Where to stay in Taormina?

Perched atop hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Taormina is a gem of Sicily. Located on the eastern coast of the island, the town is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you're looking for a destination that blends the ancient with the modern and the picturesque with the cosmopolitan, Taormina is the perfect place to be If you plan to stay for several days, you might be wondering where to stay in Taormina? In this guide, I present to you some of my favorite addresses!

Taormina is a must-see stop when embarking on a road trip through Sicily. The town is situated between Catania and Messina, making it a fantastic location. Whether you're traveling by car or train, you can easily reach Taormina and settle in for a few days

Whether for shopping or discovering its ancient monuments, Taormina attracts many tourists from around the world throughout the year. You will be immediately charmed by its cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and breathtaking panoramic views. The highlight of the town is undoubtedly the ancient Greek theater, which offers not only historical remnants but also stunning views of Etna, the island's active volcano

Taormina's beaches are no less impressive: Isola Bella, a small island off the coast, is a nature reserve where you can relax on fine sandy beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Or indulge in arancini, cannoli, and local wines!

But to fully enjoy, you will need to find one or more accommodations on-site, and for that, you should plan ahead and clarify what you are looking for during your vacation: authentic lodging, luxury hotel, close to the beach? These questions are essential for making a decision. By the way, note that Taormina is a pedestrian city! This information should stay in the back of your mind, as you will be required to leave your car on the outskirts of the city

The historic center of Taormina, perched on a hill, offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. It features a mix of Greek, Roman, medieval, and baroque architectural elements, making it a fascinating place for history and art lovers. For a practical and enjoyable vacation, this is undoubtedly one of the best bases to consider for easy access to monuments and amenities!

Among the sights, there is the ancient theater, a well-preserved Greek amphitheater built in the 3rd century BC. From up there, visitors can admire a stunning panorama, including Mount Etna as the backdrop. The narrow, cobbled streets of the historic center are lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, especially if you head to Via Umberto, the main thoroughfare of the city.

Piazza IX Aprile is the heart of the town, with its elegant stone pavement and the Church of San Giuseppe. Visitors can stroll through the alleys, admire old houses with flowered balconies, and discover picturesque squares like Piazza Duomo, where Taormina Cathedral is located. This 13th-century cathedral features an interesting facade combining Gothic, Baroque, and Norman elements.

Finally, the public gardens of Taormina, the Giardini della Villa Comunale, are another must-see as they offer a panoramic view of Naxos Bay and provide an ideal place to relax

The B&B La Terrazza Sul Mare is located less than 800 meters from the center of Taormina and the cable car leading to Isola Bella. It features a terrace offering sea views and colorful, air-conditioned rooms Including a sweet Italian breakfast, expect to pay around €110 per night.

The B&B RE TANCREDI is close to the beaches of Spisone, Isola Bella, and the Taormina cable car. For around €100 with breakfast included, you will stay in a comfortable and pleasant room. Some accommodations at this establishment include a dining area and/or a balcony.

If you have a slightly larger budget, the Hotel Bel Soggiorno is a superb 3-star establishment with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea You can stay in double rooms or luxurious suites that are comfortable and accessible starting from €116 per night, breakfast included. You can also enjoy a beautiful garden and a terrace overlooking the sea.

Mazzaro is a small seaside resort located near the town of Taormina. It is renowned for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility and seaside leisure. This is exactly the kind of place to settle down if you want to fully enjoy the beach and have a substantial budget

Mazzaro Beach is the region's main attraction. It features fine sand and crystal-clear waters, providing an ideal setting for swimming and relaxation. Travelers can also enjoy various water sports, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking Sun lovers can lounge on the sunbeds offered by the beach establishments...

Mazzaro also offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving authentic Sicilian cuisine. Fresh seafood is a must-try, and visitors can savor delicious dishes like seafood pasta, fried calamari, and arancini, a typical Sicilian specialty.

Finally, the beach is bordered by impressive cliffs that house the famous Isola Bella, a small island accessible on foot by a narrow sandbar at low tide. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Ionian Sea!

The Hotel Villino Gallodoro is located 100 meters from Mazzaro and 700 meters from Isola Bella. The rooms are bright and comfortable, some featuring a terrace or balcony. You will enjoy the on-site bar as well as the stunning sea view! Rates start at €89 per night for a double room with breakfast.

The Hotel Ariston and Palazzo Santa Caterina is close to the historic center and the funicular to the beach. All rooms include air conditioning, and you will have access to friendly communal areas, including a bar and a pool. Expect a minimum of €86 per night with breakfast included.

Giardini-Naxos is a charming locality located on the eastern coast of Sicily, a few kilometers north of the town of Taormina. Nestled at the foot of the mountain, this small seaside resort offers a peaceful alternative, ideal for activities such as pedal boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

The main attraction of Giardini-Naxos is its beautiful fine sandy beach that stretches for several kilometers along the coast The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea invite swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The town itself is home to a few historic churches, including the Church of San Pancrazio, dating from the 17th century, and the Church of Santa Maria Raccomandata, featuring typical Baroque style.

History enthusiasts can visit the archaeological museum of Giardini-Naxos, which exhibits ancient artifacts, including Greek remnants dating from the 8th century BC. The town actually takes its name from the Greek colony of Naxos, which was founded here in 735 BC.

The proximity to Taormina is a great advantage if you want to get away from the city a bit. The village also features a lively nightlife, with trendy bars and local restaurants

The B&B Triskeles offers stylish rooms with views of the sea or the mountains surrounding Giardini Naxos. You will be 500 meters from the beach, and every morning you can enjoy a breakfast of homemade cakes and savory pies. Expect €59 per night for 2 people, a great deal if you're unsure where to sleep in Taormina!

The Naxos Marina Bay is close to the beaches of Lido Europa, Giardini Naxos, and Lido Da Angelo. The accommodations feature a balcony, air conditioning, and some open onto a terrace and/or patio with views of the sea or the city! Plan for about €128 per night with breakfast included and a beautiful view of the castle.

Located near Taormina, Castelmola is perched on a hill. This hamlet offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscapes, known for its authentic charm, peaceful atmosphere, and rich culture. By choosing this location as your base, you will enjoy truly authentic vacations with a privileged view of Taormina

The village is surrounded by lush nature, with citrus orchards, olive groves, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. The narrow, cobbled streets of Castellana are lined with typical stone houses of the region, giving the village an authentic character. One of the main attractions is the Castello di Taormina, a well-preserved medieval castle that overlooks the village.

Sicilian cuisine is also in the spotlight in Castelmola! Local restaurants serve Mediterranean dishes, highlighting fresh produce such as seafood, homemade pasta, and local specialties like caponata and cannoli Local products, such as olive oil and wine, are also highly valued, this is where you can really treat yourself!

Nature lovers will also find happiness in the surroundings of Castelmola, with many hiking opportunities in the nearby mountains. The fine sandy beaches along the coast are easily accessible if you want to swim or sunbathe under the Sicilian sun ☀️

The Hotel Panorama di Sicilia boasts panoramic views of Mount Etna as well as a restaurant serving traditional homemade Sicilian cuisine. The rooms feature classic decor and some have a balcony. Expect to pay from €83 per night for 2, with breakfast included.

The Hotel Villa Sonia features a furnished terrace, a small fitness room, and a sauna. Its panoramic restaurant offers fantastic views of the sea and Etna. The rooms, on the other hand, are very comfortable and well-equipped, available from €128 per night with breakfast included.

Letojanni is a small coastal town that offers an interesting contrast to the tourist hustle of Taormina. The first thing that strikes you is its relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. Unlike Taormina, which is often crowded with visitors, Letojanni has retained its authentic charm. Once a fishing village, this locality is attracting more and more people due to its well-preserved character

The beach of Letojanni is one of its major assets. It consists of pebbles and fine sand, providing a pleasant spot to relax in the sun or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Water activities, such as diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular here.

The town itself has a charming historic center with ancient churches and picturesque squares. The locals lead a tranquil life, allowing you to discover authentic Sicilian culture!

Overall, it's a good base where to stay near Taormina. However, there aren't many accommodations available, and most locals reside there year-round. So if you want to stay in Letojanni, you should plan weeks in advance to ensure you can find an establishment that suits you

The Albatros Beach Hotel is located right across from its private beach. It offers functional, air-conditioned rooms with a balcony, and provides access to a restaurant and car rental service. Expect about €102 per night with breakfast included.

The B&B Il Mare degli Dei is just 20 meters from the coast and its beaches. It offers elegantly decorated rooms, featuring different color themes. Breakfast includes sweet and savory foods prepared each morning, included for €65 per night in a double room with a balcony.

Here we come to the end of this article on the best places to stay in Taormina! I hope you've found the perfect place for your next stay in Italy. If you're planning a road trip through Sicily, I also have articles if you're unsure what to do in Sicily or where to stay in Sicily, so don't hesitate to check them out