Ten suggestions of things to see and do in Taormina, from shopping in Corso Umberto to the stunning natural wonder of the Alcantara Gorge.
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Walk along Corso Umberto.
This historic street which runs from one end of Taormina to the other is the ideal place to enjoy shopping with plenty of souvenir shops and designer boutiques.
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Visit the Greek Amphitheatre.
The second largest amphitheatre in Sicily after the one in Syracuse, it is visited every year by thousands of visitors who remain fascinated by its beauty and its view. During the summer evenings, the theatre stage plays host to ballet, opera, classical music concerts, pop concerts and the famous Taormina film festival.
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Go to Isola Bella.
From the historic centre you can reach Isola Bella via a panoramic cable car ride. This little island at the foot of Taormina is a designated nature reserve, and there is a pebbled beach from which you can enjoy a swim.
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Enjoy an Aperitif at the Piazza del Belvedere.
The Piazza IX Aprile has become known as the 'belvedere' or viewpoint. It was the place frequented by artists and writers in the 18th century who sat at small tables outside the historic cafes taking inspiration from this amazing vantage point.
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Visit Castelmola.
The small community of Castelmola, above Taormina, is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy due to its enchanting position overlooking the Ionion sea. From Castelmola it is possible to admire Taormina from on high.
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The Communal Villa Gardens.
Created by Lady Florence Trevelyan, this garden in the town centre has been described as a 'natural terrace'. Lady Florence was one of the many English noblewomen that fell in love with Taormina and decided to build a private villa and spectacular gardens.
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A Trip to the Alcantara Gorge, near Etna National Park.
A natural gorge, 25m high and home to the Alcantara River is just a few minutes by car from Giardini Naxos.
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Eat a Lunch or Dinner of Local Fresh Seafood.
As a coastal town it is not surprising that one of the local culinary highlights is fish, above all 'pesce azurro', swordfish, and the 'Messina Stocco'. For an aperitif, try the famous local almond wine.
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The Naumachie and the Corvaja Palace.
The first is the name of the walls that date back to Roman times, the second is a unique medieval palace which incorporates three styles of architecture; Gothic, Norman and Arab.
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The Dome of Saint Nicholas.
Also called the 'cathedral fortress' because of its austere appearance. Opposite the Duomo is a Baroque fountain with a female centaur in the middle, the symbol of the city.
(written by: Anna Li Volsi | translated by: Samantha Collins)
