Taormina
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Latest update: 4 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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Picturesque Taormina is a town nestled in the Metropolitan City of Messina province of Sicily.
With a population of around 11,000 inhabitants, it is renowned for its stunning location overlooking the Ionian Sea and its ancient Greek theatre, which hosts various cultural events. Taormina is famous for its medieval streets, beautiful beaches, and panoramic views of Mount Etna. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. |
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Taormina: Sicily's hill town of wonder
Taormina, perched on Sicily's eastern coast, is a mesmerizing destination blending ancient charm with breathtaking vistas. Visit the Greek Theater, a marvel of ancient architecture offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the coast. Stroll along Corso Umberto, the town's main thoroughfare, lined with elegant boutiques and quaint cafes.
Explore the ornate Palazzo Corvaja, a testament to the island's rich history. Relax in the lush gardens of Villa Comunale, overlooking the sea. Venture to Isola Bella, a nearby nature reserve and beach renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Taormina promises an enchanting blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Explore the ornate Palazzo Corvaja, a testament to the island's rich history. Relax in the lush gardens of Villa Comunale, overlooking the sea. Venture to Isola Bella, a nearby nature reserve and beach renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Taormina promises an enchanting blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Comune di Taormina
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Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: 10,501 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 13 km² Elevation: 204 metres Highlights: Ancient Greek Theatre, Isola Bella, Piazza IX Aprile Close by: Giardini Naxos, Castelmola, Forza d'Agrò, Savoca Recommended accommodation: Hotel Villa Fiorita |
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Fly to: Catania Airport - 1 hour 15 minutes by car (66 kilometres)
Regional train: Catania - Taormina-Giardini - 1 hour 3 minutes |
Nearest train station: Taormina-Giardini - (4 km)
Bus or taxi: Taormina-Giardini to Taormina - 10 minutes |
What are the most popular activities in Taormina and the local area?
- Greek Theatre: Explore the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina, offering breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coast. Attend performances or simply admire the well-preserved structure.
- Corso Umberto: Stroll along the charming Corso Umberto, Taormina's main street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and take in the beautiful architecture.
- Isola Bella: Visit Isola Bella, a small island nature reserve accessible via a narrow path or boat. Relax on the pebble beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the coastal flora and fauna.
- Castelmola: Take a short trip to Castelmola, a picturesque hilltop village overlooking Taormina. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the medieval castle ruins, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Mount Etna: Embark on an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. Take a guided tour to explore its lunar landscapes, craters, and lava caves, or enjoy hiking and scenic cable car rides.
- Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches near Taormina, such as Mazzarò Beach and Spisone Beach, known for their clear waters and stunning views of the coastline.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in Sicilian cuisine at local trattorias and restaurants, savoring dishes like arancini, pasta alla Norma, and fresh seafood specialties. Don't miss out on trying Sicilian sweets like cannoli and granita.
- Wine Tasting: Explore nearby wineries and vineyards in the fertile slopes of Mount Etna. Sample wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, accompanied by scenic views of the vine-covered hills.
What are the best restaurants in Taormina and the local area?
- Ristorante Granduca:
- Located in the heart of Taormina's historic center.
- Specializes in Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
- Offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna from its terrace.
- Known for its creative dishes, attentive service, and extensive wine selection.
- La Botte:
- Situated in a charming alleyway in Taormina.
- Specializes in traditional Sicilian dishes and homemade pastas.
- Provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner.
- Known for its authentic flavors, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
- Il Barcaiolo:
- Located in the nearby village of Mazzarò, a short drive from Taormina.
- Specializes in seafood dishes and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Offers a beachfront location with stunning views of the sea and coastline.
- Known for its fresh seafood, creative presentations, and relaxed ambiance.
- Ristorante Tiramisù:
- Situated in the outskirts of Taormina, surrounded by lush gardens.
- Specializes in Sicilian and Italian cuisine, with a focus on homemade desserts.
- Offers a tranquil setting with outdoor seating options.
- Known for its delicious tiramisu and other sweet treats.
- Osteria Nero D'Avorio:
- Located in the historic center of Taormina.
- Specializes in Sicilian and Italian dishes, with a creative flair.
- Offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal with friends.
- Known for its seasonal menu, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality.
Taormina Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Taormina?
- Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo:
- Situated in a prime location overlooking the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
- Offers luxurious rooms and suites with elegant decor.
- Features a swimming pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
- Provides stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
- Hotel Villa Ducale:
- Located in a quiet area of Taormina with panoramic views of the town and sea.
- Offers charming rooms and suites with traditional Sicilian decor.
- Features a terrace, garden, and outdoor Jacuzzi.
- Provides personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Grand Hotel Miramare:
- Situated near the historic center of Taormina.
- Offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities.
- Features a swimming pool, rooftop terrace, and restaurant with sea views.
- Provides easy access to Taormina's attractions, including the Greek Theatre and Corso Umberto.
- Hotel Villa Belvedere:
- Located in a tranquil area of Taormina overlooking the Bay of Naxos.
- Offers elegant rooms and suites with classic furnishings.
- Features a swimming pool, terrace, and restaurant serving Sicilian cuisine.
- Provides shuttle service to the town center and beaches.
- Grand Hotel San Pietro:
- Situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, a short distance from the center of Taormina.
- Offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities.
- Features a private beach, swimming pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
- Provides panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Etna.
What's the closest airport to Taormina?
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA):
Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO):
- Location: Near Catania, approximately 60 kilometers south of Taormina
- Distance: Approximately 60 kilometers
- Journey time by car: Around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions
Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO):
- Location: Near Palermo, approximately 280 kilometers northwest of Taormina
- Distance: Approximately 280 kilometers
- Journey time by car: Around 3 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions
What's the closest train station to Taormina?
Taormina-Giardini Railway Station
- Distance: Approximately 2 kilometers (about 1.2 miles) away.
- Journey Time: Typically takes around 5-10 minutes by car or bus.
- Connections: Taormina-Giardini station provides connections to various destinations across Sicily, including Catania, Messina, and Syracuse.
What private transfer options are there for Taormina?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Taormina takes around one hour.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Taormina?
