Where is Taormina?
Taormina is located on the east coast of Sicily in the province of Messina, it lies perched on a promontory overlooking the sea, with views of Mount Etna. This town enchants visitors from all over the world with its timeless charm, a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty.
What to see in Taormina?
Taormina Historic Center
Lose yourself in the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the medieval and Baroque architecture that characterizes the palaces, churches and squares. Typical small stores, artisan workshops and fashionable boutiques complete the authentic atmosphere of the place.
Greek Theater of Taormina
A journey through time awaits you at the Greek Theater of Taormina, dating back to the 3rd century BC. It is one of the most significant vestiges of Greek heritage in Sicily. This ancient amphitheater is strategically located offering spectacular views of the Ionian coast and Mount Etna. The theater is still used for shows, concerts and events, providing an opportunity to experience art and culture in an ancient and evocative setting.
Porta Catania and Porta Messina
Walk through the historic gateways to the historic center: Porta Catania, on the south, and Porta Messina, on the north. These ancient portals frame the historic center of Taormina giving you access to Corso Umberto I.
Corso Umberto I
The beating heart of Taormina is Corso Umberto I, a long pedestrian avenue that winds between the two historic gates. Stores, cafes, restaurants and clubs animate this street, inviting you to stroll, shop, sample local products and immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Cathedral Square
Near Porta Catania you will find Piazza Duomo, at the center of which stands one of Taormina’s most iconic monuments: admire the Fountain of Taormina’s Piazza Duomo, also known as the “4 fountains”, a 17th-century Baroque masterpiece. Within the square you will also find the imposing Cathedral of St. Nicholas of Bari, also called the “fortress cathedral”.
April IX Square
Reach Piazza IX Aprile, also known as the “Belvedere of Taormina”, and prepare to be blown away by looking out from the striking panoramic viewpoint over the Ionian coast. You can admire the beauty of the surrounding landscape, dominated by Naxos Bay and the imposing Mount Etna in the background.
Within the square you will also find the Church of St. Joseph, a Baroque religious jewel adorned with splendid stucco, frescoes and works of sacred art.
Odeon Theater
Hidden among Taormina’s narrow streets, just off Corso Umberto in the vicinity of Piazza Santa Caterina and Palazzo Corvaja, you will find a priceless treasure: the Odeon Theater. This gem of Roman architecture dates from around the 2nd century AD, it was possibly erected on the remains of an ancient Greek temple, now concealed behind the facade of the 17th-century Church of St. Catherine. In ancient Greece and Rome, the Odeon represented a temple of culture, a place reserved for musical and literary performances.
Taormina Municipal Villa - Trevelyan Park
Have a relaxing break at Taormina’s Public Garden, a tranquil green retreat with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains. The perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Isola Bella
A natural paradise awaits you at Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a strip of sand at low tide. The Isola Bella nature reserve offers a rich diversity of marine flora and fauna, the surrounding crystal clear waters and rock formations make this an ideal place for snorkeling and refreshing swims.
Mount Etna
For adventure lovers, an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, is an unforgettable experience. Guided by experts, you can explore the volcano’s moonscape, admire its fumaroles and craters, and enjoy panoramic views of Sicily.
What to do in Taormina?
Excursions from Taormina
Take a hike on Mount Etna and explore the Alcantara Gorges, a breathtaking lava canyon carved by the Alcantara River within ancient lava flows. Travel to Milazzo and sail to the Aeolian Islands, an archipelago of seven volcanic islands with pristine landscapes and heavenly beaches.
Taormina beaches
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of beaches near Taormina, such as Mazzarò, Isola Bella, Giardini Naxos or Letojanni, where you can relax in the sun and enjoy water sports.
Shopping in Taormina
Corso Umberto I is the perfect place for people who enjoy shopping, with local craft stores, fashion boutiques, and art galleries displaying works by Sicilian artists.
Events in Taormina
Throughout the year Taormina hosts several major cultural events, including the Taormina Film Festival and the Taormina Arte Festival.
Sicilian cuisine
Sicilian cuisine is a triumph of flavors and aromas. Enjoy typical dishes such as pasta alla Norma, Sicilian cannolo and granita, accompanied by a good glass of local wine. If you are a true wine lover you will have the opportunity to visit the many local wineries, tasting fine wines accompanied by gastronomic delights, immersing yourself in Sicilian culinary culture.
Taormina: The pearl of Sicily among art, culture and breathtaking scenery
TTaormina is a rare gem that wins the heart of every visitor. Its historical heritage, natural beauty and the many activities it offers make it an ideal destination for those who want a vacation filled with culture, relaxation and fun. Do you feel like visiting Taormina together with Dream Island? Then we recommend our Taormina and Castelmola tour!
