Taormina is renowned for its stunning landscapes and historical grandeur, and from Goethe to Oscar
Wilde, has captivated the hearts of great minds for centuries. Perched on a rocky promontory high
above the sea, Taormina features beautifully restored mediaeval buildings, breathtaking views around
every corner and a giddy network of winding streets strewn with shops, bars and restaurants. Find
out more about this pearl of the Mediterranean and why it makes for a perfect villa holiday
spot.
Founded on the slopes of Monte Tauro in the east of Sicily, the town's strategic location offers
unmatched views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, making it a coveted spot throughout history. From
the Greeks who laid its initial stones, to the Romans who luxuriated in its beauty, and the many
cultures that followed, each era has imbued Taormina with unique historic and architectural marvels.
Situated between Catania and Messina, Taormina has been the most popular tourist destination in
Sicily for a few hundred years.
Explore the Greek-Roman Theatre: Beyond its historical significance, Taormina's ancient theatre is
uniquely positioned against a backdrop of Mount Etna and the azure Ionian Sea, offering one of the
most picturesque cultural venues in the world. Now home to all manner of events, you may be able to
catch a play, fashion show, concert, or cinema festival during your visit. The views from the
theatre are spectacular, taking in a (usually) smoking Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos down
below.
Wander through Corso Umberto I: Taormina's main thoroughfare is a vibrant tapestry of historical
sites, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Explore Palazzo Corvaja, a testament to Taormina's diverse
cultural influences, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this enchanting street. At
the other end of Corso Umberto I is Piazza del Duomo, complete with 13th-century Cathedral and
Baroque fountain. As with many churches of this period in Sicily, the Duomo cathedral has a
distinctly fortress-like quality thanks to its robust structure and battlements along its
rooftops.
Table
Explore the Greek-Roman Theatre: Beyond its historical significance, Taormina's ancient theatre is
uniquely positioned against a backdrop of Mount Etna and the azure Ionian Sea, offering one of the
most picturesque cultural venues in the world. Now home to all manner of events, you may be able to
catch a play, fashion show, concert, or cinema festival during your visit. The views from the
theatre are spectacular, taking in a (usually) smoking Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos down below.
Wander through Corso Umberto I: Taormina's main thoroughfare is a vibrant tapestry of historical
sites, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Explore Palazzo Corvaja, a testament to Taormina's diverse
cultural influences, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this enchanting street. At
the other end of Corso Umberto I is Piazza del Duomo, complete with 13th-century Cathedral and
Baroque fountain. As with many churches of this period in Sicily, the Duomo cathedral has a
distinctly fortress-like quality thanks to its robust structure and battlements along its rooftops.
Venture to Taormina's coast: Head beyond the town to experience Taormina's breathtaking coastline.
Taormina is served by its very own cable car which ferries tourists to and from the seaside resorts
down along the coast. Extensive beaches, rocky coves, tiny islands (such as the famous Isola Bella)
and sea stacks abound, making this enchanting coastline a firm favourite with Sicilians and visitors
alike.