Taormina
Quick Reference Guide:
Where to Stay:
City Centre:
Piccolo Giardino -( $$$ )Highly recommended! Rooms are not very big but they are clean and up to date and staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Located in the center of Corso Umberto and my favorite restaurant in located right in the courtyard :)
Porta del Tocco - ( $$$ ) Have not yet stayed there myself but love the decor! Located by Porta Catania (beginning of Corso Umberto)
Medousa Bistro & Suites - ($$$$) This beautiful hotel is brand new! you will love the design and decor and spacious rooms
Hotel Metropole - ($$$$$) This hotel is a bit pricier but the view and the rooms are stunning. located right in the center of Corse Umberto and Piazza IX Aprile
NH Collection Taormina ($$$$$)
San Domenico Palace (Four Seasons) - ($$$$)
Mazzaro (by the sea):
Air BnB options:
La Malandrina
Where to Eat:
Medousa Bistro - Sir in one of the most beautiful gardens and enjoy exquisite Sicilian cuisine
Rosso Di Vino - ($$$) Seafood pasta and grilled meats
Pizzeria Granduca -($$) Pizzeria & Restaurant with a beautiful view overlooking the coast
Pizzichella (Isola Bella) - ($$) delicious for lunch, if you are visiting Isola Bella
**the also organize boat excursions
La Baronessa - ($$$$) amazing modern Italian cuisine with a beautiful rooftop terrace
Aperitivo:
Drinks/Dancing:
Things To Do:
- Enjoy some amazing shopping on Corso Umberto - Taormina’s main pedestrian street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings, perfect for leisurely walks and shopping.
- Enjoy an aperitivo in the iconic Piazza IX Aprile
- Enjoy everything and anything with pistachio, especially an arancino (rice ball)!The town of Bronte located near My Etna is know to produce some of the worlds best pistachios and considered “green gold”. Naturally it is typically found on menus in sweet and savory dishes.
- Visit one of the many churches like the Duomo di Taormina (This cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, features impressive architecture and historical significance. , Chiesa di San Pancrazio (named after the Patron Saint of Taormina) Chiesa di Santa Caterina, Chiesa di San Giuseppe
- Visit the Teatro Greco - This well-preserved Greco-Roman theatre offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It’s still used for performances today.
- Visit the Villa Communale - These beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil escape with exotic plants and panoramic vistas.
- Visit Isola Bella by cable car - Known as the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” this small island is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand and is ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
- Take a boat tour - Explore the coastline, sea caves, and bays around Taormina, including the Blue Grotto.
- Visit the town of Castelmola A charming village above Taormina offering stunning views and quaint streets. Don’t miss tasting the local almond wine. (and Bar Turisi - everything is shaped like a penis - quite interesting)
- Visit Mount Etna - Take a guided tour to Europe’s most active volcano for hiking, wine tasting, or simply to marvel at its grandeur.
- Relax at Mazzarò Bay - A picturesque beach area offering crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- Tour Palazzo Corvaja - A historic palace showcasing a blend of Arab, Norman, and Gothic architecture, now housing the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions.
- Explore the Alcantara Gorges - A natural wonder featuring deep gorges and cool waters, perfect for adventurous hikes and river trekking.
- Visit the neighboring town of Savoca - this charming medieval village, famously featured in The Godfather films. Explore Bar Vitelli and the Church of San Nicolò.
- Visit local wineries on/around Mt Etna
- Enjoy a traditional Sicilian Granita at the famous BamBar