Things To Do
in Taormina
Taormina is a cliffside town perched above the Ionian Sea in Sicily, famed for its ancient Greek Theatre and sweeping panoramas. Its elegant lanes, medieval churches, and lush hillside gardens blend history with spectacular views. Strolling along Corso Umberto reveals charming boutiques, cafés, and gelaterias, with the sea peeking through every corner.
On clear days, Mount Etna frames sunsets over Isola Bella, making Taormina a magnet for culture, landscape, and sunlit charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Taormina and settle into your charming hotel with stunning views of the coastline. Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets to immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy a welcome breakfast at a cafe overlooking the sea, savoring fresh pastries and Italian coffee.
Visit the ancient Greek Theatre, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the coast. Explore the archaeological site and learn about the rich history of this and the surrounding area. Conclude with a stroll through the beautiful public gardens, Giardini della Villa Comunale.
Dine at an authentic Sicilian trattoria, where you can indulge in traditional dishes like pasta alla Norma. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along Corso Umberto, the main street, filled with shops and lively cafés. Cap off your day with a gelato from a local vendor, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Set off early for a guided excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. The journey includes a scenic drive through the lush countryside, showcasing the varied landscapes of Sicily. Arrive at the volcano's base, where you can take a cable car and hike to explore the craters.
Enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, perhaps indulging in local delicacies such as arancini and wine from the Etna region. After lunch, continue your exploration of the volcanic landscape, learning about the geology and flora unique to this area. Consider participating in a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards afterwards.
Return to Taormina and freshen up before an exquisite dinner at a hillside restaurant overlooking the sea. Savor the fusion of flavors typical to Sicilian cuisine, including fresh seafood and local pasta dishes. Enjoy a nightcap at a rooftop bar, relishing the breathtaking views of the illuminated town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧁Gelato or pastry | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short intra-town trip) | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning sea views and proximity to Mount Etna
- Well-preserved historic core with charming streets
- Excellent food scene and easy day trips to Sicily’s highlights
- Can be crowded and pricey in peak season
- Steep, cobbled streets can be challenging for mobility
- Some attractions have limited hours outside summer
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parli inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Un tavolo per due, per favore." - A table for two, please.
Places to Visit in Taormina
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient amphitheatre with sweeping sea views and a dramatic backdrop of Mount Etna on clear days.
Picturesque island and protected coast; best from the Belvedere or the Mazzarò area for turquoise water and dramatic cliffs.
Iconic square with tiled pavement, cafés, and panoramic views of the bay and Etna.
Terraced gardens with lemon trees, hedges, and viewpoints over the coast.
Historic gate with one of Taormina’s best sunset vantage points.
Food in Taormina
Taormina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata; a signature Sicilian classic widely found in trattorie.
Must-Try!
Fried rice balls often filled with ragù, peas, and mozzarella; perfect as a street snack.
Sweet-and-sour eggplant stew with olives and capers; a versatile antipasto or side.
Cold, refreshing lemon granita served with a soft brioche bun, a summertime staple.
Crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream and sometimes chocolate chips.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce stalls, fresh pastries, and street snacks such as arancini; best in the morning for the freshest picks.
Seasonal stalls offering quick bites and sweet treats like cannoli and granita during peak season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno/ Buonasera; a courteous hello goes a long way.
Dress modestly when entering churches; speak softly and avoid loud conversations inside sacred spaces.
Keep hands visible, use utensils appropriately, and wait to make eye contact with the server when ordering.
Italian conversations tend to be animated; be respectful of family and locals when encountering them on narrow streets.
Safety
Tipping in Taormina
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service is often included in the bill; if not, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common practice.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is handy for markets and small establishments; ATMs are common throughout the town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds; ideal for walking and hill climbs.
Warm to hot, dry days with blue seas and lively evenings; stay hydrated and use sun protection; beaches can be crowded.
Pleasant temperatures and lingering sunshine; harvest time in local markets; quieter streets.
Milder coastal winters with occasional rain; Etna may see snow, offering striking mountain scenery; many shops keep regular hours but some seasonal closures may occur.
Taormina at Night
Hiking in Taormina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Basalt canyon near the river with walkable paths and scenic canyon walls.
Guided hikes and crater views on Sicily's iconic volcano.
Coastal ridge walk offering panoramic town and sea views.
Airports
How to reach Taormina by plane.
Main international gateway for Taormina; approximately 50–60 km away; reach via highway, train, or bus connections.
Northern Sicily airport about 250–300 km away; longer drive but serves many European routes.
Mainland option on the mainland opposite Sicily; less frequent service but reachable by road/ferry combinations; general travel time longer from Taormina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largely Sicilian families maintaining long-standing traditions.
Seasonal influx from Italy and Europe, especially in spring and summer.
Hospitality staff and residents who rotate with the tourist seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal waters and coves around Taormina are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Clear seas offer opportunities to explore coastal wrecks and marine life.
Trails around Monte Tauro and near Mount Etna draw outdoor enthusiasts.
A common local pastime with regional leagues and public viewing in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taormina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most vegetarian-friendly options include pasta with tomato or pesto, caponata, grilled vegetables, ricotta-based dishes, and fresh salads; clearly request no meat broths or hidden meat stock, and consider seafood substitutes if desired.