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There are several compelling reasons to visit Taormina, Sicily. Firstly, Taormina is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. Located on the eastern coast of Sicily, the town offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and the majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. Whether you’re strolling through the town’s charming streets or relaxing on the beautiful beaches nearby, you’ll be surrounded by captivating scenery.
Secondly, Taormina is steeped in history and culture. The town boasts a rich heritage, with influences from ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. One of the highlights is the ancient Greek Theater, dating back to the 3rd century BC, which still hosts performances against a backdrop of awe-inspiring views. Taormina is also home to several historical sites, such as the Palazzo Corvaja and the Duomo, which showcase stunning architecture and offer glimpses into the past.
Furthermore, Taormina is known for its vibrant atmosphere and lively cultural scene. The town is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and a bustling market where you can find local crafts and delicious Sicilian delicacies. There are also numerous festivals and events held throughout the year.
Lastly, Taormina offers excellent dining experiences. Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its flavors, and Taormina is no exception. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering pasta dishes and delectable pastries, you’ll find a wide range of culinary delights to indulge in.
Visiting Taormina provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, explore its rich history, engage with vibrant culture, and savor delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or simply seeking a captivating destination, Taormina offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, the iconic San Domenico Palace welcomes you to a 14th-century convent reimagined.
Swim in our clifftop infinity pool, stroll in magnificent Italian gardens, soak in the history, savour Michelin-starred dining and escape into a Four Seasons world of timeless beauty. Framed by the dramatic landscapes of Sicily’s east coast, San Domenico Palace offers a magnificent setting overlooking Mount Etna, the Ionian Sea and the Greek theatre. Just off Taormina’s main street, the Corso Umberto, our Hotel is an easy walk to the charming shops and restaurants of the old town. This is the perfect home base for exploring eastern Sicily’s most famous attractions, including the historical cities of Modica, Noto and Siracusa, and the tiny, fascinating island of Ortigia.
One of the world’s most legendary hotels, San Domenico Palace invites you to embark on an epic journey into history. With origins dating back to 1374, this classic Dominican convent was expanded in 1896 to become a hotel, featuring a new building designed in liberty style. For more than a century, San Domenico Palace has welcomed the world’s most illustrious guests – from Oscar Wilde and King Edward VIII to Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren. Now, as Four Seasons, this iconic hotel begins a new era, delivering the highest standards of personalized service.
Taormina, Sicily, offers a luxurious and upscale experience for discerning travelers. The town is renowned for its high-end accommodations, including luxury hotels and exclusive resorts that offer stunning views, impeccable service, and top-notch amenities. Many of these establishments are nestled in prime locations, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea or the charming town itself.
In addition to luxurious accommodations, Taormina boasts a plethora of upscale dining options. The town is home to fine dining restaurants that showcase the best of Sicilian cuisine, featuring fresh local ingredients and innovative culinary creations. Guests can savor exquisite dishes prepared by renowned chefs while enjoying elegant atmospheres and impeccable service.
Furthermore, Taormina offers a sophisticated shopping scene. The town is dotted with boutique shops and high-end designer stores, where you can find luxury fashion, jewelry, and artisanal products. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or unique handmade items, Taormina provides a luxurious shopping experience.
Beyond the luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and upscale shopping, Taormina’s charm lies in its refined cultural offerings. The town hosts prestigious events such as the Taormina Film Festival, attracting international stars and filmmakers. Visitors can enjoy world-class performances at the ancient Greek Theater, adding an extra touch of luxury to their cultural experience.
Make your way to the designated panoramic terrace, which has been prepared specifically for you with everything you need for a tranquil, energizing yoga session, with the assistance of your personal yogi through rocky, tree-lined paths. On this unique botanical island, mindfulness practice offers a chance to establish a connection with both the self and the natural world.
We challenge you to discover a more peaceful place where you are not surrounded by the sounds of the waves. You will be led on a journey to achieve physical and mental tranquility by your knowledgeable yoga instructor. You’ll feel genuinely energetic for the rest of the day, filled with gratitude for your surroundings, and connected to them.
Today along with your guide/driver, travel by comfortable air-conditioned car, to Etna – the highest active volcano in Europe, and one of the best wineries on Etna slope.
Learn how Etna volcano created, history of eruptions, culture, myths, and folklore of “Mamma Etna” and Sicily itself. Drive through the small authentic mountain villages, and admire unforgettable picturesque views of Sicilian countryside full of oranges and lemon plantations, olives and almond trees, houses and old churches built of lava stone.
First stop will be in Zafferana Etnea, small charming village on Etna slope, famous for its honey. You will visit a local honey farm and taste the produce of the fertile volcano terrain – honey, olive oil, olives, wines and liquors. Then continue to ascend Etna and see the Cyclops cave before reaching “Rifugio Sapienza” station at 2000mt. Here you can visit famous Silvestri Craters, admire breathtaking panoramas, visit souvenir shops offering gifts of lava, refresh yourself in some bar or restaurant.
Ascent by cable car and jeep with the authorized Alpine guide to 3000 mt.
After visiting Mt.Etna, the guide will chauffeur you in relax to one of the best wineries on Etna slope. The owner of the winery will welcome you with a glass of cool white grillo, and you will have a tour of the estate, see how the grape is growing, and visit the cellars, while the owner explains you all about the wine making process and the history of this family run winery.
Then you will sit on a beautiful terrace with an amazing panoramic view of the Mediterranean, and have traditional delicious and hearty lunch of locally produced cheeses, salami, prosciutto, home-made sausages, cous-cous, mushrooms, vegetables, fresh bread, olives and home-made olive oil. A professional sommelier will offer you 5 glasses of Sicilian Etna DOC red and white wines.
With its own private sandy beach, the emerald-colored Ionian Sea, and finally the Sicilian sun, which emerges in breathtaking sunrises framed by both the expanse of the Mediterranean and the beauty of Etna, The Tao Beach Club represents one of Taormina’s most exclusive areas.
Galene and Nerea, the Tao Beach Club’s two beaches, are outfitted with chic cabanas and generously sized, comfortable beds to provide complete seclusion. The beach club also provides a towel service and bar and beach staff support. Finally, the beach massage service allows you to take advantage of one more opportunity for relaxation.
VIP Section – There are nine places to unwind on the Tao Beach Club’s own golden sand beach, where you may spend a rejuvenating day at the shore. The cabanas position features a two-seater day bed and two deck chairs with a table and umbrella facing the lovely bay of the Mermaids of Taormina. Because of this, the cabanas may accommodate a maximum of four guests. A Day Bed, two Sunbeds, and an Umbrella with a Table are all part of the station. A waitress is anticipated to help. Our beach beds come with a beach towel and free WiFi.
Beach Bar and Restaurant – Due to Sicily’s passion and affection, the Tao Beach Club at Taormina’s Beach Bar and Restaurant were created with the primary goal of preserving and promoting the amazing fusion of cultures and traditions that have made this place special. Each meal is intended to reflect the color, flavor, and aroma of Sicily.
This morning meet your driver in the lobby of our hotel and head on a scenic route from Taormina to Ortigia Island . As you travel along the coast, you’ll enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the rugged Sicilian coastline on the other. The azure waters and rocky cliffs provide a picturesque backdrop during parts of the journey. You’ll meet Mamma on a private terrace of Ortigia overlooking the Cathedral. This is an ideal experience for those wanting to have a taste of authentic Sicilian home cooking while enjoying one of the most impressive views in the charming island of Ortigia, the old town of Siracusa.
Your Sicilian Mamma will show you how to make the most of the freshest ingredients, using traditional methods and recipes for a delicious Sicilian meal. The first activity of the day is a trip to the market with Mamma. Learn how to choose the freshest local ingredients and then tie your apron and get cooking as Mamma guides you along the way to successfully create a typical Sicilian menu. Hear how Mamma has been preparing Sicilian specialties in her kitchen the old-fashioned way for years, and discover a few of her culinary secrets, while learning about some traditions and customs of the Sicilian kitchen. With your meal ready, enjoy a delicious aperitivo as you let yourself be enchanted by the soft light of the sunset on the exclusive terrace.
Visit a family who owns and operates a historic farmhouse that produces wine, dairy, meat, fruits, and vegetables as you venture off the beaten road with your own guide and driver.
You will be welcomed by the owner at the 1800s farmhouse on the slopes of Mount Etna, who will pour you a glass of Etna wine and then give you a tour of the property. Many animals, including sheep, cows, goats, deer, peacocks, wild boar, geese, and horses, may be seen in the magnificent vineyards, orange, lemon, and olive plantations, as well as the forested areas.
Take a seat on the terrace and have a delectable and filling typical Sicilian meal. Including cheeses, salami, prosciutto, bruschettas, the typical Sicilian relishes caponata and parmigiana, olives, mushrooms, veggies, extra virgin olive oil, fresh homemade bread, and Etna red and white wines, you may sample all the locally produced organic fresh cuisine.
The Sicilian Cart is the symbol of folklore and craftsmanship. It represents the desire and pursuit of beauty by the Sicilian people – due to its nature of being a practical transportation vehicle used for work, yet made into a stunning piece of art. If you have the pleasure of seeing one, then its intricate and rich beauty will remain vivid in your mind when you think about Sicily.
Today, the Sicilian cart is the perfect addition of Sicilian tradition that brings an authentic presence and is loved by guests young and old. Due to its traditional beauty and interesting history, many visitors to Sicily love to get familiar with the Sicilian cart. Each Sicilian Ape Car is decorated by a local artist.
You will have the chance to learn about the history of the Sicilian cart and its traditional uses while appreciating its intricate patterns up close.
During “The Godfather” tour, you will walk along the authentic picturesque streets of Savoca and Forza d’Agro remained unchanged since the movie was made, visit ancient churches, famous Bar Vitelli where Michael Corleone asked Apollonia’s father her hand in marriage, church where they married, and other movie locations. Optionally, you may taste perfect local Sicilian wines and locally produced food sitting at a terrace with panoramic view of Savoca, mountains, the Mediterranean coast and surrounding countryside at a family-owned restaurant.
First stop is Savoca, an unspoilt medieval town that near Taormina that acted as stand-in for Corleone where Michael was hiding out during the “going to the mattresses” time. Here you will visit Bar Vitelli that looks exactly the way it did in the movie, and see the exact spot where Al Pacino informed Apollonia’s father that his name was Michael Corleone, and that “there are people who’d pay a lot of money for that information, but then your daughter would lose a father instead of gaining a husband”. Here you can take pictures with an authentic Sicilian shotgun “Lupara”, see pictures from the movie and a mirror monument for Coppola, enjoy panoramic view of the Mediterranean opening from the square where the wedding ceremony scene was shot, purchase The Godfather souvenirs, and – “leave the gun, take the cannoli” – taste original Sicilian cannoli and lemon granita at Bar Vitelli.
Then you will walk to an ancient church of Santa Lucia, where Michael and Apollonia were married kneeling in the doorway. Then follow the same path down the hill that the newlyweds did, and visit another old church dating back to the 13th century. Walking along the fabulous streets of Savoca, on a good day you can also meet some actors – for example a lady who played Apollonia’s mother and who still lives in Savoca.
Later, optionally you can visit a family-owned restaurant and at a terrace with romantic sea view taste local Sicilian wines with traditional food (locally produced cheeses, salami, prosciutto, caponata, olives, extra virgin olive oil, fresh home-made bread, home made lemon granita – everything is prepared with organic ingredients of local origin – “km0”!).
The tour will continue in Forza d’Agro, another stunning hilltop town with a “Godfather” connection. You will walk the abandoned streets (“Where have all men gone?” – “They’re dead from vendettas”), explore the historic square and see the pictures from the movie, visit ancient churches, see the piazza where young Vito Andolini (later Vito Corleone) escaped Don Ciccio’s men by hiding in a basket on a donkey’s back, walk up to see the remains of a 12th century Norman castle, admire delightful panoramic view of the Ionian coastline, and get a flavor of the Sicilian pastoral lifestyle remained unchanged since ancient times.
Casa Cuseni is an impressive villa, built-in 1905 as a home for the English watercolor artist Robert Kitson. A guided tour of the house and its special history has such historic and artistic value that it has been officially named as an Italian National Monument with an impressive English garden.
Inside, there are a number of Greek artifacts and artworks by Robert Kitson plus other artists who have spent time in the house. Those who have passed through and left their work here include Pablo Picasso, Cecil Hunt, Salvador Dalì, and Henry Moore.
When Kitson died, he handed down the house to his niece Daphne Phelps, who subsequently moved from England to live in the house. She took care of it and stayed there until she died in 2005. Daphne wrote a charming novel named ‘A House in Sicily’, which is a fun memoir of a young British woman starting life anew in Taormina.
Another venue worth visiting is the Museum of Art and Popular Traditions, situated in Palace Corvaja. This is the place to go if you want to see art and objects related to Sicilian traditions and hear the captivating stories behind them.
The museum is home to some fine examples of local Sicilian craftsmanship, allowing you to gain insight to the traditional techniques of pottery and sculpture. Most of the collection belongs to the antique dealer Giovanni Panarello. It’s also a great place to see and discover the story of the Sicilian puppets.
The building itself is worth pondering: its arched windows hint towards the Arabic influence in Sicily, while the Norman central hall and gothic features are a reminder of the fusion of cultures that are evidenced in the structures and monuments throughout the island.
The show “Italian Opera Taormina” is an unmissable timeless journey in the Italian Opera and which lasts approximately one hour and 30 minutes. The idea was to create a cheerful show aimed at anyone, new or passionate, unhinging the belief that opera is music for only a few.
During the show the most famous arias and duets of the Italian lyric repertoire of international fame are represented. Italian Opera Taormina, in fact, accompanies the public on a magical journey through Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, Rossini, making use of the best lyrical voices on the national and international scene accompanied, in the hall, by equally virtuous pianists.
If you are looking for the top spot in Taormina to experience an elegant cocktail in an elevated and Instagram-worthy location, then Morgana Luxury Bar is surely the place to go.
Owner Guido Spinello has carved out an exclusive corner of the town that attracts a combination of locals, Italian visitors, and tourists seeking a glamorous spot. Morgana is the go-to spot to dance the night away to resident DJ’s and it attracts famous names and celebrities who have been drawn to spend their holidays enjoying Taormina’s exclusive side.
Make sure to try one of the thoughtfully crafted cocktails, conjured up by drinks expert Christian Sciglio.
Take a sunset tour on this beautiful boat as you navigate along the coast of Naxos and Taormina! we visit to the famous Isola Bella Marine reserve and continues with a swim in the clear water (if you choose) of Love Bay Lagoon, just off the Capo Taormina while you admire the wonderful sunset behind the Magnificent Etna Volcano.
Taormina is renowned for its rich culinary heritage. The town is celebrated for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional Sicilian flavors.
Lounge on the pool terrace and savour light dishes highlighting Mediterranean seafood. At the poolside bar, their expert mixologists serve innovative cocktails inspired by Sicily’s eclectic heritage – creating a destination that’s lively from day to night.
Try their signature dishes like the “FisH of the Day Trapanese Style” with tomatoes, capers and olives, or their selection of ray fish and shellfish.
The idea of starting “La Botte” came to our parents as at the time there were few restaurants and everyone asked them where they could eat. So on April 17, 1972 they started this adventure together with grandmother Angela . Now that we are close to the threshold of forty years of activity, we have grown and contributed to making the necessary innovations to keep up with the times.
The variety of dishes comes from ancient local recipes. Among the first courses, tasty risottos and homemade pasta with unique sauces and combinations. In addition, we will let you enjoy excellent fish and meat main courses. And finally we will tempt you with the classic Sicilian desserts prepared directly by our chefs.
We will welcome you with a rich buffet to rediscover the ancient local recipes. Among the first courses, tasty risottos and homemade pasta with unique sauces and combinations. In addition, we will let you enjoy excellent fish and meat main courses. And finally we will tempt you with the classic Sicilian desserts prepared directly by our chefs.
The Location
The Pizzichella restaurant overlooks one of the most evocative landscapes in the world, Isola Bella. Since 1974 our goal has been only one: to offer our customers the inimitable flavors of our land. Our fish is fresh every day and our ingredients are always top quality, selected to guarantee each dish a unique taste.
Our specialty is fish, always fresh and top quality, to ensure a unique taste. The menu is simple, one hundred percent Mediterranean, full of aromas and flavours.
One of the most pleasant restaurants in Taormina, just a few steps from the Four Season Hotel, has an excellent selection of wines and cheeses and cured meats.
Fabulous restaurant with excellent food, service and overall, an amazing experience. The chef, Levi, is a true professional and delivers high qualify, traditional Sicilian dishes such as caprese salad, calamari, fish crudo, mussles and other various dishes
Trattoria Don Ciccio is a traditional Sicilian restaurant located in the heart of Taormina. It is known for its rustic decor, warm atmosphere, and traditional Sicilian cuisine. The interior design, with its dark wood furnishings and vintage photographs, can evoke a sense of old-world charm that might remind you of scenes from “The Godfather.”
The restaurant serves classic Sicilian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and traditional meat dishes. You can expect to find Sicilian favorites such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and grilled swordfish, among other regional specialties.
Trattoria Don Ciccio offers an authentic Sicilian dining experience with a cozy ambiance that can transport you to a bygone era.
Principe Cerami, Michelin Star Restaurant
Principe Cerami is San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel’s Michelin Star Restaurant. It is named after Sicilian nobleman Prince Domenico Rosso di Cerami, who inherited the convent around 1866, creating the circumstances for it to become a Hotel in 1896.
Here you can enjoy a culinary journey, curated by celebrated chef Massimo Mantarro. The Etna-born master presents quintessential Sicilian cuisine showcasing local ingredients and traditions.
Enjoy your meal outside, on the restaurant’s spectacular terrace overlooking Taormina Bay, or inside, surrounded by the grandeur and elegance of the main dining room.
La Capinera Michelin Star Restaurant
A shining star by the Taormina sea.
In Taormina Mare, hidden away from the bustling town centre, overlooking the Ionian Sea, La Capinera welcomes you with its elegance and simplicity. And, when the weather is warm, our beautiful terrace impatiently awaits you, adding a unique colour and aroma to your culinary experience.
From the catch of the day and locally sourced Slow Food produce and vegetables, right the way through to escargot caviar and the intense flavour and aroma of premium Sicilian olive oils, La Capinera proposes the very best interpretations of traditional Sicilian cuisine. Michelin-starred, the restaurant has been ‘baptised’ by international food critics as “one of the best Italian restaurants”.
Otto Geleng Michelin Star Restaurant
Sicilian magic for all the senses
Ignite your taste buds with authentic, exquisite and inventive Sicilian cuisine at Otto Geleng.
Enter our noble ‘salotto’ and anticipate a showcase of Sicilian gastronomy at Otto Geleng. Enamoured by the region’s bountiful natural ingredients, executive chef Roberto Toro skilfully leads you on a refined, evocative journey, rich in delicious nostalgia.
There’s a reason why Taormina has a reputation for inspiring great artists, including the young German painter who gives our restaurant its name. Cinematic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea frame this cultured town, which remains in constant conversation with fascinating history. Find us perched up on its hillside, just a stone’s throw away from the ancient Greek Theatre.
St. George by Heinz Beck Michelin Star Restaurant
This magnificent restaurant, situated in the commendable Ashbee hotel, is now headed up by the young and bright-eyed chef Delfo Schiaffino. With every plate, he uses the local ingredients available to him to showcase contemporary Sicilian dishes with consistent quality and flair. A meal at any of these highly regarded establishments will allow you to experience the quality and range of Sicilian cuisine and will surely not disappoint!
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Contact Lisa Crawford today at 954-456-0419