Sicily is absolutely a must-see destination! You will discover charming towns, stunning landscapes and excellent cuisine. As Italy’s largest island, you will also find exceptional beaches and beach clubs. In addition, Sicily is the largest wine region in Italy, at 242,000 vineyard acres. Moreover, you will find a huge range of archaeological sites, ruins and ancient monuments. Not only does Sicily have all this, but it is rich in history, culture and wonderful people!
As for archaeological sites, the most majestic of all is the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Sicily. It represents an extraordinary example of well-preserved Greek architecture, therefore it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is worth seeing, especially when staying at the 5 Star Villa Athena Resort, which is located within the Archaeological Park, with an exclusive direct entrance. Book a room at this hotel with a view of the Temples, and enjoy being pampered like a Greek or Roman Goddess.
Moreover, located on the eastern coast of Sicily is the active volcano, Mount Etna, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Etna is renowned for its remarkable level of volcanic activity over the span of thousands of years. Mount Etna is also home to some of the most outstanding vineyards in Sicily, Italy.
Most beautiful towns in Sicily
Here are my favorite and most beautiful towns to discover in Sicily. They are among the most beautiful in all of Italy!
TaorminaOrtigiaCefaluNoto
Taormina, Cefalu, Ortigia, Noto, Erice, Modica, Ragusa, Cefalu, San Vito Lo Capo, Castlemare del Golfo
Without a doubt, get ready for an Italian adventure as there are countless things to do and see in Taormina. This is an old town that is perfect for history, culture, delicious food and awe-inspiring sights. Let me give you an edge on some of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily. Here they are, in no particular order, since they are all worth it!
We loved this excursion! Beautiful scenery, great guide, music and a refreshing swim!
A great way to explore the Ionian Coast. Discover the Grotto Azzurra as well as the beautiful nature preserve of Isola Bella. Be on the beautiful sea surrounded by the breathless landscape of Etna and Taormina. It was wonderful! You will see boats by the beach of Isola Bella, but better to reserve this fun boat tour!
NOTE: Taormina was a major filming location for Season 2 of the hit show, The White Lotus. Cast members lived in Taormina at the San Domenico Palace for four off-season months during filming. Locals working at San Domenico Palace say that cast members were terrific and so very nice – especially Jennifer Coolidge! Immerse yourself in the world of White Lotus as you visit actual filming locations on this guided tour:
White Lotus Tour Taormina
Isola Bella- Filming Location
Experience the thrill of White Lotus Season 2 filming locations in Taormina!! Moreover, step into the scenes and capture unforgettable memories on a White Lotus guided tour! Better yet, book a stay or dinner reservations at San Domenico Palace, (White Lotus Hotel). It is one of the most beautiful and dazzling hotels I’ve ever seen!
If you are visiting Taormina, try to see a show at the world famous Teatro Greco, possibly the most spectacular venue on earth. The Ancient Greek Theatre is amazing. During the day take beautiful pictures of the ancient ruins. In the evening, take in a show at the Greek Theatre with Mount Etna as a backdrop. There are concerts and operas as varied as Sting and The Barber of Seville. For upcoming shows, click here: events and tickets. Visit the Taormina Opera Festival for their calendar of events.
Mount Etna
A visit to Europe’s largest volcano, Mt. Etna offers an incredible chance to see lava flows up close. You can join a tour of Mt Etna’s lunar-like landscapes for an incredible experience. Mount Etna is one of the highest volcanos in Europe and one of the most active in the world. The volcano shaped Sicilian history and landscape and still affects the island today. It has been an UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 and the smoking volcano, craters and lava flows are always an impressive experience for visitors.
MT. ETNA WINERY TOUR
Visit the vineyards and taste the wines of Mount Etna. There are wonderful local wineries where you can sample delicious varieties of wine. Visit a splendid winery nestled 900 Meters above sea level, on the northeastern slope of Mount Etna, and sample some of their delicious wines.
CASTELMOLA
Castlemola is a charming little medieval town up the mountain from Taormina. If you have a few hours, it is worth a visit. We took a bus up and walked back down to Taormina on an ancient path between the two. Included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, in Castelmola time seems to have stopped. With its elevated position, Castelmola offers a view of a splendid Mediterranean from its central square.
With the Godfather Tour you will visit some of the iconic film locations of the blockbuster hit The Godfather. Step back in time in Savoca and Forza D’Agrò and become a part of the filming of The Godfather!
If you have extra time, you may want to take a full day trip to the beautiful Aeolian Islands. It is a 45 minute drive from Taormina to the ferry port of Messina. We loved the island of Lipari, pictured above, where we spent a few nights.
As shown above, these are some of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily! Of course you can simply roam around the gorgeous city for days or relax at one of the beautiful beach clubs on Isola Bella too! You have so numerous options to do whatever makes you happy!
A wonderful destination for a beach vacation is Taormina Beaches. Perched high upon a cliff is the old town city of Taormina. However, the beautiful beaches of Taormina are located down below, facing the Ioian sea. This area is know as Taormina Mare. The main road is sprinkled a handful of hotels and restaurants. Cross the street and you will find beautiful bays with several beach clubs, all within walking distance. Taormina beaches are gorgeous. They sparkle with crystal clear, beautiful blue water. Also, they are smooth pebble and rock beaches, which is so pretty.
Of course the beach clubs (lidos) in Taormina are fully equipped with rentals of beds, umbrellas and towels. Furthermore, they have delicious restaurants on their property. It is Italian custom to take a break from sunning and have lunch at the beach. Additionally, there is also a free public beach connecting to the small pretty island of Isola Bella.
At all the beaches you can find excursion boats to take you on a tour of the coast and bring you to the Grotto Azzura. I highly suggest taking the excursion. It is a delightful way to see some lovely areas, including going into caves. The boat also stops for swim in some of the most beautiful waters. There is music, fun and just a fabulous time! This is an experience that you will always remember! I recommend the excursion with Sebastian and Carmello. Price – Summer 2022: Depends on how many people, it can be from EUR 24 – 29pp.
My girls and I on the Excursion Boat – so much fun with music, swimming and beautiful sites!!!Back from a great tour of the beautiful Bay of Mazzaro. We loved Grotto Azzurra and the landscape of Taormina, Isola Bella and Mt. Etna!
Taormina Beaches – How to get there
Taormina – Mazzaro Funivia – Connecting the historical town of Taormina with it’s beach area
If you are without a car, you may take a bus. But, a great option is the cable car or in Italian, the funivia. Indeed, It is located a short five minute walk from the east end of the Corso Umberto. In my opinion, it is an exhilarating and fun ride down the mountain that only takes a few minutes! It cost 3 euros one way or 6 roundtrip. Once you arrive at the bottom there are several beach clubs directly across the street, including the free public beach of Isola Bella. Note: The funivia line gets crowded in the late afternoon. Therefore, give yourself extra time if you have dinner reservations.
Walking to the Taormina Beaches
Walking to the beach- gorgeous!!!
It is a beautiful scenic walk from Taormina down to the beaches. You can walk down in 30 minutes but it took us about an hour, because we stopped so many times to take pictures of the beautiful scenery and amazing views! It is definitely worth it. Walking Directions: First, exit the Corso Umberto via the arch of Porta Messina and bear right. Then continue past the funivia station, La Pensione Svizzeria and a gas station. Second, bear left onto Guradiola Vecchia. You will come to a beautiful lookout area that you cannot miss. It almost looks like an ancient ruin with steps going up to the platform and columns on each side. Here you will wind up taking tons of pictures! Third, you will see a painted wooden sign that says “Isola Bella” to the left of the steps. This points to the path going down to the beach. Enjoy your walk!
In Taormina, don’t worry about time, just stop and smell the roses! After spending the day at La Plage Resort, we took the funivia back up to town.
Isola Bella Beach
Isola Bella is a tiny island and nature reserve which is connected to the mainland by a small strip of beach. This is a free public beach that consists of pebbles and smooth rocks. Just gorgeous! Bring your own towels!
If you want sunbeds, umbrellas, towels and a great lunch, make sure to enjoy the Taormina Beach Clubs!!
It’s time to spend a beautiful day in the Sicilian sun enjoying the hospitality of Taormina Beach Clubs! Indeed, it is ideal to spend a pleasant day with sun, sea, relaxation and great food. I love to go to the beach and grab a sunbed and umbrella. It is swim, sun, tan and repeat! Of course, there is a delicious lunch break in between all this fun. All the lidos have delicious restaurants. Take into consideration that these lido’s fill up fast. Therefore, make sure you reserve in advance or make reservations through your hotel for beds and umbrellas. Consequently, if you don’t have reservations, make sure you arrive early (11am). If not, your spot will be in the back row – if you get one at all!
Getting to Taormina Beach Clubs
The Funivia (cable car) is great way to get to the beach area (Taormina Mare). It is located a short five-minute walk from the east end of Corso Umberto. In my opinion, it is an exhilarating and fun ride down the mountain that only takes a few minutes! The cost is 3-euro one way or 6-euro roundtrip.
Once you arrive to Taromina Mare by funivia (or by car) there are several Taormina beach clubs directly across the street, just steps away. Furthermore, this includes the free public beach of Isola Bella, which is spectacular.
La Plage is a beautiful hotel resort, in fact, it is my favorite, when it comes to breath-taking scenery and ambiance. Keep in mind, it’s lido is not open to the public. However, you are able to make reservations in advance to rent lounges and umbrellas. It has a great vibe, music and it’s also very attractive. In addition, you can also use the lounge area and enjoy delicious cocktails and food. The Beach Club of the La Plage Resort has sunbeds, beach umbrellas, a bar kiosk, and an inviting gazebo where you can enjoy a massage while embraced by the sea breeze. The Beach Club of the Plage Resort is open from April to October. Price – summer 2022: EUR 75 for 2 beds, 2 towels and one umbrella
From dawn to dusk Tao Beach Club offers fun and relaxation. The bar service offers refreshments, fresh meals and snacks for breaks between sunbathing and swimming, as well as lunch to be enjoyed on the terraces. Tao Beach Club represents one of the most exclusive corners of Taormina with its private sandy beach, the emerald coloured Ionian Sea and finally the Sicilian sun .
Lido La Pigna is a lovely lido with a terrific restaurant. Relax on a comfy sunbed, under an umbrella and enjoy the magic of Isola Bella. Definitely stop here for lunch. We had a delicious lunch on the terrace, overlooking the umbrellas. Mangia! Lido La Pigna is located only a few minutes from Taormina Town Center, comfortably reachable by the Funicular. Price – summer 2022: EUR 40 for 2 beds, 2 towels and one umbrella
It seems that this is the spot to do many things! We got a boat here that took us on a beautiful excursion to the Blue Grotto and all of Isola Bella. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and even water ski. Not to mention delicious food at the terrace restaurant. All this, in the gorgeous bay, filled with sun and fun!
Lido La Caravella is one of the best beaches in Sicily and offers wonderful service. In addition to sunbeds and umbrellas, there is bar service on the beach. Moreover, the lido offers transfers from and to hotels by van, free changing rooms and hot water showers. There is also a private terrace overlooking the sea. Yes, this is what a Taormina beach club is all about!
Letojanni Beaches
Letojanni is a short 15-minute drive from Taormina. It is a popular coastal resort with a long-pebbled beach and crystalline water. That being the case, it is the perfect spot for many beach clubs along the strip. By the way, check with your hotel, since some offer free shuttles to Letojanni Beach.
You will find colorful umbrellas and good restaurants and cafes. The lidos are fully equipped with anything you need for a day in the sun. In addition, you have an assortment of restaurants to choose from. Not to mention, they specialize in excellent seafood.
Paradise Beach Club is a very nice lido with a pool, bar and beach facilities. Moreover, it boasts a splendid garden overlooking the sea. Located on Letojanni beach a few minutes from Taormina, you will be in total relaxation, while admiring the scenic bay. You will find terraces submerged by olive trees and tropical plants, to the seawater pool adorned with lava stone. In the “Mojito bar” you can enjoy a snack, an exquisite cocktail based on fresh fruit and delight in the best Sicilian and Italian specialties in the restaurant.
Finally, you can also check out Beach Flamingo. Located on the beach of Letojanni, it has a panoramic terrace, with breathtaking views of the bay of Taormina. This beach is equipped with all comforts and the staff will be happy to make you spend a wonderful day in one of the most beautiful seas of Sicily.
In conclusion, discover the joy of a beautiful day at one of these Taormina beach clubs. You will always remember the beauty and will surely have many pictures to show for it!
Look at the water – how clear and beautiful!!!Isola Bella – Heaven on earth!
The picturesque island of Lipari is the largest and most popular of the Aeolian Islands. Summer brings crowds of Italians to visit. The charming old town is certainly worth a visit. Moreover, the crystalline turquoise sea attracts vacationers to the pretty beaches. Since this island is located off the northern coast of Sicily, the climate is definitely warm and mild. It certainly makes a great base for visiting the other Aeolian Islands. Most of all, Lipari boasts an exciting Old Town and bustling Marina area.
Lipari town is lively, charming and a perfect area for exploring. The pretty streets have an array of flowers flowing from balconies. The main walkway is Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Outdoor restaurants, cafes, stores and markets line the corso and surrounding streets. It certainly comes alive at night! In fact, the old town becomes packed with people strolling the streets. The atmosphere is delightful with live musicians performing everywhere.
Fun Fact: The father of Buddy Valastro, The Cake Boss, was born in Lipari!
Marina Corta
Make sure to go to Marina Corta, which is a short walk from Corso Vittorio Emanuele. It is a charming harbor filled with colorful fishing boats and the main church. In the morning, fishermen are cleaning their freshly caught fish. Without delay, they will quickly be delivered to markets and restaurants. In the evening, the marina is bustling with numerous restaurants and people everywhere. We fell in love with the locals, who are so friendly and welcoming.
I like this charming hotel because of it’s perfect location, within a 5 minute walk of the main pedestrian street and the Marina Corta. Grand Hotel Archiduca boasts a jacuzzi pool, nice rooms and a very good complimentary breakfast. Dining is on the terrace overlooking the pool. In addition, it offers a complimentary shuttle to Coral Beach. Address: G., Via Giuseppe Franza, Lipari Italy
Fresh seafood served from local fishermen’s catch of the day to your table. Enjoy Aeolian specialties of fresh regional seafood daily – many of which are served with delicious pasta. Very limited English is spoken, but the service was exceptional. Da Filippino also boasts an excellent wine menu. We enjoyed a delicious Corvo, Glicine 2016. Enjoy your evening dining indoors or outside on a lovely terrace. Ristorante da Filippino is located in the panoramic Piazza del Municipio. Address: Piazza Guiseppi Mazzini
La Piazzetta
Very nice location set in a quaint square right off the main pedestrian street. La Piazzetta has delicious Italian food. In addition there is very nice ambiance with vine draped outdoor seating. Due to the popularity of this restaurant, you should book early. It becomes extremely crowded after 9:30. Moderately priced. Address: Piazza d’Austria Salvatore Luigi, Lipari, Italy
Located in the middle of Corso Vittorio Emanuel. This is definitely the place to be for late night music, cocktails or vino. Furthermore, it’s a prime place to people watch. In fact, the area is literally filled with hundreds of people! Most of all, make new friends here, as the Italians are so welcoming! Address: Vittorio Emanuele 180 Lipari, Italy
Tucked away on a narrow side street is this hidden gem. Il Giardino di Lipari has live music, great cocktails, and good local food & wine. Furthermore there is a pretty outdoor garden with great ambiance. Address: Via Nuova, Lipari
Beaches on the island of Lipari cater to every taste; crowded or deserted, white or dark sand. It is one of the most enchanting natural Unesco heritage areas in the world. Click here to read more.
THINGS TO DO
By all means, visit the other Aeolian Islands. Excursions leave daily from Marina Corta. Liberty Lines has easy and convenient ferry service. Especially from Lipari Italy to all the other beautiful Aeolian Islands.
Lipari’s archaeological museum boasts one of Europe’s finest collections of ancient finds. Address: Via Castella 2, Lipari
Lipari Italy Cattedrale di San Bartolomeo
This beautiful church is the oldest and largest in Lipari. It honors Lipari’s patron Saint Bartholomew. It’s treasured relic are the thumbs of St. Bartholomew.
EVENTS
St. Bartholomew, Patron Saint. August 21-24th
The most important event on the Aeolian Islands takes place in Lipari Town. During this four-day holiday, the piazza of Marina Corta holds wonderful concerts. In addition, there are open markets selling local foods and unique gift items. In conclusion, The St. Bartholomew celebration ends on August 24th with a procession and exciting fireworks.
Bread and Wine Festival, November
Due to covid19, this will event will resume in 2021.
This festival consists of three full days. It includes tastings of delicious local and home-made products. Wine, bread and roasted meat flavors invade the square. In addition, you can learn about the harvesting grapes. Meanwhile, watch or join in traditional race competitions! For example, donkey races and even a land-digging speed race. All in all, dances and other entertainment make this a fun festival.
Lipari Italy TRAVEL DIRECTIONS
Lipari is easily accessible by ferry or hydrofoil. With this is mind, the Sicilian towns of Milazzo and Messina are the closest ferry stations. The best departure point is Milazzo. Milazzo has almost hourly daily ferries. On the other hand, Messina has a limited amount of daily ferries to Lipari. The cost is approximately 20 EUR per person. They do accept credit cards.
This is by far my favorite place in all of Italy! Perched upon a cliff above the shimmering sea, adorned with a backdrop of majestic mountains, Taormina Italy, is the sparkling jewel of Sicily. Indeed, Taormina is a gem. It is known for its breathtaking views and spectacular natural beauty. It is vibrant, chic and has everything you can dream of in a beautiful Italian town. Enjoy a magnificent town center, beautiful beaches and a spectacular ancient Greco-Roman theater.
NOTE: MAX’s hit show, THE WHITE LOTUS, used spectacular Taormina as their major filming location for Season 2. The reason, of course, is that Taormina is just amazing! Experience the thrill of the show by taking a tour or booking the White Lotus Hotel which is actually the San Domenico Palace.
To me, the Church of San Giuseppe is one of the most splendid. It was built in the 17th century in grand Baroque style and dedicated to Saint Joseph. Its beauty dominates the main square of town, Piazza IX Aprile.
Taormina Sicily Italy’s Old Town
In the first place, you have panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Secondly, expect to see stunning views of famous Mount Etna, idly smoking in the distance. In addition to its natural beauty, Taormina boasts a magnificent town center. Walking along Corso Umberto is a unique experience, with chic boutiques, open air cafes, bars and restaurants. It is simply charming. Moreover, town is surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful villas making it an ideal destination for those who love beauty and culture.
Corso Umberto is the charming main street of Taormina and leads from the Porta Messina arch across the town to the Porta Catania arch. A brisk walk would take about 15 minutes. BUT expect it to take an hour or two just to enjoy the sights! I can never get tired of it, and I have been to Taormina almost ten times! As I said before, it is my favorite place – maybe in the world.
Placed half-way between Taormina’s two main gates, is Piazza IX Aprile, the town’s main square. Located in the south side of the piazza is the Clock Tower or Porta di Mezzo which forms the passageway leading from the Greek-Roman part to the Medieval part.
Taormina’s Charm
The ancient city of Taormina is completely walkable and attractive. For instance, flowers tumbling down balconies of pretty buildings and pink Oleander trees, simply skyrocket the level of charm. Furthermore, narrow cobblestone streets with cute little shops set the stage for delight! Taormina is much bigger than you think. Therefore, explore all the little side streets as they will lead you to something special!
Taormina Sicily Italy
As I mentioned before, there are two main gathering places, Piazza Aprile and Piazza Duomo. Taormina’s main square, Piazza IX April, has amazing views of the sea below. Located in the center of town, it is the perfect place to spend your time. You will eat, drink, listen to music, and watch the parade of people strolling by.
It is a wonderful gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a joy to hear local musicians play classic Italian songs. Moreover, the panoramic view will keep you mesmerized.
Piazza Duomo is also a beautiful area to sit and rest by the main fountain. Enjoy your surroundings and take a drink of the fresh fountain water!
For a bit of history, don’t miss the impressive and famous Greek Amphitheater. Meanwhile, make sure to visit the beautiful beaches. A must visit is Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. Perfect for a relaxing day at the beach. Ride the Funicular (cable car) down to the picturesque bay and beaches of Taormina Mare. All the beach clubs have delicious restaurants and rent beds, towels and umbrellas. All things considered; Taormina Sicily should be on the top of your list when you visit Italy It is definitely a feast for your eyes. Get ready for a Sicilian adventure listed on my Things to Do in Taormina post! Finally, if you are traveling around Sicily you must visit, Ortigia, Agrigento, Cefalu and Lipari too!
The Best of Taormina Sicily Italy
Please read the following posts for more in depth information on everything Taormina!
The Ancient Greek Theatre Taormina is the most significant and popular monument to visit. It is an incredibly beautiful place and a treasure of antiquity. Italians call it Teatro Greco and it is also known as the Greek-Roman Theatre. Not only does it have artistic and historical value, but the scenery itself is stunning. The spectacular arena has been hosting performances from antiquity to this day! During the 3rd century BC, it was carved directy into mountainous rock and at one time was used as a gladiatorial arena. It has survived wars, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions with many reconstructions. It is definitely worth visiting the site, or seeing one of various performances there.
Greek Theater
The Greek Theatreis the second largest classical theatre in Sicily. Building began on the Greek Theatre during the 1st century BC, during the Greek era. It holds at least 10,000 spectators! Hunting shows, or venation’s, were very popular in the 3rd century AD. At that time, Gladiators and wild beasts took center stage. The theatre itself is a testimony to the wealth and prosperity enjoyed by Taormina between the 1st and 3rd century AD.
Getting to the The Greek
Teatro Greco is within walking distance from everywhere in upper Taormina. It is located directly off the main pedestrian walkway, Corso Umberto. It is by the Porta Messina Arch of Corso Umberto. Walk past beautiful Grant Hotel Timeo and you will find the entrance. Address: Via del Teatro Greco, Taormina Sicily
Greek Theatre Taormina Events
Furthermore, Teatro Greco is the most spectacular ancient venue in the world! Not only is it food for a historian’s soul, but it is also a concert venue for culture and music lovers! Since the 1950’s it has become a modern entertainment venue. Shows range from Sting and Brian Wilson to classic operas and the delicious sounds of Il Volo. Various performances include concerts, operas, theatre productions, and symphonies. Make it an unforgettable night in Taormina -see a show at the Ancient Greek Theatre Taormina. Click here forupcoming events and to purchase tickets.
Lipari beaches cater to every taste; crowded or deserted, white or dark sand. It is one of the most enchanting natural Unesco heritage areas in the world. The crystalline sea attracts thousands of visitors to the Aeiolan Islands, especially beaches in Lipari! Here are some beaches and beach clubs in Lipari to visit.
Cannetto, Spiaggia Bianca, Porticello and Campobianco.
Spiaggia Bianca
Spiaggia Bianca is a beautiful pebble beach. It is considered the most beautiful on the island. It has smooth stones and some sand with beautiful, crystal clear, turquoise water. The most popular beach club there is White Beach Club.
White Beach Club
White Beach Club has great food and provides rentals of sun beds and umbrellas during the day. In addition, the Happy Hour DJ starts and in the evening, it turns into a crowded, hot club. Have fun and dance the night away!
Cannetto Beach
Cannetto is a small town on Lipari Island. It has a long sandy beach and various beach clubs.
Coral Beach Club is located on Cannetto beach. It has amazing food and a wonderful staff. It is about a 15 minute drive from Lipari Town. Some of the best food we had on our Italian vacation was at Coral Beach. In addition, Coral offers a free shuttle back and forth to the hotels. When arriving at the beach area in Lipari, I found that it is not as beautiful as other beaches in Italy but the people and food definitely make up for it! Therefore, don’t expect it to be as amazing as the beaches in Taormina, or Positano.
Campobianco is known for its whiteness. The sea floor is among the most beautiful in the whole archipelago.
Porticello is in a bay on the northern coast of Lipari. It has beautiful white sand and turquoise water. Havana Beach Club is the place to go in Porticello.
There is an abundant choice of delicious restaurants in Taormina. Certainly, Italy is noted for its delicious cuisine. And Sicily is unquestionably known for amazing southern Italian food. Taormina restaurants serve local Sicilian specialties such as; arancini, a rice ball filled with meat and peas in a red sauce; Pasta alla Norma, pasta topped with sautéed eggplant and ricotta cheese in a delicious tomato sauce; and of course, stuffed zucchini flower. In addition, there are spectacular pastas, meats and seafood dishes for you to savor. Here are some of the best restaurants in Taormina.
Osteria Rosso DiVino
Fine Dining – One of the best in Taormina. You will enjoy an incredible meal at this charming restaurant. The menu include pastas, seafood and meats which are all outstanding! A few dishes to savor are the macaroncini with beef ragu, red snapper, lamb and tempura anchovies. For wine suggestions, try the Etna Bianco, Etna Rossato, or Chianta. Lastly, end your meal with delicious tiramisu or chocolate fondant! In addition, enjoy the wonderful ambiance. They have a charming balcony in addition to outdoor dining. Make reservations or ask your hotel to make them for you! Address: Via de Spuches 8, Taormina
Fine Dining – Casa GioLi boasts a wide variety of food on the menu. Dishes of meat, seafood and pastas are delicious. Furthermore, they also have an extensive wine selection. The food is delicious! Try the stuffed zucchini flowers, risotto and beef. Finally, leave room for dessert! Try to get a table in their beautiful outdoor garden. Casa GioLi is above the steps where Daquiri is located. My suggestion is to enjoy a drink at Daquiri before dinner. It’s a great place to sit and watch the happenings in the piazza below. Address: Via Giordano Bruno 2
La Botte
Moderate Dining – We enjoyed a delicious dinner at La Botte. They serve an amazing whole fish baked in salt crust, which makes it moist and delicious. The server removes the crust and expertly filets the fish table-side. Their pastas are great. Furthermore, they have an extensive wine list. Enjoy the outdoor dining area. Make reservations. Address: Piazza Santa Domenica 4, Taormina
Da Christina
Casual – This is a family run restaurant that has delicious food. It is perfect for fast food, take out or a casual light dinner. Try their delicious arancini. Very reasonable prices if you are on a budget. Address: Via Strabone 2, Taormina
Casual – There are many restaurants in Taormina, but for delicious desserts, Bam Bar is the place to go. They are famous for their granita topped with fresh whipped cream. Your taste buds will be thrilled with delightful desserts, brioche and cappuccino. Everything is fresh and delicious. Not only do they serve up amazing treats, but the atmosphere is just lovely with bright Sicilian ceramic table and tile furnishings. Address: Via Di Giovanni 45, Taormina
Fine Dining – Villa Carlotta is an exceptional restaurant with amazing views from the terrace overlooking the sea. The menu showcases fresh, local, great quality ingredients. Some absolute stand out dishes: melt in your mouth, Nero D’Avola Filet steak; Swordfish Ravioli; Tuna on a bed of Kiwi & Orange Salad. If you like rose wine, try the Rose di Nere from Noto. The service is excellent and the dishes are beautifully presented. Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 81, Taormina
Villa Antonio
Fine Dining – Villa Antonio is something special. The food, the restaurant, the ambiance and the staff are wonderful. The sweeping views of the sea and Isola Bella cannot be topped. In addition, there is real dedication to the wine list. Basically, anything on the menu will be delicious! Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 88, Taormina
You’re sure to enjoy the nightlife in Taormina since the town buzzes with energy! Start your evening at one of the many places to have cocktails and relish the wonderful atmosphere. Furthermore many of the hotelsserve cocktails on their terraces or rooftops. Next, take off to a hot club if you want to dance into the wee hours of the morning. If you are low key or on a family vacation, enjoy the musicians and artists in the streets as well as gelato, granita or dessert! The piazza’s and walkways are busy with happy, beautiful people! You will be kept busy and entertained with Taormina nightlife.
Daiquiri Cocktail and Wine Baris situated on one of the most beautiful staircases in the heart of Taormina. The ambiance is terrific with Sicilian sculptures on the steps along with pretty seating areas with comfy pillows. You will enjoy delicious cocktails as well as light bites. This is definitely a place to enjoy the atmosphere and watch people strolling by in the piazza below. Drink up the atmosphere and the yummy beverages! Address: Piazza Duomo, Taormina
La Giara
La Giara is the night club for Taormina. First of all, it is very beautiful with a modern elegant design. There is an outdoor area with beautiful views of the the lights shimmering on the sea. This is a hot spot for Taormina nightlife. Crowds party and dance until the wee hours of the night. It is centrally located right in the middle of town. Although it is down a side staircase, you won’t miss it because you will see a red carpet and employees outside. Admission was free, although there may be a time frame to that. Address: Vico la Floresta, 1, Taormina
Morgana Bar
Nightlife in Taormina can start at Morgana Bar. It is a chic lounge with an open air garden. It has a well dressed crowd, delicious cocktails, and good music. Morgana is a small cozy place, right off Corso Umberto, and great for a nightcap and light bite. Address: Scesa Morgana, 4
Hotel Timeo
For an elegant evening, enjoy a cocktail at the beautiful terrace of Hotel Timeo. You will have stunning views of lights sparkling in the sea as well Mount Etna and the lights of city center. The drinks are delicious and come with a plate of goodies to eat.
CONCERT AT THE GREEK THEATRE
See a show at the Ancient Greek Theatre in Taormina. This is a fully modern entertainment venue. Shows range from Sting and Brian Wilson to classic operas and the delicious sounds of Il Volo. Various performances include concerts, operas, theatre productions, and symphonies. Make it an unforgettable night. Click here for upcoming events and to purchase tickets.