Taormina is one of those places that seems to have it all: breathtaking views, layers of history, and that sun-soaked charm that’s easy to fall in love with. As the locals say in Sicilian dialect, it’s la chiù bedda (the most beautiful).
Perched high above the Ionian Sea, this charming town offers a mix of ancient ruins, elegant architecture, and vibrant Sicilian life. On one side, the sea stretches out in a dazzling blue; on the other, the silhouette of Mount Etna rises quietly in the distance. And in between, you’ll find winding streets, flower-covered balconies, and lively piazzas.
Ready to learn all the top things to do in Taormina? In this guide, I’ll take you through the must-see highlights and hidden corners worth exploring, whether you’re here for just a day or lucky enough to stay a little longer.
Table of Contents
- A brief history of Taormina
- Top 13 things to do in Taormina Sicily
- What to eat and where to eat in Taormina
- How to get to Taormina
- Where to stay in Taormina
- Top travel tips for visiting Taormina
- 4 Best day trips from Taormina
A brief history of Taormina
Taormina was originally founded as Tauromenion, meaning “dwelling on Mount Tauro,”named after the mountain it sits on, said to resemble the shape of a bull’s head. The first settlers were the Siculi, an ancient people of Sicily, later joined by Greek colonists from nearby Naxos after it was destroyed by Siracusa.
The Greeks left a lasting imprint, most famously the Ancient Theatre, which still stands as one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. When the Romans took over in 212 BC, they expanded the city and adapted the theatre into an amphitheatre. They also built new infrastructure, including terraced walls and cisterns, to support the growing population.
Over the centuries, Taormina came under the influence of many different rulers—Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards—each leaving behind traces of their architecture, culture, and traditions. This blend of influences is still visible today and is part of what makes exploring the top things to do in Taormina so fascinating.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the town became a favorite stop on the Grand Tour, attracting artists and writers in search of inspiration. Goethe called it “a masterpiece of art and nature,” while D.H. Lawrence lived here for several years. Taormina town also gained fame through the work of photographer Wilhelm von Gloeden, whose portraits of young naked men drew attention from abroad—including Oscar Wilde, who visited and called it “a lovers’ paradise.” His visit is still remembered with a statue near Hotel Vittoria, where he stayed.
Today, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most glamorous destinations and continues to enchant visitors with the same mix of beauty, culture, and atmosphere that has captivated travelers for centuries.
Top 12 things to do in Taormina
Taormina old town is compact, full of charm, and perfect for wandering. Below, you’ll find a list of the top things to do:
1. Explore the ancient Theatre of Taormina (Greek Theatre)
Few places in the world can compete with the breathtaking setting of Taormina’s Ancient Theatre, which is the second-largest theatre in Sicily after the one in Siracusa. Built by the ancient Greeks in the 3rd century BC into a natural stone terrace, it showcases remarkable architectural skill and a keen sense of landscape. With Mount Etna rising in the distance and the Ionian Sea sparkling below, it’s the most evocative spot in town.
However, although locals call it the Teatro Greco (Greek Theatre), much of what you see today reflects Roman renovations. When the Romans took over, they adapted the theatre for gladiator battles and wild animal shows. Yet traces of its original Greek past remain—for example, the faint inscription of Philistide, the wife of the theatre’s Greek builder, is still visible on the stone seats.
Today, the theatre hosts concerts, operas, and events like the famous Taormina Film Festival every summer. It’s also been a popular filming location, featured in movies such as The Godfather Part III by Francis Ford Coppola and Woody Allen’s La dea dell’amore.
Tip: There’s a lovely secondary entrance along Il sentiero di Goethe, a peaceful walking path through Mediterranean shrubs and ancient olive trees. Named after Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited here in 1787 with artist Christoph Heinrich Kniep, the path offers a quieter, scenic way to reach the theatre.
2. Visit the Cathedral of San Nicola di Bari
Right in the heart of Taormina, the Cathedral of San Nicola di Bari might not be as grand as the big basilicas in Rome or Florence, but it’s packed with character and history. It was built in the 13th century on the site of an older church, and its Romanesque-Gothic style, with solid stone walls and delicate battlements, makes it look a bit like a small fortress.
Some say that a few of the cathedral’s columns were taken from the town’s ancient Greek-Roman theatre, which makes the cathedral feel even more connected to Taormina’s rich past. Inside, you’ll spot a glowing polyptych from 1504 by Antonello de Saliba, who was the nephew of the famous painter Antonello da Messina. You’ll also find a Byzantine Madonna—a panel painting covered with silver and semi-precious stones. Just outside, a pretty 17th-century fountain adds a nice baroque touch.
Tip: If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss the Festa di Primavera. It’s a spring festival that fills Piazza Duomo with flowers, creating a really lovely, almost magical vibe.
3. Stroll down Corso Umberto
Walking along Corso Umberto is one of the absolute must-do things in Taormina. Originally part of the Roman Via Valeria from the 1st century BC, this pedestrian-friendly stretch runs about 800 metres, linking the old gates of Porta Messina and Porta Catania.
Named after King Umberto I of Savoy, the street is lined with a mix of elegant palaces, charming churches, boutique shops, and inviting outdoor cafés. Halfway along, you’ll see the Clock Tower, which marks the spot where the Greco-Roman part of town meets the medieval quarter.
Tip: Just south of Corso Umberto, check out the Palazzo Duca di Santo Stefano, a stunning example of Sicilian Gothic architecture dating back to the mid-13th century. Today, it hosts events and cultural happenings, but even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth admiring for its beautiful local stone details and elements from the Arab and Norman architectural styles.
4. Dive into the history of the Odeon
The Odeon is one of those spots that’s easy to miss if you’re rushing through, but it’s a real hidden gem. It’s the remains of a small covered Roman theatre, built in the 2nd century AD. It wasn’t made for big crowds (it could hold about 200 people), but for more intimate performances like music recitals and political talks. Along with the Odeon in Catania, it’s one of the few covered theatres documented in Sicily.
The semicircular stone seating and old bricks still hint at the clever design and great acoustics the Romans were known for. What’s really cool is that beneath the Odeon are remains of an even older Greek temple, which became part of the 17th-century Church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria that stands right above it—just one more layer in Taormina’s long, fascinating history!
Tip: If you’re here and the Church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria is open, step inside. Its Baroque interior, with twisted columns and three big crystal chandeliers, is definitely worth a look.
5. Soak up the atmosphere at Piazza IX Aprile
As you stroll down Corso Umberto, there’s a moment when Taormina suddenly opens up to one of its most magical spots: Piazza IX Aprile. This square is the town’s crown jewel: a charming terrace with a checkerboard pavement that feels like a little jewel box perched above the sea. From here, you get stunning views of Mount Etna and the coast .
The name has an interesting story: on April 9 (IX aprile), 1860, news spread that Garibaldi had landed in Marsala to free Sicily, but he actually arrived a month later. Still, the name stuck, adding a quirky charm to the piazza. During the day, it buzzes with musicians, artists, and locals going about their day. At night, it softens into a romantic spot, glowing warmly under the streetlights.
Looking over the square is the Baroque Church of San Giuseppe, sitting above a grand double staircase made of local Taormina marble. It was once home to the Confraternity of the Souls in Purgatory, and its fiery decorations still hint at that history. Across the square is the former Church of Sant’Agostino, with its distinctive medieval bell tower. Now it’s a public library holding over 22,000 books.
Tip: If you’re feeling hungry, grab a seat on the outdoor patio of Bellevue, the restaurant of Hotel Metropole. The views alone make it worth it.
6. Relax like a local in the Villa Comunale (Public Gardens)
Just a short walk from the busy Corso Umberto, you’ll find Villa Comunale, a peaceful green terrace overlooking the Ionian Sea. It was once the private retreat of Lady Florence Trevelyan, a Scottish noblewoman who made Taormina her home after leaving Britain under somewhat scandalous circumstances involving the future King Edward VII. Today, her beautiful park remains a special gift to the town.
Created in the late 1800s, the gardens are a lush mix of palms, colorful flowers, exotic plants, and winding cobbled paths stretching across nearly three hectares. What really makes Villa Comunale stand out are the Victorian follies: quirky little structures made from brick, lava stone, and wood, some shaped like pagodas. Lady Trevelyan built them as birdwatching spots, and now they’re perfect quiet corners for a rest.
Tip: If you want to picnic here, pick up some local wine, olives, and sandwiches from Bottega Managò (their mortadella and burrata panino is a must-try!).
7. Discover the Naumachie ruins
Tucked away in the Giardinazzo district, just a few steps from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, the Naumachie is one of Taormina’s lesser-known treasures. The name comes from the Greek word for “naval battle,” which strikes images of dramatic Roman sea fights. And yet, despite the name, no ships ever clashed here.
What you’re actually looking at is part of a Roman gymnasium from the 2nd century AD, where young men trained both body and mind. The structure you see today is a long red-brick wall—122 meters in length and 5 meters tall—lined with a series of large arched niches that likely once held statues. It’s an impressive sight, even if its original purpose was more athletic than aquatic.
The mix-up came in the 18th century when a Dutch scholar, Jacques-Philippe D’Orville, wrongly identified it as an arena for mock sea battles. The name stuck, but archaeologists have since cleared things up.
Tip: If you’re into ancient Roman history, take a look at the Roman Baths near Porta Messina. It’s another fascinating piece of Taormina’s past. Fragments of a Roman calendar found here are now preserved at the Antiquarium of the Ancient Theatre.
8. Climb to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Rocca
High above the rooftops of Taormina, tucked into the rugged cliffs, sits a peaceful and picturesque spot: the Sanctuary of Madonna della Rocca. Simple and unadorned, the small 12th-century chapel is carved straight into the rock face, with its ceiling still bearing the rough curves of the cave it once was. It’s not flashy, but the silence, the scent of stone, and the sweeping views make it something special. From here, you’ll catch a beautiful panorama stretching from the sparkling coastline all the way to Mount Etna in the distance.
The story behind the sanctuary is steeped in legend. It’s said that a shepherd boy took shelter in the cave during a storm and saw a glowing woman holding a child—believed to be the Madonna. When villagers later returned, they discovered an image miraculously imprinted on the rock. The shrine was built around it, and the site has been sacred ever since.
To get here, you’ll need to climb the Via Crucis, a stone staircase of about 300 steps that also leads to the nearby ruins of the Saracen Castle (Italian: Castello di Taormina). It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it.
Tip: If you’re in town on the third Sunday of September, don’t miss the Feast of the Madonna della Rocca. The path to the sanctuary fills with festive stalls selling sweets, toys, and calia, a crunchy snack made with a mix of chickpeas, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds.
View of Castello di Taormina from Castelmola
9. Ride the cable car and explore Isola Bella
After exploring Taormina’s hilltop charms, it’s time to head to the sea. From Via Pirandello, hop on the cable car down to Mazzarò Beach. It’s a quick ride with stunning coastal views. It runs every 15 minutes, and in summer, until 1:30 AM. Tickets cost €6 one way or €10 return.
From the Mazzarò station, it’s a short walk to Isola Bella, a tiny islet connected to the shore by a narrow strip of sand and stone. Depending on the tide, the strip might be fully visible or partly submerged, but the water stays shallow (reef shoes help on the pebbles!)
Once owned by Ferdinand I of Bourbon, King of the Two Sicilies, the island was later gifted to the city of Taormina and then sold to Florence Trevelyan, the same English noblewoman who created the town’s lush public gardens. She introduced exotic plants and built a small stone cottage still hidden among the trees. Today, Isola Bella is a protected natural reserve part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You can relax on the beach (there are sunloungers, food and drinks) or explore the islet’s trails and sea views. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, kayaking, or boat tours to the nearby Grotta Azzurra, a sea cave that glows bright blue when the sunlight reflects through the water.
Tip: If you’re coming by car, park at Parcheggio Mazzarò. The cable car is just nearby, so you can hit the beach first and then head up to town before leaving.
10. Step inside the Church of San Pancrazio
San Pancrazio is Taormina’s patron saint, so if you’re sightseeing with a sense of local spirit, this church deserves a spot on your list. You’ll find it just below Porta Messina, along a road that leads down into the quieter corners of town.
This is one of Taormina’s oldest churches, built right on top of the ruins of a Greek temple dedicated to Jupiter Serapis. Some of the temple’s original stone walls were actually incorporated into the church’s structure, so history quite literally supports its foundations.
Interestingly, Pancrazio was a disciple of Saint Peter and became Taormina’s first bishop around 40 A.D. According to legend, he was sent to Sicily to spread Christianity and when his enemies forced him to bow before a pagan idol, he made the sign of the cross and the statue shattered. That act sealed his fate: he was beheaded. Inside the church, you’ll find a fresco that depicts this dramatic moment of martyrdom.
While the exterior may seem modest, the interior is surprisingly rich, with a single nave adorned in polychrome marble and large canvases. At the back of the church, a grand arch frames a striking statue of San Pancrazio in papier-mâché and gold, the visual centerpiece of the space.
Fun fact: Taormina celebrates its patron saint on July 9 with lights, sweet treats, and fireworks lighting up the sky. The festivities actually begin on June 29, when the statues of Saint Peter and San Pancrazio are carried through the streets in a procession. A special role is played by the Sciabbacoti (the local fishermen named after the sciabbica, a type of fishing net), who accompany the statue shouting in Sicilian: E chiamamulu cu veru cori. Viva San Brancasiu! (Call him with a true heart. Long live San Pancrazio!).
11. Wander through Taormina’s hidden alleyways
One of the best things to do in Taormina is putting maps and phones away and giving in to the quiet art of getting lost. Here, there’s no wrong direction, only secret corners and quiet moments waiting to be uncovered: balconies overflowing with flowers, laundry fluttering from railings, ivy-covered stairwells. Every little street feels like a living still life.
A few especially enchanting detours:
- Vico Venezia, a medieval portal nestled among citrus trees and pastel façades
- Salita Guglielmo Melivia, a tiny lane just beyond Piazza IX Aprile, wrapped in warm hues, patterned tiles and potted plants. Salita Guglielmo Melivia is a street in Taormina, Sicily, known for its stairway steps and traditional houses. It can be accessed from Corso Umberto and also from Via Circonvallazione. TreQuarti Taormina Antipasteria Siciliana is a restaurant located on a side street off Salita Guglielmo Melivia
- Via d’Orville, home to one of the most colourful staircases in town
- Vicolo Stretto, one of the narrowest streets in Italy, just 50 cm wide.
Tip: If you’re short on time, consider booking a private walking tour with a local guide who can lead you through Taormina’s most atmospheric corners while sharing fascinating stories you’ll hardly find in brochures.
12. Immerse yourself in art and history at Casa Cuseni
Perched on the slope toward Madonna della Rocca, Casa Cuseni is a villa steeped in creative freedom. It was designed by English painter Robert Hawthorn Kitson (a friend of Oscar Wilde) as his personal refuge from Edwardian England’s constraints.
Arriving in Taormina in 1900 to recover from rheumatic fever, Kitson transformed a wild escarpment into a lush estate with panoramic views and gorgeous terraced gardens which became a haven for artists and intellectuals. Its guest list included the likes of Tennessee Williams, Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Henry Faulkner, and even a young Ernest Hemingway, who wrote his first short story here. Kitson’s niece, Daphne Phelps, later preserved the estate and immortalized it in her memoir A House in Sicily.
Today, Casa Cuseni is Sicily’s oldest house-museum and home to the Museum of Art and the Grand Tour. (Italian: Casa Cuseni, Museo delle Belle Arti e del Grand Tour della Città di Taormina”)
Tip: The villa also operates as a B&B, letting you wake up to the same inspiring views that once captivated its famous guests.
13. Step back in time at the Byzantine Tombs
History buffs shouldn’t miss this hidden gem along Via Pirandello: a modest yet haunting archaeological site revealing Sicily’s Arab presence in the 10th and 11th centuries. Discovered in the late 1990s, the complex features tiered rows of burial niches arranged in a “columbarium” style, with symmetrical cells stacked into stone walls. These tombs were once part of a larger funerary area extending toward today’s lower Church of St. Peter, outside the town walls.
Tip: Just a two-minute walk away, the Belvedere Pirandello offers stunning views of Isola Bella and the coast below Taormina.
14. Visit the tiny hilltop village of Castelmola
Perched high above Taormina, Castelmola is a tiny hilltop village with some of the most breathtaking views in eastern Sicily. From its panoramic terraces, you can see Mount Etna, the Ionian coastline and Taormina far below. Wander through narrow stone streets, visit the ruins of the medieval castle, and stop in Piazza Sant’Antonio for the postcard-perfect view. It’s peaceful, authentic and far less crowded than Taormina.
How to get there – The easiest way is by local bus from Taormina. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes and winds up the mountain with dramatic views along the way. You can also drive, but parking is limited.
It’s a perfect half-day escape if you want fresh air, quiet charm and unforgettable scenery just above Taormina.
What to eat and where to eat in Taormina
Taormina offers a deep dive into the rich flavours of Sicilian cuisine, from with iconic street foods like arancini (masculine on this side of the island) and scacciate (rustic stuffed focaccia filled with traditional local ingredients) to lots of seafood, thanks to its proximity to the sea.
For an immersive experience of Taormina’s culinary delights, consider joining a food & wine walking tour, spending a few hours a few hours savouring authentic Sicilian flavours while learning about local traditions and ingredients. If you have more time and want to get hands-on, a pizza making class or cooking class with a local chef offers a fun, interactive way to learn classic recipes.
Here are some personal favourites to try:
Trattoria Tischi Toschi – Vico Francesco Paladin, 3
A gourmet trattoria honoring Slow Food principles, respecting tradition and local producers. Don’t miss the fennel meatballs and caciocavallo all’argentiera. Cozy and intimate, reservation is essential.
Osteria da Rita – Via Calapitrulli, 3
A family-run osteria with outdoor tables on a charming street just off Corso Umberto. Sicilian classics shine here, especially pasta alla norma and tasty bruschette.
Rosticceria Da Cristina – Via Giovanni di Giovanni, 28 | Via Strabone, 2
A historic rosticceria (deli) serving top-notch Sicilian street eats: arancini with various fillings, scacciata, pizza, and even hot dishes like pasta and meatballs. Prices are a bit fancier than your average street food, but hey, you’re in Taormina!
BamBar – Via di Giovanni, 45
One of Sicily’s iconic spots for granita siciliana, the island’s refreshing fruit-and-nut iced treat. Try it with brioche for the full experience. Seasonal flavors like mulberry and white fig are pure delights.
Laboratorio Pasticceria Roberto – Via Corso Umberto, 87
If you crave sweets, this is one of Taormina’s best bakeries. Classics like cannoli sit alongside specialties such as nipudiddati (pastry filled with chocolate, almond, and cinnamon) and mafiosi (soft pistachio balls wrapped in toasted almonds).
Bar Timeo @ Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo – Via Teatro Greco, 59
For a glamorous aperitivo with a view, this elegant bar offers inventive drinks like the Sunset Spritz (with passion fruit & rosé spumante) and the Lady Trevelyan (with tequila, mango, and Sicilian verdello lemon).
How to get to Taormina
Taormina is located on the eastern coast of Sicily, and getting here is fairly straightforward. Whether you’re flying in or traveling around the island, here are the best ways to reach the town:
By plane
The closest airport is Catania Fontanarossa, which serves both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take an Etna Trasporti bus to Taormina (about 1 hour and 30 minutes, €7 one way). The bus stops at the main terminal, just a 5-minute walk from Porta Messina, the entrance to Corso Umberto, the town’s main pedestrian street. If you prefer a faster or more comfortable option, consider taking a taxi (starting from around €100) or a private transfer.
By bus
If you’re traveling within Sicily by bus, Etna Trasporti also connects Taormina with several major towns. From Catania, for instance, it’s just over an hour (€5.10), while from Siracusa, it takes about 3 hours (€11—though not all routes are direct, so check schedules in advance).
By train
Taormina’s train station, Taormina-Giardini, is located downhill from the town center. It’s served by Trenitalia trains from main centers on the island. From the station, it’s then a 15-minute bus ride to the main bus terminal near Porta Messina. Check timetables and prices on the Trenitalia website.
By car
Driving to Taormina is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding area. From Catania, take the A18 motorway towards Messina and exit at Taormina. Once you arrive, there are two main parking areas:
- Parcheggio Porta Catania, within walking distance of the center
- Parcheggio Lumbi, which offers a shuttle bus to Porta Messina
Consider that the historic center is pretty much pedestrian-only, so you won’t need your car once you’re in town.
Where to stay in Taormina
Taormina has a wide range of places to stay, from luxe splurges to options that are more affordable but still on the pricier side. But hey, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your Sicilian adventure!
Villa Belvedere is one of the best places to stay in town. This stunning historic villa sits next to the public gardens, surrounded by terraced blooms and palm trees. Enjoy a panoramic pool lined with sunbeds and parasols, plus a restaurant serving authentic Sicilian cuisine—all with breathtaking views.
For a more casual but still scenic stay, try Morfeo B&B, just a few minutes’ walk from the town center. The rooms are simple yet spacious and comfortable, with some boasting balconies overlooking Mount Etna and the coast. The delicious breakfast and warm, knowledgeable owner make it a real gem.
If you want to live like a local, this bright apartment in the town centre offers everything at your doorstep. It’s a cozy home base where you can unwind, cook local recipes (perhaps while singing the opera you enjoyed the night before – take a look here!), and plan your next adventures. Sip wine on the terrace as you watch the town’s daily life unfold below.
For more options, check out my full guide to the best places to stay in Taormina.
Top travel tips for visiting Taormina, Sicily
Taormina is a beautiful destination year-round, but if you can, avoid the peak summer months to escape the crowds and scorching heat. Spring is arguably the best time to visit Taormina, with the sweet scent of blooming flowers in the air and pleasant temperatures. Winter is also a great option thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Keep in mind that Taormina hosts several famous events throughout the year, like the Taormina Film Festival in mid-June. Unless you’re a big fan, it’s best to avoid this period if you prefer a more peaceful visit.
Because Taormina is one of Sicily’s most popular spots, it can get very crowded during the day. If you enjoy photography or simply want to soak in the atmosphere without the bustle, plan your sightseeing for early morning or early evening, when the town is quieter and the light is magical. And if your time is limited, consider booking a private walking tour to get a personalized and efficient experience of the main landmarks.
You can cover Taormina’s highlights in a day, but staying two days lets you experience the enchanting nighttime ambiance when the town is beautifully illuminated. If it’s beach season, two days also gives you the chance to relax by the sea alongside sightseeing.
Finally, if you prefer not to walk everywhere, Taormina’s local ASM buses are a convenient way to get around town.
4 Best day trips from Taormina
If you’re lucky enough to stay a few days in Taormina, don’t miss the chance to explore its fascinating surroundings. Here are some top day trip ideas:
Enjoy an epic hike on Mount Etna
Sicily’s iconic volcano and Europe’s highest active one is just about an hour’s drive away. Experience otherworldly lunar landscapes, lava flows, and panoramic craters. For a quick taste, this half-day group tour explores the wild northern side of Etna without taking up the whole day. For a deeper dive, this full-day tour offers the option to reach up to 3,000 meters with an Alpine guide. For a personalized adventure, consider a private tour. Nearby, the stunning Alcantara Gorges, a dramatic canyon carved by the river Alcantara, can be combined into a single day trip. For the adventurous, there’s even body rafting in the gorges.
Dive deep into Siracusa’s ancient history
About 120 km south, Siracusa is a compact city rich in history, once a major Greek power. Explore its island historic center and the Cathedral built into a 5th-century Greek temple. This private day trip includes a visit to the sandy Fontane Bianche beach, while this small group tour also adds a stop at Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque.
The Godfather Movie Tour (from Taormina)
If you’re a fan of The Godfather, don’t miss this tour of iconic Godfather locations, it’s an absolute must while you’re in Taormina. You’ll visit the beautiful hilltop village of Savoca, home to the iconic and the church where Michael Corleone married Apollonia. It’s easy to see why director Francis Ford Coppola chose this atmospheric spot.
The tour continues to Forza d’Agrò, another picturesque village where many of the Sicilian scenes from the entire Godfather trilogy were filmed. With its stone streets and sweeping views, it feels like stepping straight into the movie. There’s also the option to visit Castello degli Schiavi, a historic mansion where several key scenes were shot. Entry isn’t included in the standard tour price, but it’s well worth it for die-hard fans. Even if you’re not a huge movie buff, the scenery alone makes this tour unforgettable.
Castello degli Schiavi
Have fun by the sea
Most boat tours depart from nearby Giardini Naxos, easily reachable by car or taxi. Popular tours include:
- classic boat tours
- cruises with wine tasting
- scuba diving
- excursion to the Aeolian Islands
- stand-up paddle adventure
- dolphin-watching tour
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