Taormina is a lovely hilltop town and one of the most attractive places in Italy. Nestled on the shores of Sicily, this chic resort city is a favorite spot for nature seekers and adventure travelers who would want to get in tune with the county’s spectacular outdoor scenery. Sitting idyllically on a rocky promontory above the Ionian Sea and with breathtaking views of Mount Etna, this stunning city is famed for its giddy network of cobblestone streets, which wind through beautifully restored medieval buildings and significant palaces. Apart from luxury villas and 5-star hotels in Taormina, there are also amazing Airbnb vacation rentals for travelers who prefer homey stays. This fascinating city is also adjacent to many other quaint towns and adorable hamlets, making it suitable for elating day trips. Planning a sightseeing vacation here? Read this article to find out more about exciting day trips from Taormina, Italy.
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1. Ortigia
Ortigia, located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, is a small island rich in history and culture.
Explore the island’s stunning architecture, which reflects the area’s unique blend of Greek, Roman, and Baroque influences. During the afternoons, stroll through the narrow streets and admire the ornate buildings, including the Piazza del Duomo, home to a stunning Baroque cathedral.
When you get hungry, Ortigia’s local food scene offers various delicious dishes featuring fresh seafood, olives, and citrus fruits. Indulge in the local specialties at the vibrant market or in the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the island.
Book Tours : Syracuse: Ortigia Sunset Cruise with Aperitif
2. Caltagirone
Caltagirone is a charming town in the heart of Sicily, known for its stunning ceramics and beautiful Baroque architecture. Caltagirone’s intricate ceramics are famous worldwide. Visitors can explore the local shops and workshops, where skilled artisans produce everything from colorful plates and vases to intricate sculptures.
Don’t miss out on visiting the Santa Maria del Monte staircase, which features 142 steps leading up to the Church of Santa Maria del Monte. Each step is decorated with hand-painted tiles, creating a stunning visual display that is truly breathtaking.
3. Cesaro
Tucked away in the beautiful confines of the rustic Messina Province, Cesaro is a charming city and a beautiful commune known for its fascinating art and lovely architecture. An inviting place of spectacular beauty, this captivating destination lies approximately about 77.6 kilometers (48.2 miles) away from Taormina, and you could effortlessly get here by road. Make your way to the iconic Palazzo Zito-Museo Laboratorio Della Conoscenza E Del Paesaggio Dei Nebrodi and explore the city’s intriguing history or visit the scenic Largo Biviere and reconnect with nature.
4. Floresta
Travelers visiting Taormina should check out this exciting day trip destination in the province of Messina. Floresta is a charming town that’s home to a fascinating history and vibrant culture. Named after a nearby forest and founded in the 16th century, the city prospered under the governance of Philip II, becoming a prominent feudal town in the area. Famously known for its interesting itinerary of the Tholos – a nature and cultural path where visitors can admire over 100 stone houses dating back to the pre-colonial period - this day trip spells out a whimsical adventure for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture.
5. Castroreale
A quaint medieval town characterized by many ancient churches, Castroreale is an enchanting village laden with natural and artistic treasures. Nesting in the beautiful province of Messina, this tranquil town is just an hour’s drive from Taormina, and you could easily make your way here by either train or road. Explore the town’s narrow streets as you make your way to its many stunning attractions. Visit one of its many cultural attractions like the visually striking Duomo di Castroreale and admire the golden altar. Castroreale is also home to the country’s famous cookies and authentic dishes of the Sicilian tradition.
6. Antillo
If you are craving an adventurous trip that’ll open your eyes to some of Italy’s most quaint towns and picturesque hamlets, then a day’s tour to the lovely commune of Antillo will be worth your while. Tucked away in the serene province of Messina, it’ll only take you about 60 minutes from the lively city of Taormina. Here, you can explore the fascinating Ranciara Caves or some of the town’s most important monuments and landmarks like the Abbazia dei Santi Pietro e Paolo d'Agro’, and be awed by its stunning Norman architecture.
7. Catania
Considered an entry to Mount Etna, an active volcano with scenic walking trails to its summit, Catania is a beautiful ancient port city thrumming with history and culture. Being the second-largest city in Sicily after Palermo, a visit to this place rewards you with a glimpse into the fascinating life of Sicilians. Nesting just 26 miles (42 kilometers) from Taormina by road, it’ll only take you about 45 minutes to get here. Home to spectacular Unesco World Heritage Sites, take your time to visit the Piazza Del Duomo, the city’s lovely central square, and explore the whimsical Fontana dell"Elefante statue or admire the richly decorated Catania Cathedral.
8. Palermo
If you’re up for a slightly longer day trip that’ll open your eyes to the uplifting outdoor scenery of Italy, then a day’s excursion to Palermo is one that you can’t afford to miss. A melting pot of fascinating Italian cultures, Palermo is Sicily’s proud capital and home to a breathtaking landscape that’ll leave you in awe. Also known as the kingdom of the sun, Palermo is about 169 miles (273 kilometers) from Taormina, and it’ll only take you about three hours to get here by road. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway to the golden beaches and turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea or just a remarkable day trip to relax and soak up the impressive nature views of the stunning surroundings, a visit to Palermo spells out an epic adventure.
9. Marzamemi
Just about two hour’s drive from Taormina, Marzamemi is one of Sicily’s loveliest hamlets. Tucked between the agricultural hub of Pachino and the Baroque town of Noto, Marzamemi is a beautiful coastal town characterized by golden beaches, turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, and colorful wooden boats. Home of tasty fish recipes, the charm of this fascinating touristy town lies in its centennial practice of fishing and the rustic Tonnara - an ancient palace that once served as a shelter for great ships used in fishing tuna. Nestled in the heart of Piazza Regina Margherita, today, the iconic Tonnara has been turned into a gorgeous restaurant and a lovely suite with impressive views of the sea.
10. Stromboli
If you have one extra day in your Taormina itinerary, consider heading to Stromboli. It is dubbed “The Lighthouse of the Mediterranean ” for its captivating towering glow. It is also one of the seven islands that consist of the Aeolian archipelago on Sicily’s northern coast. A beautiful place with a quaint atmosphere that’s full of tranquility and serenity, Stromboli is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes. A paradise for those of you who consider yourself volcanologists or for spirited outdoor lovers who would want to explore more of Sicily’s spectacular landscape, visitors to this place will relish sunset hikes to the island’s summit for enchanting views of lava fireworks against the starry night sky.
11. Agrigento
When you get to Agrigento, you’ll have lots to discover! And as with most of Sicily, this lovely ancient city is laden with history and is alive with culture. As its name alludes, Agrigento is quite literally the agricultural capital of Sicily. A leading exporter of sulfur and potash until half a century ago, Agrigento is home to impressive archaeological magnificence. It also offers some of the best tours to make the most of your day trip from Taormina. Here, you can visit the iconic “Valle dei Templi,” Church of Santa Maria dei Greci, or Cathedral of San Gerlando and marvel at the outstanding art and architecture of Greater Greece. You can also opt to enjoy a thrilling off-road ATV adventure of the city’s most charming places.
Book Tours : Agrigento: Off-Road ATV Tour
12. Syracuse
A lovely city that encapsulates Sicily’s timeless beauty, Syracuse is yet another exciting day trip destination for those of you who would like to get acquainted with Sicily’s remarkable history, rustic architecture, and impressive art. Famed for being the birthplace of one of the most prolific and pre-eminent mathematicians - Archimedes - this quaint town has lots to offer, especially to the avid history and culture travelers. A very idyllic place, you can explore some of the city’s best attractions like the lovely Santa Maria Delle Colonne Cathedral and the world-renowned Teatro Greco, a beautiful amphitheater with panoramic views of the city.
Explore Taormina and its nearby towns
Exploring Taormina can be exhilarating. But, if you carve more and you’d like to experience the rich culture, history, impressive architecture, and delectable gastronomy of Italy, consider embarking on one or more of these exciting day trips from Taormina, Italy.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Taormina, Italy
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