Taormina is a small Silcilian town on the east coast of the island between Messina and Catania on the Ionian Sea.

The town is perched on a hill about 250m above the sea giving incredible views of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano which is often covered in snow during the winter - enough for skiing!

Steeped in history, Taormina is like an open air museum. There is the famous Teatro Antico di Taormina that dates back to the third century B.C, and Villa Comunale which is also known as Parco Duca Di Cesaro, to name a few.

Nightlife

The Corso Umberto is the main pedestrian street through Taormina and is lined with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. After a day sightseeing or on the beach, this is where the famous Italian "passeggiata" evening stroll takes place.

The evenings are typically relaxed with refined alfresco dining at one of the many excellent fish restaurants which is what Sicily specialises in at a BBQ at your holiday rental - watching the sunset with spectacular views of Mount Etna and the coast.

Isola Bella

Probably the best beach at Taormina set within a tiny inlet and linked to the mainland by a narrow stretch of sand which is submerged at high tide.

Giardini Naxos

Sitting to the south of Taormina, Giardini Naxos is the longest beach in the area mixing pebbles and sand and backed by lush Mediterranean plants. There are many bars, cafes and restaurants flanking the beach and as the sunsets, the nightlife here during the peak summer months cranks up.

Aci Trezza Beach

Aci Trezza was an old fishing village and now a popular tourist resort with one of the best beaches on the east coast. Located just 10km south of Catania, Aci Trezza is in the heart of the Marine Riserva dei Ciclopi and known for its crystal clear waters and rock stack formations, called Faraglioni dei Ciclopi.

Taormina has a warm, sub-tropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures rarely drop below 22°C until the end of October and can peak at 35°C and more in August. Spring is generally the best time to visit - it comes early in Sicily with the almond trees blossoming in February and the spring flowers in full bloom in March.

Things to see and do

Taormina and the surrounding area is packed with interesting places to discover and activities to suit all ages. From relaxing on the stunning beaches to exploring the inner beauty of Sicily - a few suggestions...