Excursions in Taormina: between sea, history and Sicilian magic

Taormina is not only one of the most beloved destinations in Sicily—it is a small world suspended between sky and sea, where every corner tells a story and every view takes your breath away. There are countless excursions you can take here: some wind through the narrow streets of the historic center, others lead to the crystal-clear sea, and others venture inland to natural wonders like Mount Etna or the Alcantara Gorges.

In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through Taormina’s most evocative excursions, with tips, curiosities, and a few hidden gems you won’t want to miss.

The heart of Taormina: walk through the historic center

The ideal starting point for any excursion is Taormina’s historic center. The town unfolds along Corso Umberto I, a charming pedestrian street filled with boutiques, cafés, artisan shops, and breathtaking views.

Must-see spots include:

  • Piazza IX Aprile, with its panoramic terrace overlooking the sea and Mount Etna.

  • Taormina Cathedral, a medieval church that is simple yet fascinating.

  • The Greek Theatre, the crown jewel of the city, offering one of Italy’s most iconic views: ancient columns framed by the smoking Etna and the Ionian Sea.

A guided tour can help you catch the historical and artistic details that might otherwise be missed—but even a casual stroll is a magical experience.

Excursion to the Greek Theatre: a journey through time

No visit to Taormina is complete without a stop at the Ancient Theatre, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman theatres in the Mediterranean. Built in the 3rd century BC and later expanded by the Romans, it still hosts concerts and performances in a one-of-a-kind setting.

I recommend visiting early in the morning when it’s less crowded and the light is perfect for photos—or at sunset, when the sky turns pink and the view becomes pure poetry.

Sea, beaches and Isola Bella: a wave-side excursion

From the historic center you can walk down (or take the cable car) to the bay below, where you’ll find one of Sicily’s most photographed spots: Isola Bella. This tiny island is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand, surrounded by postcard-perfect turquoise water.

Here you can:

  • Snorkel among marine-rich sea beds.

  • Rent a boat or join a mini-cruise along the coast (often including a dip in the Blue Grottoes of Taormina).

  • Visit the nature reserve and hike to the top of the islet for a new perspective.

For relaxation lovers, the beach is perfect for sunbathing—just bring water shoes, as the shore is mostly pebbly.

Mount Etna excursion: the volcano adventure

Just over an hour’s drive from Taormina lies the majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. It’s a true adventure into the wild, with extinct craters, lava fields, and almost lunar landscapes.

You can choose from:

  • 4×4 jeep excursions with a volcanological guide.

  • Organized hikes to the summit craters (for experienced trekkers).

  • Easier walks along historic lava paths.
    In winter, Etna also becomes a ski resort—there are few places in the world where you can ski with a sea view!