Unsurprisingly, Taormina is one of Sicily's must-sees. Maupassant once said, "If someone had only one day to spend in Sicily, I would answer without hesitation, Taormina." You only have to set eyes on its ancient theater, preferably against a sunset backdrop, to understand this. With a splendid view over the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna, this ancient Greek city takes you on a journey not only to Sicily, but also and above all through time. Located not far from France, it's a first-rate sun destination for an extended weekend. Discover the 13 things to do in Taormina during your trip to Sicily.
1. Dive into history at the Ancient Greek Theatre
Among cypress and fig trees, discover Taormina's superb ancient theater. Dating back to the IIIᵉ century, its construction, initiated by the Greeks, has retained its letters of nobility. The site is a thing of beauty, not least because of the incredible view that stretches as far as the eye can see behind the theater. Although its original vocation was to host theatrical and musical performances, the site later became an arena for gladiatorial combat in Roman times. Today, it has been restored to its former glory, hosting a variety of musical and theatrical performances during the summer months.
Avoid the queues by booking your ticket to Taormina's ancient theater, one of the largest performance venues on the Italian peninsula, here.
2. Stroll through the town's pretty alleyways
Taormina's narrow streets are full of charm. It would be a shame not to make the most of it! Your steps take you from street to street, lined with ancient Renaissance-style buildings. The result is a charming town center, where you'll find it easy to stroll. Small boutiques and trattorias punctuate your route, much to your delight. Keep your eyes peeled! In some places, the view opens up, offering a lovely panorama of the Ionian Sea. Not sure where to start? Head for Corso Umberto, the city's main thoroughfare. From here, you can explore the length and breadth of Taormina's town center.
3. Pass under the Messina Gate, a vestige of Taormina's past
Standing out against a backdrop of modern buildings, the stone Porta Messina seems to be telling us that it won't budge, no matter what we do! One of the last remnants of the ancient city walls, it frames Corso Umberto with Porta Catania on the opposite side. Between the two, you can also admire the Porta di Mezzo (Clock Tower).
Our smart tip: right next to the Porta Messina is the Funivia cable car, linking the city entrance to Mazzaro beach.
4. Admire Piazza IX Aprile, the vibrant heart of Taormina
Walk along Corso Umberto and you'll find yourself in the heart of Piazza IX Aprile. Overlooking the Bay of Naxos, the view is as beautiful as its immediate surroundings. From its black-and-white tiled floor to its large square tower and beautiful church, it's a sight like no other. Here, too, the view extends as far as Mount Etna and the ancient theater, adding a touch of poetry to the whole.
5. The Chiesa Madonna della Rocca, an unusual visit to Taormina
The Chiesa Madonna della Rocca is a church erected in the XVIIᵉ century on the heights of Taormina. Carved out of the rock, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains. Put on your walking shoes, a 25-minute stroll awaits, to reach this church of Sicilian Baroque architecture, proudly displaying its facade adorned with biblical sculptures. Originally built in the XVIᵉ century by Prince Giacomo Ventimiglia, it has subsequently been enlarged and restored over the centuries.
Looking for more unusual things to do in Taormina? Take part in this tandem paragliding flight and discover the panoramic views of Taormina as you explore Sicily from the air.
We also recommend this dolphin watching boat trip from Taormina. Sail into the Gulf of Taormina and get a glimpse of Sicilian wildlife.
6. Climb up to Castello di Monte Tauro
From the Madonna della Rocca church, take the stairs up to the Castello di Monte Tauro. Overlooking the bay, all that remains of this ancient castle are a few magnificent vestiges. Built in the Middle Ages on the site of an ancient acropolis, it included a watchtower. You can still admire the high keep and courtyard, as well as the surrounding walls. If only for the view from up there, and from the church, this little hike is well worth it!
7. Discover the Corvaja Palace in Taormina
The Palazzo Corvaja was built during the city's Arab occupation in the XIᵉ century. Enlarged in the XIIIᵉ century, it is adorned with a beautiful hall of justice and a staircase leading to carved panels in Syracuse stone. In the XVᵉ century, the right wing was added to accommodate meetings of the Sicilian Parliament, under the authority of Bianca di Navarra. The palace, named after the Corvaja family who resided here from 1538 to 1945, was restored in 1946. The result is stunning, now housing the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions on the second floor. On the first floor, you'll find the tourist office.
8. Walk to Isola Bella in Taormina: our favorite!
Have you noticed this little turtle-like piece of land that stands out on the shores of Taormina? It'sIsola Bella, an adorable little wild island that can be reached on foot from the pebbly beach of Isola Bella, one of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. Nicknamed the Pearl of the Mediterranean, this pretty island is rich in vegetation, adding to its mysterious appeal. As beautiful as it is fascinating, it's an invitation to let go and show immense respect for the beauty Mother Nature has to offer. Now a Nature Reserve, it's home to seabirds, as well as the podarcis sicula medemi, a partially red (and very rare!) endemic lizard.
Tip: here you'll find a list of Taormina's beaches, so you can enjoy a bit of iodine-based relaxation between two visits. Sicily is an ideal beach destination, as it allows you to combine historical visits with idleness: take advantage of this and book your day boat trip around Taormina and Giardini Naxos here.
It's also the perfect opportunity to discover scuba diving in Taormina, in the heart of Sicily, with a professional guide by booking right here.
You can also opt for this kayak excursion in Taormina to discover Sicily's eastern coast in the company of a guide!
9. Marvel at the gardens of Villa Communale
Here's a spectacular place to visit in Taormina! A true haven of peace, the Gardens of the Villa Communale are the result of the sometimes extravagant wishes of their former owner: Lady Florence Trevelyan. Here you'll find numerous plants, some of them exotic, beautiful terraces, stone buildings and much more. Magnolias, hibiscus and bougainvillea share the grounds with species from all over the world, including African trees covered in thorns. The most unusual feature of this relaxing park are the "Victorian follies", original buildings scattered here and there. Pure splendor, overlooking the sea to complete this dreamy picture.
10. Immerse yourself in the past at Odeon, Taormina's Roman site
Have you ever seen a mini-theater? Taormina's Odeon, a tiny theater built by the Romans against the church of St. Catherine. In the past, it was mainly used for public readings and conferences. Although far less impressive than the great ancient theater overlooking the Bay of Naxos, it's still worth seeing. The rows of stone seats are still clearly visible, as are the small stage and adjacent doors. A historic site as astonishing as it is interesting, to be discovered in particular on a guided tour.
11. Visit St. Nicholas Cathedral
This is one of Taormina's best-known buildings. The stone-clad Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Taormina is one of the town's most emblematic monuments, with its three beautiful portals. The main portal, dating from the XVᵉ century, features sculptures of saints and a Greek-style pediment. The west portal, from the XVᵉ century, in lava stone, shows Christian bas-reliefs. Finally, the third portal, from the XVIᵉ century, reflects Sicilian Gothic. Now that's a visit that takes you back in time! Inside, you'll admire various works of art, as well as statues from other Taormina churches.
12. Visit Taormina's Sant'Agostino church
Although less impressive than St. Nicholas Cathedral, theSant'Agostino church can be included in your Taormina sightseeing to-do list. Built in 1448, you'll find it north of Piazza IX Aprile. Originally dedicated to Saint Sebastian, it was enlarged to become a monastery for the hermits of Saint Augustine. Its facade, though sober, is adorned with a Gothic pointed portal and a beautiful mosaic. Modified in the XVIIIᵉ century with the addition of a bell tower and arch, the church now houses the municipal library.
To remember : this period religious building is also used for art exhibitions and cultural events.
13. Sicilian specialties
Gourmet friends, here's the "yum" section of our dossier! As a Mediterranean city, fish has pride of place. And because we're in Italy, we don't hesitate to try pasta with squid ink. Another delicacy, this time an unusual one: pizzolo. Same spirit as the pizza, but here in a "filled pizza" style. In the easy-to-eat-anywhere takeaway category, don't miss the arancino. This is a large ball of filled rice, coated in breadcrumbs. Need some vegetables after all that? Try caponata, a Sicilian-style ratatouille, creating a unique blend of textures and tastes. You can discover Sicily's ancient culinary traditions on a walking tour of Taormina bookable here.
In the sweet department, we invite you to try our succulent ice-cream brioches. Another 100% local variation: a granita, topped with whipped cream and accompanied by brioche. Sicilians even eat it for breakfast! With almonds in the spotlight, we also invite you to try cestino alla mandorla, a famous pastry. Finally, the biscotto di Napoli, with melon jam, will also thrill your taste buds!
For those with a sweet tooth, your stay is an opportunity to learn how to concoct an authentic Italian pizza by booking this pizza workshop in Taormina led by a qualified pizza maker!
Or opt for this half-day guided tour with Etna wine tasting.
What to eat in Italy 20 culinary specialities to discover
Petit Futé tip
See Taormina from a different perspective. On a guided guided boat tour bookable herecross the Bay of Naxos and sail along the coast, with a beautiful view of Taormina. The icing on the cake: an aperitif (sometimes in the water!) is served during your excursion. Other excursions take you to Mount Etna, one of Italy's 27 must-sees. Kill two birds with one stone!
Where to stay in Taormina?
Good news: Taormina's city center is pedestrianized! That's great, because you won't be bothered by the noise of cars from your hotel. On the other hand, it's best to travel light, so that you can easily transport your luggage from a public parking lot. Not necessarily looking for proximity to the city center? Hotels with private parking are available nearby!
- The most beautiful
Breathtaking views over the Bay of Naxos, beautiful rooms, a lovely terrace-restaurant: everything about Villa Angela is breathtaking! A superb swimming pool and a restaurant serving 100% Sicilian dishes complete your dream stay at this top-of-the-range hotel. Book your roomhere at this Taormina establishment, where the welcome (in French!) is impeccable.
- The best view
Although the view rivals that of the previous hotel, Villa Belvedere lives up to its name. From Etna to the sea, via the surrounding palm trees, the view is superb. Surrounded by flower-filled gardens, this luxury hotel offers shuttle services to take you to the beach or to town. Click here to book your tastefully decorated room.
- The most bucolic
Located near the funicular railway, the beach and the town center, the Pensione Svizzera offers a bucolic setting for your stay in Taormina. The pretty garden dotted with palm trees offers a pleasant, relaxing break after your visit to the city. Click here to book your comfortable, beautifully decorated room at this establishment.
Discover the most popular things to do in Taormina here :
Which villages to visit around Taormina?
Close to Taormina, your excursion begins in Castelmola, a medieval hilltop village offering incredible views of the surrounding area. Not far away, the village of Savoca is sure to appeal to seasoned film buffs, as it was the setting for "The Godfather". The catacombs of the Cappuccini convent are also not to be missed!
Then follow our top 13 places to visit in Catania, to discover this pretty Sicilian village. From the cathedral to the Ursino castle, not forgetting the superb gardens of Villa Bellini, Catania is pure wonder! Just 16 km from Taormina, you'll also find the medieval village of Forza d'Agrò. With its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful churches and medieval castle, it's a pleasant place to stroll around for a while.
A little further afield, you'll also find some of Italy's most beautiful villages, such as Scilla and Sperlinga. Enjoy your Sicilian road trip!
Where to eat in Taormina
Feast on Italian gastronomy in Taormina's best restaurants! From pizzas and pastas to emblematic desserts, prepare your taste buds for a gustatory journey.
- The best Tiramisù in Taormina
Some customers are quite adamant: you can skip the main courses and go straight to dessert! At trattoria Tiramisù, with its evocative name, this sweet specialty is executed to perfection! However, the pizzas and other local dishes are also to die for.
- Sicilian pastas not to be missed
Located right next to the Pensione Svizzera, the trattoria da Nino serves some of the best pasta in Taormina. Don't hesitate to book a table in this small but delicious restaurant, with its incredibly beautiful view.
- The best arancini
Head to Rosticceria Da Cristina for a taste of the city's best arancini. These fried rice balls, filled in 1001 ways, are a must-try delicacy in Sicily. You've found the perfect place to enjoy them!
Taormina is considered one of Sicily's most beautiful cities, and is the ideal destination for a honeymoon or language trip. Are you lucky enough to be able to visit the length and breadth of Sicily? Head for the Aeolian Islands, one of our top 10 must-see islands. Of course, you can't leave Sicily until you've visited its must-see city: Palermo. With our 13 must-sees in Palermo, you won't miss a thing!
