holidays in taormina and giardini-naxos

Taormina is situated on the northeast coast of Sicily, with a magnificent position on the slopes of Monte Tauro overlooking the Ionian Sea. It has become one of the most popular destinations within Sicily for visitors, so from April to October expect it to be dominated by tourists. Because of this popularity it has also become more expensive than anywhere else on Sicily.

The town has been in existence since 400 BC, so there are many significant archaeological remains, the most important being the Greek amphitheatre, first built in 3 BC and the Palazzo Corvaja built in 1411. Other historical buildings and sites include the Parco Duca di Cesaró (c19 Gardens), the Roman Odeon (Roman Temple) and the Palazzo del Duca di S Stefano (c12 Palace). Additionally much of the old town has retained its medieval flavour, with an ancient street plan, old churches and other residences.

Holiday Accommodation in Taormina

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There are also numerous bars, restaurants and shops, particularly along the main street (Corso Umberto Primo), which runs the entire length of the old town. Both private holiday villas and hotels are in plentiful supply, so there is a large choice of accommodation to be had in the town if booked early.

Taormina is surrounded by a large number of beaches, so offers an excellent selection for any holiday. As already mentioned the town of Mazzaró is immediately adjacent to Taormina and offers a number of beaches and boat excursions to other places along the coast. Other beaches that are easy to reach from Taormina include, Villagonia, Baia delle Sirene, Lido di Spisone, Mazzeo and Lido Silemi. Some stretches of beach are private and so access requires payment, however, in return the Lido provides sun-beds and umbrellas, restaurant facilities and boat hire.

Within the vicinity of Taormina there are numerous other areas of interest. These include Castelnola, which is small village located near the peak of Monte Tauro and 5km from Taormina. From here there are stunning views to be had of Etna and the bay of Naxos. The nearest beaches to Taormina are to be found near-by at Mazzaró, which can be reached either by cable car or by road. Located nearby to Mazzaró is the island Isola Bella, which is now protected as an area of outstanding natural beauty. Giardini-Naxos is located a few kilometres to the south of Taormina, and whilst once a quiet fishing village, the bay around Giardini-Naxos is now developed with numerous hotels and apartments.

Finally, there are numerous stunning views of Mount Etna, which is located a little more than twenty kilometres south-west of Taormina, and certainly any holiday to this part of Sicily would not be complete without a trip to the only remaining active volcano in Europe.

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