A Weekend Escape to Taormina, Sicily

Getting there

We flew from Athens to Catania with Aegean Airlines, a quick one-hour hop that made Taormina feel surprisingly close. Although it was mid-September, Catania airport was buzzing with travelers. After collecting our small rental car (perfect for navigating the narrow Sicilian roads and simply getting to and from Taormina), we set off on a 50-minute scenic drive. The highlight of the journey? Majestic Mount Etna looming over the horizon, and the cliffside villages glowing as sunset painted the landscape.

Take a ride in a convertible Fiat 500 and explore the city

Staying in the heart of Taormina

Our hotel was right in the center of Taormina—a decision I’d highly recommend. Within steps, we were immersed in lively streets filled with flowers spilling from balconies, boutique shops, and the hum of evening life. Dinner that first night was magical: we stumbled upon a charming restaurant tucked into an alleyway, enjoyed fresh Spaghetti Vongole with Sicilian rosé, and ended the evening with gelato while strolling under the stars.

Piazza IX Aprile—a beautiful piazza surrounded by churches with views of the sea and Mount Etna

Exploring Taormina

Isola Bella & the funicular: No visit to Taormina is complete without a ride on the funicular down to Isola Bella. For €10 return, the short ride offers fantastic views—private villas, football facilities, and the sparkling coastline below. Once at the beach, you can rent a sunbed at one of the beach clubs or simply perch on the rocky shoreline to soak in the beauty.

Visit Isola Bella, a small island located in a small bay below Taormina

The Ancient Theater: One of Taormina’s crown jewels is the Ancient Greek Theater. For €16 (or €28 with a guided tour), you not only step into history but also take in panoramic views over the Mediterranean. I’d recommend buying tickets online to skip the queues. Afterward, the nearby public gardens provided a cool, shaded retreat—lush greenery, ocean views, and even a play area for families.

The Greek Theatre of Taromina, standing tall overlooking the sea

A foodie’s paradise

In just 48 hours, we tasted our way through Taormina—pizza, pasta, cannoli, gelato, crème croissants, and more. The coffee culture is perfect for slow mornings of people-watching. A special highlight was celebrating my birthday at Nunziatina, a beautiful garden restaurant near the famous White Lotus filming location. From exquisite oysters with a kumquat mignonette to poached lobster and Sicilian rosé, it was a dining experience to remember.

Enjoy an eceptional dining experience at Nunziatina Ristorante

Other standout spots include:

• Osteria da Rita: Simple, delicious, and so popular that queues form before it even opens.

• Bam Bar: A must for granita—expect lines all day long.

• La Napolenta: Fantastic pizza just off the main square.

The colours of Taormina never disappoint—a local food vendor

Final thoughts

Taormina is everything you could want in a weekend getaway: history, food, scenery, and a vibrant atmosphere. For Europeans, it’s an easy two- or three-day trip—for visitors from the US, it pairs perfectly with a longer Sicilian or European itinerary.

Take a cooking class to learn more about the traditional Sicilian dishes

My verdict? 10/10—Taormina is a gem I’ll never forget. And for a perfect souvenir, don’t miss a bottle of Acqua di Taormina, a fragrance that will instantly transport you back to this magical corner of Sicily.

Stroll the shops of Taormina where you can find an array of quality high fashion, Sicilian leather goods and souvenirs to take home

Practical tips:

• Walking is essential: Taormina is full of steps and cobblestone streets, so bring comfortable shoes.

• Avoid peak summer: Locals recommend steering clear of July and August, when crowds are overwhelming.

• Getting around: Parking is limited, so arrange it through your hotel or use the convenient airport bus (€100 taxi rides are also an option).

• Luggage storage: Bounce offers easy, affordable storage across the city (€3.50 per bag). Avoid leaving bags in rental cars, as thefts are a known risk.

• Must-do's: Eat cannoli daily, sip coffee slowly, and embrace the art of people-watching.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sicily page.