Top reasons to visit Taormina
- Stunning Beaches: Taormina boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Historic Theatre: The ancient Greek theatre offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
- Mount Etna Tours: Explore the majestic Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, for thrilling outdoor adventures.
- Charming Shopping Area: Enjoy a delightful stroll through the picturesque streets filled with boutiques and local crafts.
- Sicilian Hospitality: Experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere and indulge in exquisite local cuisine.
Find great hotels in and around Taormina
Discover a variety of charming accommodations in Taormina, Sicily, perfect for every traveller. Whether you prefer a cosy bed and breakfast or a luxurious hotel, you’ll find family-friendly, pet-friendly options that cater to your needs. Enjoy splendid beach vacation experiences while surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Taormina. Explore the diverse selection of hotels in Taormina, including villas that offer a unique and memorable stay.
- UNA Hotels Capotaormina: Set against the stunning backdrop of Taormina, UNA Hotels Capotaormina offers a delightful family-oriented beach holiday experience. This 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, highlighting its exceptional service and amenities. Guests appreciate the direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for sun-seekers. Family-friendly facilities include babysitting and childcare services, ensuring that parents can enjoy some leisure time while their children are well cared for. The hotel also features a beautiful pool area secured with a pool gate for the safety of younger guests.
- Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina: Combining charm and convenience, Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina is a pet-friendly 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, making it suitable for both business travellers and those on leisure trips. This property welcomes pets, complete with specific amenities and policies in place for our furry friends. The hotel’s location near the heart of Taormina allows guests to easily explore the area’s rich culture and scenic beauty, while its comfortable accommodations provide a relaxing retreat after a day of sightseeing.
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Giardini Naxos: Located a short distance from Taormina, Delta Hotels by Marriott Giardini Naxos offers a beachside getaway with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This 4-star establishment is perfect for families, featuring direct beach access and dedicated children’s amenities, including engaging games. Guests enjoy a serene environment with a focus on relaxation and family fun, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind while still being close to the attractions of Taormina.
Where to stay in and around Taormina
Taormina, Sicily, offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and rich history. Visitors can explore the charming Taormina centre, relax at Taormina Mare's beautiful beaches, and soak up the warm Sicilian hospitality. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with friendly locals, allows travellers to experience luxury and culture in a secluded setting. No matter the season, Taormina promises a memorable holiday filled with enchanting sights and unique experiences.
- Giardini Naxos: Situated a mere 3km from Taormina, Giardini Naxos is a charming coastal town renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities. This destination is particularly popular during the summer months from June to August, when visitors flock to enjoy the sun, sand, and adventure. The town features a range of attractions, including a lively shopping area and a convenient cable car gondola that connects to Taormina. Don't miss the picturesque family beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and the enchanting nearby island that offers a delightful excursion for nature lovers.
- Taormina City Centre: Nestled in the heart of Taormina, the City Centre boasts a rich blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. This neighbourhood attracts a seasonal influx of tourists, peaking from July to September. Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities along the stunning beaches and explore the area's historic sites, including ancient ruins and beautiful architecture. The City Centre is also home to a variety of shopping options and the iconic cable car gondola, making it easy to navigate the scenic landscape. Be sure to take in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Melia: Located 5km from Taormina, the quaint village of Melia is an idyllic retreat for beach enthusiasts. This serene locale experiences a seasonal flow of visitors, particularly from July to September. With its stunning family-friendly beaches, Melia offers a perfect spot for relaxation and fun in the sun. The village's tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, while still being conveniently close to the attractions of Taormina.
Things to do in and around Taormina
Shopping
In Taormina, you'll find charming boutiques offering local ceramics, handmade jewellery, and Sicilian delicacies. If you're up for a drive, visit the Centro Sicilia mall in Catania, where you can browse a variety of international brands and enjoy a lively shopping atmosphere.
Recreation
In Taormina, the Thalasso Spa offers rejuvenating treatments inspired by the sea, alongside stunning views of the coastline. Nearby, the Hotel Villa Sant'Andrea features wellness therapies and a serene beach setting, providing a tranquil escape for relaxation and self-care amidst the Mediterranean charm.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views on the Taormina Cable Car, offering an exhilarating ride through the stunning landscape. Venture to the Etna Cable Car, located 31km from Taormina, for a unique ascent of Mount Etna. For thrill-seekers, Adventure Park Etna, 21km away, features an exciting zipline and ropes course for a day of outdoor fun.
Nightlife
Explore the lively atmosphere at La Giara, where you can enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant live music. For a more laid-back vibe, visit Bar Turrisi, known for its eclectic decor and signature cocktails, perfect for unwinding while mingling with locals and fellow travellers.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Taormina
To save money during your visit to Taormina, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Explore the town’s free attractions like Isola Bella and Corso Umberto, and use public transport options like buses and cable cars to keep costs down. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals or package offers that combine flights and hotels. Saturdays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be more expensive.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Taormina are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Taormina is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Taormina is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Taormina is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Taormina with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Taormina
Taormina offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, perfect for a memorable vacation. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, historic churches, and archaeological sites. Key attractions include the central area of Taormina, the Taormina Museum, the striking Taormina Cathedral, and nearby points of interest. This charming town caters to those seeking culture, relaxation by the beach, and outdoor experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
- Corso Umberto: This vibrant street is the heart of Taormina, lined with charming shops, cafés, and historical buildings. Strolling along Corso Umberto provides a lively atmosphere, where you can immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Taormina Cable Car: Offering a thrilling ride, the Taormina Cable Car transports visitors from the town to the stunning beaches below. This gondola experience is perfect for families and adventure seekers, providing breathtaking views of the coastline and the chance to marvel at the beauty of the Sicilian landscape.
- Isola Bella: A picturesque island located 1km from Taormina, Isola Bella boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. This enchanting spot is ideal for outdoor activities, such as swimming and sunbathing, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning natural scenery.
Best time to go to Taormina
The best time to visit Taormina is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Taormina
Reaching Taormina, Sicily, is convenient via three major airports. Catania (CTA-Fontanarossa) is 47km away, with notable hotels like the 5-star Romano Palace Luxury Hotel just 2km from the airport. Lamezia Terme (SUF-Lamezia Terme Intl.) is 145km distant, offering options like the 4-star Best Western Hotel Class, located 3km from the terminal. Lastly, Reggio di Calabria (REG-Strait of Messina) is the closest at 40km, featuring the luxurious 5-star Altafiumara Resort & Spa 19km away. Each airport provides accessible transport services to nearby hotels, ensuring a seamless travel experience for visitors.