Sicily’s hidden jewel

Map of Taormina Vacation, Travel and Hotel Information

Rising majestically from the sea, Taormina sparkles at the foot of Monte Tauro.

For all if Italy's charm and grace, Taormina presents something distinctly idyllic. As a very popular tourist destination, Taormina is remarkably quiet place that never seems over crowded. You most certainly will notice young unshaven back-packers trekking through the streets, and you will be very aware of the presence of other Anglo-Americans at various sites and restaurants; but, somehow their presence does not detract from Taormina's intimate side. This minuscule town, beautifully perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, is home to excellent shops and plenty of sites to see, from ancient ruins to medieval churches. But above all, Taormina is a place to relax and absorb its splendor, either at a café on its cliff-top piazza or sunbathing at the paradisiacal beaches across from the exotic and appropriately named Isola Bella (beautiful island).

Learn more about Taormina's History & Culture >

Shopping in Taormina

Taormina has one of the most famous markets in Italy for crafts. In walking Corso Umberto you will find the hand-made ceramics so often admired in the States-especially the famous "white pottery" of Caltagirone. Other hand-made crafts include treasures made of leather, iron, and wood and furniture and home décor inlaid with semi-precious stones. There are also glassware specialists and jewelers-with antique gold offerings. Antique shops also dot the market in Corso Umberto, as well as vendors with clothes and shoes and souvenirs. There are traditional gourmet shops offering specialties cheeses, sweet meats, olive oil, honey, liqueurs, and wines.