Taormina is a beautiful and well-loved village located on a hillside in eastern Sicily. It sits high on a rocky point overlooking the sea, making it a stunning spot.
Taormina is a breathtaking destination, celebrated for its picturesque scenery and rich historical heritage. The town boasts beautifully restored ancient architecture, stunning vistas, and a charming labyrinth of winding streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, inviting visitors to explore and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
While some areas in Sicily can feel rough around the edges, Taormina stands out as polished, pristine, and timeless. Its popularity has soared, which sometimes works against it; during certain moments of the day, this captivating spot can become quite crowded.
Which is especially true when a cruise ship unloads a large crowd into the narrow, winding streets, as we experienced during our initial visit. This scenario is not unique; cities like Dubrovnik, Rome, and Barcelona also grapple with the challenges of overtourism, where the overwhelming influx of visitors can overshadow the allure of their historic charm.
The location is undoubtedly beautiful; however, it is also the most frequented by tourists during our visit. As we look ahead to our visit in the early evening, I can already sense it will be an excellent time to experience the tranquillity that follows the departure of the cruise ships and day trippers. I’m eager to enjoy the calmer atmosphere that awaits us.
The excitement of exploring a place lies in the anticipation of getting lost in its back streets, where steep alleyways filled with pottery and vibrant artwork await. I can’t wait to stumble upon a quiet spot and uncover a charming piazza, creating my unique experience and memories as I dive into this adventure.
Discovering lesser-known streets can provide a refreshing perspective on a location, allowing for unique and personal experiences that may differ from the typical tourist path.
We chose to stay in the nearby town of Letajanni, which offered a quieter atmosphere and a more budget-friendly option compared to Taormina. Another great alternative for accommodations is Giardini Naxos. Both locations serve as excellent beach and resort destinations for visitors looking to enjoy the best coastal experience.
Taormina is between the two resorts, making it a convenient destination for travellers. Public buses provide affordable transport to and from Taormina, while taxis offer a more expensive alternative. For instance, a taxi ride from Taormina to Letojanni, less than three miles away, can cost around €25.
Teatro Greco
The ancient theatre is poised to become the highlight of our upcoming visit. It offers a breathtaking natural setting that promises stunning views of the Sicilian coast and the majestic cone of Etna. We can’t wait to experience this spectacular backdrop firsthand!
The story of the theatre begins in the third century BC, when the Greeks first laid its foundations, crafting a space for vibrant performances and community gatherings. As time passed, the Romans took this remarkable venue to new heights, infusing it with grandeur by adding magnificent columns and impressive statues, transforming it into a stunning architectural masterpiece that reflects the artistry of both civilisations.
The theatre features a well-structured layout consisting of three main sections: the stage, the orchestra, and the audience seating. The audience seating is designed to create an immersive experience, with a tiered arrangement that ascends from the stage into the hillside, allowing everyone a clear view of the performance.
The theatre continues to serve its original purpose and is currently the venue for the Taormina Film Festival. This historic theatre provides an ideal setting for enjoying a relaxed evening of culture, all while offering stunning views of the Sicilian coast.
After soaking up all that culture at the Greek Theatre, we decided to grab a coffee and some cake at Via Teatro Greco. It’s a lively street from the amphitheatre, packed with cafes and souvenir shops.
Corso Umberto I
The main street in Taormina offers a delightful array of upscale shops, unique artisan products, and inviting cafes. While it can attract many tourists, it retains a distinctive charm typical of Italy. It’s worth noting that prices tend to align with those found in other popular tourist destinations worldwide.
Vibrant Corso Umberto I in Taormina is flanked by charming side alleys that offer a delightful exploration of the area. Along these pathways, you’ll discover cosy cafes where locals savour their coffee, alongside vendors showcasing their unique goods. Additionally, there are tranquil spots ideal for taking a moment to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Piazza IX Aprile
Situated at the heart of Corso Umberto, we discovered the charming Piazza IX Aprile. This square is undoubtedly impressive, featuring a stunning sea vista on one side and the exquisite facades of historic churches and delightful residences on the other.
The square features a distinctive checkerboard floor that enhances the open space with its unique visual appeal. Surrounding the square are several upscale cafes that attract locals and visitors, making it an inviting spot to enjoy a coffee or gelato. It offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the views and observe the diverse range of people, including some locals showcasing their stylish flair.
At the square’s southern end stands the Torre dell’Orologio, a splendid clock tower dating back to the 12th century. This impressive structure dominates the square and is a gateway to the charming medieval quarter. Following a renovation in 1679, a grand clock face was added, further enhancing its significance.
Piazza del Duomo
At the end of Corso Umberto, one can discover the splendid Piazza del Duomo, which boasts a beautifully crafted Baroque fountain dating back to 1635. The square is also home to a notable cathedral from the 13th century, recognised for its distinct fortress-like appearance, a feature commonly found among Sicilian cathedrals.
Villa Comunale
The public gardens of Taormina represent one of the town’s most scenic areas. Initially established by Lady Florence Trevelyan in 1884, they were graciously transferred to municipal ownership in 1922, enhancing the community’s cultural heritage.
We stumbled upon the gardens by chance, and it was such a delightful surprise! It felt like a lovely escape from the bustling streets just a few hundred meters away.
This is a lovely spot to unwind and relax! There are many cosy public seating areas and beautiful pathways surrounded by magnolias, hibiscus, and vibrant bougainvillaea shrubs—perfect for soaking up the peaceful atmosphere!
It’s great to know that, despite being a destination known for its high prices, you can enjoy the gardens for free! You’ll find a peaceful atmosphere, beautifully maintained gardens, charming buildings, and stunning views of the coast and Mt. Etna. It’s an excellent spot to relax and soak in the beauty!
Bam Bar
A beloved gem in Taormina has captured the hearts of Instagram users and bloggers alike and become the talk of the town!
I was curious about all the buzz, so we decided to check it out. I’m not really into hipster stuff, so I don’t usually keep up with trends. But I was excited to try this granita that everyone can’t stop talking about.
The Bam Bar is a delightful little cafe bar right in the heart of Taormina! Just a quick minute from Corso Umberto, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and unwind after a lovely day of exploring the town.
We ordered a cold drink and decided to sample the granita, which the bar is renowned for. The selection of flavours is quite impressive, with options to enhance it with whipped cream and a brioche bun. I chose to enjoy the simplicity of a lemon granita on its own. It was incredibly refreshing; the vibrant sharpness of the lemon combined with the shaved ice was just right for a warm June evening.
The bar was noticeably quieter in the evening compared to the bustling afternoon when we strolled by, during which there were long queues to enter. While the evening atmosphere remained lively, it was much more laid-back, allowing us to enjoy our time without the pressure to leave quickly. I am pleased I chose to visit; it was a delightful experience.
Dining in Taormina
One of the delightful experiences in Italy is the culinary offerings, and Taormina certainly lives up to this reputation.
An incredible variety of dining options is available, from delightful street food and pizza to exquisite fine dining. According to TripAdvisor, there are an impressive 205 restaurants to select from.
The choice is all yours! While this spot is pretty popular, you can generally expect good quality. Just remember that prices might be a little higher than in nearby towns. But the atmosphere and surroundings are worth it!
Isola Bella
This charming island, situated near Taormina and often called the pearl of the Ionian, has gained considerable popularity for its picturesque scenery, making it a favoured destination for social media enthusiasts.
The island is often characterised as picturesque and charming. In 1806, it was graciously bestowed upon Taormina by His Majesty Ferdinand I, King of Sicily. Subsequently, in 1896, the town decided to sell the island to the esteemed English noblewoman Florence Trevelyan for 140000 Lira
Having changed ownership multiple times and fallen into neglect, the Sicilian government acquired the property in 1990. It has since grown in popularity, making it a lively destination. However, visiting early in the day may benefit those seeking peace and tranquillity. Alternatively, consider exploring the nearby less crowded beaches for a more relaxing experience.
Castlemola
Nestled near Taormina, this charming village is frequently hailed as one of the most picturesque in Italy. With its captivating beauty and enchanting atmosphere, it truly stands out as a delightful gem.
A visit to Castlemola is highly recommended. Perched at the highest elevation above Taormina, this enchanting ancient settlement offers a remarkable history that dates back to the pre-Hellenic era.
As you arrive in the village, an astonishing panorama unfolds before you. From the main square, you can take in the stunning view that stretches along the entire Ionian coast, from the picturesque bays of Taormina and lush slopes of Mount Etna to the breathtaking Calabrian coastline.
The village is beautifully compact, inviting exploration within just a few hours. Its picturesque charm lies in a perfectly preserved medieval layout, with narrow alleys, steep steps, ancient chapels, and quaint squares awaiting discovery.
Although there may not be one particular attraction that stands out, immersing oneself in this distinctive locale offers an enriching experience. Each aspect contributes to the overall charm, making exploring every corner and discovering its hidden gems worthwhile.
The picturesque views and enchanting narrow lanes offer an excellent opportunity to appreciate the charm of a village that appears to have retained its character from a bygone era.
After all that time exploring, it’s the perfect opportunity to relax with a refreshing drink at one of the cosy bars overlooking the cathedral square!
Letojanni
This peaceful retreat is located along the Ionian Sea, just minutes from Taormina, and offers stunning coastline views.
This former fishing village offers a more laid-back atmosphere than bustling Taormina. Visitors can enjoy a long pebble beach and a pleasant promenade. Its convenient access to nearby cultural and historical attractions and public transportation makes it an excellent choice for exploration and relaxation.
We picked the Hotel Olimpo as our base in eastern Sicily. The views from there are stunning, especially the Bay of Taormina. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the area’s beauty!
We were introduced to a distinctive and noteworthy lift experience to access the hotel. The initial lift ascended through the rock face, eventually transitioning to a panoramic lift that provided breathtaking sea views. While the transfer may not be the quickest, it undoubtedly ranks among the most memorable features of our stay at the hotel.
After spending several busy days exploring the many attractions in the area, it was refreshing to take some time to unwind. The hotel’s serene ambience and stunning views truly enhance its appeal as an ideal place to stay.
The hotel features a partner beach that offers a peaceful retreat whenever the views and pool area feel less appealing. Picture yourself relaxing on the beach, where you can unwind and anticipate refreshing swims in the beautiful blue waters of the Ionian Sea.
The town presents a charming and laid-back atmosphere, particularly compared to the more renowned neighbouring Taormina. Visitors can find an array of cafes and restaurants along the beach promenade and several delightful establishments in the main square, where we enjoyed an apéritif or two.
One aspect of Italian culture that I particularly appreciate, which is equally delightful in Sicily, is the tradition of Aperitivo. It offers a lovely opportunity to enjoy light snacks and a drink before dinner. However, I must admit that it also makes for a lovely post-dinner experience. The diet can commence when I return home 🤣
We were born to do more than go to work, pay bills and die. See the world while you are alive and kicking 