The city of Taormina captured everything that has made Sicily such an enchanting destination.

Perched high on Monte Tauro, it boasts Mount Etna Volcano as its backdrop and an ancient Greek theater as part of the scenery. You will find breathtaking views at every turn, beautifully restored medieval buildings rich in history and a maze of winding streets filled with shops, bars and restaurants.

The views from the town have inspired visitors for centuries, from famous writers, directors and movie stars.

If you have limited time to spend in Sicily, Taormina is a perfect choice.

It has all you ask of for a summer vacation: A charming historical town with medieval piazzas and Palaces, Greek archeological sites, stunning beaches, amazing restaurants, great shopping and spectacular views of the sea and volcano from every spot. 

The city of Taormina was made even more popular following HBO’s 2nd season of the mega successful series, White Lotus, which was shot in Taormina's Four Seasons San Domenico Palace and the neighboring towns, which now draw tourists who want to see the dreamy locations.

The stunning real-life settings where The White Lotus was filmed steal almost every scene.

The opening credits of White Lotus, featuring artwork inspired by the Palazzio Vecchio Hotel wallpaper.

It was Sharon’s favorite kind of vacation: Wonderful beaches with perfect temperature water, great restaurants, shopping and lots of history.

A common piece of advice from the locals was to visit in Spring and early Fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more tempered climate.

"I’m looking forward to my next trip to Sicily…sailing with friends to the Aeolian islands archipelago, exploring the historical city of siracusa and experiencing another force of nature: the active volcano - Stromboli.

We came, we saw, we loved it.

Arrivederci Sicily!"
-Sharon

SHARON’S TRAVEL GUIDE:  

Where To Stay: 

• Palazzo Vecchio
  
  

Photos courtesy of the four seasons San Domenico Palace

Where To Eat: 
This is where you can indulge in the tastes of Sicily: try Granita, Arancini, Pasta alla Norma, seafood pasta, and of course… Aperitivo! 
 

• Ristorante al Paladino - A recommended for Fresh fish & seafood 

• La Botte Ristorante - Popular spots for locals and tourists -traditional Sicilian fare.
  
  
• Ristorante Timeo - In an Incredibly romantic setting with spectacular view, indulge in chef-prepared local specialties paired with wine from the Etna wineries , suggested by the expert sommelier.
  
  

The stunning views from Ristorante Timeo and a delicious plate of spaghetti

• Palazzo Vecchio Blue Sky Bar - sip an Aperol Spritz while watching the sunset and the Etna spitting lava in the background!

Time for an Aperetivo! Aperol Spritz at the Palazzo Vecchio

What To Do:  

• Enjoy a day at the beach. The most glamorous beach club is located on Mazzaro' Bay, a short cable-car ride from Taormina's town center, at Villa Sant’s Andrea.

Sharon enjoying the beach

• Take a boat trip

• Explore the town and do some shopping: Hand painted ceramics and Italian fashion! Dolce & Gabbana and Pucci have stores in town.

• Taormina Film Festival, held every July, Celebrity guests at the festival have included through the years, Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Steven Spielberg, Federico Fellini, Pedro Almodovar and Tom Cruise.
  
  
• Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina archeological site , watch the panoramic view from the top of the theater or catch an Opera performance in the ancient setting.

• Visit Mount Etna by hike car or via a Helicopter tour - spectacular!

Sharon visiting Mount Etna by helicopter

• Discover Sicily through day trips to neighboring towns such as Noto Catania, Modica, Ragusa and Siracusa.
  
  

Sicilian ceramic heads, “teste di moro“, are typical to Sicily and according to legend, represent the impossible love story of a young couple with passion, jealousy and betrayal.

 

What To Pack: