Taormina to be seen

Taormina, located in the province of Messina, is undoubtedly one of the most charming and must-see destinations in Sicily. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, this town boasts a rich history and was once inhabited by Greeks and Romans. Its highlights include a fascinating Greek-Roman theater, which still hosts concerts and performances today, and numerous treasures waiting to be discovered.

Taormina is a true gem that offers a wealth of treasures including stunning beaches, medieval neighborhoods, and ancient Greek and Roman ruins. Located about an hour north of Catania, Taormina boasts a remarkable historical and artistic heritage. The main street, Corso Umberto I, leads to numerous historic sites such as Palazzo Corvaja, a medieval structure from the tenth century built during Arab domination. Nearby, you can find the small Odeon theater built by the Romans in 21 BC. However, the most impressive theater is the Teatro Greco di Taormina, which is renowned for its historical-cultural importance and hosts various performances and festivals.

Continuing down Corso Umberto I, you’ll arrive at the 13th-century Cathedral, the Duomo, with its magnificent Baroque fountain. Other noteworthy palaces in Taormina include the Gothic-style Palazzo della Badia Vecchia and Palazzo Ciampoli, which houses the Hotel Palazzo Vecchio. The Antiquarium is a small archaeological museum that showcases Greco-Roman artifacts.

Take a break from sightseeing and stroll through the beautiful Gardens of the Villa Comunale, a green paradise full of delicate flowers and tropical plants. On the steep mountain overlooking Taormina, you can find a small church near the Saracen Castle called Madonna della Rocca.

Just 50 minutes from Taormina are the Alcantara Gorges, with walls more than 25 meters high and between 2 and 4 meters wide. Volcanic material from the northern side of Etna, cooling in contact with the river waters, has created unique shapes and a narrow canyon. Although the river is cold, with fishing boots you can cross it without any problems.

You can’t miss the Aeolian Islands and Isola Bella, located at the foot of Taormina, and reachable by a delightful boat trip. A guided tour at the foot of Mount Etna, which is about an hour’s drive from Taormina, is also highly recommended. With all this information at your fingertips, booking your excursion to Taormina is just a click away.