About Taormina, Sicily
Taormina is Sicily’s most famous and exclusive beach resort, boasting all the ingredients you need for a romantic getaway or beach holiday.
Perched high on the sides of Mount Tauro, Taormina overlooks two wide bays, the islet of Isola Bella and several small coves, grottos and beaches that are lapped by a shimmering turquoise sea.
Things to do and see
Explore the town’s narrow medieval streets, visiting the Arabic-styled Palazzo Corvaja, the impressive 12th century clock tower on Piazza IX Aprile and the stunning Greco-Roman-era amphitheatre from where you can enjoy magnificent views over the rugged coastline below and imposing Mount Etna to the south.
Browse for Italian fashions on the traffic-free Corso Umberto, lined with boutiques, art galleries and trendy shops. Descend on the cable car to the art-deco station of Mazzaro then stroll to a choice of sand and pebble beaches nearby.
Later, by hire car or on an organised tour bus, visit the lava-clad sulphurous upper slopes of Mount Etna – a still active volcano. Or perhaps visit the pretty hillside village of Savoca, used as the setting for the courtship between Michael Corleone and his first wife Apollonia in the move The Godfather.
Accommodation
Taormina offers a wide choice of bars, restaurants and hotels, including one of Italy’s finest – the luxurious 5-star San Domenico Palace Hotel, which is built on the site of a 15th century monastery and offers great views of Mount Etna and the turquoise bay below.
Best time to visit Taormina?
The best time for a Taormina holiday is during the summer months of June to September, when the average daily temperature is 22°C.
July and August are the busiest months and daytime temperatures often soar beyond 27°C. To avoid the crowds and still enjoy warm weather and clear sunny skies, try May and October. For more climate info: Sicily Weather Guide
Location – Taormina is located on the east coast of Sicily, around 270km east of the capital Palermo, 52km south of the port Messina (with easy ferry connections to and from mainland Italy) and 55km north of Catania, home to the nearest airport.
Getting there – A frequent train service running between Messina and Syracuse stops at Taormina. |
