What to see in Taormina

Millenary history and timeless beauty of the "Pearl of the Mediterranean"

Located between the slopes of Mount Tauro and the crystal clear sea of the Ionian Sea, Taormina is one of Sicily's most precious gems. Famous since the time of the nineteenth-century Grand Tour, it has fascinated travellers, artists and writers from all over the world, conquering them with its beauty suspended between sky and sea. Walking through its streets is like entering a timeless dream, where history, art and nature blend harmoniously.

The history of Taormina has ancient origins: founded in the fourth century BC by the inhabitants of Naxos, it was a crossroads of peoples and cultures (from the Greeks to the Romans, from the Arabs to the Normans) who have left a unique architectural and cultural heritage. The atmosphere you breathe is that of an elegant, refined city yet deeply linked to its roots.

The beating heart of the city is Corso Umberto I, the pedestrian street that crosses the entire historic center, dotted with refined boutiques, artisan shops and typical restaurants. Walking here, you immediately come across Palazzo Corvaja, an imposing medieval fortress that once housed the Sicilian Parliament and is now home to exhibitions and the tourist office. Not far away, there is a small lesser-known but unmissable jewel: the Naumachia, an ancient Roman structure where spectacular simulations of naval battles took place.

Continuing along the Corso, you arrive at Piazza IX Aprile (also known as Piazza XXV Aprile), the scenic heart of the city. The view that opens onto the bay and Mount Etna is simply breathtaking, a panorama that remains in the heart of every visitor. The square is framed by historic buildings such as the Baroque church of San Giuseppe, the church of Sant'Agostino and the majestic Clock Tower, the ancient entrance to the third city walls.

Continuing the route you reach the Cathedral of San Nicolò di Bari, with its austere façade and the splendid Baroque fountain known as the "Four Fountains", perfect for a suggestive stop.

Not far from Porta Catania, we find another masterpiece: the Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano, a splendid example of Gothic-Sicilian architecture that mixes Arab and Norman elements. Today it is the headquarters of the Mazzullo Foundation and hosts contemporary art exhibitions and fairytale weddings.

The flagship of Taormina is undoubtedly the Ancient Theater, one of the most extraordinary testimonies of Greco-Roman Sicily. In addition to its immense historical and archaeological value, the theater offers an unparalleled view of the coast and Mount Etna, giving unique emotions during shows and concerts, especially on summer nights.

An unmissable green corner is the Villa Comunale, a lush garden commissioned by Lady Florence Trevelyan in the nineteenth century. Among exotic plants and imaginative Victorian-style buildings, there is a romantic and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a break in the shade overlooking the sea and Mount Etna.

What to see around Taormina

In the surroundings of Taormina, nature offers equally extraordinary spectacles. 

ISOLA BELLA

GIARDINI NAXOS

 

Famous for its sandy beaches and the history linked to the first Greek colony in Sicily, it is an unmissable stop.

CASTELMOLA

 

A village perched above Taormina offering panoramic views

and the famous almond wine.

The dishes of Sicilian cuisine

Sicilian cuisine is a real mosaic of flavors and traditions, the result of the many influences that have crossed the island over the centuries: Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards have left an indelible mark on the local gastronomy.

Granita with brioche

Sicilian arancini

Caponata

The local cuisine is therefore a triumph of Mediterranean flavors. From the classic brioche with granita and arancini, from pasta alla Norma to fresh fish and cannoli and cassata, each dish tells the story of this generous land. Among the side dishes and appetizers, caponata is perhaps the most iconic dish: a sweet and sour mix of eggplant, celery, olives and capers, flavored with vinegar and sugar.

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with sardines

Sicilian cannoli

Among the first courses to try, pasta with sardines stands out, an absolute must: seasoned with fresh sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts and raisins, it perfectly combines flavors of sea and land. Among the second courses, you cannot miss the swordfish alla ghiotta, cooked with cherry tomatoes, olives, capers and onion, typical of the Ionian coast. Also worth trying are the sardines a beccafico, rolled with a filling of breadcrumbs, raisins and pine nuts, and baked in the oven with bay leaf and a drizzle of oil: a true delight of the popular tradition.

Taormina lives intensely all year round, but it is during the summer that it comes alive with events of international importance. The Taormina Film Fest, hosted in the evocative setting of the Ancient Theater, attracts stars and film enthusiasts from all over the world. The Taormina Summer offers a full calendar of concerts, theatrical performances and cultural events, which transform every evening into a special occasion. Among the religious festivals, that of San Pancrazio, patron saint of the city, stands out, which is celebrated every July 9 with processions and solemn rites.

Edited by Enzo Cuppatri

Avion Tourism Magazine

Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

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Where to stay in Taormina

Taormina offers different and special accommodations between hotels and apartments. 

To find the ideal hotel and the best offers, you can search by stars but also by landmarks or places of interest.

Full-day tour of Mount Etna and Alcantara Gorges with lunch

Day tour with a guide from Taormina to Mount Etna to admire the craters, enjoy a typical lunch and visit the Alcantara Canyons, formed thousands of years ago when lava flowed into the Alcantara River. Duration: 10 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Info and reservations: Etna and Alcantara Gorges Day Tour with Lunch.

Boat tour with aperitif to Isola Bella

Typical Sicilian boat excursion to Taormina, guided by experienced skippers, to admire the Blue Grotto of Taormina, the bay of Giardini Naxos and spot dolphins, Punta di Capo Taormina and the bay of Mazzaró. Stop at the bay of the sirens and enter the blue cave of Taormina by boat. Stop at the rocky islet near the coast with beach with dips in the sea. Aperitif, fruit and typical local drinks. Duration: 2 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Info and reservations: Boat tour with aperitif to Isola Bella.