Location: Taormina
Top Things to do in Taormina
Things to do in Taormina, Sicily: The Best Points of Interest & Landmarks
Volcanic Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea provide the cinema-worthy backdrop for Taormina, Sicily's legendary resort town. Twisting medieval streets and a second-century Greek theater add to its romantic air, which inspired the writings of D.H. Lawrence and Truman Capote. Take a cable car to the beach, or walk uphill behind the Church of St. Joseph for panoramic views.
Restaurants in Taormina
1. Ancient Theatre of Taormina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13,605 reviews
The view of Mount Etna and the sea beyond is absolutely superb at Taormina's 10,000-seat ancient Greek amphitheater, which was erected in the third century BC and expanded by the Romans.
Reviewed By ryanfL7429GJ
This theater and its location are stunning -- I'm surprised this isn't a more widely known attraction in Italy or even all of Europe. The history here (both Greek and Roman) and the spectacular beauty and setting of this coastal town (with an active volcano steaming in the background) make this a MUST when visiting Sicily.
2. Corso Umberto
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,548 reviews
Reviewed By loua1601 - Wollongong, Australia
We have 9 days in Taormina and strolled along Corso Umberto on our first day. This street is exactly what you would expect from an Italian town as soon as you walk through Messina Gate. Lots of shops, cafes and restaurants with some beautiful buildings, churches, narrow side lanes and a spectacular view of the ocean when you get to the other end. A great way to spend a couple of days trying the different cafes and restaurants. Enjoy!
3. Taormina Glass Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
4. Chiesa di San Giuseppe
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 290 reviews
Reviewed By shaunmacklin - Kent, United Kingdom
Lovely church, somehow better when it's evening, beautiful location on piazza. Go in and sit quietly.
5. Castello Saraceno
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 110 reviews
Reviewed By ameliatd - Chicago, United States
My husband and I walked up the portion of the trail from Taormina to the Castello Saraceno. It’s essentially a series of steps cut into the cliff, with a stop near the castle at an old church built into the rocks. The steps are regularly spaced and well maintained. The castle was locked and inaccessible when we went on a Monday afternoon, but the views of the coast and Etna were exceptional. You access the steps by walking up the road from Taormina to Castelmola. It’s about a five-minute walk from the main gate of Taormina, and the steps are well marked with a yellow sign. You can fill up your water bottle at the free fountain near the gate before heading up the road. The hike is entirely doable if you are in decent physical shape and are wearing Birkenstock/Teva-style sandals or running shoes. I walked it in Birkenstocks and it was completely fine. Hiking boots are not necessary for this portion of the trail, although we did not see the trail from the castle to Castelmola, which might not be as well maintained. At 5 pm, the trail was mostly in the shade. The stairs are not very steep and the trip took us about 45 minutes up and back, with lots of stops for pictures.
6. Chiesa Sant'Antonio Abate
7. Porta Messina
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 632 reviews
Reviewed By ElaineH492 - Bonita Springs, United States
We chose an excursion to Taormina, Sicily, from our Mediterranean cruise ship. To reach the city we took an elevator from the bus parking lot. Once at the top, we walked the charming Main Street, Corso Umberto, through the arched gate, Porta Messina. There were many places to shop, eat and people-watch. The bougainvillea was spectacular. At the end was the ancient Roman-Greco theatre. We entered at the stage level but chose to climb to the top for a wonderful panoramic view. In the distance we could see Mt. Etna which is still active as evidenced by a puff of smoke coming from the volcano. For lunch we had a recommenced local favorite, arancini, and cannoli for dessert. Walking shoes would be best. We spent several hours there and found nothing to dislike. Being in such an historic place was the best.
8. Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano
9. Torre dell'Orologio
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 133 reviews
Reviewed By raphan20 - Malta, null
A very pretty site, the main attraction of the square, Piazza IX Aprile. Well kept landmark which is highly memorable.
10. Via Teatro Greco
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 124 reviews
Reviewed By deeeeMidlands
A must visit . Costs €10 each which is ok. There could be a bit more done to keep it clean . A whole lot of visitors come through out the day .
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