer Events:
- Taormina Film Festival (July 12-19)
- TaoArte Festival (June-August)
- TAOBUK Book Festival (June 20-24)
- Night Openings of Ancient Theatre (Select dates)
- International Music Festival (June-August)
Insider Tip: Purchase combination tickets for multiple events to save money, and book evening performances to avoid the peak summer heat.
🍂 Autumn Events
Harvest Celebrations: Autumn brings a focus on local agriculture and jazz, with the Agriculture Festival and Taormina Jazz Festival offering unique cultural experiences in more comfortable temperatures.
Cultural Heritage: The season features special exhibitions and performances celebrating Sicilian traditions, with many events moving to indoor venues.
Autumn Events:
- Agriculture Festival (September 1-8)
- Taormina Jazz Festival (September 12-15)
- Exhibition “From Tauromenion to Tauromenium” (September-November)
- Opera Performances at Teatro Nazarena (Throughout autumn)
Money Saver: Take advantage of shoulder season rates while still enjoying a full calendar of events.
❄️ Winter Events (December-February)
Holiday Spirit: Winter in Taormina offers a more intimate experience with traditional Christmas celebrations and cultural performances in historic venues. The season provides a unique opportunity to experience the town’s charm without summer crowds.
Festive Atmosphere: The holiday season brings special concerts and traditional celebrations, while indoor venues offer protection from occasional winter weather.
Winter Events:
- Christmas in Taormina (December)
- New Year’s Eve Celebrations at Ancient Theatre
- Winter Opera Season at Teatro Nazarena
- Traditional Religious Festivals
Local Tip: Many hotels offer winter packages that include tickets to cultural events, providing better value during the off-season.
Day Trips from Taormina
1. 🌋 Mount Etna
Volcanic Adventure: Europe’s largest active volcano offers year-round activities from wine tasting on its fertile slopes to skiing in winter. The UNESCO World Heritage site features dramatic lunar landscapes, lava caves, and steaming craters accessible through guided tours.
Natural Wonder: The volcano’s various microclimates support unique flora and fauna, while its mineral-rich soil produces exceptional wines, pistachios, and honey. Cable cars and 4×4 tours provide access to different altitude levels, each offering distinct experiences.
Time Saver: Book an early morning tour to avoid afternoon clouds that often obscure the summit views, and choose tours that include hotel pickup and drop-off.
⭐ Best Activities
- Etna Nature and Flavours Half Day Tour from Catania: This half-day tour combines natural wonders with local flavors as you explore Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. The experience includes hiking through volcanic landscapes, exploring a lava cave with safety equipment, and visiting a local honey farm.
2. 🏞️ Alcantara Gorges
Natural Wonder: The Alcantara Gorges, formed by ancient lava flows meeting the cold waters of the Alcantara River, create spectacular basalt formations reaching heights of up to 50 meters. The unique geological formations, shaped like prismatic columns, demonstrate the powerful forces of nature that shaped Sicily’s landscape.
Adventure Activities: Visitors can choose from various experiences, from simple walks along the river to body rafting and canyoning adventures. The park offers guided tours explaining the geological formation of the gorges and the local ecosystem. The crystal-clear waters provide refreshing swimming opportunities during summer months.
Money Saver: Purchase combination tickets that include transportation from Taormina and multiple activities. Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for better rates and more comfortable temperatures for exploring.
⭐ Best Activities
- Mount Etna and Alcantara Gorges Day Trip with Circumetnea Railway Ride: This unique tour combines three remarkable experiences: exploring the impressive Alcantara Gorges, riding the historic Circumetnea Railway around Mount Etna’s base, and visiting Europe’s largest active volcano.
3. 🏛️ Syracuse and Ortigia
Ancient History: This UNESCO World Heritage site combines Greek ruins with baroque architecture. The archaeological park features one of the largest Greek theaters in the world, while the island of Ortigia showcases medieval streets and a stunning Duomo built around an ancient Greek temple.
Coastal Beauty: Ortigia’s seafront promenade offers spectacular views, traditional markets, and excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood. The Fountain of Arethusa, with its natural spring and papyrus plants, tells the story of ancient Greek mythology.
Top Tip: Visit the Ortigia market in the morning to watch locals shop and sample fresh produce, then book a table at a restaurant to have your market purchases cooked to order.
⭐ Best Activities
- Syracuse, Ortigia and Noto Day Tour from Catania: This full-day tour explores three UNESCO World Heritage sites in southeastern Sicily. Visit Syracuse’s archaeological park featuring the Greek Theater and the Ear of Dionysius, then wander through Ortigia’s charming streets and markets while discovering its ancient temples and baroque cathedral.
❓ FAQ
How many days do I need to spend in Taormina?
While you can see Taormina’s main attractions in one day, 2-3 days is ideal to fully experience the town and its surroundings. This allows time to explore the historic center, visit the ancient theatre of Taormina, enjoy Isola Bella beach, and take day trips to Mount Etna or nearby wineries.
What are the must-see attractions in Taormina?
The top attractions include the Ancient Greek Theatre (Teatro Antico) with views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Corso Umberto I for shopping and dining, Isola Bella beach and nature reserve, the Public Gardens (Villa Comunale), and the historic Chiesa di San Giuseppe. The town’s location offers spectacular views from various vantage points along the eastern Sicily coast.
When is the best time to visit Taormina?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are the best times to visit Taormina, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-September) is peak season with the Taormina Film Festival and theatre performances, but it can be uncomfortably crowded, especially when cruise ships arrive.
How do I get around Taormina?
Taormina’s historic center is compact and walkable, though prepare for steep climbs and steps. A cable car connects central Taormina to the beach area of Mazzarò and Isola Bella. The Taormina-Giardini Naxos train station sits below the old town, with regular bus connections to the historic center.
What are the best day trips from Taormina?
Popular day trips include visiting Mount Etna (Europe’s largest active volcano), exploring the medieval village of Castelmola, touring Etna wineries, and visiting Syracuse and Ortigia. These destinations are easily accessible and offer unique experiences of eastern Sicily’s culture and landscapes.
