What to see in Taormina in 2 days: itinerary through the Greek theatre, sea and Etna views
Discover what to see in Taormina in 2 days: Ancient Theatre, Corso Umberto, Isola Bella, Castelmola, Etna viewpoints and Ionian coast beaches.
Why visit Taormina in 2 days
Taormina is Sicily's most spectacular natural stage. Perched on a terrace 200 metres above the sea, with smoking Etna as a backdrop and the deep blue Ionian at its feet, this town has enchanted travellers of every era, from Goethe to Truman Capote. Two days allow you to explore its ancient heritage, beaches and nearby villages at just the right pace.
Day 1: the old town and the theatre
Morning: the Ancient Theatre
Begin with the Ancient Theatre, Taormina's landmark monument. Built by the Greeks in the third century BC and enlarged by the Romans, it is the second-largest ancient theatre in Sicily after Syracuse. What makes it unique, however, is its natural scenery: from the cavea the eye sweeps over the Bay of Naxos, the coastline and snow-capped Etna. Arrive at opening time to avoid the crowds and enjoy the acoustics in silence.
From here, reach the Villa Comunale, the public garden created by Lady Florence Trevelyan in the nineteenth century. The Victorian follies among tropical plants, panoramic benches and the quiet make this park an unexpected oasis.
Afternoon: Corso Umberto and the piazzas
After lunch, walk Corso Umberto, the main promenade crossing the centre from Porta Messina to Porta Catania. The street is flanked by historic palaces, Baroque churches and shops. Pause in Piazza IX Aprile, Taormina's terrace: the view over the sea and Etna from here is among the most photographed in Sicily.
Visit the Duomo, a medieval fortress-church with a fine Baroque fountain in front. Continue to Palazzo Corvaja, which houses a museum of Sicilian folk traditions.
Evening: sunset from Piazza IX Aprile
Return to Piazza IX Aprile for sunset. The colours of the sky reflected on the sea, with the silhouette of Etna in the background, create a spectacle that alone justifies the journey.
Day 2: sea, Castelmola and surroundings
Morning: Isola Bella and the beaches
Descend to the bay of Isola Bella, reachable by cable car or on foot via a panoramic stairway. The islet connected to the shore by a thin strip of sand is a nature reserve of great beauty. The water is crystal clear and snorkelling among the rocks reveals rich underwater life.
If you prefer a quieter beach, Mazzaro is the bay just to the north, less crowded and equally scenic.
Afternoon: Castelmola
Devote the afternoon to Castelmola, the hamlet perched above Taormina reachable by car or on foot along a panoramic 45-minute trail. This tiny village offers an even wider view: from the piazza you see Taormina below, the sea, Etna and on the clearest days the Calabrian coast. Do not miss Bar Turrisi, a historic venue with eccentric decor.
Visit the ruins of the Norman castle at the top of the rock for the supreme viewpoint.
Evening: night stroll
Return to Taormina for an evening walk along the lit Corso. The side alleys reveal hidden restaurants, courtyards with bougainvillea and quiet corners away from the main street.
Viewpoints not to miss
- Ancient Theatre: the most iconic view with Etna and sea
- Piazza IX Aprile: natural terrace over the Bay of Naxos
- Castelmola: 360-degree panorama from the summit
- Capo Taormina: coastal views from the south
Secret corners
- The trail descending from the Theatre to the Bay of Villagonia, rarely visited
- Via Dietro Cappuccini, a silent alley overlooking the sea
- The hidden stairways connecting the Corso to the lower part of the centre
- The monumental cemetery with views of Etna
Practical tips
Taormina's centre is pedestrianised: park in the external car parks and use the cable car for the beach. In summer it is very crowded and prices are high: spring and autumn are ideal. The cable car to Isola Bella runs all day. Bring comfortable shoes for the stairs and elevation changes. The theatre hosts summer concerts and performances: check the schedule.
