Fun things to do in Taormina: 23 fun attractions and activities

Go in the morning (before 9 am or in the evening (after 6 pm) and you won’t have to fight the crowds. It’s actually quite pleasant. Surrounded by churches and stunning scenery, the views are great.

Taormina is a jewel. The piazza is full of life and the views are breathtaking. From here you can see mount Etna and mainland Italy. There is so much to do here and the food is amazing. Taormina is definitely worth a visit.

This square in the middle of town is a beautiful spot to stop at. The Piazza overlooks the sea. You can also see Mount Etna from the terrace. The atmosphere is nice. Although it is very popular and there are a lot of people, it's not overcrowded. There are often painters offering to paint portraits for people. Around the square are examples of magnificent architecture. Take the time to visit the church on the square. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

Great atmosphere there. Best to visit in the morning when there isn't too many turist

Very enjoyable spot to enjoy this stunning town. Spotted a watercolor artist here one day and couldn't stop thinking about his beautiful work. Returned a few days later and brought one home. Look up artist Rashid on Instagram.

Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina is one of the most beautiful squares in Sicily, combining history and elegance. The square is framed by the Church of San Giuseppe, built in the 17th century in Sicilian Baroque style, and the medieval Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio), originally from the 12th century. Its name commemorates 9 April 1860, when Garibaldi’s uprising against the Bourbons was announced. From here, the views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea are truly unique, making it a perfect meeting point and a place where history and daily life come together.

Beautiful place, the view was magnificent and the church.

The church itself is a nice place to visit. The rock inside is unique. Free entrance. We weren’t able to access the gardens at all. The views are worth the walk up from Taormina. Not too difficult and rewarded with great views of the city, ocean, and Mount Etna. You can keep going up to the castle from here as well.

If you're in Taormina, you definitely have to make the climb up to Chiesa Madonna della Rocca. It's a bit of a hike (or a short drive), but the views from up there are absolutely incredible. You get amazing panoramic shots of Taormina and the coastline. The church itself is pretty unique, built right into the rock. Totally worth the effort for the scenery! The entrance is free.

Beautiful, scenic walk with about 120 meters of elevation gain via a staircase, with statues on each turn depicting the story of Jesus’ suffering – step by step (pun intended). At the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning view of the town below and Mount Etna in the distance. A small monastery (likely Catholic) is open for lighting candles. Entrance is free. You can climb a bit further up behind the kiosk for an even better view towards Etna.

There is not so much to see inside the church, but the view from the top is amazing. You can also buy some water & drinks above. To reach the top, you need to either to hike or you can take a cab/car to go there from another side of the mountain.

Great climb with awesome views over the bay. Not too tough in may, but may be a lot harder in july sun. Remember water.

Go for the workout! You will be rewarded with beautiful views and a beautiful church.

Great morning hike to enjoy great views with a cool breeze to help with all the stairs.

This city park is really lovely and very pleasant to walk around. There’s plenty of space with wide paths and lots of benches, perfect for sitting and enjoying the surroundings. The greenery is beautiful, a mix of palm trees and regular trees, and in the late afternoon when the sun starts to set, it looks especially nice. There are small fountains with fresh drinking water, several decorative fountains, and even a historic building adding some charm. There’s also an outdoor gym with various exercise machines, though a few of them are slightly damaged. A few small vendors sell ice cream, drinks, or snacks. From some spots in the park you can enjoy views of the rocks and the sea. There’s a playground for children and overall it’s quiet and peaceful, a great place to relax and spend time outdoors.

Wonderful place! Such tall cacti there so beautifully placed. We took a lot of pictures and the sea view was amazing. Totally worth to come back to Taormina.

The park was stunning. We made sure to dine close by so we could wander back after nightfall and experience it in a different light. Darkness didn’t make it unsettling—it felt timeless, almost like walking through a preserved moment in history.

The Villa Comunale, Taormina is a beautiful gem tucked away that we came across while wondering through the city. It is filled with so much history and serenity. It's so calming and quiet. My boys even played on the little playground in the middle of the park. Picturesque ocean views can be seen at certain points and there are tons of photo opportunities throughout. A great family place to just stroll through after the hustle and bustle of the center city to gather ones self before dinner or even early in the morning. This is a must see on your itinerary.

Such a gorgeous and unique place! Definitely visit, you won't regret it. It's absolutely stunning and has amazing views over the bay

Wonderful park on walking distance fron the center of taormina. Beautiful large trees and lots of cozy benches and shadow places to escape the heating sun. The view is amazing too. There are a few old buildings that remain from the english garden era. Also there is a great playground for the youngsters among us. The park is very well maintained.

Enchanted park and open space in the middle of Taromina. Wonderful history of the women behind the parks creation and improvements. A wonderful oasis from the busy old section of Taromina.

Palazzo Corvaja is on our right, shortly after entering Taormina from Porta Messina. A beautiful, comparative building, it combines different architectural elements, Arabic, Catalan, Gothic, Norman. The central tower is of Arabic construction from the 10th century, while the rest of the building was built in parts between the 13th and 15th centuries. It has a special arched entrance and a very beautiful internal courtyard with a staircase that ends in an internal balcony before the entrance to the 1st floor. The special architectural double and triple arched Arabic windows stand out, the sections of which are separated by small intermediate columns. It took its name (Corvaja) from one of the oldest and most famous families in the city, which owned it from 1538 to 1945. Today it houses the offices of the Sicilian Tourism Agency (APT).

This palace dates from medieval times. The architecture presents different elements and styles. It was the prinary residence of the Corvaja family up until 1975. Now this historic monument houses a museum with exhibits from history and the tourist information office. From Taormina you get a good view of Mount Etna. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

The place is amazing and so different from the other places

The ancient streets of the old city look very organic, it is pleasant to walk along them.

Would absolutely recommend a holiday in Taormina, Sicily. A fabulous place with lots to see.

Gorgeous street

Too crowded... not enjoyable

Romanesque The Cathedral of Taormina (Duomo di Taormina), located at the heart of Piazza Duomo, is a striking blend of medieval austerity and Sicilian charm. Built in the 13th century and later modified, its fortress-like exterior contrasts beautifully with the elegance of its interior. The rose window and baroque elements add a unique touch to the otherwise Romanesque structure.

This medieval cathedral is very nice and beautiful. It has a handsome rose window. There is some renaissance artwork around. The exterior looks like a stronghold. It was/is known as the fortress cathedral. There is a Baroque fountain opposite in the piazza. You can see Mount Etna from outside the church. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

Beautiful, serene as all Duomo. Take your time to look around, visit the piazza, walk the local streets, enjoy the atmosphere of Catania

The Duomo di Taormina is very beautiful and not nearly as crowded as other tourist spots. There are a couple of nice restaurants around it, making it a pleasant place to visit. Highly recommended for a peaceful and enjoyable experience!

Duomo @Taormina is great but the foreign exchange store next to it was a robbery. 10 euros fee plus 20% commissions on top of 1.21 exchange rate (usd to euro public rate is 1.13 today)!!! Don’t go no matter what

Very nice Duomo, great scenic views.

Beautiful history...don't miss it. Highly recommended.

A compact mountain village with busy streets and a wide variety of shops and restaurants .

Beautiful view of Mount Etna. A historic piece of architecture, which forms part of the historic ramparts of the city. This gateway was built in 1440. This nice medieval gate presents the opening to one of the prettiest towns in Sicily. There are plenty of churches around in town. There's a shopping centre nearby. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

A beautiful old town with lots of history, high end shopping, and restaurants.

At the far end of Corso Umberto, where the street narrows and the air begins to smell faintly of sea salt and espresso, stands Porta Catania is more than an entrance it’s a threshold between centuries. Step through, and you don’t just enter Taormina; you enter a whisper of history that still remembers you. The southern gate of Taormina. Built centuries ago, it has watched the town’s stories flow through like a living river of footsteps, laughter, and memory. Pass beneath its arch and you feel the shift from the modern rhythm of cafés and boutiques to the slow heartbeat of medieval Sicily. The gate’s basalt stones, darkened by Etna’s breath, still hold the warmth of the sun and the voices of those who once passed through: traders from Catania, pilgrims from afar, lovers sneaking back at dawn. Look up the coat of arms of Aragon still rests above the arch, a reminder that this island has belonged to many, yet always remained its own. From here, if you turn around, the mountains cradle the horizon; ahead, the old town unfolds like a woven tapestry of gold and ochre.

This place is stunningly beautiful. It quaint and historical with wonderful architecture and atmosphere. Views and scenery are amazing a visit is highly recommended typically Sicilian.

Porta Catania is one of the main medieval gates of Taormina, built in the 15th century under the Aragonese rule. Its coat of arms, with the Aragonese shield, still decorates the facade, marking the town’s historical connection with that era. The gate formed part of the city’s defensive walls and served as the entrance leading towards Catania. Today, it remains a well-preserved monument that reflects the strategic and architectural importance of Taormina during the Middle Ages."l

From here you can begin your trip in the center of Taormina on Corso Umberto

Wonderful to see that places like this are free for people to experience. However, there HAS to be a person there to keep tourists from littering and using the corners as toalets. The site of this importance needs to be maintained better. Also, please let street musicians use the area for live music, that would be a perfect combo...

A close-up view of the Roman Odeon in Taormina, Italy — ancient brickwork and stone seating reveal the intimate scale of this Roman-era theatre, tucked quietly behind the bustling streets, echoing with the cultural legacy of Sicily’s layered history.

Nice small archeological monument of a rare type, interesting and worth a quick visit. However, it's pretty built in by the surrounding houses, which makes its original state hard to imagine. There's just one table with a few explanations at the entrance (Italian and half length in English only), which isn't very detailed. This could be improved, as could the signposting, as I didn's see a single sign pointing towards this somewhat hidden site. Entrance is free by the way, the area is open from 09:00 to one hour before sunset.

Yet another amazing structure rich with history. This little theatre used to be the edge of the town before they built up a huge wall to the east. The views would have been incredible. It’s similar in a lot of ways to tested antica but with some key differences as it was Greek in original construction (I think)

Awesome place to come, with a view of the whole city and the coastline on both sides that is hard to see elsewhere. The theatre is also very well kept itself and seeing the coastline through its center is very cool. Would definitely recommend this as a must do spot if you come to Taormina.

Also a really special place- tucked away but has great history

The smaller theatre in taormina situated right amongst the houses

⭐ A truly extraordinary site. The Ancient Theatre of Taormina is stunning — its size, location, and breathtaking views make it unforgettable. The setting is fantastic, especially with the sunlight shining through the old stone arches, creating a magical atmosphere. The ticket price is around €14–15 per person, which may feel a bit high, but it’s worth it. We planned to stay for a short visit and ended up spending about an hour, simply because the place is so peaceful and makes you want to linger. A must-see in Taormina. 🌿

Brilliant piece of history and still in use today. Not overly priced and the views are fabulous on a good day. We spent 2 hrs going around in the late afternoon so it wasn't too busy or to the point, too hot. Take a breather and soak up all the beauty that surrounds you and watch as the stage hands prepare for the evenings musical event. So glad we did it and would recommend it to you all while here in this beautiful part of Sicily.

At 16 Euro entry its an absolute steal. If you enjoy history and unbelievably stunning views you cannot go wrong. It is probably the most photographed spot in Sicily. Carved into a natural amphitheatre there was 5400 spectator seats. Built in the Hellenistic style in the 3rd century BC with Later Roman additions. Also referred to as the Greek theatre due to this part of Sicily at the time being a Greek colony.

This is a magical setting and definitely worth your time and money. The theatre is accessible, and gives you a great sense of the past. Plus you get Mt Etna in the backdrop, an added bonus. If you go the first Sunday of the month its free entry!

Must must see. The views from here are INSANE. Also, just the history and being in the amphitheatre, brings you back hundreds of years. You can’t go to Taormina without seeing it. My pictures below I actually took them from an iPhone!

Here's a polished version of your review: This location is truly breathtaking, with its stunning scenery. However, the prices are steep - we paid almost $50 for a family visit that lasted only 15 minutes. On the plus side, there's a convenient free shuttle from the parking area, and the walk to the attraction isn't too long. We visited with a stroller and toddler, and managed okay. Long line to buy tickets, original website didn’t work for me to buy tickets in advance.

I visited the Teatro Antico di Taormina with a group of students on an educational tour of Sicily, and Taormina was a real high-point of the trip. This ancient city and its theatre are well worth the visit. We were fortunate to gain quick access to the site, accompanied by a very knowledgeable tour guide who explained the history of the theatre: originally built by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC and later rebuilt and expanded by the Romans.  He also explained the difference between Greek theatres (often carved into a hillside) and Roman theatres (more frequently built up or freestanding) — which aligns with this site: the initial Greek theatre was carved into the rock of Mount Tauro, and the Roman additions rebuilt and enlarged the structure.  Since we visited during the week in the off-season, crowds were minimal and the experience was relaxed. The structure is impressive and fairly well-preserved, especially considering its age and layered history. Definitely recommend this site if you’re in Sicily. Be sure to set aside enough time for the theatre and its views over the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna

Isola Bella is so beautiful and rich in history. The house/museum has so much character that it’s just so nice to sit and take it all in. Such a beautiful building and scenery. My only downside is that the beach gets so crowded that it didn’t make me want to swim and the cost of sunbeds is atrocious! I got charged €100 for 2 sunbeds which I declined. I of course do not blame anyone for the beach being too busy as there is no one to blame for that. Overall I really enjoyed the museum and scenery. It was a beautiful morning out.

Beautiful spot for photos and crystal-clear water, but the beach is rocky, very crowded - water shoes are highly recommended. Worth seeing once, but not really a place for relaxation - book a boat tour… escape the crowded

The place is amazing but can be very crowded with people. Do to the many tourists, the area and the beach and water has plastic and left behinds. If they are free, rent a peddle board at the diving centre in the left corner of the beach. You will have a better view of the whole area and can swim more freely.

Beautiful beach. Very rocky so you might want sandals or water shoes. There are umbrellas and chairs along e The beach but they cost a whopping 40€ per person. You can choose to just stay in the regular part of the beach and just put towels down

A must if your in the area. Beach is rocky, water shoes were a lifesaver. Spent a few hours and that was perfect. Not a far walk from the gondola 🚠 ( sky lift )

We did not buy the tickets but wanted to enjoy a beach day on the emblematic Isola Bella. There were a lot of people, but it was worth it. There are showers, and there is possibly to rent a beach mattress, however no changing rooms. Recommend taking water shoes since it’s a rock beach.

Perfect beach for snorkeling, suitable for all ages. There are shallows for young ones to play in and also quite deep areas around the base of the island for more adventurous adults. Plenty of space even on a busy weekend day. Absolutely perfect water and by nature good shelter

Amazing place very pretty well maintained beautiful courtyard and the pastry shop a must if you are done of Sicilian sweets

Opposite Palazzo Corvaja we find this small but beautiful Baroque church. It was built in the 17th century, partly on the pre-existing Roman Odeon, which in turn was built on an ancient temple of Aphrodite. The church stands out for its special Baroque entrance, in which pink marble from Taormina was used. Above the entrance we see the statue of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Inside, the spiral columns and beautiful oil paintings stand out.

The Church of Santa Caterina, built in the 17th century, stands on the ruins of a small Roman theater, traces of which can still be seen nearby. Dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, it reflects Baroque style with elegant details. While not as grand as Taormina’s cathedral, its historical layers — from Roman to Baroque — make it worth visiting. A charming stop, though relatively modest compared to other monuments in town.

Beautiful, amongst the chaos of Dior, Louis Vuitton and the white lotus f goodnesses sake

A cute little baroque church and surprised to see a decorated antique car outside. Inside of the church is clean and simple and seems that very little maintenance was done.

I always stop by whilst in Taormina. It's absolutely beautiful

Worth a visit but limited in decoration

Very old church with such an interesting history. High, so high, many local shops around, very tasty food, beautiful views, and many more. ;)

This Catholic church is right on the main square. The Piazza IX Aprile has a picturesque view onto the sea and out to Mount Etna. The church has a Baroque façade and uses pink marble from Taormina. At the front there is a balcony that overlooks the piazza. Inside are pretty frescoes, pillars and carvings. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

An old beautiful church in the center of Taormina. Located within terrace and a lot of restaurants. Must visit location on sun set😁

The Baroque church of San Giuseppe dominates the back of the beautiful Piazza XI Aprile. Unlike many other Baroque churches we visited in Sicily, this one is not so richly decorated. It is more simple and unassuming. A beautiful wide staircase takes you up to the church courtyard. The arched, according to Baroque architecture, entrance is made of pieces of white, gray and pink marble. High on the facade, above the entrance, there is a statue of Christ blessing the flock. Inside there are beautiful frescoes and several statues of saints. An interesting visit!

Beautiful romantic looking church. When we were there there was a huge wedding ceremony so we couldn't go in to see. It stands right outside the central piazza and has a great view of the sea.

A lovely simple Italian church. The visit is free. From its entrance there is a wonderful view of the square.

Taormina can be busy in summertime, the church of San Giuseppe offers a relaxing moment. Seen here in a 2013 picture.

Stayed here for 2 nights! Beautiful views of Etna and Taormina. Intoxicating perfume from the garden. Walking distance to the town. Most importantly our host, Maria was great with recommendations and stories of the property.

This doesn't feel like a hotel, you feel welcomed as a close friend. The hotel is set in beautiful terraced gardens and has a view which is absolutely breathtaking. The house itself is full of interesting art and artifacts and you really do feel the history as you walk through the rooms. The bedrooms are very clean, spacious and original. The staff were fabulous! Thank you for a wonderful stay.

We stayed for approx. 1 week in the Greta Garbo suite. We took the museum tour first thing when we arrived (starts at 11:00 every day) which was very nice as we got to know the rich history of the place before enjoying our stay there. Overall we were extremely happy with our stay at Casa Cuseni. The staff is extremely nice and helpful, the breakfast is very good (better than most other hotels I’ve visited), the garden is great, the swimming pool which soon will be finished looks great, and the list of positive things keeps going on. Also, it was surprisingly easy to get to the beach - there were shuttle buses (tuktuk style) picking us up in the morning and dropping us off when we’d had enough sea for the day. The cost for this was included in the sunbed price at Lido La Pigna of 30 EUR per person for the day. We found this beach to be very nice and worth the price. In summary, we were very satisfied with our stay and we look forward to visiting Casa Cuseni again sometime soon!

If you have an interest in history and art then this is the place for you in Taormina. And if that wasn't enough then there are some spectacular views over the town with Mount Etna as a backdrop, all surrounded by fantastic gardens and a soon to be commissioned swimming pool. Casa Cuseni will not provide you with a typical hotel experience for which Taormina has plenty to offer if that is what you are looking for. But what is does provide is character and loads of it, from the artefacts and works of art in every room (including the bedrooms which are very well proportioned), to the breakfast which is simple but wholesome, to of course the staff who are fantastic whether it be providing you a guided tour of the museum to recommending local restaurants. Things of note, Casa Cuseni is built into the mountains side and therefore on multiple levels. There is lift to assist and there are plans to install a lift from the parking area up to the house, which will save lugging cases up and down the hill. Additionally the town is below the hotel, so easy to walk down to dinner, not so easy walking back up, although there are taxis available in the town itself. Parking was easy and where necessary your car will be moved to a secure offsite parking. It's also work remembering that every penny goes towards maintaining the museum and its grounds for future generations. You don't get that at your average Hilton!

I don't have words for Casa Cuseni - truly one of the most wonderful houses I have ever seen let alone stayed! The rooms, gardens and museum are so steeped in history and breathtaking, and the view across Taormina from the Greta Garbo balcony is second to none. On our first night we sat on the balcony and watched lava flow from Mt Etna, a once in a lifetime experience. We loved that the house is a little above the tourist epicentre of Taormina but the perfect place to access everything. Magdalena, Maria, Francesco and - apologies! I have forgotten the lovely chefs name! - were so warm and friendly. If we had our time again we'd book more nights here. Highly recommend and then some.

Casa Cuseni is a world treasure and it is amazing that you can stay there. It was built in 1905 by wealthy orientalist artist Robert Kitson, and it quickly became a refuge for famous artists and intellectuals who stayed there. We stayed in the Picasso suite where there were many of Kitson’s works hanging on the wall just as he had left them. Some of the paintings are badly in need of preservation efforts, however. The view, the history, and the atmosphere really appeal to a type of person. Not those who want the most modern and convenient places, but those who want to immerse themselves in history and hear the echoes of those who came before. We really appreciated all the staff and their conscientious and kind attention. All the best to them and success to their efforts.

Our stay was an unforgettable experience, and we cannot recommend it enough!! The location is fantastic; every room has a view of the ocean, Etna, and the breathtaking garden. You can easily walk to the Taormina city center in no time. All the staff members were so kind and welcoming. We learned so much about the property's history from the guided tour and are very happy to be part of the conservation of Casa Cuseni.

We had a really nice private tour, definitely worth the price for a group of four. Angelo was professional and very knowledgeable guide.

What a fantastic experience for my mom(88) and myself.Our guide Joe was fabulous, friendly and full of knowledge about Etna and the environment. Being on Etna visiting different parts to see lava flows, walking down into a crater and up the other side for panoramic views was epic . Also,the visit to the lava tunnel was just an amazing experience and feeling to be where lava had actually flowed through-mind blowing! At all times Joe was just a brilliant guide and took great care of my mom and nothing was too much trouble. The company were also very communicative and answered any questions I had promptly. A great company and a great guide and I’d totally recommend.

Fantastic tour of Etna with Rosario. He is so enthusiastic about the volcano, its history and geology, and really knows how to explain things. He took us to a number of stops on the way up to the volcano which were so interesting. He made sure everyone in the group was going at their own pace and was open to the questions that we all asked. We never felt rushed either. I highly recommend this tour.

we found Rosario, the local owner by searching out a local tour guide. we looked into get your guide, viator and a couple of other big companies but you can’t compare someone who has generations of local family roots like Rosario touring you around Sicily which he knows like the back of his hand versus a big company guide that has read and studied an area for maybe a year or two. Rosario from start to finish was easy to contact, prompt to get back to us, gave us exactly what was promised in our case a direct hotel pick up not some random meeting point where when in a new country you might be unfamiliar or anxious about where to go. a detail of all of Taormina history along a beautiful scenic ride to Siracusa and Ortigia. Rosario also shared personal accounts from his deep family history in Taormina and all over Italy as his family has had some incredible experiences ! it truly made us feel at home as we toured he also new all the best spots for food, great pictures to capture and suggestions for us after the tour was over to not miss out on. we loved our day trip from Taormina to Siracusa & portions so much , we booked a second trip to etna with him along with an airport transfer. feeling safe in a foreign country is a huge priority for us and it felt like Rosario was always a text away . I highly recommend you use Rosario and his company , they were above and beyond our expectations .

We absolutely loved the Mt Etna tour — it was such an unforgettable experience! Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish, and we truly enjoyed every moment. A big thanks to our guide Angelo, who was incredibly informative and friendly. He made the whole experience even more enjoyable with their knowledge and friendly attitude. We had a fantastic time and would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area. Thank you again!

Wow – what a tour! Veronica is the ultimate guide. From the moment of our early morning pickup, she set a friendly and lighthearted tone for the day. Veronica is incredibly knowledgeable about Mt. Etna and the surrounding area, and her stops along the way felt unique and off the usual tourist path; it truly felt like a first-hand experience. The lava tube exploration was definitely a highlight! She was so patient as my husband practiced his Italian, even gently correcting him when needed. Highly recommend Veronica and this tour if you want an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Yes, we really enjoyed it! Mario was very passionate about what he does and extremely knowledgeable. He was also very punctual. We’ll definitely come back, hopefully when there’s some lava to see!

We immensely enjoyed walking and shopping at this unique stoned Main Street of the enchanting medieval village of Taormina. There are shops for clothes, shoes, and souvenirs; as well as restaurants and bars. I particularly love the chocolate store Nina & Friends and the Capricco Gelateria.

The main road runs through the old town from Porta Catania to Porta Messina. The pedestrian street is full of cafes, bars and places to buy souvenirs. There are plenty of luxury designer shops around too. There's churches to visit too. The buildings have prettily decorated balconies. Off one end of the road you can visit the teatro antico di Taormina. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

Center attraction of Taormina, great for shopping, could find a lot of eatery which makes authentic Italian food, great place for night outs, restaurants are open till 12am! This place is a gem🤩

Long walkable street unifying shops, restaurants, and the best sights of Taormina.

Beautiful old pedestrian street that makes for the most memorable stroll through Taormina. Bustling with energy and excitement at all hours day or night. Adults sharing a cocktail and a story over a game of cards while children run and play. A glorious representation of people in their highest and best form of enjoying and just truly living life.

Corso Umberto is the cobbled stoned main street of the enchanting medieval village of Taormina. It is the Main Street of the old town where tourist can visit nice churches, shops, cafe, restaurants and museums.

Lovely street with various shops with traditional facade. A bit crowded due to many tourists but still beautiful.

What a great show. 10 lovely chosen and well performed opera pieces. In fact the trio did an exceptional job. Highly recommend. It is 1 1/2 hour with cocktail break so very easy to fit in.

We had a great time listening to the solid performances of messrs. Marianna Cappellani, Moises Molin and Antonio Gennaro. It is not an opera per se, but a well organized intimate musical show, in which famous arias and popular italian songs are interpreted in an informal yet professional way. Highly recommended for Taormina visitors who love classical music. VIP seats (front rows) provide for the best experience and are well worth it.

Makes for a pleasant evening, with familiar music, nice ambient, a bit out of most touristy part of town, changing artists make it worth revisiting specially when no other venues are in season.

Beautiful place in Taormina with fantastic programme. Listening to selection of arias from most prominent operas in history was wonderful. Two fantastic opera singers, male and female, and maestro on piano. So simple and so wonderful. If you are in Taormina during a week night I highly recommend you go. There are also drinks served before the performance, and during a short break in the programme, on a terrace with amazing view.

A wonderful show, amazing voices and pianist. VIP experience was worth it. Make sure to ask for front row at check-in

Fabulous evening in small intimate theatre. The performance of around 10 popular arias, plus a couple of operatic interludes lasts about 90 minutes, and included highlights from Mozart, Bellini, Puccini, Verdi and Lehar. Don’t bother with the VIP package, which just gets you into the front 4 rows plus an extra glass of bubbly.

Italian Opera Taormina really is one of those little surprises that makes a trip unforgettable. It’s held in a small, historic theater with a cozy vibe close enough that you feel the emotion in every aria, but casual enough that families show up in relaxed clothes and no one feels out of place. The singers and pianist don’t just perform; they throw themselves into it, hitting every note with warmth and humor. At intermission, everyone spills out onto the terrace for a glass of Prosecco and snacks, taking in the pretty nighttime views of Taormina. People often say it’s the perfect “taster” of opera: familiar songs, friendly faces, and great value for the ticket price. Whether it’s a highlight of a trip, a date night, or a fun evening with kids, most guests leave smiling sometimes even a little teary-eyed. Even if opera isn’t usually on the agenda, it somehow wins people over with charm and contagious energy

It’s very rocky and a bit crowded. However, the views are spectacular. The water is super clear, but exceptionally dirty. I walked out with two fistfuls of plastic. It’s a real shame how to start treating the spot and how dirty and full of plastic it has become.

The beach is beautiful, but I must admit I expected a bit more. There is little public space available. We rented sunbeds at Plage Resort for €80 for two people. We also had lunch at their restaurant it was pleasant, though rather expensive for what was offered.

Gorgeous location. Beautiful crystal clear, warm waters. Great for paddling, swimming and snorkelling. Can get busy. Sunbeds pricey from the lidos but can sit for free.

Beautiful location but had lost a lot of natural charm by being overcrowded by private beach clubs with sun beds and vendors trying to sell you things every 2 seconds. Amazing place if you can look past all that.

My daughter visited the beach here. It's quite popular and busy. There a bunch of shops along the walkway. We took a boat tour around the island to see the caves, did some swimming off the boat.

Beautiful setting, but sadly exploited The beach itself is stunning, but most of it is taken over by private businesses charging €25 for a sunbed. The small public section is, unsurprisingly, overcrowded. It’s frustrating—especially considering this is a protected natural reserve. Unfortunately, it feels like yet another classic case of tourist exploitation in Italy.

Beautiful stone beach. Nice and clean. A lot of friendly people. I recommend water shoes.

Staff was super friendly. If you're not a big fan of history, the views will pay out for the ticket. It's breathtaking! There's a big binoculars at the top of the castle, we didn't know how to use it as there were no instructions for it. There's a long walk up the stair from Taormina center, I don't recommend it during hot weather or of you're not fit enough. We also wanted to take the bus but after a 40 min wait it never arrived so we went down some stairs straight to Taormina center. It's hard on the knees, lots of stairs.

Spectacular views and must-see. Good fitness exercise! The stairs are steep but safe, and it took us about 30 min to get up with a few breaks. Tickets 10€ per person. The church was beautiful and quiet, the historical castle was so interesting and was nicely curated with informative posters placed all over and some exhibition props. The top view is incredible!!!!

An absolutely unforgettable visit. The Castle of Taormina is a magical place, full of history with views that leave you breathless. From the top you can see the whole city, the sea shining in the background and in front, the majestic Etna dominating the landscape. It's simply spectacular! The staff was very friendly, always willing to help and make you feel very welcome. If you are in Sicily, this is a mandatory stop. 🌋🌅🇮🇹

The view from the castle, especially from the bastion, is incredible. You get a full 360-degree panorama of the sea, Taormina, Mount Etna, and everything in between. It’s especially impressive to see mainland Italy in the distance (Calabria), as well as the Greek Theatre of Taormina and even the town’s main square. The views are truly stunning. The castle itself isn’t much—just a few remaining walls—but the scenery makes it well worth the visit. Keep in mind that if you plan to reach it on foot from Taormina, it’s a long uphill staircase (20 mins). You’ll need to be in decent shape, and it can get very hot on sunny days with almost no shade. Admission is €10, which might feel a bit steep for what’s left of the castle, but the view alone justifies the price.

Castello di Taormina provides some beautiful panoramic views of the city and the water. The castle was built in an essential spot so that enemy ships could be spotted from afar and the city could be protected. There’s so much history to the castle, which dates back to the 13th century. It is trapezoid shaped and had so many different levels to explore. It has some very distinct architecture that represents the Arab-Norman period. Much of the castle has deteriorated, but it’s still an incredible site nonetheless.

The castle in Taormina is not particularly important if you are interested in history. It is a relatively small and unremarkable ruin. However, the view of the surrounding area is magnificent. If you think the €10 entrance fee is worth it, go for it.

I went alone cuz the rest of the family had a day off so paying 10 eur per person just for myself did not feel like total waste of money. There is not much to see other than the stunning views... which you basically have more or less the same from below the castle.

A hidden little place up the hill in Taormina. Fancy place with an amazing view, great food and service. Can attest to the quality being fair for the price. In particular, the Polpo scottato con soia e caramello salato su crema di patate, Crespolina ripiena di crema di melanzane su fonduta di piacentinu ennese, and Trancio di tonno alla griglia con olio e limone. Semifreddo rocher with almond is a nice dolce. Of the cocktails we tried Continental Margerita, White Lotus, Good View and all were very well mixed plus they had a good alcohol to drink ratio if you're not trying to get too buzzed.

A hidden gem! Spectacular views (Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos)! Service provided by a great team. Good snack foods. Wife had the chicken salad to go with her white wine and I had the fried eggplant with negroni. Definitely recommend Sky Rooftop Bar for drinks & snacks to take in the breathtaking views!

I liked a lot a view to Etna, the sea, and the mountains. Personnel was very friendly and the service was great. We enjoyed a sample of risotto as a starter, a compliment from the chef. All food was made from local ingredients and included authentic Sicilian dishes like caponata, spaghetti alle vongole, and sword fish rolls. From the wine list Sicilian rosato frizzante was a very good choice. We also liked very much traditional almond cookies and biscotti as a compliment. The music was from 70s, 80s, 90s to target the audience. And I would say that for 5 people, for full dinner, with wine and dessert, the total price was not too high, considering the quality of food and the environment. Highly recommended.

I can't think of a better place to have a great meal. I love the food, service and the views. Truly Loved the gentle music playing in the background while you are enjoying the views and the wine.

Atmospheric restaurant. Incredible view. Nice staff. Delicious food! I recommend!😃

The food drinks and atmosphere are Amazing. Great views of smoking Etna and the coast.

Sky Rooftop Bar in Taormina offers a stunning panoramic view of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks. The bar boasts a chic, modern ambiance with comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere. The cocktail menu features a creative mix of classic and signature drinks, all crafted with quality ingredients. Service is attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. While prices are on the higher side, they are justified by the exceptional location and breathtaking views. Perfect for a romantic evening or a stylish night out in Taormina.

Nice little detour away from the main Corso Umberto leading you down a shady walk with nice planting and Greek and Roman remains. Keep going to the far end and you'll come out at Via degli artisti and the Bam Bar (be prepared to queue).

Great little tucked-away diversion while exploring town. I saw sources that listed it as 1st century BC and also 2nd century AD. In any case, a historic treasure from Roman times. Apparently fountains were in the arched niches and statues of gods and heroes were in the rectangular niches.

Very cool historical landmark in Taormina. Seemed to be a gathering place, with big alcoves where statues may have been. I wish there had been some more information about it right in that area, but there were only a couple of signs. Tickets were not needed when we visited.

The red brick wall and rectangular niches are a historical monument. The Roman fixed construction dates from around the 2nd century. The name suggests this was part of a naval battle, but it was not and was never used to stage production of such water shows. It functioned as a retaining wall for the terrace on top of it. The garden is pretty. In the middle there was a large water cistern. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

Unearthed only in 1943, the Naumachie are a long red brick facade from the Roman era. The monumental succession of 18 major niches interspersed with minor rectangular niches is appreciable. All for a 122m long by 5m high elevation. There are several hypotheses on its use, certainly there is that it was not used for the representation of naval battles (contrary to its denomination); more likely it was a Gymnasium, that is, a place to do gymnastic exercises.

Taormina is located in the northeast of Sicily. It is a mountain city near the sea. It was a Greek colony in 400 BC and came under the jurisdiction of the Roman Empire in 212 BC. Taormina is considered to be the most beautiful town in Sicily. Some people think: "If you can only choose one destination in Sicily, then come to Taormina."

It was nice however if you are in a rush, it can be missed. It only takes a few minutes to see.

We did the 2000m Basic Etna Tour and it was exactly what we hoped for at the best price we could find. The guide Saverio was tireless and explained everything about the volcano and Sicily in general, great knowledge and person. It also included a discount for the Alcantara Gorges and it is nice they take you there but the Gorges were a bit underwhelming. Overall 5/5!

My wife & I went on an ETNA 3000 tour today. The tour was arranged by a young lady called Marinella & her colleague Marzia. Marinella did an excellent job of understanding what we wanted & then explained fully what tour was the best suited to us. Marinella went on to explain that we would pay a deposit at the point of booking & the balance to pay on the day of the tour because the weather often changes what can be done on the volcano. On the day of the tour, our guide Saverio did a great job giving full information, fluently in several different languages, from the time of the last pickup all the way to the stop on Etna. As it turned out, the weather was not good so we were not able to do the final part of the trip & the the journey back to Taormina we made the final payment just for what we were able to do. Our coach driver also did a fantastic job driving those winding roads without us having to worry. All in all, a very well organised & managed trip. The staff were very knowledgeable, helpful & it was a pleasure interacting with everyone. It was a day to remember.

Wonderful Experience with Excellent Service! Three weeks ago, I visited Giardini de Naxos and booked two tours with this company. It was a truly wonderful experience from start to finish. The service was attentive and met all my requests perfectly. Saverio, our tour guide, was fantastic—extremely knowledgeable, patient, kind, and always ready to help. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a memorable and well-organized tour.

We joined the Etna Tour with the agency on July 18th — everything was professional, kind, and incredibly friendly. The whole day went by in a flash! We also got some great tips for visiting Taormina. 10/10 from us

Please explore all options before booking here. Booked a boat excursion that never occurred. Please also note this company is now threatening legal action for the negative review that they deserve.

The Stromboli tour was a big lie. We booked this trip for Stromboli eruption, we spend more then 12 hours with 3 kids on roads&boats just for the night eruption and they didn’t expert one, but when we paid the trip they said us that we will see red lava 100%. Don’t recomand this agency at all, they lie just to take the money.

DISHONEST AND WILL NOT ISSUE REFUND WITHOUT SIGNIFICANT NEGOTIATIONS AND HASSLE. Cancelled a mid day boat trip but did not provide any prior notice despite having our contact information, which left us unable to book another tour. Obtaining a refund was extremely stressful and difficult, as they had a bunch of hoops to jump through including trying to photocopy our ID for some reason and requesting some sort of transaction receipt that they never actually gave us to begin with. They didn't understand how to handle a North American credit card and kept trying to get us to provide bank account information that wasn't applicable. Refused to give us cash. Ultimately it took over an hour to obtain a refund and only after we threatened to call the police. We eventually got a refund (after communicating with the manager via WhatsApp) but I strongly advise against booking with this company.

Spectacular trail and not crowded in July as we started at 7:00 in the morning from Taormina and went up to Castelmola. Then we had a return path down to Madonna di Rocca and the steps above Taormina as we took suggestions from other reviews. It was just incredible experience

February 2, 2025: The trail is closed due to construction work. No information whatsover when it will be open again. :-/

Great path from Taormina to Castelmola with fantastic views. We went up this route, then took a return path down towards Madonna di Rocca and the steps above Taormina. Then pass through Taormina through the town gardens and head down to Isola Bella. We returned by the cable car/gondola. A really nice route, great way to see the place, just stick on some decent footwear.

Whatever we say about colorful Taormina won't be enough to describe its beauty!

Not to be missed! Skip the bus and get the exercise and the views! Our deepest thanks to local Francesco for telling us about this!

Cherry on top. I was bit disappointed about Taormina, but that path shown me it's beautifulness. Castemola is great, way less crowded that her "sister" and views are amazing. I was there in mid November, 29 degrees, sunny, green - just perfect

It was beautiful but very crowded :( This is a very popular destination. My advice is to go up. They told me it's a very nice picture from there.

(Translated by Google) I leave aside any considerations on the work itself: the link to the text and the audio - considered as one with the statue - is what I would like to underline. Trying to pay homage to Oscar Wilde by bringing up his imprisonment, his love (quoted in quotation marks), his friendship with Van Gloeden as if everything had fallen from the sky, without clearly saying that Wilde was prosecuted and imprisoned because he was homosexual, his love was Lord Alfred Douglas and that both he and Gloeden were gay is insulting and more hypocritical than his bigoted contemporaries who decreed his ruin. I thought the time of love "that dares not speak its name" was over, evidently we don't understand the dissonance between trying to pay homage to an artist and not even being able to clearly say why. Do we continue to do things like this, by suggestions? Do we rely on the said-unsaid? I wonder with what barbaric courage one considers oneself worthy of approaching Wilde and his peculiar story with the same cowardice and hypocrisy that condemned him to a premature death while also making him talk about himself in the first person. (Original) Tralascio ogni considerazione sull’opera in sé: il link al testo e all’audio - considerato un tutt’uno con la statua - è quello che mi preme sottolineare. Tentare di omaggiare Oscar Wilde tirando in ballo la sua prigionia, il suo amore (citato fra virgolette), la sua amicizia con Van Gloeden come se tutto fosse caduto dal cielo, senza dire chiaramente che Wilde è stato perseguito e imprigionato perché omosessuale, il suo amore era Lord Alfred Douglas e che sia lui che Gloeden erano gay è insultante e più ipocrita dei bigotti suoi contemporanei che ne decretarono la rovina. Pensavo fosse finito il tempo dell’amore “che non osa pronunciare il suo nome”, evidentemente non si coglie la dissonanza fra tentare di omaggiare un artista e non riuscire nemmeno a dire a chiare lettere perché. Continuiamo a fare le cose così, a suggestioni? Ci affidiamo al detto-non detto? Mi chiedo con che barbaro coraggio ci si ritenga degni di accostarsi a Wilde e alla sua peculiare storia con la stessa viltà e ipocrisia che lo hanno condannato a morte prematura facendolo pure parlare di sé in prima persona.

(Translated by Google) A stone's throw from the Hotel Vittoria where he stayed, in the central Piazza IX Aprile from which he loved to enjoy the landscape, the depiction of the great Irish writer who lived in the city at the end of the 19th century intrigues passers-by. (Original) A due passi dall’Hotel Vittoria in cui soggiornò, nella centralissima Piazza IX aprile da cui amava godersi il paesaggio, la raffigurazione del grande scrittore irlandese che risiedette in città alla fine dell’800 incuriosisce i passanti.

Nice work of art. It is well crafted. Oscar Wilde is a well known writer and playwright who visited and was enchanted by Taormina. The artist was commissioned by the Rotary club of Taormina to make this sculpture. You can use your phone to tap on the blue ring for more. Follow the IG link in profile for more travel and food and drink tips, ideas and reviews!

(Translated by Google) While walking through Taormina you bump into a gentleman dressed in white. At first glance it is very difficult to think that you are looking at a statue.... The details, the details, the look make us perceive that he is happier than us... yes, Him... because the artist made him return to a place that he loved very much... Taormina...today has Oscar among its people. Thank you Maestro Giuffrida. (Original) Passeggiando per Taormina scontri un signore vestito di bianco. A primo acchito si fatica molto al pensare che hai di fronte una statua.... I particolari, i dettagli, lo sguardo fanno percepire che più contento di noi è lui...si', proprio Lui...perché l' artista lo ha fatto tornare in un luogo che lui amo' molto... Taormina...tra la sua gente ha oggi Oscar. Grazie Maestro Giuffrida.

(Translated by Google) The monument to Oscar Wilde, who was associated with Taormina for a period of his life. It doesn't make much of an impression. A monument like many others... (Original) Pomnik Oscara Wilde'a, który przez pewien okres swojego życia był związany z Taorminą. Nie robi jakiegoś wrażenia. Pomnik, jakich wiele..

(Translated by Google) A sculpture made truly well in every detail. The possibility of learning about Oscar Wilde's experience, as if he were the one telling it, makes the surprise unforgettable! (Original) Una scultura realizzata veramente bene in ogni suo dettaglio. La possibilità di conoscere l'esperienza di Oscar Wilde, come se fosse lui a raccontarla, rende la sorpresa indimenticabile!

(Translated by Google) It moved me...... listening to those words of the narrator 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 (Original) Mi ha emozionato......ascoltare quelle parole della voce narrante 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

(Translated by Google) Quiet, peaceful square. I don't know about the other order, but when I was there it was almost empty. There is a sculpture in the square, very close to the sea and the beach. There are a few benches where you can sit and rest. There is a stop nearby. (Original) Cichy, spokojny plac. Nie wiem jak o innej porządku, ale gy ja byłam było prawie pusto. Na placu stoi jakąś rzeźba, do morza i plaży bliziutko. Jest parę ławeczek, można się usiąść i odpocząć. W pobliżu znajduje się przystanek.

(Translated by Google) Nice place with a view of the sea, lined with orange trees which deliciously perfume the air. Take advantage of sitting on the terrace for a drink or a meal! (Original) Place sympathique avec vue sur la mer, bordée d'orangers qui parfument délicieusement l'air. Profitez de vous installer en terrasse pour boire un verre ou manger !

(Translated by Google) Pizza very ok. The rest was average. Sicilian mix in frying... Don't be fooled... (Original) Pizza bardzo ok. Reszta średnia. Sycylijski mix we fryturze ... Nie dajcie się nabrać..

(Translated by Google) A wonderful panorama that embraces the bay from the port of Giardini to Capo Taormina (Original) Un meraviglioso panorama che abbraccia la baia dal porto di giardini al capo taormina

(Translated by Google) The pizza is delicious, they are cheating. Check the price for everything. (Original) Пицца вкусная, обманывают. Уточняйте цену на все.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful square (Original) Bellissima piazza