Taormina
Sicily's glamorous cliff-top resort, with a Greek theatre framing Etna and the Ionian Sea.
About Taormina
Taormina has been captivating visitors since the Grand Tour, and it's easy to see why. Perched on a cliff 200 metres above the Ionian Sea, the town is centred on the ancient Greek Theatre—one of the most spectacularly sited ruins in the world, with Mount Etna smoking in the background and the sea glittering far below. The Corso Umberto, the pedestrianised main street, is lined with boutiques, cafés, and palatial hotels that have hosted everyone from Goethe to Elizabeth Taylor. Below the cliff, the beautiful Isola Bella beach sits in a tiny bay accessible by cable car. Taormina is unabashedly touristy, but its beauty is so extreme that resistance is futile.
Best Time to Visit
May to June or September to October. The Taormina Film Fest and summer concerts at the Greek Theatre are world-class. August is crowded and expensive. Spring has wildflowers and fewer visitors.
Local Tips
- Visit the Greek Theatre at opening.
The theatre is most magical in early morning light, when Etna is clear and the tour groups haven't arrived. A local will get you there at 9am for photos without another soul in the frame.
- Swim at Isola Bella.
The tiny island in the bay below Taormina is a nature reserve connected to the beach by a sand bar. A local knows the best time to take the cable car down and the snorkelling spots around the island.
- Escape to the Alcantara Gorge.
The Gole dell'Alcantara—a dramatic basalt canyon carved by river and lava—is a short drive from Taormina. A local will take you to the quieter upper sections for swimming in cold, clear pools among hexagonal rock columns.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Maurizio
Palermo, Catania +3
Ciao from Sicily! I am Maurizio, Superhost and Customer Experience enthusiast. I am passionate about sharing my island's hidden gems and the craftsmanship of local traditions: from local wineries and historic markets to natural reserves, secret beaches and heritage spots. I also offer unique, intimate experiences, such as private dinners in my family's garden or hands-on pizza masterclasses led by a professional pizza chef. Looking for a local's perspective on your Sicilian itinerary? Here I am!
Tommaso
Palermo, Taormina +3
I’m a licensed local guide based in Sicily, and I love helping travelers experience this island beyond the postcard version. For me, Sicily is not just a place of famous monuments and beautiful coastlines, but a living culture shaped by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and generations of proud locals. I enjoy introducing visitors to the Sicily I know and love: lively markets, layered history, unforgettable food, and the small everyday details that make a place feel real. I have guided travelers from around the world and always try to combine solid historical insight with a relaxed, personal approach. My goal is to help people slow down, connect with the local culture, and feel at home while discovering one of Europe’s richest and most fascinating islands.
Stefania
Syracuse, Taormina +4
Hi! I’m Stefania—but you can call me Ste 🌻 I’m a travel advisor born and raised in Noto, Sicily 🇮🇹 which basically means I grew up surrounded by baroque beauty, incredible food, and a very strong sense of what’s actually worth your time (and what’s not). I know the places that don’t show up on Google, the beaches you almost want to gatekeep, and the kind of local spots where you’ll still be thinking about the food months later. I also lived in Perugia for three years, which gave me a whole new perspective on Italy beyond the South. Add to that my travels, especially across the north of Spain and many Italian cities and you get someone who understands both sides: the traveller’s expectations and the local reality. So no, I won’t send you to the most “famous” place… I’ll send you to the right one!
Pippo
Palermo, Catania +3
I’m a young and passionate tour guide with over 20 years of experience exploring and sharing the wonders of Sicily. My work is driven by curiosity, energy, and a deep love for the island’s culture, history, and hidden stories. I enjoy engaging with people from all over the world, creating authentic and memorable experiences that go beyond the typical tour. I’m also fascinated by controversial topics and lively debates. I believe that meaningful conversations and different perspectives make travel richer and more inspiring. Whether discussing history, culture, traditions, or modern issues, I aim to create open, thought-provoking moments that connect visitors with the real spirit of Sicily.