10 Things to do in Taormina, Sicily
I just got back from one of the most amazing trips to Europe I’ve had yet, spending two weeks traveling through Italy and Portugal. Of all the destinations we visited, the days we spent in Taormina were my most anticipated, because it’s the one destination I had not been to yet.
While I had heard amazing things about Sicily from friends who recently traveled there, I knew it may have changed slightly because of the recent attention and fame it attracted from being the location selected for the second season of White Lotus.
But what brought us there was actually my Mother in Law, whose father was born in Sicily. She wanted to visit the place he grew up, and though we didn’t have a chance to go to the town on this trip, it would be amazing to explore beyond Taormina in the future to some of the other beautiful towns I’ve heard great things about like Palermo and Noto.
Scroll on for 10 Things To Do in Taormina!
About Taormina
Taormina, situated on the east coast of Sicily, is a very special town. It effortlessly blends rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and an enchanting - dare I say romantic - ambiance.
Perched high on a hill, it offers stunning vistas of the sparkling Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. I was captivated by it’s charming narrow streets lined with vibrant bougainvillea against the stone buildings. You feel as though you were transported back in time, particularly if you are strolling in the early morning when the streets are quiet and shops are just opening.
With its irresistible charm and allure, Taormina is a true paradise for travelers.
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Traveling to Taormina
Based on Sicily being an island, my recommendation is to fly to/from from either Naples or Rome. The flight from Rome is about an hour and twenty minutes, and the flight from Naples is under an hour.
The alternative is taking the train, called ItaliaRail which takes much longer, but if you have the time it’s sort of a cool experience. The whole train boards a ferry from mainland Italy and docks by Catania before making multiple stops across Sicily. But again, that will take over 7 hours from Naples.
1. Explore the Beautiful Beaches of Sicily
From Mazarro to Lido. Naxos Giardina to Isola della Serene - the beaches are spectacular. Yes it’s a rocky pebbled beach, but this creates crystal clear water. And because it’s the Mediterranean Sea, and not an ocean, the water tends to be calmer along the shores. Bring some water shoes and enjoy it!
2. Explore the Enchanting Isola Bella
Isola Bella (Italian for beautiful island) is often referred to as "The Pearl of the Ionian Sea." It’s a natural work of art that has been attracting travelers for centuries. This small island is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush green vegetation. There is a home there called Villa Belvedere, which believe it or not, can be rented. Tours are also available of the island after 10am!
The island can be accessed by a narrow isthmus, and depending on the tide you’ll have to walk through a foot or two of water. But once you cross over, it feels like entering a secret paradise. It’s home to a protected nature reserve, with winding pathways alongside colorful flowers.
3. Dinner with a view at Belmond Grand Timeo
While there are many restaurants in Taormina with views overlooking the town and the gorgeous sea, we were really impressed by both the setting of the hotel, and the scenery.
The service was understaffed that night, and the dining experience left something to be desired unfortunately. But based on the crowded restaurant and the reviews I would chalk that up to it being an off night. I would definitely recommend the terrace for drinks. We sipped an aperitivo while listening to a live band performing nearby.
The food was also DELICIOUS. Order the pasta Norma, it’s prepared for you table side. Every dish was so fresh and made with care.
The night ended with a pretty fireworks display above the town.
4. Explore the Ancient Greek Theater
The crown jewel of Taormina is undoubtedly the Greek Theatre, an ancient amphitheater dating back to the 3rd century BC, which still hosts captivating performances against a backdrop of remarkable scenery.
The climb to the top of the Greek Theater provides great views both of the ancient ruins themselves, and the coastline. Perfect photo op.
5. Sail the Sicilian Coastline
On our anniversary we booked a fun two hour tour boat tour around the coast of Taormina. It was super affordable, about $115 for four people, but it was perfect for a quick excursion on a short trip.
We boarded at the harbor by Giardini. Naxos, and set sail past our hotel, towards a cove around Isola Bella. Some sights we saw along the way were the Grotta dell'Amore, Capo Taormina, Grotta delle Sirene and the Scoglio dell'Elefante.
We linked up with a few other boats at one of the sunny coves by Isola Bella so that we could have a swim. The water in June is cold, but refreshing. Music was playing, and the group was singing along to favorites like Volare while daring one another to dive in.
We sipped a few glasses of champagne, and enjoyed a few snacks before turning back towards the port.
It was a fantastic way to spend the day!
7. Take a Ride on the Funicular
If you are staying in Mazzaro beach this is the easiest, and most affordable way to go up and down the cliff into town. For around $6 you will get a round trip ticket.
It provides a great view, and while it feels completely safe, it also feels something like a ride. It’s slightly more exciting compared to winding up the hills in a car.
8. Stroll Corso Umberto and the view from Piazza IX Aprile & San Giuseppe
This street and the plaza it leads to has the greatest number of restaurants and shops. But I can’t encourage enough taking a few steps off the beaten path, and wandering off course into the quiet streets that run along this main road. They were magic!
9. Explore the hilltop town of Castelmola
This is one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. You can see the colorful town of Castelmola from so many viewpoints - as you drive towards Taormina, and right from town.
10. Walk the public gardens in Taormina
I had heard about the public gardens but hadn’t checked a map while I was pleasantly strolling around the city, taking pictures one morning. I made a turn down what I thought was a wrong street, and stumbled upon the garden accidentally. It was a good accident.
The beautiful lush greenery is captivating. The park is full of beauty, from cacti and flowering trees, to gorgeous sculptures, and ancient ruins. All set amongst a stunning view, and a sweet childrens playground.
I hope you’ll stumble over here too, it’s a site that shouldn’t be missed.
Where To Stay
There are no shortage of gorgeous hotels in Taormina, Sicily. The question is do you want to stay in the city? Or by the sea?
I did a lot of research before our trip to make the decision myself. After a busy few days of travel to Italy and touring around Rome, I thought a little relaxing beach time would be exactly what the doctor ordered. With that, we wanted to stay at a beachside resort that offered a great pool.
We landed on the beautiful Unahotels Capotaormina
This was one of the most gorgeous properties I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying at. So it’s no wonder that this hotel was selected as one of the locations for the show, White Lotus. It served as both the pretend beach for the hotel, and the pool area as a beach club that they attend.
Even though its on the water, it’s just a short 10 minute car ride up the hill into town where all the shops and restaurants are. And though there isn’t much of a sidewalk, it’s possible to stroll right from the hotel to the beach at Isola Bella and the funicular you can take into town at Mazzaro Beach.
Upon checking in, we descended on an elevator seven stories until we reached a cave that lead to a private beach. It was more stunning than pictures can capture.
Because it’s such a big resort, the outdoor area felt vast and boundless. The infinity pool where guests lounged seemingly flowed seamlessly into the bright blue sea.
I particularly loved the maze of pathways guiding you through gardens and quiet terraces.
The hotel rooms are a little dated, but very comfortable and spacious. The service was really wonderful. The hotel greeted us with a bottle of champagne for our anniversary when we arrived which was thoughtful!
The staff was very helpful in arranging cars for us into town, and offered to make reservations or book activities.
Every morning we enjoyed an amazing breakfast buffet at their restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean sea. It had so many options like many of the Italian hotels, it was all included in the rate.
Overall I would highly recommend staying at Unahotel Capotaromina. Not only was it amazing, but I thought the hotel was very affordable compared to some of the other options we explored in Taormina.
Other Top Hotel Options in Taormina
Here are some of the many amazing hotel options in the area!
And last but certainly not least, there is always THE “White Lotus” hotel, the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace which is located in town. It’s truly a stunner.
Dining in Taormina
CALLING ALL SEAFOOD LOVERS! This is a place for you.
All of the food in Italy is incredible, of course. But the Sicilian wines, the arancini, the caponata, and spedini were so delicious that I consider Taormina to be one of my favorite towns for food now! Here were some of the highlights from our dining!
Villa Carlotta
We had such a special anniversary dinner at Villa Carlotta’s rooftop restaurant. I loved the decor of the whole hotel, but the view stole the show. The service was wonderful, and they made the meal extra special since we were celebrating. The menu featured a lot of fresh seafood, and we leaned in with a meal of tuna tartare, calamari, and a fresh tuna pasta. I would definitely recommend it, and request a seat by the window if you can!
Anciovi at the Four Seasons
Anciovi was a great spot for drinks, and the menu looked great for dinner as well but we ate already when we arrived. We enjoyed some glasses of prosecco at their poolside restaurant, with a beautiful view of the Mediterranean.
I couldn’t get reservations at the Michelin starred restaurant at Principe Cerami and even though I was a little disappointed, I’m glad we still got to visit the hotel. While it’s more fine dining, and pretty pricey, the menu looks spectacular.
We walked around the property to take it all in. Definitely make reservations if you plan to do so though! They will check to confirm your reservation before you enter the hotel. Just a few hours there and I understood what made it so special. It felt as gorgeous as a tv set.
Restaurante Rosmarino
Restaurante Rosmarino was the best meal to kick off our food tour of Sicily. Our friends recommended it to us, and we instantly understood why. The meal began with a delicious champagne toast, followed by a wine recommendation from their sommelier with a local Mt. Etna wine, delicious local apps and entrees.
More great spots in Taormina
It’s tough to pick just a few places to explore in Taormina, as there is so much to do beyond this list. The town also boasts intriguing museums, other palazzos, and an abundance of quaint boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving tantalizing local delicacies. You can truly shop and eat until you drop!
If it’s not clear enough from this post, one trip to Taormina was enough for me to fall in love with this place.
I know I’ll be back one day, and I continue making memories, hopefully beyond just Taormina. I think there is a lot more to Sicily that I look forward to exploring!
Xx Gab
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