Taormina Sicily, Italy Travel Guide
Several charming locations are easily accessible for a short excursion from Taormina.
Castelmola, about 5 kilometers (3 miles) uphill, is reachable by regular Interbus service (20-30 minutes) or taxi. A challenging but scenic walk (45-60 minutes) welcomes fit travelers.
From coastal towns to impressive gorges, many destinations are within easy reach.
About 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of Taormina on the coast. It is reachable by frequent local buses (10-15 minutes) or train. Known as the first Greek colony in Sicily.
Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Taormina. Reachable by Interbus (check schedules) or organized tours. Rental car is the easiest access.
Sicily's diverse landscape offers dramatic natural attractions for day trips.
Europe's most active volcano with moon-like landscapes and lava fields.
Sicily's largest nature park with extensive hiking trails and biodiversity.
Explore the scenic peaks and valleys, a haven for outdoor pursuits.
The base of operations (Rifugio Sapienza/Funivia dell'Etna) is approximately 1-1.5 hours drive from Taormina. A full-day excursion (5-8 hours) allows adequate experience.
Sicily's largest nature park, located inland. It a destination best explored with a rental car, making it more of a longer day trip or an overnight stay.
Explore Sicily's rich history and architectural heritage with these cultural day trips.
Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Taormina. Direct Interbus services run (approx. 1.5-2 hours). A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient Greek history.
Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Taormina. Often combined with Syracuse on organized tours. Bus connections are less direct.
Approximately 20-30 kilometers (12-18 miles) north of Taormina, in the hills. Less frequent public bus service. Best reached by rental car or by joining "Godfather" tours.
Sicily has numerous other historical sites, each telling a piece of its complex story, from Roman villas to Norman castles.
Plan longer trips to explore more of Sicily's wonders, seamlessly connecting from Taormina.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. Plan 1-2 days.
A volcanic archipelago ideal for island hopping, hiking active volcanoes, and boat trips around dramatic coastlines. Plan 2-4 days.
Direct trains or long-distance buses are available from Catania. Ferries depart from Milazzo (north of Messina) for the Aeolian Islands.
