Located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Taormina is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. With its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the mighty Mount Etna, Taormina attracts visitors from all over the world every year. The town is renowned for its historical landmarks, charming streets, and incredible panoramic views. If you’re planning a trip to Taormina but not sure where to start exploring, don’t worry. In this post, we’ll highlight the best attractions and things to do in Taormina to help you make the most out of your visit. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, natural wonders, or simply want to enjoy the local cuisine and atmosphere, Taormina has something to offer for everyone. So let’s dive in and discover the top attractions and experiences you shouldn’t miss in Taormina.
The 3 Best Tours with Locals in Taormina
- 3 Hour Taormina Segway Tour
- From Taormina the Godfather Movie Tour of Sicily Villages
- From Taormina Chic Panarea and Stromboli Full Day Tour
The 3 Best Tours with Locals in Taormina
1. 3 Hour Taormina Segway Tour
Experience the picturesque city of Taormina by Segway on this 3-hour tour, where you’ll get to see some of the top tourist attractions of the city. Start your tour on the terrace above the parking lot “Porta Catania,” where you’ll meet your guide and learn how to operate the Segway. The tour begins with a visit to the Piazza Duomo, home to the fountain with the “Centauressa” – a symbol of Taormina, and the City Hall. From there, you’ll continue towards the ancient monastery of San Domenico; today, one of the most luxurious hotels in Sicily. After passing Porta di Mezzo, you’ll arrive in Piazza IX Aprile, also known as the Belvedere, before continuing on to the park. Leaving the park, you’ll head towards the Greek-Roman Theater, one of Taormina’s top tourist attractions. Join this tour and discover the beauty of Taormina on a swift and comfortable ride with a Segway.
2. From Taormina the Godfather Movie Tour of Sicily Villages
Departing from Taormina, delve into the history of Sicily and the origins of the Sicilian Mafia on the From Taormina the Godfather Movie Tour of Sicily Villages. Visit Forza d’Agrò and Savoca, the main shooting locations of The Godfather in Sicily. Walk in the footsteps of the young Michael Corleone while discovering the movie set spots. Take in the breathtaking Mediterranean architecture with your guide. Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside and take a pleasant stroll in the villages. Find filming locations of the movie easily, visit the Trimarchi building, venue for the famous Bar Vitelli, and see the location of the wedding shoot at the Church of Santa Lucia. Hear stories about the movies and Sicily from a local guide and learn about tales behind the great film and the equally captivating history of the island that inspired it.
3. From Taormina Chic Panarea and Stromboli Full Day Tour
Take a tour of Stromboli and Panarea, two beautiful islands belonging to the Aeolian Archipelago. On this full day tour, relax on a private motorboat equipped with toilets and bar while admiring the stunning landscapes dominated by an active volcano. In Panarea, explore the chic streets and boutiques, or lounge on Calajunco Bay and Zimmari Beach. Then, take a walking tour in Stromboli and stroll through the charming small village of Ginostra. Enjoy a fully guided tour with transportation by bus and boat, meals and drinks, and eco-tax entrance fee to the Aeolian Islands. Don’t miss this unique chance to witness volcanic eruptions and learn about the fascinating history of these ancient islands.
Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Taormina
Taormina is a beautiful town located on the east coast of Sicily. This ancient town has a long history, and it’s been attracting tourists for centuries. If you’re planning to visit Taormina, you might have some questions in your mind regarding the city’s history, culture, food, and places to visit.In this post, we’ve put together some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Taormina. We hope this will help you prepare for your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.1. What is the history of Taormina?
Taormina has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greeks who settled in the area in the 8th century BC. Over the centuries, the town has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish.During the Middle Ages, Taormina was an important center for silk production, and it was also a popular destination for artists and writers. In the 19th century, Taormina became a popular tourist destination, and today it’s known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and ancient ruins.2. What are the must-see places in Taormina?
There are many places to see in Taormina, but some of the most popular ones include:- The ancient Greek amphitheater
- The Corvaja Palace
- The Taormina Cathedral
- The Public Gardens
- The Isola Bella
- The Giardini Naxos Beach
3. What is the best time of year to visit Taormina?
The best time to visit Taormina depends on your preferences. The summer months of June to August are the busiest, with lots of tourists flocking to the beaches and attractions. If you prefer a quieter holiday, you can visit Taormina in the shoulder months of April to May or September to October. The temperatures are still warm, but there are fewer crowds, and prices are lower.4. What is the local cuisine like in Taormina?
Taormina is home to many delicious Sicilian dishes, including pasta alla Norma, arancini, caponata, and cassata. There are also many seafood dishes, such as spaghetti ai frutti di mare, swordfish, and baked sea bream.If you’re a wine lover, be sure to try some of the local wines, such as Nero d’Avola, Etna Rosso, and Moscato di Noto. You can find many restaurants and cafes serving traditional Sicilian cuisine in Taormina.5. What is the best way to get around Taormina?
The best way to get around Taormina is on foot. The town is small, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. You can also take a taxi or a bus to get to places outside the town, such as the beaches and other nearby towns.6. What are the beaches like in Taormina?
There are several beautiful beaches near Taormina, including Isola Bella, Spisone, and Giardini Naxos. Isola Bella is a small and charming beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Spisone is a larger and busier beach, with facilities for water sports and beach activities. Giardini Naxos is a long and sandy beach, perfect for families with children.7. What are the local customs and traditions in Taormina?
The locals in Taormina are proud of their traditions and customs. One of the most important traditions is the festival of San Giuseppe, which takes place in March. During the festival, the locals build elaborate altars in their homes and decorate them with flowers and candles.Another important tradition is the Sicilian puppets, which are used in traditional puppet shows. The puppet shows depict scenes from the ancient Greek myths and legends, and they’re a unique and fascinating part of Sicilian culture.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Taormina
If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, Taormina is one of the places you have to visit. Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and ancient ruins, it’s an absolute must-see for every tourist. In this post, we’ll share with you some tips on how to spend your time in Taormina, so you can make the most out of your trip.1. Explore Ancient Ruins and Monuments
Taormina has an incredible history and is home to some of the most remarkable ancient ruins and monuments in Italy. For instance, take a trip to the ancient Greek theatre, an incredible structure that’s over 2000 years old. Here you’ll have breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coastline while learning about its fascinating history.Another must-see historic site is the Palazzo Corvaja, which dates back to the 13th century. It has a stunning courtyard and is an excellent example of medieval architecture. For a religious site, visit the Chiesa di San Giuseppe church, built-in 1642 but renovated in Baroque style in the 18th century.2. Visit the Beaches
Taormina has several stunning beaches that are worth visiting, each with its unique charm. The Isola Bella Beach, located just at the foot of the town, has crystal clear waters and is an incredible place for snorkeling. If you want a little more privacy head, to Mazzarò Beach or Lido Spisone Beach, both are peaceful and not too busy.3. Take a Stroll Through the Town
Taormina has an amazing, quaint town where you’ll find many small shops, restaurants and historic buildings. Start your journey at the Corso Umberto I, a famous pedestrian street in Taormina, where you can shop for souvenirs, soups, and sample local cuisine. Then visit the 15th-century Cathedral of Taormina or the Porta Messina gateway, which offers incredible views.4. Try Local Cuisine
Sicilian cuisine is famous worldwide, and Taormina offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in delicious local dishes. Don’t miss the famous fried rice balls called “arancini” or “granita” a refreshing icy dessert made with water, sugar and Sicilian lemons. Besides, visit the local wineries to sample Sicily’s famous wines from the local vineyards like the Nerello Mascalese or the Zibibbo.5. Hike Mount Etna
Mount Etna is an active volcano that dominates the skyline over Taormina. It’s the tallest volcano in Europe, and you can explore it through various hiking trails. Although it’s generally safe, it’s best to take a guided tour to avoid any unforeseen risks.Book Your Tour Now
Taormina is a captivating town that offers something for every tourist. From its ancient ruins, stunning beaches, excellent cuisine, and hikes to Mount Etna, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a little bit of everything. Follow these tips, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime in Taormina.
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