Taormina is an absolute dream. Surrounded by dramatic vistas and seascapes, this hillside old town is perfect for a walking tour. Also, it has pedestrianized streets, with Gothic churches, charming piazzas, boutiques and cafes. Overall, I loved my day here and enjoy sharing Taormina Sicily highlights. Firstly, I arrived by bus from the cruise terminal in Messina. Taormina is about 50 km south of Messina.
“Were a man to spend only one day in Sicily and ask, “What must one see?” I would answer him without hesitation, “Taormina.” It is only a landscape, but a landscape where you find everything on earth that seems made to seduce the eyes, the mind and the imagination.” -Guy de Maupassant
This picturesque hilltop town is on the east coast of Sicily. It is near Mount Etna, an active volcano standing 10,810 feet high. The old town is about 250 m (820 ft) above the sea on Mount Tauro. In addition, a Saracen castle stands on an isolated rock about 150 m higher.
Besides being surrounded by gorgeous views, it’s also referred to as “the Sicilian Saint Tropez.’ This is because its old town streets are filled with luxury boutiques, jewelers and charming cafes. Taormina’s most famous monument is the ruins of an ancient Greek theatre built third century BC. Additionally, below the hilltop city are 3 popular beaches: Isola Bella, Mazzaro and Giardini Naxos.
Taormina Sicily Highlights on Walking Tour
Greek Theatre of Taormina: Created by the Greeks in 3rd Century BC, later the Romans transformed it for use of games and gladiator battles. This archeological site is one of the main attractions in Taormina and still a venue for entertainments today, such as, symphonies, theatre and ballets. At one time, its capacity held up to 5,400 spectators.
Taormina Old Town
I entered the old town through a stone arch gate. This used to be part of the old fortified city. The old town is a pedestrianized area with no cars. So, it makes for a relaxing walking tour. It is very charming and preserved, taking you back in time among its historic streets, piazzas and alleyways.
Corso Umberto: This is the main commercial street in Taormina. It starts in Piazza IX Aprile and crosses town, ending at Porta Catania. Also, being lined by high-end boutiques, cafes, restaurants and shops is why it’s referred to as the “Sicilian Sant Tropez.”
Piazza IX Aprile: At the start of Corso Umberto, this piazza opens into a terrace with stunning views of the bay and Mt. Etna. (This is great for sunset photos.) Additionally, in the square is a stone clock tower and the Baroque San Giuseppe church.
Sant ‘Agostino Church/Library:
This little Gothic church was built in 1448, originally dedicated to Saint Sebastian. He was believed to have miraculously saved the city from the plague. Later, it became restored into a monastery for the Hermits of St. Augustine, whose friars changed its dedication. It’s now being used as a public library.
Eat Cannoli: A highlight of Sicilian cuisine is the delicious dessert, cannoli. It’s believed that cannoli originated in Sicily. In most bakeries throughout Taormina you can sample it. These delicacies have a shell shaped pastry, filled with flavored cream and ricotta. There are numerous flavors to sample, such as, chocolate, hazelnut, caramel and pistachio. And Amore, there are many places to buy the cannoli, for example, La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli, Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto and Pasticceria Gelateria D’Amore.
The Godfather film setting is at times in Sicily, and there’s a famous apropos quote made by Marlon Brando (The Godfather): “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.”
Piazza del Duomo: On the western end of Corso Umberto is the beautiful Piazza del Duomo with the Cathedral of San Nicola. This medieval church built in 1400 has a baroque fountain in the square. Furthermore, the fountain has a centaur (half horse and half man) in it, which is the symbol of Taormina.
Daytrips from Taormina
Mt. Etna Excursions: There are many tours that offer one-day trips to Mt. Etna. It’s about an hour’s drive. They also offer equipment and guides to get you close to the crater. When I was there, tours became canceled because of volcanic activity.
Isola Bella: This tiny island is about a half hour walk from the top of Taormina. You can take a car, but parking is a challenge. There is a narrow path that often connects the island to the mainland beach. Even more, the island is surrounded by sea grottos and the pebble beach is stunning. There are many activities to do here, such as, snorkel, swim, sail, dive or relax.
Taormina Sicily Highlights
Taormina is such a special place. There are few places that compare to its extraordinary scenery, architecture, Sicilian cuisine, and luxury shopping. It truly has it all. Plus, Sicily is off the beaten track, so the crowds are less compared to mainland Italy. Ciao bella!
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