Taormina

Taormina, Sicily Travel Guide: Insider Recommendations for Must-See Sights and Attractions .

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What to do in Taormina?

Giuseppe Baldassarri reviews the best places in Italy.

Here are some of the top attractions you might consider visiting:

Taormina is a charming town located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is renowned for its stunning views, ancient ruins, and vibrant atmosphere. Here's some more information about Taormina:

1. Greek Theater: One of the main attractions in Taormina is the ancient Greek Theater, which dates back to the 3rd century BC. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. The theater is still used today for concerts, performances, and cultural events.

1. Corso Umberto: The main street of Taormina is called Corso Umberto. It is a pedestrianized street lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Strolling along Corso Umberto is a delightful experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town's lively atmosphere and indulge in some shopping and people-watching.

1. Isola Bella: Just a short distance from Taormina, you'll find Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It is a nature reserve known for its beautiful pebble beach and crystal-clear waters. You can visit the island and relax on the beach or explore the coastal paths for stunning views.

1. Taormina Cathedral: The Duomo, or Cathedral of Taormina, is an impressive structure located in the heart of the town. It combines elements of different architectural styles and houses beautiful artworks and religious relics.

1. Taormina Gardens: Taormina is known for its well-maintained gardens and parks. The Villa Comunale and Public Gardens are popular spots for leisurely walks and picnics, offering panoramic views of the sea and the town.

1. Local Cuisine: Taormina offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Sicilian cuisine to international flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant and tomato sauce), and cannoli (sweet pastry filled with ricotta cheese).

1. Festivals and Events: Taormina hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Taormina Film Festival, which attracts international celebrities and showcases a selection of films. The festival takes place in the ancient Greek Theater and offers a unique cinematic experience.

Whether you're exploring the ancient ruins, strolling through the charming streets, or enjoying the coastal beauty, Taormina offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates visitors.

 7-day itinerary To Taormina and its surroundings and local food and wine specialties.

Here's a suggested 7-day itinerary for exploring Taormina and its surroundings while indulging in local food and wine specialties:

Day 1: Arrival in Taormina

- Arrive in Taormina and settle into your accommodation.

- Take a leisurely stroll along Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, and explore the charming shops and boutiques.

- Enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner at a local trattoria, savoring dishes like pasta alla Norma, caponata (a sweet and sour eggplant dish), and local seafood specialties.

Day 2: Taormina Highlights

- Visit the ancient Greek Theater in Taormina and enjoy the stunning views it offers.

- Explore the beautiful gardens of Villa Comunale and Public Gardens.

- Take a cable car down to the scenic Isola Bella and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or hiking the coastal trails.

- Indulge in a dinner of fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, accompanied by a glass of local Sicilian white wine, such as Etna Bianco or Grillo.

Day 3: Mount Etna Excursion

- Take a guided tour to Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano.

- Explore the volcanic landscapes, visit lava caves, and learn about the geological history of the area.

- Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a winery located on the slopes of Mount Etna, where you can sample the unique wines produced from the volcanic soil.

Day 4: Taormina Surroundings

- Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Castelmola, located above Taormina. Enjoy panoramic views, visit the medieval castle ruins, and try the local almond wine.

- Visit the nearby town of Giardini Naxos, known for its beautiful beach and archaeological site.

- In the evening, dine at a traditional trattoria in Taormina, indulging in Sicilian specialties like arancini, panelle (chickpea fritters), and cannoli for dessert.

Day 5: Syracuse and Ortigia

- Take a day trip to the ancient city of Syracuse, located about an hour's drive from Taormina.

- Explore the archaeological park of Neapolis, which includes the impressive Greek Theater, the Ear of Dionysius, and the Roman Amphitheater.

- Visit the historic island of Ortigia, the heart of Syracuse, known for its charming streets, Piazza Duomo, and the Fonte Aretusa.

- Enjoy a seafood dinner in Ortigia, trying local specialties like pesce spada alla ghiotta (swordfish cooked in a tomato sauce) or pasta with bottarga (dried fish roe).

Day 6: Wine Tasting in the Etna Region

- Embark on a wine tour in the Etna wine region, exploring vineyards and wineries that produce unique wines from the volcanic soil.

- Learn about the winemaking process and sample different Etna wines, including reds made from the Nerello Mascalese grape and whites made from Carricante.

- Pair the wines with local cheese and salumi (cured meats) for a delightful tasting experience.

Day 7: Cooking Class and Farewell

- Take a cooking class in Taormina, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes under the guidance of a local chef.

- Enjoy the fruits of your labor during a farewell lunch, savoring the flavors of your homemade Sicilian meal.

- Spend your final afternoon in Taormina at your leisure, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or relaxing in a café.

- In the evening, toast to your Sicilian adventure with a glass of Marsala wine and bid farewell to Taormina.

This itinerary allows you to explore the highlights of Taormina and its surroundings while immersing yourself in the local food and wine culture. Remember to check the availability and opening hours of attractions, make reservations for tours and wine tastings in advance, and embrace the relaxed pace of Sicilian life as you savor the flavors and experiences of the region.

Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:

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