Taormina is a town in Sicily that is known for its stunning views of the sea. It is lesser known than some of Italy’s more tourist-centered areas like Rome and Venice but has a lot to offer travelers. In fact, many weddings, movie filmings and shoots for the fashion industry have occurred in Taormina. It is an exceptional yet underrated destination with some picture-perfect attractions. This hilltop resort town has an array of accommodation options and is even considered one of the most popular tourist destinations within Sicily, making it a Mediterranean gem with a historic charm, unique local attractions and delicious culinary offerings.
Taormina is located in a hilly area, so it sits well above sea level. It sits near Mt. Etna which is the highest active volcano in Europe. This elevation adds to the picturesque destination’s appeal. It has striking natural beauty and has even been nicknamed the Pearl of Ionian Sea. A part of that natural beauty is in its diversity and elegance. Amongst much else, this dreamy town has a rich cultural background.
The Taormina that travelers can witness today is due to the influences of Roman, Greek, Spanish and French cultures. Travelers that enjoy history, nature, cultural exploration and taste tasting local cuisines will appreciate this city located on the east coast. Taormina is known for its architectural sites, sandy beaches, ancient ruins and Italian eateries. Check out all there is to know about this hidden gem on the Italian coast.
How To Get to Taormina
Taormina, Italy is a location that takes a bit of planning to get to. In fact, there are no direct connections from the United States to the destination. Travelers will have to book travel with connections or at the very least take local transport to get to Taormina. Travelers need to get to the Catania airport, since it is one of the closest major airports to Taormina. Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) is around 30 miles from town. From there, travelers should take the train. Trenitalia is the leading train company in the area. Travelers should expect to arrive in Taormina from the Catania airport in around an hour. The cost of that trip should be around $10. The route to the town is very scenic, so travelers can leisurely enjoy their journey to their final destination.
Transportation Around Town
Once travelers arrive in Taormina they should not have trouble getting around. The public transportation in the town is quite accessible and pretty enjoyable. Taormina has two main means of transport that are reliable for travelers. The cable car and Beachbus are popular options for tourists trying to get around.
To accommodate the high elevation and hilly terrain, the cable cars are a great option for transport. It is a fun and scenic way of getting around. The “funivia” or aerial tramway operates throughout the day year round. Usually cable cars are available from eight in the morning until eight in the evening. In the summer, travelers can catch rides up until the early morning. Rides on the cable car will cost travelers around $4 per ride (each way).
The Beachbus does exactly what its name suggests. It transports passengers to and from local beaches. The Beachbus does drop offs and pickups at the Mazzeo and Spisone beaches regularly. Fares will cost travelers around $1 per way. There is also a local bus which stops at nearby towns. The Interbus goes to Catania, Messina and Siracusa. The fare for the bus varies but travelers are able to purchase tickets at the ticket office or on the bus.
Things To Do in Taormina
There are plenty of things for tourists to do while in Taormina. Travelers of all kinds with varying interests will find something exciting to do while in town. But there are a few things that are essential for tourists to see while they travel through the town. Those experiences include the ancient theater of Taormina, Corso Umberto, Isola Bella and Casa Cuseni. The ancient amphitheater has been standing since the third century BC. It is a testament to the Roman and Greek influences still present in the town. Corso Umberto is the main street in Taormina.
It has plenty of opportunities to shop, eat and explore the local architecture. It is a great pedestrian area, so tourists commonly walk the streets comfortably. Isola Bella translates to beautiful island. The turquoise waters of the beach are famous and make for jaw-dropping photos. The island can be reached by the cable car or a steep set of stairs. Some travelers prefer to explore this pebble beach via boat tour. Casa Cuseni is a great attraction for art and history lovers. On top of the spectacular views, the museum offers travelers access to the historical garden, library and a historical hotel.
Best Time To Visit Taormina
The best time to visit Taormina depends on the traveler. For travelers who prefer a moderate temperature, it is best to visit Taormina between May and June or September and October. During the late spring and early fall, travelers should expect temperatures in the 70’s. This temperature is ideal for travelers who plan to do a lot of walking or partake in active excursions. To experience a warm European getaway, travelers should visit Taormina in July or August. Temperatures usually average around 80 degrees during the summer. This is the most popular season for tourists so travelers may encounter higher prices and crowds.