Last Updated: December 20, 2023
Since we moved to Malta, we have been visiting Taormina in June almost every year, to celebrate my birthday. This year would have not been any different, had the world not been temporarily closed due to the coronavirus.
There are so many places to see in Sicily but somehow every time we plan our trip, I am drawn to Taormina like a bee to a honeypot. The town of Taormina sits on a cliff, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. It is a colourful and elegant town which attracts a lot of tourists and celebrities, mainly during the summer months.
Here is my ultimate guide to Taormina
HOW TO GET TO TAORMINA
Sicily has 2 main airports, Palermo and Catania, with the latter one being the closest to Taormina. Grab a direct bus outside Fontanarossa Airport which will get you to Taormina in 1h and 25min. However, in case you want to spend some time in Catania before heading to Taormina, then you can choose between rent a car, catch a bus or travel by train.
Bus: There is a direct bus departing almost every hour from the bus station Viale Della Libertà in Catania. The ride can vary between 1h and 10min to 2hrs, depending on traffic.
Train: There are frequent trains departing from Catania Centrale station to Taormina and the trip takes roughly 1h. Once you arrive at Taormina-Giardini (terminal) station, you can either take a bus and in approximately 15min you will reach Taormina centre or you can grab one of the taxis outside the train station which will cost you roughly 15€. We have witnessed a few people walking it to the centre, so if you belong to the brave ones who don’t mind the Italian sun, then go for it.
CORSO UMBERTO
Start your day from Corso Umberto and mingle with the crowd. Corso Umberto leads to several archaeological sites with the Greek Theater stealing the show. Taormina is also home to a few more impressive sites such as the Duomo, the Church of Sant’Agostino and Palazzo Corvaja.
Explore the tiny alleyways to get a feel of the Italian dolce vita. The scenery across Corso Umberto is made up of charming restaurants, luxury boutiques, people dressed to impress and gelaterias selling delicious ice cream and the famous Sicilian Granita.
VILLA COMUNALE DI TAORMINA
The public garden of Taormina is just what you need after a few hours exploring the town in the heat. It is the perfect hideaway from the crowds, offering a breathtaking view of the Ionian Sea.
ISOLA BELLA
Isola Bella means “Beautiful Island”. I could not agree more, a charming island converted into a beautiful nature reserve. Isola Bella is connected to Mazzarò’s pebbly beach, an awesome place to relax and soak up some sun. After a full day of fun and delicious Italian lunch by the sea, head back to the town centre by cable car.
CASTELMOLA
Castelmola is a picturesque little town above Taormina. The first thing that will catch your attention is the truly breathtaking panoramic view of the Ionian Sea, Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna!
It is a typical Sicilian village with beautiful tiny alleyways connecting piazza San Antonino with piazza a Castelmola. One of the quirkiest places you will find is Bar Turrisi. The entire decoration is made up of phalluses. Order a traditional almond liqueur which is served, in a penis glass. Choose a table on the terrace so you can make the most of the Mediterranean sun.
SICILIAN CUISINE
Taormina has plenty of options when it comes to food. Finding something to satisfy your taste buds won’t be a challenge. My personal favourite places to eat are the below:
- Pizza: La Napoletana – you must try the pizza with the fresh burrata cheese!
- Granita: Bam Bar – their delicious granitas come in an array of flavours such as melon, strawberry, lemon and many others. Gelato with a brioche ban on the side is also a must-try Sicilian dessert.
- Pasta: Trattoria Tiramisu Taormina – do not leave Taormina unless you have tried the traditional Vermicelli alla Siciliana.
If you have any recommendations about what to see, where to go, or what to eat in Taormina then leave a comment, and let’s inspire together, those who plan to Scroll the Globe and land in Taormina.
Where can I try the pasta you posted in the photo with the pizza?