Taormina like a local: 7 things to do

The jet set loves Taormina, and the feeling is mutual, enduring the test of time.

From Goethe, Nietzsche, Wagner, and Oscar Wilde to present-day movie stars, music legends, and wealthy tycoons, the town has always had a special appeal to a certain kind of tourist. 

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, scandalous shots by German photographer Wilhelm von Gloeden helped cement Taormina's reputation as an elite tourist destination in the minds of international visitors.

In winter, it retreats into itself. The bustling streets and packed restaurants become a distant memory and residents reclaim a sense of normalcy and tranquillity.

Without its glitzy facade, the town reveals its essence: an ancient and elegant soul, millennia-old traditions, and undeniable beauty.

We've already shared the easiest ways to get there. Here, you'll find our suggestions about the best things to do in Taormina like a local.

Summer is brimming with initiatives, shows, concerts, and events. There's no shortage of things to do in Taormina.

Art, science and literature meet in Taobuk. The book festival is a multidisciplinary initiative with annual contributions from artists, writers, philosophers and scientists.

July is all about cinema, with world premieres, screenings, talks, and masterclasses during the Taormina Film Festival, one of Italy's most anticipated film events. During the celebrations, it's not uncommon to spot Hollywood stars enjoying a granita or snapping photos just like any other tourist.

Taomoda, Taormina's fashion week, is the next scheduled event of the summer. Alongside the runway shows, the initiative includes a range of additional activities such as exhibitions, performances, and the Tao Awards, which recognize the most influential figures in fashion.

The astonishing Teatro Antico takes centre stage in 'Teatro di Pietra', a cultural project involving archaeological and monumental sites across various Italian cities, from Tuscany to Sicily. Specifically in Taormina, the Opera Festival, themed "Wonder" for its 2024 edition, promises to be a highlight.

In about 10 minutes, you can reach one of the most beautiful places in Eastern Sicily and take in an unparalleled view of the Ionian coast and the bays of Taormina.

Your destination is Castelmola, a medieval village perched on the rocks with fewer than 2,000 inhabitants.

Set aside a couple of hours to explore it and uncover hidden corners of Sicily.

For a touch of the sacred, visit the churches of San Giorgio, San Biagio, and San Nicolò. For something more profane, stop by Bar Turrisi in Piazza Duomo. This shrine for almond wine enthusiasts has become a famous tourist attraction over the years, as it's known for its unique interior where furniture, sculptures, and various ornaments are phallic-shaped.

The view from Piazza Sant'Antonio, crowned by the ancient ruins of a Roman arch, is simply stunning, which is why this spot is also known as Il Belvedere.

The square, dating to the 1950s, is surrounded by much older buildings and monuments, like Porta di Mola, the main entrance to the village, the municipal auditorium, and the castle, which now houses the small Museum of Sicilian Medieval History.

You can also trek to Castelmola via the adventurous  Sentiero dei Saraceni, an urban hiking trail along the ancient roads travelled by the Arabs during the siege of 902.

Among the things to do in Taormina like a local, we recommend discovering this splendid oasis with views of Mount Etna and the Bay of Giardini Naxos.

The lavish Villa Comunale features olive trees, pines, cypresses, palms, ficus, bougainvillaea, and agaves. The park is embellished with classical statues and eclectic structures, the so-called 'beehives'—whimsical buildings resembling pagodas and gazebos used as scenic viewpoints.

Its history is intertwined with Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman deeply in love with Taormina.

A cousin and lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria, she arrived in Sicily in the 1880s and was immediately captivated by its beauty.

As a nature lover and animal advocate, Trevelyan created little portions of paradise in Sicily. She also purchased an islet connected to the mainland by a sandy isthmus and transformed it into what is now known as Isola Bella.

For her residence, she designed a sumptuous English garden, housing a variety of exotic plants and inhabited by peacocks, canaries, and parrots.

Upon her death, the park was donated to the municipality and opened to the public.

Lady Trevelyan's legacy is still vividly present in Isola Bella, where lush tropical plants thrive amidst classic Mediterranean vegetation. This small island, also home to the endemic red-bellied lizard, is a recognized Natural Reserve and a monument of historical and artistic interest that features one of Sicily's most famous and photographed beaches. 

Tourists and locals love it, though Taorminesi mainly flock to Mazzarò. This gravel and sand bay is nestled between two rocky promontories near the town centre, and its shallow, pebbly waters are perfect for families with children. The coast hides natural caves and grottoes waiting to be explored with a mask. Nearby, you'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, hotels, and venues to enjoy the evening just steps from the sea.

Further away is the less crowded Spisone beach, which enchants with its varied landscape: steep cliffs on one side and a sandy expanse without rocks on the other, offering both private lidos and extensive free areas.

The ancient Teatro Greco in Taormina offers one of the most breathtaking views in Sicily. Perched between the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, it is the largest on the island, second only to the one in Syracuse, and among the best theatres in Italy.

This structure, part of the Naxos Taormina Archaeological Park, has seen periods of great splendour and times of neglect over the centuries. Initially used for theatrical performances and gladiator fights, it was rediscovered by European travellers in the 1600s. Its romantic and decaying charm made it an essential visit during the Grand Tour of Italy.

Though it dates back to the 3rd century BC, the theatre still hosts a multitude of shows today and remains the undisputed star of Taormina's cultural scene.

Since the 1950s, it has welcomed performances, concerts, ballets, and award ceremonies.

Watching a show from these ancient steps is among the best and most original things to do in Taormina. If there's no exhibition scheduled during your visit, be sure to book a guided tour at least. The best time is at sunset for a truly magical experience.

Via Giardinazzo is Taormina's artist street, a small city corner adorned with details inspired by Sicilian folk iconography crafted by Tino Giammora.

The painter's house-atelier is a real attraction, with the façade standing out with colourful, naïve decorations. Step inside to purchase one of his unique creations, or pause outside to snap a few photos before continuing your walk to discover another intriguing spot.

Make your way to Corso Umberto, the main street stretching between Porta Messina and Porta Catania. Join the bustling crowd and stop in Piazza IX Aprile to look out from the spectacular balcony and enjoy a breathtaking view.

Then, hold your breath and attempt to pass through Vicolo Stretto, a medieval alley less than a metre wide with a series of steps that draws hordes of curious visitors. It's best to avoid if you have claustrophobia.