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Clinging to the slopes of Mount Tauro overlooking two glittering bays, Taormina is Sicily's most glamorous destination. Writers, artists and the aristocracy flocked here over the centuries to enjoy the views and stroll the handsome streets lined with medieval palazzi (palaces).
Elegant churches sit on charming small piazzas, flowers spill over balconies, fountains trickle and on the edge of the town sits a spectacularly situated Teatro Greco. An understandably popular place, the town reveals its greatest charms outside peak season when you can walk its attractive streets, browse the smart boutiques and dine in the fine restaurants without the crowds.
The boutique resort of Taormina is a place to see and be seen, but it’s easy to slip away from the crowds of visitors in the heart of the town and find a secluded spot with uninterrupted view of the sea.Italy specialist Claire
Things to see and do in Taormina
Teatro Greco
Taormina's most famous sight is its well-preserved Greek theater, which sits in a lofty position on the cliffside at the edge of the town. Perfectly placed to make the most of the views over the bay and Mount Etna beyond, the horseshoe-shaped open-air auditorium was built in the 3rd century BC and was later restructured by the Romans who added a colonnaded backdrop.
It's a magical place that really comes to life during one of the regular summer performances held here. Between June and September you can attend operatic and theatrical events, film screenings and concerts in this unique setting.
Madonna della Rocca
Set high on the slopes of Mount Tauro and reached by a precipitous series of steps, the Madonna della Rocca church was founded in 1640. According to local legend the church marks the spot where a young shepherd took refuge during a severe storm and had a visitation from the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus.
It's a simple chapel, roughly hewn from the rock, but the views are dramatic. Continue beyond the church to see the ruins of a Saracen castle, the site of the former Greek acropolis, where you'll get more sweeping views over the surrounding landscape.
Isola Bella
This tiny island linked to the mainland by a pebble spit is set in a cove east of the town. Once owned by English gardener and conservationist Florence Trevelyan, it’s now a nature reserve managed by the World Wildlife Fund.
Brimming with exotic plants, its tranquil atmosphere makes the islet a good destination for a quiet afternoon. To get here you can either walk down the steep coastal path from Taormina or take the cable car to Mazzaró. The most romantic option, perhaps, is a boat trip around the cape.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Taormina
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Taormina, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Taormina
- Mount Etna 18 miles away
- Syracuse 54 miles away
- Sicily 54 miles away
- Villa Romana del Casale 63 miles away
- Ragusa, Modica & Noto 72 miles away
- Agrigento 101 miles away
- Palermo 107 miles away
- Erice and Trapani 148 miles away
- Marsala 156 miles away
- Capri 196 miles away
- The Amalfi Coast 196 miles away
- Sorrento 198 miles away
- Pompeii 205 miles away
- Matera 208 miles away
- Herculaneum 211 miles away
- Ischia 212 miles away
- Naples 214 miles away
- Puglia 226 miles away
- Alberobello 229 miles away
- Lecce 233 miles away
- Ostuni 234 miles away
- Otranto 235 miles away
- Fasano 235 miles away
Photos of Taormina
Our expert guides to exploring Taormina
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Taormina, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Taormina at its best.
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Where to visit in Sicily Where to visit in Sicily
Where to visit in Sicily
Beyond its azure waters and white pebbled beaches, Sicily offers a complex cultural experience, one that is seen in its Baroque churches, open-air markets, Greek ruins and complex cuisine. Discover why it’s the crossroads of the Mediterranean with Audley specialist Kimberly.
Read this guide
Accommodation choices for Taormina
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Taormina. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo
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Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea
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The Ashbee
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Villa Angela
Taormina
Ideas for experiencing Taormina
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Taormina, and which use the best local guides.
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Mount Etna summit visit with wine tasting lunch Mount Etna summit visit with wine tasting lunch
Mount Etna summit visit with wine tasting lunch
Mount Etna is Europe's most active volcano. Reaching its summit involves an adventurous trip but reveals much about its history, temperament and geology, which you can then discuss over lunch accompanied by some of the region's finest wines.
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