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In today’s post, I’m excited to share what I learned from my August trip to Taormina. Plus, you’ll get plenty of travel tips like the best time to go, getting around in and out of town, and where to stay. I’ll also wrap things up with a handy 4-day itinerary to help you get the most out of your visit.So, let’s jump right in and explore together!
I had my eye on Taormina for ages, thanks to all the breathtaking photos I’d seen online. Taormina is known as the “pearl of the Mediterranean Sea”. So, when I finally got the chance to visit, I was excited to dive in. On my first day, I arrived and was greeted by a sea of tourists. To escape the hustle and bustle, I decided to head straight to the Villa Comunale di Taormina. I figured it would be a nice, tranquil escape and that I’d come back to explore the more crowded spots later, once things had calmed down a bit.
The Villa Comunale di Taormina is such a lovely spot with a charming backstory. It’s nestled on a hillside in town and is like a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
The villa’s fascinating story dates back to the late 1800s. The land was originally owned by a Scottish noblewoman named Lady Florence Trevelyan, who was a real character! She was married to the nephew of Queen Victoria and had quite a flair for the dramatic. She was also a passionate gardener and conservationist. Lady Florence fell in love with Taormina’s beauty and decided to make it her home. She transformed the property into a stunning garden, adding all sorts of exotic plants, fountains, and even a little gazebo.
When Lady Florence passed away in 1902, the property was eventually bought by the local municipality. In 1922 the town decided to keep the gardens open to the public, and it was officially named the Villa Comunale di Taormina. The garden was maintained and expanded over the years, and now it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
The gardens reflect Lady Florence’s taste with their lush greenery and scenic views, and they offer a peaceful retreat in the middle of Taormina’s bustling streets. It’s like taking a step back in time, enjoying the same vistas and serenity that Lady Florence might have savored.
Villa Comunale di Taormina is a beautiful piece of history, thanks to a visionary lady with a passion for nature and the good life!
Travel Tip(s)
With a surface area of 22,400 m2 you can easily spend an hour in the beautiful garden and relax away from the crowds.
After enjoying the peaceful gardens, I wandered over to Corso Umberto, Taormina’s bustling main street. Let me tell you, the crowds were intense! That’s when it really hit me: Taormina is definitely feeling the effects of overtourism, especially from June to August. Although the town has tried to manage this by limiting the number of cruise ship passengers each day, there are still plenty of tour buses rolling in.
Instead of navigating through the sea of people, I decided to grab an early dinner. It turned out to be a smart move—it was much quieter and I could actually enjoy my meal without the crowds. Unfortunately, this meant I missed out on shopping and exploring the charming boutiques, which was a bit of a letdown. The overtourism had definitely affected the authentic Taormina experience I was hoping for.
Travel Tip(s)
How to combat overtourism in Taormina:
Whether you’re into history, nature, or just soaking up the local culture, Taormina has something special for you.
This is a must-see! The Teatro Greco, as it’s officially known, is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Sicily. You’ll be amazed by its stunning location with views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It’s not just a historical site; it’s often used for performances and events, so you might even catch a show or concert there!
Just a short walk or boat ride from Taormina, Isola Bella is a beautiful small island with a pebble beach and a nature reserve. It’s perfect for a swim or a bit of sunbathing. The views from the island are breathtaking!
This lovely cathedral is right in the heart of town. Its mix of architectural styles reflects Taormina’s rich history. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re up for an adventure, Mount Etna is a must! You can take a guided tour to explore the craters and lava fields. It’s an incredible experience, especially if you’re into nature and geology.
A smaller but equally fascinating ancient theatre, the Teatro Odeon is a hidden gem. It’s less crowded than the main theatre and gives you a great sense of the town’s ancient past.
You can’t visit Taormina without indulging in the local cuisine. From fresh seafood and pasta dishes to delectable pastries, there’s so much to try. Be sure to sample some local wines too!
In addition to Isola Bella, there are other lovely beaches around Taormina, like Mazzarò and Letojanni. They’re perfect for a day of sun and sea. And why not add a bit of adventure with a rental boat!?
Get lost in the charming backstreets of Taormina. You’ll find lovely squares, hidden cafes, and local artisan shops. It’s a great way to experience the town’s authentic charm.
Now that you know the best times to visit and how to navigate the crowds, you’re all set to plan an amazing Taormina getaway. With a bit of strategy, you can enjoy this beautiful town without feeling overwhelmed by overtourism.
To really soak in the magic of this beautiful Mediterranean town, I recommend you spend about 3 to 4 days. This should give you a nice balance to see the sights, relax, and explore.
Most of the resorts have exquisite views over Mount Etna and the beach below. Like San Domenico Palace with its beautiful terraces. It is the most popular hotel around.
La Plage Resort is the resort to book if you want to stay away from the town center, and on a beachfront. It comes with very good ratings.
Villa Zen Toarmina is about twenty minutes on foot to the old town, with plenty of steps to climb. When you book, check if they’ve added aircons to the rooms. That is of course if you’re like me and enjoy the coolness of the AC.
If you have an extra day, use it to revisit any favorite spots, explore more local eateries, or take another day trip to nearby places like Catania or Syracuse.
This itinerary gives you a good mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor. Enjoy your time in Taormina— this beautiful gem of Sicily!
It’s a place that will definitely give you amazing memories—just watch out for those overtourism traps! With Travel and Home’s tips, you’ll steer clear of the crowds and make the most of your trip.
Happy travels!
By, Arina JVR.
Occasional Contributor, Lover of Adventure and Fine Taste
Arina has a passion for life’s simple pleasures—whether it’s carving through fresh snow on a ski slope, capturing the perfect shot on her camera, or savoring delicious cuisine from around the globe. As an occasional contributor, she brings her love for both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations to her writing, offering readers a glimpse into her adventures. From alpine villages to hidden gems, her insights come from a deep love of travel, photography, and exploration.
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