What are the best things to see in Taormina, Sicily? Good questions, as there are so many. There are attractions around every corner in this ancient city, the gateway to Sicily.
Taormina is a great place to absorb your first impressions of this culturally fascinating island, as it is the first city you reach coming from the southern Italian boot.
Taormina attractions have been drawing visitors for centuries.
It is a gracious, inviting city packed to the brim with culture, natural beauty, and the mouthwatering cuisine that helped make Italian food world-renowned.
I found Taormina restaurants to have some of the best food in Italy…and that’s really saying something!
Taormina – A brief history
Archeology is among the best things to see in Taormina. The region surrounding present-day Taormina has a rich history. Early inhabitants include the Siculi, an Italic people, during the Iron Age.
As the Greeks ventured into Sicily in the early 700s BCE, the Siculi still thrived in the eastern Sicilian region.
The Greek influence persisted through the Roman occupation, extending its cultural dominance for centuries.
In 241 BCE, the Romans solidified their control over the entire island, making Sicily one of the first Roman provinces.
This period saw Sicily emerge as an important grain supplier to Rome. Roman governors managed the island’s affairs and constructed splendid villas—some of which remain open for exploration today.
Once such villa is the nearby Villa Romana del Casale, a beautifully preserved Roman palace and a fine example of Roman mosaic artistry. It is one of the best things to see in Taormina and my absolute favorite attraction.
Dancing girls mosaics in Casale
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Taormina continued to be one of the most important towns of Sicily.
Once the Roman Empire fell entirely, the city was conquered successively by the Muslims, who ruled until 1078. Then came the Normans, various Spanish crowns, and France in 1675.
Taormina was part of the Two Kingdoms of Sicilies under the Bourbon dynasty until 1860.
In modern times, Taormina has retained vestiges of each of the cultures that conquered it. This is one of the aspects that make it such a fascinating place.
Traces of Muslim, Norman, Roman and other cultures can be seen in the city’s ruins, architecture, and art.
Taormina’s pleasant weather, culture, and idyllic location on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea have made it a modern-day attractive destination.
Prominent celebrities have visited the city and extolled its virtues far and wide, making it an even more desirable destination.
Among these are Oscar Wilde, Nicholas I of Russia and Friedrich Nietzsche (who wrote his Thus Spoke Zarathustra there).
More recent visitors have included Tennessee Williams, William Faulkner, and Bertrand Russell.
This is a town that attracts the rich and famous as well as the curious backpacker.
Taormina, Sicily, offers a great way to connect with history, culture, and natural beauty.
From the vibrant main square, Piazza Duomo, to the serene Lido La Pigna, you’ll find the best things to see and do in Taormina around every corner. All with a late 1800s vibe.
Best Taormina Attractions
Start by roaming the main street, Corso Umberto. Explore Piazza del Duomo. Take the cable car for panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
After exploring the town, head out to the countryside to see the picturesque Alcantara Gorge or indulge in wine tasting sessions. Taormina offers a perfect fusion of the “best places” and “best things to do in Taormina” to create lasting memories.
Mount Etna
Mt. Etna is Sicily’s live volcano and one of the world’s most active.
The volcanic soil is very fertile and supports the orchards and vineyards on the mountain slopes.
In 2013, UNESCO declared Mt. Etna a World Heritage Site.
Corso Umberto
Corso Umberto is a major Taormina attraction.
This main pedestrian street with medieval buildings on either side of the street doesn’t even seem real.
It feels more like what a pedestrianized Sicilian street would look like if Hollywood designed it.
It’s too perfect; narrow little alleyways end in an ocean view, al fresco tables with checkered tablecloths sit underneath leafy vines dripping with wisteria.
Cafes and cute boutique shops selling a wide variety of souvenirs and Sicilian specialties line the sidewalk.
The street stretches about one kilometer from the old town gate of Porta Catania to the other, Porta Messina.
It can take you a few minutes or an entire day to absorb the street’s charm.
Piazza Aprile IX
Right in the center of Corso Umberto is the beautiful Piazza Aprile IX, or April 9th Square, named after the date when Garibaldi began his conquest of Sicily to make it part of Italy and unify the entire country.
It is one of Taormina’s principal attractions and meeting places.
The piazza boasts a spectacular view of the impossibly blue Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
This is an ideal spot to take a break in one of the laid-back cafes, savor a coffee, and absorb the atmosphere.
The piazza is always lively with artists painting the views and musicians playing classic Italian songs in the shadow of the age-old local church.
At night the stores remain open and the crowd is just as lively.
Don’t be surprised if spontaneous dancing breaks out here. And it is not unusual to hear the mellow notes of an aria from a popular opera drifting on the wind.
Teatro Greco
The Teatro Greco (Greek Theater) is the mother of all Taormina attractions and definitely one of the best things to see in Taormina.
This perfect horseshoe-shaped theater is sublimely situated high above the Ionian Sea with Mount Etna stoically situated in the background against the blue sky.
The theater was built in the 3rd century BCE. The brick building materials are Roman, but the design is mostly Greek.
This leads experts to believe that it was originally built by the Greeks and rebuilt by the Romans on the original site.
In summer, the Teatro Greco is still used to stage all types of performances.
Can you imagine?! A theater that is thousands of years old, that was so perfectly designed and built that it is still in use today. I find that amazing.
The theatre is the second largest theatre in Sicily (after Syracuse) and the most spectacularly situated Greek theatre on Earth. You cannot miss this! It is certainly one of the best things to see in Taormina.
Insider tip: Make sure to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best tourist-free photos.
As the first city in Sicily coming from the Italian boot, Taormina was also my first experience with real Sicilian food. It is a unique category of cuisine with strong flavours and a focus on seafood.
Time and time again, the typical Taormina restaurants just blew me away with their tastes and ambiance.
Isola Bella
You can experience the enchanting allure of Isola Bella, an idyllic islet nestled along the shores of Taormina.
Connected to the mainland by a slender ribbon of sand, this amazing area has clear waters and abundant greenery. This is a great place to soak up the Mediterranean.
Villa Comunale
This is a lush park bursting with flowers, fragrant citrus groves, and winding paths overlooking the Gulf of Naxos. Well worth the time to visit here.
Castello Saraceno
Climb to the summit of Taormina and explore Castello Saraceno, an ancient fortress with medieval walls and a rich history, nestled atop Monte Tauro.
The vistas from Castello Saraceno are spectacular and extend from the Ionian Sea to the towering peaks of Mount Etna. This is a photo op if there ever was one.
Top Taormina Restaurants
Let’s face it, eating is one of the best things to do in Taormina. The town is a haven for passionate food enthusiasts.
The many cultures that inhabited Taormina left a part of their culinary tradition in the town. The local cuisine tells a tale of culinary fusion.
While it is rooted in Italian traditions, the gastronomic offerings also bear traces of Greek, Spanish, French, and Arab influences, creating a delightful mosaic of flavors.
Looking for a romantic restaurant or perhaps a jaw-droppingly beautiful spot with ocean views? Taormina has it in spades. Here are some of the can’t-miss classic restaurants.
Otto Geleng
Otto Geleng beckons for those seeking a taste that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition.
This chic eatery offers delectable seafood creations and savory pasta delights. The owner personally invites patrons to embark on a gastronomic journey that captures the diversity and richness of the region.
This is truly one of the most delightful Taormina restaurants.
Osteria Rosso Di Vino
Osteria Rosso Di Vino tends to be more elegant, where tradition seamlessly intertwines with sophistication. I loved this place!
The celebration of Sicilian authenticity is evident in this charming establishment. It places emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Al Saraceno
Envision a dining experience at Al Saraceno, where the gentle lull of waves serves as your soundtrack. How cool is that!
This seafront gem has panoramic views and a menu that highlights traditional Sicilian dishes, making it one of the best Taoermina restaurants.
The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and locally sourced produce, all with a Sicilian flair.
They also make a killer pizza!
This charming eatery offers a menu featuring an array of wood-fired pizzas and Sicilian delicacies.
Enjoy a blend of crunchy pizza crusts, premium ingredients, and Sicilian hospitality.
Traditional Taormina cuisine specializes in seafood, but all dishes are represented.
For a more budget-friendly and delicious option, try Pizzeria Porta Messina and Pizzeria Nina.
Trattoria Tiramisu Restaurant
You can explore the delectable offerings of Trattoria Tiramisu Restaurant, a charming destination especially for those with a sweet tooth.
This trattoria not only features its renowned namesake dessert but also the best of Sicilian sweets.
Get a decadent pastry and savor artisanal gelato. Why not?
Da Cristina – Antica Rosticceria
Da Cristina – Antica Rosticceria warmly welcomes you to the world of rosticceria, slow-roasted, ready-to-eat meats and other main dishes in Sicilian tradition, in other words, delicious.
Some of the best Taormina restaurants for traditional Sicilian food include Trattoria Don Ciccio Malvasia and Grotta di Ulisse.
Best Time to Visit Taormina
Taormina is stunning year-round, but your experience will look very different depending on the season. Because it sits on a hilltop overlooking the Ionian Sea, the weather is mild, but the crowd levels shift a lot, and that can make or break a trip.
March – May (Spring): Best Overall Time
Spring is the sweet spot. The weather is warm but not hot, flowers fill the gardens, and the town hasn’t yet hit peak tourist levels. You can explore Corso Umberto, take the cable car to the beach, and enjoy outdoor dining without fighting for reservations.
June – September (Summer): Best for Beach Lovers
This is Taormina at its liveliest. Expect long, sunny days, perfect beach weather, and a busy nightlife scene. It’s the ideal time if you plan to alternate between sightseeing and swimming at Mazzarò or Spisone. The downside? Crowds and higher prices, so book everything early.
October – Early November (Fall): Best for Fewer Crowds & Pleasant Weather
Autumn brings softer light, cooler evenings, and a calmer version of Taormina. Most restaurants and attractions are still open, but beaches start to quiet down. It’s a great choice if you want warm days for exploring but prefer relaxed evenings.
December – February (Winter): Peaceful & Budget-Friendly
Winter is the off-season. Some beach clubs and seasonal shops close, but the town is still charming. You’ll enjoy quiet streets, lower hotel rates, and crisp views of Mount Etna. It’s not the time for swimming, but it’s ideal for slow travel and photography.
Quick Tip:
If you want the best mix of weather, prices, and crowd levels, late April, May, late September, and October are the golden months.
How to Get to Taormina
Reaching Taormina is surprisingly easy, and the journey is part of the charm. No matter how you get there, the route will always come with picture-perfect views.
By Air (Most Common Route)
The nearest airport is Catania Fontanarossa (CTA), about an hour away. Most international visitors land here, then continue to Taormina by bus, private transfer, train, or rental car. If you’re staying in the historic center, transfers are the simplest option since parking is limited.
By Bus from Catania Airport
Direct airport buses run between Catania Airport → Taormina Bus Terminal. It’s one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to arrive, and you’re dropped close to Corso Umberto and most hotels in the center.
By Train
If you love scenic travel, this is your route. Trains run along the coast from Catania, Syracuse, Messina, and even Palermo.
You’ll arrive at Taormina–Giardini Station, a gorgeous old station right by the sea. From there, take a local bus or taxi up the hill to the main town.
By Car
Driving gives you the freedom to explore nearby towns like Castelmola or Savoca. The road is smooth and well-marked, but be prepared for:
- Limited parking in the old town
- Narrow streets
- Paying for secure lots (Porta Catania or Porta Messina garages)
Insider Tip: If your hotel is in Mazzarò or the beach area, driving is much easier.
By Private Transfer
This is the most comfortable option, especially if you’re carrying luggage or arriving late. Door-to-door transfers from Catania Airport drop you directly at your hotel with no extra steps.
Best Beaches Near Taormina (Beyond Isola Bella)
Taormina isn’t just about hilltop views and historic streets. Some of Sicily’s most beautiful beaches sit right at its feet. Isola Bella may be the star, but the coastline has several other beaches worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you want more space, calmer water, or a quieter vibe.
Mazzarò Beach
Just below Taormina and easily reached by cable car, Mazzarò is a small but scenic pebble beach surrounded by cliffs. It’s perfect if you want something close to town without the crowds of Isola Bella. You’ll find beach clubs, sunbeds, and a few restaurants right on the water.
Spisone Beach
Spisone offers a longer, more open stretch of coastline with crystal-clear water and plenty of room to spread out. It’s a great choice for swimming and sunbathing, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, spacious atmosphere. Expect a mix of paid lidos, or beach areas, and free sections.
Letojanni Beach
A short bus ride or drive from Taormina, Letojanni is the most laid-back option on this list. The beach is wide, the sea is shallow and calm, and prices for sunbeds and food tend to be more affordable. If you’re spending a full beach day, this is where you’ll probably stay the longest.
Day Trips from Taormina
One of the best things about staying in Taormina is how easy it is to explore the surrounding towns and landscapes. Within 10–45 minutes, you can be in medieval villages, film locations, wine country, or dramatic natural parks.
All of these are among the best things to see in Taormina. These day trips add depth to your visit and show you a completely different side of Sicily.
Castelmola
Perched even higher than Taormina, Castelmola is a tiny hilltop village with some of the best panoramic views on the island.
Wander through narrow stone streets, sip the local almond wine, and enjoy a quiet break from Taormina’s busier center. It’s only a short bus ride or taxi away.
Savoca
If you’re a movie lover, Savoca is a must. This small village became famous as a filming location for The Godfather.
Visit Bar Vitelli, explore old churches, and admire the dramatic landscapes that overlook the sea and mountains. Even if you’re not into films, Savoca’s charm speaks for itself.
Giardini Naxos
Just below Taormina, Giardini Naxos is ideal for a relaxed beach day with a local feel. The town offers long sandy sections, family-friendly swimming spots, and seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood. It’s an easy and flexible half-day or full-day trip.
Alcántara Gorges
For something completely different, head inland to the Alcantara Gorges, a river canyon carved into volcanic rock.
You can walk along the river, explore natural pools, or hike the surrounding trails. It’s a refreshing escape during the hotter months and a great contrast to Taormina’s coastal scenery.
Where to Stay in Taormina
Taormina offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler, from luxury resorts with sea views to charming boutique hotels tucked into the historic streets. Choosing the right area and type of stay can make a huge difference in your trip experience.
Centro Storico (Historic Center)
Staying in the heart of Taormina puts you within walking distance of Corso Umberto, Teatro Greco, Piazza IX Aprile, and most restaurants.
Expect charming hotels in historic buildings, boutique stays with terraces overlooking the sea, and convenient access to shops and cafes. This is ideal if you want to soak up the town’s atmosphere day and night.
Mazzarò & Beach Area
If your priority is being close to the sea, Mazzarò and nearby beaches offer resorts and hotels with stunning views.
You can reach the historic center via the cable car in just a few minutes. This area is perfect for travelers who plan to spend more time relaxing on the beach than wandering the streets.
Castelmola (Hilltop Retreat)
For a quieter, more scenic experience, consider staying in Castelmola. Perched above Taormina, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Etna.
Accommodations here are mostly small guesthouses and B&Bs, giving a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel.
Budget Options
Hostels, guesthouses, and smaller hotels are available throughout Taormina, particularly near the historic center and Giardini Naxos. Booking early is key, especially during summer, as budget-friendly options are limited.
Luxury Stays
If you’re looking to splurge, Taormina has plenty of five-star hotels with rooftop terraces, infinity pools, and Michelin-starred dining. Many are located on cliff edges, offering unforgettable sunrise or sunset views. Some of these price tags are in the thousands of dollars per night.
Insider tip:
One of the top travel tips I always talk about is “always eat at least a few blocks away from the tourist areas.” Food in tourist areas tends to be below par and expensive. This certainly applies to Taormina restaurants.
The restaurateurs reckon tourists don’t know any better, and they are unlikely to return, so there is very little risk in displeasing a tourist.
In the case of eating around Corso Umberto, Taormina’s main drag, I have to make an exception.
We tried Terrazza Angelo Pizzeria in the heart of Corso Umberto and were pleasantly surprised. I can say that was one of my favorite Taormina restaurants.
We went for the spectacular view and ended up loving the food. Highly recommended.
And if you need more hotel recommendations, we suggest either the Athena Charming Rooms or the Hotel Continental. Both are really close to the beach and have amazing views.
In a Wrap
One of the lesser but most important aspects of Taormina restaurants and attractions is the seamless integration of historical charm with modern allure.
Taormina’s allure lies not just in its picturesque landscapes or delectable cuisines, but in the harmonious coexistence of ancient history and contemporary vibrancy.
The town’s restaurants, nestled amid historic buildings and along cobblestone streets, offer a unique blend of traditional Sicilian flavors and innovative culinary techniques.
Similarly, its attractions, from the ancient Greek theatre to vibrant piazzas, weave a narrative that transcends time.
This ability to preserve and celebrate its rich history while embracing the present contributes significantly to Taormina’s distinct charm and enduring appeal.
Check out some of the best places to stay in Taormina in all price ranges.
In Italy, they add work and life on to food and wine. - Robin Leach Share on X
Driving in Italy
Just a note if you are going to rent a car in Italy. Make sure it is a compact one to easily fit through the narrow streets that were never meant for automobiles.
At the very tip of the Italian boot in Reggio Calabria is the town of Villa San Giovanni.
Here is where you take the car ferry to Messina in Sicily. The car ferry takes 30 minutes and costs about €35.
The crossing itself is smooth sailing, and actually getting the car onto the ferry is another story.
You have to drive the car through these narrow and steep up-hill ramps and sharp corners, like an obstacle course.
It takes longer to stow the car than it does to sail to Sicily, so make sure your car is suited for the Italian streets and ferry.
Driving in Italy can be a challenge for other reasons, too.
Once, when we were looking for our hotel, we diligently followed the traffic signs but continued to go around in a circle.
After the fourth try, we found a policeman and asked for directions.
Just as had happened in other parts of Italy, the policeman directed us to go against the traffic. A “piccola infrazione” (small infraction) he called it. “Otherwise you’ll just go around in circles”, he said.
I wanted to ask if it wouldn’t be easier to just change the sign, but I decided against it.
From the food to the archaeology to the winding streets to the medieval towns, Taormina’s attractions and restaurants will delight you.
Make sure to check out these reference materials to have a good grasp of the area before you visit.
What are your thoughts on the best things to see in Taormina? What Taormina restaurants and attractions are your favorites? Would you feel comfortable driving in Italy? What car would you rent? Let us know in the comments.
Like this post? Read the entire series:
- Matera: Underground caves
- Magical Ortygia,
- Agrigento, Greek Ruins
- Monreale’s architecture
- Palermo Streets
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