Sicily is an emerged paradise from the Mediterranean Sea which shines with its numerous beauties. Palermo, Siracusa (which is the topic of one of our blog articles) or Agrigento are just some of the marvels you need to visit during your stay on the island. A part that you cannot miss to see is the region with Taormina and Giardini Naxos, in the province of Messina.
Taormina is a small but characteristic city on the coast in front of the Ionian Sea. It was founded in the archaic age and it was inhabited by various nations like Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Siculans and Normans. The fusion between different arts and cultures created a magic place, full of ancient buildings which are visited and appreciated by thousands of tourists. The best-known one is the Greek Theater, built in the III century BC by Greeks and renewed by Romans. This enormous and magnificent open space was used for dramas and plays during its Greek period, while Romans transformed it into an arena for gladiators’ fights or naval battles. It is the second biggest Greek theater in Sicily after the one in Siracusa and today it hosts suggestive music shows or important international events such as G7.
Taormina’s old town center is formed by hundreds of narrow streets with panoramic sea views. You can even enjoy the panorama on “Isola Bella”, a wonderful island linked to the city with a sand strip which disappears with high-tide. The rich vegetation, the transparent sea and the stunning “Grotta Blu” make this island a mandatory step of your visit! On the other hand, in the city center you will find other important ancient buildings like the “Neumachia” (a century-old Roman architecture), the 13th century Church-Dome, Casa Cuseni and the “Villa Comunale”, known for its beautiful garden. You also have to visit the amazing beaches, like Mazzarò, Spisone, Villagonia or those on the “Isola Bella”.
Even Giardini Naxos is a fascinating locality in Sicily located few kilometers away from Taormina. It’s the perfect destination for those who want a holiday of relax, culture and fun, as here you will find dozens of restaurants, pubs, nightclubs and cafés. Visit Alcantara waterfalls, the Medieval Schisò castle, the Archaeological Park and Museum, which contains many ancient findings. If you look for a beautiful beach to go to, we suggest Recanati, Schisò, San Giovanni or Porticciolo Saia.
The local specialties which will accompany you are numerous: taste the typical chocolate “granita”, the “brioche con cappello”, the delicious ice-creams, the “pasta alla norma” or a fish dish!
In order to enjoy your holiday to the fullest, we recommend participating to an important event like “Taormina Arte” or “Taormina Film Festival” and to book one of our luxury properties. Choose between “Taormina Suite”, “Villa la Boheme” and “Torre Isola Bella”!
