Taormina, Sicily

Taormina is a tourist town on the cruise circuit with lots of shops geared toward tourists (boutiques, linen shops, tchotchkes). Most people who travel here love it. I confess that my favorite moments were spent just outside the city away from the crush of tourists. The town has fantastic restaurants, beautiful views, charming architecture and a rich history. There is a lot to do just outside the city. It can be extremely hot in the summer. We went in October and some days it was still over 90 degrees. I don't usually spend time by the pool, but I did in Taormina. It is worth getting a nice hotel here so you can relax away from tourists, cool off, and enjoy the view.

Length of time: 10 days

Dates: October, 2023

Photo: Brioche and granita from BamBam

Our Itinerary

Hotel Recommendations

San Domenico Hotel, Four Seasons. I am not usually a Four Seasons gal, but this one is worth it. It is a converted 14th century monastery so it is like staying in a museum. It is truly the place to stay. This is one of the hotels featured in White Lotus season two. It is up high on the hill offering spectacular views, has a fabulous restaurant and pool, and is right in town. A word of warning, if you are wanting access to the beach, this is not the place for you.
The Grand Hotel Timeo, Belmond. This hotel is also beautiful and close to town. They have a fabulous restaurant. This also doesn't have beach access, but it is closer to the funicular heading town to the water.

Sites (in order of interest)

Mt. Etna. It's awesome, take the time and go. We rented a car, but chose to have a guide drive us there and walk around. You can find trails on your own if you are feeling ambitious. It is a very large area, however and a guide can show you tunnels, explain the landscape, and cater your day to your energy level.
Get a granita and brioche at BamBar. The place and owner are a hoot. Sometimes I wake up craving it. We went a couple times.
Hike up to Castelmola and have almond wine at Bar Turrisi. You can get there by taxi or bus too, which kind of stinks because it can be crowded if you go between 10am-3pm (cruise side trip destination). The hike is worth it but it can be hot, so bring water. That said, it is truly beautiful up there. Head up to the third floor of Bar Turrisi for the best view. It is known as the "penis bar" for all its decor.
Rent a boat. We spent a day on a boat which was fun. We swam, visited the Blue Grotto, spent time on a beach, had lunch and wine. It was fun to see the coastline.
Go for a drink in the Four Seasons bar. If you don't stay there, at least go to the bar and see if they will let you explore the hotel a bit.
The Greek Theatre. The theatre is in great shape and hosts events. It would be AMAZING to see a show there. Check ahead of time and see if anything is playing during your stay. Opera's and concerts sell out.
Funicular to the beach.
Regrets: I wish we spent two days hiking Mt. Etna. And it would have been nice to go to a vineyard and wine taste. I think we were just wined out at that point. It would have been fun to learn about the Mt. Etna wines we were drinking. I thought they were so interesting and delicious.

Restaurants

St. George Restaurant by Heinz Beck
We found really good restaurants with no reservation needed just off the main street.
If you want dinner with a view, book ahead!

Must Try

Granita and brioche
A drink at the Four Seasons Hotel
Local wine from Mt. Etna. The wines have a distinct taste.
Local seafood!