⭐ 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

An absolutely outstanding five-star hotel and experience in every respect. I booked our final night at Grand Hotel Timeo as the culmination of my fiancée’s and my Italian adventure, with the intention of proposing during our stay. From the very beginning, it was everything I hoped for—romantic, intimate, and truly special. The property itself is stunning, with beautiful private gardens, a serene pool, and exceptional restaurants and bars. The breakfasts were delightful, and every detail of the hotel felt refined yet welcoming. What truly set the experience apart, however, was the concierge and staff, who went above and beyond at every stage—from the initial booking and proposal planning to ensuring every moment of our stay was unforgettable. We enjoyed every second of our time at Grand Hotel Timeo and are already planning to return for a full week next year. For us, there is simply no other place to stay in Taormina. Five stars in every category—we cannot wait to come back.

We didn’t stay at the hotel but instead visited the restaurant and bar and it was lovely! I ordered a spaghetti and tomato sauce and it was delicious and the service was incredible. Our main waiter was called Fabio I think and he was so kind! Food and atmosphere was amazing!

Last time, the San Andrea. This time, the Timeo. The view remains unchanged—Etna! The sea below spreads itself like a promise, or a threat. But let us speak of the pigeons. They are not your ordinary urban scavengers. The pigeons of the Grand Hotel Timeo are imperialists. They have studied Machiavelli. One—let us call him Generalissimo—stationed himself at my table. He had a schedule. I was merely an obstacle between himself and what he clearly considered his just desserts. They descend upon your cornetto with the confidence of venture capitalists, their beady eyes holding neither apology nor doubt. The staff speak of them as one might speak of a wealthy but embarrassing relative. “Ah yes, the birds,” they murmur, practicing elegant denial. And yet—who are the real invaders? We arrive with our selfie sticks, our belief that beauty can be purchased with a credit card. The pigeons, at least, are honest about their appetites. They want your bread. They take your bread. There is something refreshing about their transparency. The view, though. The view forgives everything. Even the pigeons pause in their relentless campaigning to acknowledge it. Would I return? One always returns to beautiful, impossible places. That, and I believe I left my dignity somewhere on the drinks terrace. Generalissimo is probably using it to line his nest.

We had a really amazing time having drinks at the Hotel. Our server Fabio took brilliant care of us and made us feel especially comfortable. Would definitely come back here!!

Our stay at the Grand Timeo Belmond was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, the staff welcomed us with warmth, care, and genuine hospitality that immediately made us feel at home. A heartfelt thank you to Noemi and Giulia, who went above and beyond throughout our stay with attentiveness, kindness, and attention to detail were exceptional. They made everything feel seamless and special. We’re also grateful to Enzo and the rest of the team whose friendliness and professionalism added so much to the experience. The entire team made us feel truly valued. To our complete surprise and delight, we were upgraded to the Presidential Suite, and it was absolutely incredible. From the expansive private terrace with panoramic views to the elegant interiors and luxurious touches throughout, it was a lifetime experience for which we are so grateful to the team for as each morning and evening spent there felt like a dream. The hotel’s surroundings lush gardens, views of the sea and Mount Etna, and the charm of Taormina at your doorstep created a setting that felt timeless and serene. We left feeling we had experienced something truly special and already planning our return!

This hotel is amazing, in beautiful grounds in the centre of Taormina, the rooms and public aera are immaculate and tastefully decorated….the pool aera is a great place to relax and the heated pool perfect…..the view of the coast and town from the rooms or restaurant is worth cost of staying!!! All the staff are friendly attentive and welcoming….Well done to the Belmond Grand team..

A Cut Above: The Terrace Bar Delivers a Flawless Evening Stepping into the Grand Hotel's bar was an immediate immersion into refined elegance. From the moment we arrived, the hotel's pristine cleanliness and a wonderfully subtle, inviting aroma set the stage for what was to be a truly memorable experience. We opted for a table on the terrace, a decision rewarded with breathtaking views that perfectly complemented the sophisticated ambiance. The cocktail menu was a delightful exploration of creativity. These weren't just your standard offerings; each drink was a unique concoction, thoughtfully crafted and beautifully presented. While we only indulged in two, the quality was exceptional, leaving a lasting impression. What truly elevated our evening, alongside the expertly mixed drinks, were the accompanying snacks. The selection was wonderful, but a special mention must go to the shelled pistachios – a small touch, perhaps, but indicative of the attention to detail that permeated every aspect of our visit. They were, quite simply, divine. Our waiter, Fabio, was the epitome of professional hospitality. He was attentive without being intrusive, genuinely helpful with recommendations, and possessed a caring demeanor that made us feel truly valued. Despite only having a couple of cocktails, there was absolutely no sense of being rushed. The staff seemed genuinely pleased to have us there, allowing us to soak in the atmosphere and the stunning panorama at our own pace. For an evening of sophisticated sips, delightful bites, and impeccable service with a view to match, the terrace bar at the Grond Hotel is an unreserved recommendation. It’s a haven of relaxed luxury.

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

This bar is the ultimate experience for Taormina and Sicily in general. I feel like you can’t visit this city and not go there. The granites are so delicious, the fruits they make them with are super fresh and we also saw the delivery happen! You do have to wait in line but since the serving is mainly the granite no one sits for more than 20-30 minutes so you will be sat in 15 minutes. I went in the busiest time of August and we expected to wait much longer than that. The service is nothing more that what you need, they show you your table and come after a minute so you can order and nothing more than that. You just get your granites and then pay. The best part is th decoration, it is so pretty inside and outside, full of lemons giving you the full Italian vibe you want for the summer. I 100% recommend!!!!

Came here in the early afternoon time and there was a line already but no worries as we got past the line after about a 30 min wait. I had the coffee granita with a very soft and good tasting brioche bun and my wife had the chocolate granita also with a brioche bun. If you happen to close by, I say give this a try 👍🏽

The best granite in Sicily! The brioche was so delicious, the granites were so many - you have a big choice and they were very fresh with true fruit in it! The espresso was perfect too. The prices are very affordable - granite with brioche is around 6 euro. The biscuits with chocolate was good too. We came at Wednesday at 16:00 there was a queue but we didn’t wait more than 15 minutes. The atmosphere is very authentic. The service was very good too.

We had to Q here but only approx. 10 mins. We were given the option of sitting inside or outside. It had been raining but outside is covered so we headed there. We ordered the famous Granita with brioche. Strawberry & cream and Almond & coffee. The brioche buns were huge. All was delish 😋 Reasonable cost also, service was smiley and fast and atmosphere was lively.

Outdoor seating…. Great granite and brioche …. Lovely place to have a snack ….this is the place to go for your granites. There was a little queue .. but we didn’t wait too long.

There’s a reason for the line. Hands down the freshest most delicious granite in all of Sicily, friendly service. Warm brioche. Highly recommend the almond it is king. Best breakfast on planet earth. Go early or late to avoid crowds but don’t be afraid to wait it’s well worth it. Love.

Totally worth the hype - if you come here and don’t try the granita you’ve made a big mistake. We tried the persimmon one and the coffee one too. SO delicious - as is the brioche (also a MUST) to have alongside you granita. You will likely have to wait for a table but it’s in a nice spot in the town so it’s not a bad place to stand around waiting… we came in October and only waited 5 mins

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.

Lovely spot to watch the sunrise, even on a cloudy day when the sun decides to hide

Stunning view of Isola Bella. Access on foot nearby is a bit tricky, as there are no pavements and you walk along the roadside. By car, parking can be difficult at busy times, but when we visited it was quiet and easy.

Very beautiful view of the sea and the island. From there, the stairs start for walking down from Taormina to the beach and the island. It takes about 15-20 minutes to go down at a normal pace.

Beautiful spot. Great lookout of the beach and sea.

Breathtaking views. Perfect for sunrise, sunset, and moonrise.

One of the best view points to isola bella. Just to stand and enjoy this stunning moment. You can see almost all the shore line. Next to this place you can take a walk from the stairs of Taormina until the sea side. Don’t miss it.

Stunning views over the coast. Thisnis the walk down to the beach. Perhaps walk down and come back up on a bus or cable car. Steps down are well maintained.

Fun, good photo ops, fairly priced. Round trip was 10 euro per person. (June 2025.) Hot, could use AC.

Beautiful scenic way to reach the top of Taormina. 10 Euro per person for two way not bad for a quick way to the top. Last ride down is 1 am and the rides are every 15 minutes. We went up at noon and only waited about 5 minutes on a Tuesday if that helps you. Taking it again tomorrow for sure.

Absolutely five star service. Just €6 one way per person. It takes only six minutes and super convenient

We stayed in Mazzaro and went to Taormina for the afternoon/night. The travel is fine but be careful of the ticket machine. We purchased two up and back tickets and the machine stated the correct price. When I checked my account a couple days later I was charged double the amount instead which was the price of two day trips - I initially selected day trips in error and then cancelled. Unfortunately as we had thrown our tickets out when we left and got no receipt I couldn’t dispute it and it’s so difficult to find any information for the company online. Bye €20.

It's quite steady my wife doesn't really like cable cars but she went both down and up so have a go. We walked down once as well so Get the cable car definitely

it's only worth if you want not to walk trough the city. otherwise it's too expensive, ride lasts 1-2 min, there is nothing to see or make photo of... and we were waiting for 35 min in line

Convenient but Pricey Cable Car in Taormina We parked below and took the cable car up to Taormina, a very easy option, but also quite expensive. With parking plus tickets, the cost really adds up. A round trip is €10 per person, and although it says it runs every 15 minutes, it didn’t always feel that way (it felt shorter). When we came back down, there was a huge line to go up, so keep in mind you might wait up to an hour, especially at busy times. Convenient, but plan for the cost and potential waiting time.

What a dinner! We had such a fantastic experience at Trattoria La Botte! The food was absolutely delicious — authentic, fresh, and full of flavor. The service was just as amazing, and our server was truly spectacular — warm, funny, and so memorable that we even took a selfie with her! The atmosphere was cozy and full of charm, and the limoncello shots at the end were such a fun and thoughtful touch. Thank you for an unforgettable evening — we left with full hearts (and stomachs!). Highly recommend!

Tremendous atmosphere, open late and highly attentive staff. By far our most expensive meal in Taormina as we purchased one of the daily specials (prices not listed on the menu). The patio was open late and was full throughout the evening.

Highly recommend giving this place a try. We had the seabass catch of the day – super fresh and flavorful. Their signature clam spaghetti was creamy, moist, and absolutely delicious. The orange salad was a great touch too. Despite bad reviews, the service was outstanding. We arrived without a booking, and they still accommodated us and our toddler. Additionally, drinks on the house for those waiting – such a nice gesture! A special thanks to Yousef, our kind and generous waiter for making our last dinner in Sicily a memorable experience!

FUN AND ENJOYABLE EVENING - JUST LOOK OUT FOR THE SPECIALS! Great atmosphere, great food, and service warm, welcoming and kind. Enjoyable evening, for adults and kids. Small warning about the seafood and fish specials! On arrival we were told of the specials, and had a look at the fresh fish of the day in a large bucket inside, which we ordered, among several other menu items. In our excitement, we neglected to inquire of the price, which was not offered, which was to our error. Food portions were delicious and plentiful. At the end of a wonderful evening (great meal, and great service), however had a small shock to see the fish special item was EURO $110. Money isn't a big factor but felt a little taken aback at the cost of this single item, and if we had known the price may have simply ordered something else on the menu and had just as good a time. Writing this after spending over a week eating out across several restaurants in Taormina so commenting objectively and from that relative context. Would recommend and visit again. Thanks for having us.

Staff were very attentive, fish was fresh! We had spaghetti vongole & spaghetti gameroni ( and off menu request) the waiter was more than happy do something off menu for us. We will be back!

The wife and I had the Seabass. It was amazing. They put on a demonstration showed it to us. Then served it to our table. It was amazing. They were friendly service was really good and the outside patio was beautiful.

My friends and I visited this restaurant for lunch. We ordered mixed seafood plate. The shrimps had a horrible smell and one of the fish pieces was not cleaned properly as there were fish scales on it.It was very unpleasant to chew. The two salads we ordered were mediocre, with no flavour, just cut vegetables. The pistaccio pasta was also with no memorable taste.The price was high and none of the staff actually cared if we are happy with the food.This place is ripping off your money and no quality in return.I would never go back and would not recommend it to anybody.It is a shame that so many famous people used to be guests there.However the food was the worst we had in Sicily.

Unfortunately a disappointment in terms of food. Not cheap either. I would say more of a tourist trap. There are many other options in Taormina. And the size of the “main” chicken dish… a joke really. Not to mention how de dry it was. The tuna tartar was ok. A cute place, but I would skip now

Located away from the crowd we though we found the perfect place for dinner. Little did we (me, my wife and daughters) know that we weren't welcome. With several tables outside free we asked the waiter for one. That's when the "big" guy told the waiter, in Italian, that "they(!) can only get a table inside". So all of a sudden all tables outside was reserved. What he didn't know was my wife speaks Italian, so she heard it all. Discrimination is ugly. Stay away from this place, at least if you planned to bring your kids.

This restaurant deserves way more than the 4 stars it has been rated with. Food is amazing, the employees were super friendly and the tables outside are simply in the best location possible. I felt really good here. Thanks!!

Amazing food, service and atmosphere. One of my favourite restaurants in Taormina.

We were lucky enough to get the last table available at the time. Service and food was delectable. You might see what dish we finger licking gobbled down :). Now and then a musician comes by and creates a top notch Italian experience….. loved it, worth it……

Nice place in middle of Taormina. Good food and fast service. Enjoyed last dinner on our trip to Italy and Sicily- for this time.

Nice restaurant at a nice location. All pasta dishes were tasty and portions were good (bigger compared to other similar places). The salad however was very bland and very expensive.

Absolutely phenomenal experience all around. Hospitality was great and atmosphere was perfect. Hotel said they have a new Michelin starred chef the last few years and food shows it. The raw seafood plate was outstanding (we were shocked actually by how good it was) and then the pastas we had were perfect. One of the better restaurants we have tried across Italy!

A delicious dinner. Eva was such a gracious host and server, and each dish was prepared with affection and care — the octopus was perfectly cooked and I delighted in my spaghetti with gamberi. Thank you and your colleagues for the incredible hospitality and kindness!

Fantastic experience at Andreas Restaurant! The roasted octopus was the best I’ve ever had—fresh, perfectly cooked, and full of flavour. Friendly staff and a lovely location right in front of Villa Comunale di Taormina. Deserves every bit of its Michelin Guide mention!

A true gem in Taormina. Fresh, beautifully presented dishes (the tuna tataki was outstanding) and some of the best service we’ve had in 3 weeks across Italy and Sicily. Warm, professional, and delicious – highly recommend.

We had a brilliant meal here last night. This restaurant has class, from the greeting at the entrance to the wine list, presentation and taste of the wonderful food. I had octopus, followed by fillet steak, then the semifredo. All of the dishes were beautifully executed and of upmost quality. Well done team Andreas!

I feel we must’ve eaten the best porcini mushrooms ever at Andreas! Sometimes all you need is a little bit of butter and top notch quality of your ingredients. I can’t recommend this place enough. It was a flavour bonanza, with perfectly seasoned and served dishes from the beginning to the end. Another highlight was the beef sliced with tuna sauce — I don’t remember last time I had such a delicious one. Obviously amazing selection of wines elevated the meals. The place is on the list of Michelin guide, I definitely understand why.

We had one of the more amazing meals of our trip here. It’s truly fine dining, We started with the glazed quail, then the fresh pasta of the day, some little stuffed pillows of heaven — both were amazing. Then we finished with the pork medallions, served with fresh veggies and homemade applesauce. Oh wow! We’ve been on the road long enough (that’s code for we’ve been over-eating a tad) that we split everything, and it was more than enough food for 2. We were enamored enough that we decided to go back on our last night in Torino, however, we’re disappointed to find they were closed on Mondays! We highly recommend for fine dining.

I am regular traveller eating in various restuarant around the world and many occasions in Sicily. The food here is well presented as fine dining. In my opinion it is over priced as the quality and flavour, quality is average. Oysters were big and very good. Staff are helpful and kind but overall I won’t be returning to eat here.

The food was some of most interesting and flavoursome we have had all the time here in Taormina. Great service and a magnificent wine list. Loved the meal best since arrived in 🇮🇹

Amazing experience! Staff was very nice and accommodating with a baby + stroller. My wife and I shared the octopus which was incredible. I had the lamb chops and my wife had gluten free linguine with prawns. Very celiac friendly they had gluten free bun and even gluten free souffle for dessert!

We had such a lovely dinner here. The service was very friendly, and patient when it took us a while to choose wine. Their recommendation once we finally ordered it was delicious. The food was also lovely with good portion sizes, particularly my busiata pasta all Norma- we were so full, we could only manage to share one dessert between us. The restaurant was very busy on a Sunday evening so I'm glad we booked - they had our reservation from the Fork and applied the discount with no issues. I didn't see inside the restaurant, but the outdoor tables had a lovely atmosphere, and it seemed very popular with locals.

First of all, this place has fantastic AC! So while being comfortable in AC the food was that much better. My sister and I came here by recommendation from a local who knew we wanted to have seafood - it did not disappoint! We came for lunch and the place was almost empty, which we were fine with because we stayed for 2 hours chatting and dining. Afterwards it filled up!!! The waiter was pleasant and kind - also, clean bathroom! We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and left feeling satisfied and happy. 😊

So far during our trip in Sicily, this is the best restaurant. Great food, great service, basically it was flawless. The food quality it is perfect, no stomach aches, the food was fresh and well prepared / cooked. Just check the photos now :)

Absolutely my favorite restaurant in Taormina. Never would I go back to a restaurant twice on vacation but we did here! All of the food was phenomenal and perfectly cooked, and Andrea and Pepe were very friendly and made the whole experience extremely fun. Would recommend this to everyone in Taormina

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

This place is a bit hard to find, but we were welcomed with open arms. The staff was very friendly and did their absolute best to make us feel at home. The dinner started good with an appetizer that tasted really good, but the Main course was a huge dissapointment. I had the gnocchi which tasted okey and my girlfriend chose the fresh fish. The waiter talked a long time about how they could prepare the fish and we were convinced that this must be an excellent choice. But when the fish was served I could see the dissapointment in her eyes. The dish was so bland and had hardly any taste. 47 euro for that dish alene, not worth it to say the least. But the staff was so nice that we couldnt bare to tell them that the fish was awful. If you plan to go here, dont choose the fish, you will probably have a better experience if you choose another dish.

The best food and wine we’ve had in Taormina so far. Primarily a fish menu, and everything we ate fish or otherwise was exceptional. The staff were brilliant and made a huge effort with our two year old daughter which we appreciate. Note for others, our child’s dish which was altered / smaller, was still charged at full price.

This restaurant was the best in Taormina and among the best in Sicily. The owner seated us and explained the menu and described the food in such a luscious manner I wanted the entire selection. The owner clearly is passionate about high quality food and service and it shows in her enthusiasm and the quality of the meal and overall experience. Service was amazing and the staff was really on point! Owner gave amazing wine recommendations to pair with the food. The seafood sampler appetizer was the best I’ve ever had, so fresh! Location is to die for, a few streets away from the main Corso Umberto so not noisy, and the atmosphere was a very old world feel, very romantic as well. This restaurant is really at the top of their game and owner and staff showed us true Sicilian hospitality and quality. I would return to Taormina literally just to dine here!

Tucked into a candle-lit square off the Main Street in Taormina, our meal at Rosso Divino was exceptional. Local Sicilian wine and a whole snapper cooked two ways were the standouts of the meal. The service team was friendly, helpful and highly professional. If you’re looking for a special meal out in Taormina that is worth the price-tag, 10/10 would recommend.

The food and service was exceptional. The best meal we have had in Sicily (which says a lot). This is a restaurant not to miss if you enjoy quality food. Make sure you book (we did the night before) as it is very popular. Jacqueline and her team will provide a meal to remember!

A great place for lunch if you love great fresh local seafood. Our host was very helpful going through the fresh catch of the day and finding the perfect wine pairing for your order. A seafood lovers dream.

The service was genuine and warm, and they weren’t pushy to upsell. I appreciated their clear explanation of the catch of the day, including the offer to have the fish prepared in two ways: Sicilian capers and sultana stew, and homemade breadcrumbs. The fish was fresh and perfectly cooked. Kudos to the service team and chef!

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.

A wonderful bistro in the heart of Taormina! Excellent fresh and truly Italian food, prepared very quickly and at fair prices. The staff is incredibly kind – when we were leaving, the smiling chefs even waved to us from the kitchen, which perfectly completed the whole experience. You can enjoy your meal inside, sit right in front of the restaurant, or take it away. I definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to experience true Italian atmosphere!

We had an amazing experience at Da Cristina! From start to finish, everything was perfect. The service was friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making us feel right at home. The food was absolutely delicious — every bite bursting with authentic flavor. The pistachio pizza was out of this world, rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, while the arancini were golden, crisp, and full of mouth-watering goodness. The pasta 👌 You can really taste the love and passion that goes into every dish. It’s rare to find a place that nails both flavor and hospitality, but Da Cristina does it effortlessly. Highly recommend — we’ll definitely be back!

We had a very good experience at Da Cristina. The pizza was quite good and the arancini were excellent, definitely a highlight. The pasta, however, could have been better, as it was a bit cold in some parts. Despite that, the overall quality was very good and the atmosphere enjoyable. Worth a visit if you’re in Taormina!

It's a real find! The most delicious pasta alla norma of the whole trip! My partner had pasta with anchovies, and it was just as incredible. I'm so sad that we were only there for a day, I would love to eat it again!

This is more of a take away place for fast food which they do really well. Ordered two types of pizza slices and two types of branching and was not disappointed. They are operational throughout the day and are great for a quick meal.

Squisito! Last time we only tasted the arancini, and this time we tried the cuisine. Arancinis are great, but definitely try the food too. (And follow the recommendation!)

We tried arancini, pizza and parmigiana with bread. Everything was very delicious. The prices are reasonable. The place did not disappoint and deserves its high rating.

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.

Please do not come to this place. I came around 8-9pm and was told it was full and come back around 11:30pm - 12:00am so we did around 12 and the hostess didn’t even look at us to talk to us. She told the bouncer not to let us in at all. And the bouncer was very rude, didnt have the littlest bit of respect. No eye contact, no hello, no nothing. Out of 106 countries i’ve been to this is the spot that I felt the most disrespected. A little sorry its full tonight would do or a little hey there is a big minimum spend or something. Cause there was clearly still available opening on the website with a minimum spend. As simple as telling us that with a bit respect would be nice. So please don’t come here.

This bar is absolutely beautiful and perfect for any evening out in such an amazing location. The staff are very kind and welcoming, and the chic, stylish interior adds to the charm. The atmosphere is truly unique and relaxed, with music that isn’t too loud or overwhelming. Not many places can match this style. It’s ideal not only for a romantic night out over drinks, but also for a variety of celebrations, from birthdays to bachelorette parties. Reservations are recommended; however, even during high season we were able to book a table for the next day and there were still seats available.

A place with scent of challenge for folks that oppose minimum spend policies and seek for quick cheap thrills. Very quircky, with differetiated decour; cocktails are nice, stylish and smooth; music for sophisticated ears. Worth visiting.

From start to finish it was nothing but a disappointment. It cost 50€ each for my friend and I to enter which included one small very average drink. The interiors were nice however all seating areas were cordoned off, stood over by security guards and “reserved” despite most being completely empty. There were 2-3 seats outside of these areas and nothing else so we were left standing despite paying such a ridiculous price for entry. The music was bland, the crowd was older and the atmosphere was dull at best - so if you are are visiting Taormina and looking for even an ounce of fun this certainly wouldn’t be the place to go, in fact I’d do your best to avoid it entirely.

This place is a literal dream. There is a minimum spend of 30 euros per person, but it was absolutely worth it to us. The ambience and interior is simply stunning. The drinks were unbelievably good, the service was amazing and you receive the nicest snack food with your drinks. Such a fun vibe all around! Highly recommend.

Very nice bar, you can go to the bar without reservation, but if you want to stay at the party later (after 22:00h) the reservation is a must. We liked the cocktails and the aperitivo very much.

Cool little place, went there for a pre dinner drink and it was amazing

We had fresh Pistachio arancini and Pizza that was fantastic. Service was fast and friendly. It’s all take out So we were able to Walk, eat and find our own spot. Perfect visit!

Amazing fresh arancini, especially the eggplant and mozarella :) everything was fresh and very tasty. For 3 arancini and 3 beers we paid 25€

Located just inside Porto Catania this is a great place to grab a drink or a quick bite to eat. I was disappointed to find them closed on Tuesday so I came back on Wednesday. The Sicilian pizza was just ok, but the arancini were really good.

This little "gem" in Taormina is a must! Their arranchini and pizza are the "bomb." Try the arranchin with ragu. You actually eat it with the point down. It is a fried rice ball filled with sauce and meat and fried made fresh right in front of you. Authentic and delicious these honor Mt Etna thus the shape. The pizza with pistachios local to the region is incredible! Stop by you. You'll find a line since it is a tiny storefront, no tables, so sit on the steps and enjoy you shouldn't leave Sicily without trying local food you'll regret it

The first time I ate arancino in Sicily was hier! How to said, it gave me a very impressive expression of this traditional food, so I think i have to give 5 stars to it!!! And I ate two times of arancino from höre two times in a day! The pizzas looked also very very wonderful, you must have to try. The staffs were also very nice and patient, because of my credit card problem, thank you for the patient! That’s a beautiful moment for me to eat food on the stages right opposite the Shop in sunshine!

it was one of the best arancini we had in sicily! we ate ragu,with pistachios and eggplant, everything was delicious!! The pie (I forgot the name) was also very tasty! although we were very full, we still returned and bought more :) both times there was no queue

A little nice place in the beginning (or the end) of the of the beautiful pendedsdrian street in Taormina where they sell traditional sicilien street food. Pizza slices, scacciata, Arancini and other existing food. Eventually it is the arancini that they are most famous for. The servant says that they make the best in Sicily, but I’m not so sure that he is right:-).. They are good and have more filling than normal. Give it a try, good food for reasonable price!

EDIT: The restaurant owner decided to reply in a hostile and condescending manner to what intended to be a fair review. Just to be clear: our problem with the rations was not the “size” in itself, but the value for money. The problem was not that the dishes were expensive and small (contemporary restaurants have dishes that are like that but are great); the problem is that, on top of expensive and small, they were also dull. I tried to put it gently in my original review, but seen the condescending tone of the reply I decided to put it in more clear terms. I find it extremely audacious to say that “we should go for a more familiar place”, as we have indeed visited them through the trip, but also different categories of restaurants —bib gourmands, starred and other Michelin restaurants—. Believe me, it is not a matter of range (all categories of restaurant, from familiar to high cuisine, can be fabulous). But it is preposterous to charge Michelin-star-prices for a plate that, simply, does not live to that standard. Lastly, the quality of the service is self-portrayed in their reply to the review. Not great. I hope that next time you can handle criticism in a less condescending way. ORIGINAL REVIEW: I am sorry to give it 3/5. The atmosphere was perfect—a lovely medieval patio isolated from the noise of the center—but I am afraid a 3/5 is the best I can do. The pasta was delicious, but the other plates were unimpressive. The rations were small, not particularly original or tasty, and the service was relative slow. In short, I really wanted this place to work, but I left back to my hotel absolutely disappointed.

We dined as a couple at Kisté, housed in the historic Casa Cipolla with a stunning terrace that promises a memorable evening. The setting is undeniably charming. The food, to be clear, was well done: enjoyable, technically solid, without glaring faults. But this alone was not enough to redeem the evening. Regrettably, the service left a lasting negative impression. The server delivering the dishes recited descriptions by rote, without enthusiasm or pause. We felt rushed: before we even finished our aperitifs, they brought wine and the first course. As I was still eating bread, it was quietly removed and the next dish was served. When I asked for a 10- to 15-minute break before dessert, they timed it exactly to the 10th minute and immediately served, the precision underscored a rigid script, not guest care. We have seldom felt so overseen rather than hosted. Despite a beautiful location and promising cuisine, this dinner failed to deliver a pleasurable experience. I cannot recommend Kisté based on this visit.

I visited Kiste with my girlfriend on our vacation to Sicily. I want to give this place a 5-star review. The service was good and friendly, and the location was nice (minus the sound from the ventilation system). However, given the price point, I think some of our courses were too bland; I expected more for my money. My primi piatti was really good, a seafood pasta, with nothing to complain about. My girlfriend's primi was tortellini filled with duck and goat cheese, but you really had to try hard to taste these ingredients. My secondi was duck, and while there was nothing to complain about, it was maybe a little bland. My girlfriend had lamb racks, which cost 40 EUR, but the portion size was more like a primi. The desserts were good, but I would have preferred a traditional tiramisu. However, I can understand that they wanted to try something different. Overall, we had a good experience, although it was a bit pricey for what you got.

Have to say a lot of thanks for this place, after 1 week on the sisilia there was only 2 restaurants where was good food, one is less then 50m, but no one was excellent. We took tasting menu, from see to the land and it was terrific. I gave free hands for sommelier to deside vines and there was no even a time what was wrong, sizes of dishes, tastes, combinations and serving. For me it is really under big question mark, why some restaurants in Naxos and Catania has Michelin star, even these can't pretend on even mensions in guid, and this one has only mension. Hope you guys get a star very soon and not only one.

The food was too beautiful to eat, and as delicious! Within walking distance from The Four Seasons, the tasting menu was wonderful!

Very good restaurant, but for me it was a little bit overpriced. While the service was friendly, there were multiple occasions where my celiac wife was served a different dish than me (this part is normal), but the different dish was still not gluten free. Their gluten free options were, however, quite good when she did get them eventually. The wine pairing had some tasty wines, but we were never really told much about them. The outdoor patio was nice, but also full of bugs. If I went back, I would probably not do the tastings.

We made a dinner reservation by email and chose the four-course menu with dessert, the complimentary bread and olive oil was delicious. The starter of raw fish was fresh, the pan-fried fish was just the right amount of heat and the accompanying sauce was great with layers of accompaniment. The main course was also delicious. the dessert came with four different kinds, each one very special and a blend of local Sicilian sweets with a modern twist. Overall an excellent standard The wine list is extensive and the sommelier can give many suggestions

HORRIBLE SCAM!!! A beautiful view on the church. No fresh but cheap ingredients. Not even the tomato sauce is self made. A beer is 10€ and each seat is 5€

Disappointing Dining Experience I recently dined at this establishment and was left thoroughly disappointed. The pasta dish I ordered featured a sauce that tasted like plain, processed tomato paste—lacking any depth or seasoning. It was so unappetizing that I had to return it. The service was underwhelming; staff appeared indifferent and inattentive throughout our visit. Adding to the dissatisfaction, we were charged €10 just to sit and another €10 for a beer—prices that felt disproportionate to the quality of both food and service. I hope the management takes this feedback seriously and makes the necessary improvements. Edit: I saw the restaurant replied saying that I probably have a terrible taste and can't distinguish a homemade sauce from a bland store bought sauce. They also blatantly lied saying that I did finish my plate when I returned it almost untouched. Unbelievable! These people should focus on cooking instead trying to discredit unsatisfied customers...

A great dining experience. The food was delicious! Myself and my wife were on our honeymoon in Taormina and we ate here 4 nights out of 7. We ate in other places, but nowhere really matched Al Duomo. Our waiters each night gave great advice on food and wine pairings and very attentive to our dietary requirements. We loved our time there, especially the great view from the balcony!

I stayed in Taormina for 4 nights, two of which I ate at this lovely restaurant. The owners, two friends named Charles & Antonio, were the most friendly people I have ever met while travelling Italy. They were friendly enough to give me a shot of Limoncello at the end of each night. The food was amazing, their service was amazing, and the patio overlooks Duomo Square. Grazie mille!!

Perfect dinner experience. Excellent fresh food, served on a terrace overlooking the square and the Duomo. The tuna tartare and pulpo as antipasti followed by the Spaghetti vongole were amazing. Accompanied by a very fine local white wine served by very friendly staff in a laid back atmosphere. Highly recommended!

Good food, lovely view and great service. A bit expensive but we booked through The Fork and availed the discount. Coperta is 4€ per person which is the highest so far in my trip to Catania, but I guess reasonable given the view.

Absolutely wonderful service here - they were so warm and lovely, we felt so welcomed! The food was delicious as well, especially loved the ragu sauce and the pistachio pasta. Snag the balcony table if you can - the view is lovely!

Super atmosphere with nice decorated garden dining and lovely music. Food is great, the oyster and mussels are nice, the calm spaghetti a bit salty but overall very nice. What I appreciate most is the service, the waiter always comes at the time when you need them. Highly recommend.

Found this by chance, Taormina was very hot with zero breeze. Decided to try and find somewhere outside with some air, turned down the Main Street because there looked like lots of outside tables without the crowds, problem was everyone was trying to coax us in to their cramped stuffy tables! Refusing their enthusiasm we continued towards the sea and hey presto wind and air and a very pretty garden courtyard. The staff were attentive combined with big smiles and an open kitchen we were hooked. The food was presented to the highest visual appearance, the flavour was top notch. Highly recommend this little gem.💎

Have you seen fawlty towers? It is kind of like that. We went there for dinner and the experience was mixed. The staff greeted us with a warm welcome and were really friendly. The "involtini di pesce spada," tasted good, but the fish was bland and lacked salt. The vegetables were the best part of the meal. One of the waiters spilled a glass of water on our table. He said sorry and left. The cannoli was terrible, seemed defrosted.

We decided to revisit this restaurant for old times’ sake, as we had dined here a few years ago. Despite our hotel advising against it, we went anyway. The staff were welcoming and the service was good, but unfortunately the overall experience was disappointing. The ambiance wasn’t as pleasant as before, and the fish was overly salty and didn’t seem fresh. The place also felt rather empty compared to other nearby restaurants.

everything was amazing five stars all of the food was delicious. The waiter was very kind and help us choose for the second main dish . Overall everything is 5 stars

This restaurant is truly magical! My family and I had a wonderful meal and experience. The service was amazing and staff so informative. The food was phenomenal (they were especially careful with my gluten free GF food due to celiac). And the history within the restaurant itself was beyond impressive. 10/10

We had a lovely meal here, wanted a quiet relaxing place to eat dinner after a busy day in the Taormina crowds. How this place isn't rammed with people is probably because you have to find it off the main road. It's worth finding, in my many visits to Taormina and Sicily, this place was the best and friendliest service I've ever had in a restaurant and the food is exceptionally good. Not the cheapest place to eat, but the quality and flavour of everything was outstanding, so worth paying a bit more for an unforgettable dining experience. I had the cannolo for dessert after a delicious spaghetti vongole with lime, my partner had the pannacotta which was out of this world. All the food was spectacular.