Taorima, Sicily Vacation Packages and Tours

Discover Taormina's Wonders

Travel to this popular coastal destination and embark on a guided tour to the Ancient Theater, one of Sicily's most celebrated pieces of history. Plus, complete your vacation by taking in the sights at the nearby castle ruins, the Medieval Quarter or the Mt. Etna volcano. Take a trip down the slopes to the neighboring beaches and indulge in endless shopping at modern boutiques and local restaurants.

Current Weather

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Description

The feeling of being on such a high ground, the available panoramas and the fusion of nature and art at its best have made Taormina a sought-after travel destination. A former Greek settlement, the city was then conquered by Romans and Byzantines and the splendour of that golden Era has lasted throughout the years. Here nature's beauty has been enhanced by human hands and culminated in the Greek Amphitheatre, which dominates the surrounding scenes. The vibrant centre of the city is Piazza IX Aprile, adorned by the 17th century Sant Agostino and San Giuseppe´s churches; once you cross Porta di Mezzo (literally "middle door"), you will enter the ancient part of the city where the Clock Tower was erected over 300 years ago. Corso Umberto I is the main road that runs through the whole city. With a myriad of shops and restaurants, it will also lead you from the city centre to Porta Catania and the magnificent Badia Vecchia. Taormina is not only a captivating historical site: its coastal line, marine grottoes and faraglioni (rock formations) have enchanted numerous generations and they are only a cable way ride away from the city centre.

Useful information

Population:

11,075

Currency:

Euro

Emergency Info:

112 Police
118 Emergency
115 Firefighters

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm or 8pm.

Do & See

"The Godfather" Movie Locations

If you're a fan of Francis Ford Coppola's movie "The Godfather", you may know that there are spots in and around Taormina that have been used as filming locations for the piece. These are the train station Taormina-Giardini, the Santissima Annunziata church in Forza d'Agró, and the Vitelli Bar in Savoca. There are guided tours that can be booked, with further information available at Taormina's Tourist Information Centre.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Dining

Al Saraceno

Perched above the city Taormina, the restaurant is located on the way to the Saraceno Castle. This position offers a sweeping view of the entire city, the bay and Mount Etna, often capped with snow. The cuisine is rigorously Sicilian, offering dishes based on both beef and seafood, as well as pizzas.

Gambero Rosso

From its inception in 1949, Gambero Rosso has offered every Italian dish anyone could be looking for: from seafood like mussels and octopus to fresh pasta and oven cooked pizza. They also provide outdoor seating facing the bustling alley opposite to it.

Murgo Winery

With a terrace that overlooks their vineyards and the Ionian Sea, as well as a patio and garden available during summertime, Murgo Winery offers ample choice for seating. Their fixed-price menu features Sicilian appetizers, two first courses, a mixed grill and a dessert to finish off. You can also book a wine tasting tour, where you'll be able to enjoy specials such as the Lapilli Bianco and Etna Rosso.

Nettuno

Located in the heart of the historical centre of Taormina, Nettuno Restaurant offers an á la carte menu based on local seafood. Seating is available both indoors and on their open courtyard, and you can also join cooking classes, learning directly from the restaurant's chef.

Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro

Located in a villa dating back to the 1600s, this pizzeria boasts 35 different kinds of pizza, counting classics like Margherita and Quattro Formaggi but also their signature Villa Taormina, filled with mushrooms and smoked ham. You can finish your meal with Sicilian desserts such as the "cuzzole", made with fried dough.

Ristorante Taormina

This restaurant lets you enjoy either its pasta with seafood dishes or its pizzas while sitting under their terrace, letting you enjoy a view of the main road, Corso Umberto. They also have many options for traditional desserts, from the Sicilian cannoli, pastries with ricotta filling, to tiramisu.

Tischi Toschi

Tischi Toschi prides itself on using only seasonal ingredients, so that's why its menu changes according to what is available at the local markets, but examples of what you may find are fennel meatballs, caciocavallo all'Argentiera, which is a typical kind of cheese, and cod belly with potatoes.

Trattoria Don Ciccio

"Trattoria" is the name used by Italians to refer to those "less sophisticated" restaurants where authenticity and Italian flavours are the main focus. Combining fresh ingredients cooked on the spot and a rustic atmosphere, Trattoria Don Ciccio can offer pasta-based dishes as well as many kinds of meat, such as pork shank with almonds and locally caught swordfish.

Cafes

Antica Pasticceria Salamone

Everything that you can see on this bakery's counter has been made following the local traditions: you can have a Sicilian breakfast consisting of a granita and brioche, but you can also order pastries such as the "raviola" with ricotta, cannoli, "saccottino" biscuits with chocolate and croissants with different fillings.

Ape Nera

This cafe not only acts as a spot to have your breakfast, but also lunch and dinner. You can order simple dishes such as sandwiches and baguettes, a drink coupled with a savoury snack or choose their salmon tartare. If instead you're looking for something sweet, cakes and cannolis are also available.

BamBar

This family-run bar specialises in the traditional granita, available in many different flavours such as coffee, pistachio and white chocolate. It is possible to couple it with a warm "brioche col tuppo", a Sicilian pastry. The bar is pretty small, but you can also enjoy your dessert on the go, while strolling through town.

Caffé Cavallaro

If you're looking for pastries, Caffé Cavallaro has them in many shapes and forms: fruit tarts, chocolate cakes or traditional ones like cannoli. You can also order a Sicilian brioche filled with ice cream, to be coupled with a granita or sorbet.

Caffé Solaris

Located not far from the city centre but untouched by the larger crowds, Caffé Solaris is a bar that gives you the opportunity to enjoy a meal while viewing the Ancient Roman Odeon Theatre. You'll be able to order traditional Italian food like the "bruschetta", garlic bread with toppings like tomatoes, ham and pesto, as well as pasta and frittata.

Etna Pasticceria

Serving a wide selection of Sicilian delicatessen that range from traditional almond sweets to ricotta cannoli, Etna Pasticceria makes for a fine traditional breakfast spot. Located on the crowded Corso Umberto I, it also serves as an ideal place to relax in before moving on with your shopping day.

IBar Coffee & Drink

This neon-lit bar is located just beside the Duomo, so its outdoor seating can give you a nice view of this central part of town. You'll be able to order savoury appetisers of bread, olives and ham along with your drinks, or one of their pastries, such as the "babá with rum" cake.

Mocambo Caffè Bar

Elegant red and white interiors, glass chandeliers and a location facing the city centre all contribute towards Mocambo's upscale ambience. Seating is available both indoors and under their terrace, while a dedicated tea room is also available.

Bars & Nightlife

Arco Rosso

Mostly famous for its rotating lineup of "bruschette", toasted garlic bread with varying toppings such as pistachio pesto, Arco Rosso allows you to relax outside and watch the hustle and bustle of the city. Appetisers made with cheese and ham, paninis and sandwiches can be coupled with wine for your aperitif.

Casamatta Wine Bar

The interior of this bar is made mainly from repurposed materials: the counter and chairs use wood from wine crates while the walls are adorned with pallets, as well as by shelves holding books, bottles and ceramics. They offer appetisers served on chopping boards, as well as bruschette and paninis, to be enjoyed while listening to live music that changes every week.

Daiquiri

This bar comes with an interior decorated with tropical motifs and outdoor seating embraced by green foliage and stone walls. Their cocktail offering contains specials such as the espresso martini, to be enjoyed while listening to the music in the background.

La Giara

Since 1953, when La Giara opened, it has been a staple of Taormina\s nightlife. It\s an upscale seafood restaurant that also acts as a sophisticated club, equipped with white interiors that are able to change colours thanks to the lighting. Themed events are hosted every Saturday, as well as guest DJs.

Morgana Lounge Bar

Morgana Lounge is an upscale bar with a peculiar habit: it changes its interior design every year, using local materials and decor. Their signature cocktail menu contains drinks that can only be tasted here, and they offer catering for events as well.

Q Lounge Bar

Q Lounge Bar is located in one of the main squares of the city, able to host any kind of private event. Their patio is embellished by blooming trees, white sofas and wooden tables, on which you'll be able to enjoy their tropical cocktails or a glass of champagne.

Re di Bastoni

One of Taormina´s cultural centres, Re di Bastoni hosts jazz musicians and features paintings of emerging artists. Their beer selection includes limited offers, such as Pan, a brown ale with Nebrodi hazelnuts, that can be coupled with appetisers such as garlic bread with cheese, tomatoes and ham.

Time Out Pub

Standing out from the multitude of local Sicilian bars, Time Out Pub opens its doors to those who aren't searching for traditional Italian dishes. Here the menu consists of finger food, burgers, wraps and sandwiches, which can be enjoyed while watching the live sport events or be taken to go.

Shopping

Coccinelle

Another Italian brand which is gradually becoming popular worldwide is Coccinelle, which has recently opened a shop in Taormina. It focuses on designer leather bags and other accessories for women, such as wallets, coin purses and card holders.

Falconeri

In their wooden and softly lit store in Taormina. Falconeri sells a vast selection of "made in Italy" items: starting from woollen crew necks and roll necks, going through gloves and mittens made of cashmere, to silk scarves.

Furla Babà Srl

Boasting more than 80 years of expertise and world-renowned designs, Furla is a cornerstone of the Italian fashion brands specialised in producing luxury bags and accessories. Here you'll be able to find wallets, backpacks, shoes and other leather goods for both women and men.

Geox

Another great Italian name at the shopping alley Corso Umberto I, Geox is a well known brand mostly famous for its breathable and waterproof shoes, suitable for every occasion. They also sell jackets and coats, as well as accessories like belts and bags, for both men and women.

Kiseki Jewels

A well-known jewellery shop in Taormina, Kiseki Jewels features an exclusive collections of luxury accessories. Their lineup consists of bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings made with gold, natural stones and coral.

Nara Camicie

Although their focus has always been on designer shirts since 1984, Nara Camicie offers also different options for women´s clothing as well as menswear, such as cardigans and jackets. You can also find accessories such as scarves and hats.

Parisi

At Parisi you'll be able to find the most well-known brands for both women and men clothing, from Prada to Dolce&Gabbana. Born as a tailor´s shop, it now collaborates with exclusive brands and features an in-store bar from where you can enjoy a view of the sea.

Tosca Blu

Specialised in footwear and accessories, this boutique sells branded Tosca Blu products, as well as lots of other great names in the shoe industry. Located at Corso Umberto I, it stands out thanks to its colourful variety of shoes for women, bags and wallets.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Although events like the Film Festival and the exhibitions in the Greek Theatre all take place during the summer, this season is definitely when Taormina is the most crowded while also being characterised by a hot climate. The mildest seasons both in terms of tourists and temperature are spring and fall, when the sea is still warm and baths can be taken. There are also a couple of events that may be of interest, such as the religious procession "Madonna della Rocca".

Passport / Visa

Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Airport

The closest airport to Taormina´s city center is Fontanarossa Airport in Catania, which is located 64km from the city. The cheapest way to get to Taormina is by bus, taking S.A.I.S. service or Etna Trasporti to Taormina. Alternatively, there are numerous options to rent a car: Aptransfers Srl +39 095 5874852 Forzese +39 95 349294 You can also book a taxi: Social Taxi Catania +39 095 330966 www.radiotaxicatania.org Taxi Sat Service +39 095 6188 www.6188.it May you require any further information, an information desk is located at the Arrival area (next to Lost & Found).

Public Transport

The best way to get around in Taormina is by feet: the city, in fact, it´s quite small and can be easily walked. If you fancy a trip a bit further on, Interbus has services to go to other Sicilian cities and to particular landmarks outside the town. The bus terminal is located in Luigi Pirandello Road. The cableway is another option, connecting Taormina city centre with Mazzarò and the beaches.

Taxi

Italian´s taxis are white with a red TAXI sign on top: it shouldn´t be a problem to hail one. If you wish to book a taxi, here´s some company that run from Taormina to Catania and other Sicilian cities. www.taxirobertomirabile.com +39 346 581 0872 sicilytaxiservice.com +39 320 75 33 070 www.taxitaormina.net +39 333 12 75 225

Electricity

In Italy the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F (two pins, compatible also with types C and E) and L (three pins, compatible also with type C).

Pharmacy

The Italian Pharmacy system is designed to ensure an open pharmacy at night or holidays within each area. You will find a sign on the door that will direct you to the one on duty, along with emergency numbers and opening hours. Giarrizzo Pharmacy 420 Corso Umberto I +39 094 251 267

Post

There are numerous post offices where to get stamps from and where to post letters. Here´s the main ones: Poste Italiane: Funivia Mazzarò Square +39 942 626193 Ufficio Postale Taormina : Sant'Antonio Square +39 942 213011 Mailboxes are red and they have "POSTE" written on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Taormina?

The best time to visit Taormina is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

What are the must-see attractions in Taormina?

Don't miss the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, Isola Bella, and the stunning views from the Piazza IX Aprile. The Corso Umberto is also great for shopping and dining.

How can I get to Taormina from Catania Airport?

You can take a direct bus from Catania Airport to Taormina, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a train to Taormina-Giardini station.

What local dishes should I try in Taormina?

Be sure to try arancini, pasta alla Norma, and cannoli. Taormina is also known for its fresh seafood, so don't miss out on dishes like swordfish and sardines.

How many days should I spend in Taormina?

A stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal to explore Taormina's main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and take a day trip to nearby Mount Etna or the Alcantara Gorges.

What is the best way to get around Taormina?

Taormina is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are available.

Are there any day trips I can take from Taormina?

Popular day trips from Taormina include visiting Mount Etna, exploring the Alcantara Gorges, and discovering the nearby town of Castelmola with its panoramic views.

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