The Best Travel Guide to Taormina (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Overview

Taormina The guide was updated: 2024-09-17

Over the years, Taormina has been a source of inspiration for artists from all over the world. Celebrated as the idyllic destination par excellence, it represents the ideal place to escape from the chaos of city life.

Located 200 metres above sea level, it is settled on a coastal terrace, overlooking the vastness of the Ionian Sea. The natural beauty of the hill from which the city rises is completed by the view of the imposing Etna volcano.

Facts

Population:	11,075
Currency:	Euro
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	112 Police 118 Emergency 115 Firefighters
Newspapers:	Giornale di Sicilia - www.gds.it Messina Oggi - www.messinaoggi.it
Opening hours:	Most shops are open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm or 8pm.
Tourist information:	Ufficio informazioni turistiche Palazzo Corvaja Vittorio Emanuele II Square, Taormina +39 094 223 243 Servizio Turistico Regionale Taormina, Unità Operartiva di Giardini Naxos 54 Tysandros Seafront, Giardini Naxos +39 094 251 010 Mon–Thu 8.30am–2.15pm

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Section in Taormina

The medieval town can probably be walked within one day and this gem located on the East coast of Sicily has a unique charm that has attracted many travellers, despite its small size. The historical centre, Corso Umberto I with its shops and traditional Sicilian restaurants, crystal water beaches and the numerous options for a day trip in the Sicilian surroundings are some of the ingredients that make the so called "pearl" of the Ionic Sea so unique and alluring.

The Greek Anphitheater

The Greek Anphitheater

Certainly the most iconic monument of the city, the Amphitheatre was erected in Taormina in the 2nd century BC. Celebrated by Goethe for "the most beautiful view from a theatre", it overlooks the Ionic sea and Mount Etna. The classic cavea was tailored by the side of the hill and it serves as stage for international events.

Isola Bella

Isola Bella

The literal translation "beautiful island" wasn't given at random. This Mediterranean isle serves as a natural habitat for diverse species of birds and sea life. With its crystal waters, it acts as a bathing spot where you can also enjoy the ocean breeze.

IX Aprile Square

IX Aprile Square

A bustling landmark of Taormina, Piazza IX Aprile is the vibrant heart of the town. Guarded by two majestic churches, it offers an sweeping view of the Ionic Sea. With its traditional cafes and restaurants, it is a place where you can sip some local almond wine while listening to musicians fiddling with their strings.

Chiesa di San Giuseppe

Chiesa di San Giuseppe

Constructed at the end of the XVII century, San Giuseppe church dominates Piazza IX Aprile with its Baroque facade. The interiors are decorated with floral motifs and angels, as well as with some frescoes picturing traditional Catholic images.

Villa Comunale

Villa Comunale

The gardens of this villa represent a shaded solution after the days spent at the beach. Designed by the British and eccentric Lady Florence Trevelyan, they fairly resemble British gardens, although they house a diverse and rare Sicilian flora as well as exotic plants. The architectural items are also considerable: there are bizarre constructions like the Beehive and other more classical statues.

Corvaja Palace

Corvaja Palace

Overlooking Badia square, this iconic palace was erected throughout the Arabs´ domination in the XI century. The architectural features show a mixture of styles, blending together to create this mansion. By taking a walk up the XIII century staircase, you'll be able to enjoy the art exhibition hosted in the building.

Corso Umberto I

Corso Umberto I

Corso Umberto I crosses the entire town in what is the most iconic walk in Taormina. It goes from Porta Catania to Porta Messina, the two ancient gateways that guard the city define the border of the medieval town. The road will lead you to historical sites of the city as well as some of its most famous restaurants, cafes and shops.

Odeon

Odeon

If you happen to stroll through the many alleys in town, you might stumble upon the Odeon. Only a few steps away from the main road, this Roman theatre was discovered in 1892 underneath buildings constructed upon it over the years. Its remains stand out from the rest of the city, a testament to the long gone Ancient Roman Era.

Lido Mazzarò

Lido Mazzarò

You can take a ride on the cable way from the main town to this well known beach: the available view will anticipate what to expect from Lido Mazzarò. Although it is a pebbly beach, it is ideal for sunbathing, and If you fancy having lunch here, you will also find some local restaurants.

La Grotta Blu

La Grotta Blu

A hidden gem located at Mazzarò Beach, this scuba-diving spot is also ideal for a boat trip: the crystal blue of the sea is reflected on the inside of the grotto, creating a show of dazzling lights and colours. You will find numerous scuba-diving schools throughout Taormina and Isola Bella, for beginners or advanced divers.

Duomo di Taormina

Duomo di Taormina

Also called "Fortress Cathedral", this is a Medieval church built in the 13th century over the ruins of San Nicola´s church. The austere facade granted it the title of biggest medieval monument in Taormina: with its Gothic-Norman style, it shouldn't be missed.

Piazza Duomo Fountain

Piazza Duomo Fountain

The Fountain located in Duomo Square is further enhanced by the medieval figure of Taormina´s Cathedral, standing right in front of it and dominating the square. Constructed in a Gothic style, this monument is guarded by the statue of the Minotaur, the half-man half-horse mythological emblem of the city.

Spisone Beach

Spisone Beach

Known for its clear water, this public beach is bigger than Mazzarò Lido and certainly more relaxing: in fact it's one of the locals' most frequented spots, as it doesn't often bustle with tourists. The tiny rock islands emerging from the blue surface complete the picture of this natural landscape.

Alcantara Gorges

Alcantara Gorges

A day trip to the Alcantara Gorges offers a way to cool off and hide from the hot Sicilian sun. Located on the slope of Mount Etna, they formed over 4000 years ago due to the flow of lava that was crystallised thanks to the Alcantara river, creating the natural sculptures that can be seen today.

Giardini Naxos

Giardini Naxos

Featuring white sandy beaches and crystal water, this 4 km coastline is one of the most well-known bays on the island. Plentiful restaurants, bars and shops as well as the archaeological park, make Giardini Naxos a perfect alternative for a day trip. Located only 6 km from the Taormina city centre, the bus ride takes only 26 minutes.

Madonna della Rocca Church

Madonna della Rocca Church

Perched on the mount that dominates Taormina, this church was carved out of rocks and features peculiar rock interiors. From the city centre, walk up the numerous steps that lead here, where you'll be able to enjoy a sweeping view of the city.

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