What is special about taormina?

Taormina is a truly enchanting part of Sicily. The town is rich in atmosphere, history and culture with local delicacies and festivals to experience, while the coastline is enveloped by panoramic views and pretty coves. The imposing profile of Mount Etna dominating the horizon, the winding narrow streets of the commune, and the ancient Roman and Greek ruins make Taormina a must-visit destination.

Elaine from Just Sicily recounts her October 2024 trip to Taormina:

Just a 2-hour drive from Ortigia leads into the delightful Taormina Mare. We checked into the Atlantis Bay hotel and received a wonderful warm welcome. Being built into a cliff, the hotel was originally a group of fishermen’s cottages before they were joined together to create Atlantis Bay and because of this, the hotel is unique with its layout. Stairs going up and down can be found within each floor and you enter reception of the top floor and go down to the restaurant, the pool and other facilities on the ground floor. I stayed in a beautiful open plan Junior Suite on the 4^th floor with a lovely large terrace overlooking the sea. Original features are complimented by modern furnishings to create a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. The Atlantis Bay serves a 5* breakfast with a huge variety of options at the buffet with everything beautifully displayed.  There is access to the water from steps down by the pool, with beautiful views from across the bay. Several boats came past us in the evening as they anchored down for people to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and go for a relaxing swim. Lunch options were fabulous here with a very good selection of restaurants from fine dining to proper pizza or club sandwiches.

What is there to do in Taormina?

We were then taken up to Taormina in a Tuk Tuk (also known as Auto rickshaw) which is three-wheeled open-air vehicle, and they are one of the most unique transportation methods that are continuing to grow in popularity. 

In the afternoon we were given a guided tour of the Greek/Roman theatre and a look around the historic buildings and markets of Taormina. You can ride the cable car up to Taormina, only costing €10 for a return trip. With continuously operating cable cars every 15 minutes, this beautiful and easy public transport makes it easy for day trips or to have dinner in the evening.

What Excursions are available from Taormina?

There are many excursions available such as climbing Mount Etna or trekking the Alcantara Gorges which are perfect for those seeking adventure and history.

Where would you go for lunch/dinner in Taormina Mare?

We visited Mazzaro Sea Palace for dinner where we had a fabulous 3-course dinner in their outdoor restaurant by the beach. Gorgeous original and rustic features made dining outside in the warm evening sun delightful. The service, food and drinks were incredible, and we felt like royalty. The hotel has a stunning terrace in front of the hotel and behind the generous stretch of beach. Also being built into the cliffside, this hotel sits in a secret cove surrounded by rock formations. The gentle curve of the beach leads to the open sea, with sun beds and parasols lining the beach for guests use.

Is Taormina worth a visit?

In the evening we explored more of Taormina, the most renowned town on the island. We learned that filming regularly takes place on the island of both movies and documentaries, with its background being the breathtaking view of Mount Etna from the main piazza. The main town is perched on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea. As we explored, we found countless restaurants, bars and shops open all year round. There are many old churches, lively bars, fine dining restaurants and antique shops. It’s not hard to see why Taormina is one of the most famous towns in Sicily. We really felt enchanted by the warmth of the Sicilian welcome and hospitality, and I cannot wait to visit Taormina again!

Author:  Elaine Irving  - Reservations

I’ve been involved in the travel industry for over 20 years and in the Reservations Department here since 2007. I really value the in-depth knowledge of Sicily that I’ve acquired over the years and enjoy sharing this with anyone that will listen. My favourite place on the island is Taormina and the area around it - a great base to explore the northeast of the island with possible day trips to Mount Etna and the fertile countryside around and even over to the volcanic Aeolian Islands. Taormina itself is a beautiful town with a great choice of bars, restaurants and stylish shops.