SICILY, ITALY: A COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE + 2-WEEK ITINERARY
Sicily really is the ultimate road trip destination. It sits just off the tip of Calabria in southern Italy, and has been having a moment thanks to Season Two of HBO’s White Lotus. It’s an absolutely massive island, measuring 9,927-square miles with must-visit destinations scattered end to end. Most visitors underestimate the size of Sicily, and arrive overwhelmed by how much there is to see, and how long it takes to reach everything. These vast distances make Italy’s largest island a perfect destination to experience as a road trip. Below is my two-week Sicily itinerary that includes stops in Cefalu, Scopello, Erice, Favignana, Ragusa and Taormina.
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Taormina
CEFALU
(days 1-3)
The seaside setting of Cefalu is the perfect first-stop to kick-off a road trip through Sicily. It sits about an hour from Palermo, but feels like a completely different world from the chaos of the capital city. Cefalu’s Old Town is home to a picturesque maze of pedestrian corridors that sit at the base of La Rocca, a soaring cliff that is home to Greek, Roman and Norman remains. And both the town and La Rocca serve as a spectacular backdrop to the iconic beach lined with blue and white umbrellas. Below is a detailed three-day Cefalu itinerary. For even more information, check out my Cefalu Travel Guide.
Piazza del Duomo
day 1
ARRIVE IN CEFALU
From the Palermo airport, pick up a rental car for your two-week road trip around Sicily. Most car rental agencies have outposts at the airport. The drive to Cefalu takes just over an hour, but could be longer if there is gnarly traffic surrounding Palermo. There are paid parking lots at the edge of Cefalu’s Old Town where visitors can leave vehicles overnight, as well as street parking. Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly zone where everything is accessible by walking, and you’ll be exploring on foot during your stay.
4 PM: OLD TOWN (sightsee)
Spend your first afternoon on Sicily exploring the pedestrian lanes of beautiful Old Town on foot. Highlights include Vicolo Caracciolo, Duomo di Cefalu, Vicolo Papa and Piazza del Duomo.
6:30 PM: LOCANDA DEL MARINAIO (dinner)
Locanda del Marinaio is a Michellin guide restaurant that serves fresh seafood, pastas and Mediterranean cuisine. The service is excellent, as is the food. Reservations are a must – request outdoor seating.
Vicolo Caracciolo
Pasta e Pasti | Bar Duomo
day 2
All destinations and restaurants listed below are within walking distance to each other – no car or taxi needed.
9 AM: SPIAGGIA DEL PORTO VECCHIO (beach)
This is the small main beach in front of Old Town, home to the iconic blue and white striped umbrellas. The soaring Old Town backdrop makes the beach an absolute vibe. For the best sun bed and beach umbrella selection, arrive in the morning.
2 PM: MOLO DI CEFALU (beach)
The long pier that extends out from Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio is the Molo di Cefalu, and it’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming and jumping into the water. The views of the waterfront and La Rocca from Molo di Cefalu are spectacular.
5 PM: PIAZZA DEL DUOMO + DUOMO DI CEFALU (sightsee)
All streets in Cefalu lead to the beautiful Piazza del Duomo. This is the main square in Old Town, and my favorite time to visit is in the evenings. There are plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating in the middle of the square – perfect for a cocktail while admiring the views of the cathedral. The church is open to the public to visit including the twin towers for a sweeping panorama over Old Town.
6 PM: BAR DUOMO (drinks)
The food here is not great, but the location on the Piazza del Duomo cannot be beat. I suggest visiting in the early evening for a drink to enjoy the vibe of Cefalu, and then make reservations elsewhere for dinner.
7 PM: MANDRALISCA SEDICI SICILIAN (dinner)
This is a lovely little restaurant with seating along one of the pedestrian streets in town. The menu of fresh seafood and Sicilian dishes is delicious. There are only a handful of tables. Reservations recommended.
Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio
Molo di Cefalu | Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio
day 3
Most destinations and restaurants below are within walking distance to each other. Kalura Beach is the only place that requires a car or a taxi.
9 AM: LA ROCCA (hike + sightsee)
The hike up to the historic ruins of La Rocca is a must in Cefalu. Greek, Roman and Norman remains sit high in the cliffs above Old Town, along with spectacular panoramic views. The trailhead is located behind the town, and takes two hours roundtrip with stops for photos. It’s an uphill hike, but very manageable.
11 AM: PASTA E PASTI (lunch)
It might be surprising, but traditional Italian pasta isn’t common in Sicily. That’s because most of these dishes are specific to mainland Italy. Yes, there are plenty of Sicilian pastas, but not the traditional stuff you find in Tuscany, Rome, etc. That makes Pasta e Pasti a must-visit if you’re in the mood for pomodoro, pesto, bolognese, carbonara, buffala, norma, stuffed pastas and lasagna.
1 PM: KALURA BEACH (beach)
A lovely beach on the opposite side of La Rocca, a five-minute drive from Old Town. The water here is calm and sparkly, a great spot to spend an afternoon in the sun. There is no official parking lot, so best to park along a nearby street and then walk down to the beach.
5 PM: OLD TOWN (sightsee)
Enjoy another evening walk through Old Town before dinner.
7 PM: LIBERTY RESTAURANT BISTRO & WINE BAR (dinner)
I love the cute outdoor seating here along a quiet street in Old Town. There are a variety of dishes on the menu at Liberty, but the specialty is seafood and seafood pastas.
9 PM: SAPORE DI SALE GELATERIA (gelato)
A delicious little ice cream shop located near the Piazza del Duomo that serves more than a dozen delicious flavors, as well as cannoli.
Molo di Cefalu
Old Town | La Rocca
WHERE TO STAY IN CEFALU
This lovely one-bedroom apartment is located in the heart of Cefalu, close to the main piazza. Agave Cefalu is nothing fancy, but it’s clean and comfortable.
En .. Suite. is a small, no frills one-bedroom apartment in Old Town. The place is clean, the price is good and location is very central.
Hotel options are sparse in Cefalu. The only upscale offering is La Calette N.5., mostly for it’s truly stunning stretch of turquoise coastline. It sits on the opposite side of La Rocca, a five-minute drive from Old Town. There are 30 rooms at the property that are comfortable and clean. Sea access here is amazing.
Incao Holiday I Pupi House is a one-bedroom apartment on a quiet street in the heart of Old Town. Both the Piazza del Duomo and the beach are a one-minute walk in either direction. It’s clean, cozy and ideal for two people. The apartment has two balconies that overlook the pedestrian street below.
Similar to its sister property above, Incao Holiday II Moro House is a clean, remodeled apartment ideally located in Old Town.
Old Town | Duomo di Cefalu
SCOPELLO
(days 4-6)
If you’re in search of the most spectacular coastline in Sicily, look no further than Scopello. This charming village sits over some of the most beautiful coves and inlets on the island and serves up an ideal home base for a day trip to Erice. Below is a detailed three-day itinerary to the region. For even more information, check out my Scopello Travel Guide.
Tonnara di Scopello
day 4
Pack up and depart Cefalu for Scopello. A rental car is necessary to reach the destinations below.
9 AM: CALETTA SANT’ELIA (sightsee)
Stop at Caletta Sant’Elia on your journey to Scopello. This is a charming pebble beach tucked at the end of a rocky inlet surrounded by a little charming village. The scenery reminds me of an ultra-mini Cinque Terre. Very serene and picturesque.
11 AM: GROTTA DELLE COLOMBE (sightsee)
Once a hidden gem, Grotta delle Colombe went viral on social media a couple of years ago and this secret on Sicily is out. A winding staircase has been cut into a rocky outcrop completely surrounded by deep crystalline waters and sea grottos. On a calm day, it’s a spectacular spot for swimming and cliff jumping.
7 PM: SCOPELLO VILLAGE (sightsee)
After settling into your hotel, explore the tiny village of Scopello. The itty bitty settlement is home to a handful of restaurants and a few little shops. The village can be walked in a matter of minutes.
9 PM: MADE ‘N SICILIA (dinner)
Made n’ Sicilia is one of the most popular restaurant options in the village. The seafood is fresh, the dishes are flavorful and the al fresco dining is a vibe. Note that the menu options are pretty limited until dinner.
Grotta delle Colombe
day 5
A rental car is necessary to reach the destinations below.
10 AM: TONNARA DI SCOPELLO (beach)
The former fishing village has been transformed into a hotel + beach club where visitors spend sunny days swimming and sunbathing. Limestone rocks and outcrops sprout from the sparkling emerald waters serving up some of the prettiest coastal views on Sicily. Arrive early to avoid a long line, and to secure the best sun chair location on the water (chairs included with the Tonnara di Scopello admission ticket). You can book tickets online in advance here.
5 PM: CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO (sightsee)
A lovely seaside town that sits 15-minutes south of Scopello. The close proximity makes Castellammare del Golfo a wonderful alternative for drinks and dinner in the evenings. Highlights in town include the castle, churches, the Belvedere and the harbour.
7 PM: GUSTO – PIZZERIA SICULO NAPOLETANA (dinner)
The delicious menu offers a variety of Naples style pizzas – all fresh, homemade and wood fired.
8:30 PM: GELATERIA VERNACI (gelato)
Gelateria Vernaci serves a variety of tasty flavors, as well as smoothies and other sweet treats. Worth a stop if you’re here for dinner in the evening.
Scopello Village
day 6
A rental car is necessary to reach the destinations below.
8:30 AM: ERICE (sightsee)
It’s a 45-minute drive to the hilltop town of Erice. The medieval settlement is a cobbled labyrinth of cafes, churches, shops and a picturesque castle. Highlights include the Church of Saint Isidore, Toretta Pepoli and Tower of King Federico. If your Sicily trip is tight on time, Erice can be visited the day you leave for Favignana, as it’s on the way to the ferry port in Trapani.
11 AM: LA TONDA FRITTA (snack)
Popular spot in Erice to grab arancini to-go.
5 PM: CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO (sightsee)
Spend another evening enjoying the seaside setting of Castellammare del Golfo before dinner.
7 PM: RISTORANTE LA LADRICE (dinner)
A lovely spot in town for fresh seafood, pasta and local cuisine. Reservations recommended. Request outdoor seating.
Tonnara di Scopello
WHERE TO STAY IN SCOPELLO
As beautiful as this part of Sicily is, quality lodging options are completely lacking. Tonnara di Scopello is a bucket list stay, but chances are it will be completely booked. Hotel La Tavernetta is probably the best alternative in the area. Rooms are dated, but clean and pretty quiet. And the hotel is a short walk to the restaurants in Scopello village.
Yes, the popular beach club is also a boutique hotel. And it’s actually one of the most sought after stays on Sicily. The former fishing village has converted 14 rooms into little “apartments” that overlook the property’s stretch of coast. 24/7 beach access is mere steps away – guests have access to the water 24 hours a day including the hours its closed off to the public. The Tonnara di Scopello apartments are all completely different with varying views, so carefully examine all your options before booking. I opted for the Franc apartment because I wanted the private twin balconies that overlook the water.
Tonnara di Scopello
FAVIGNANA
(days 7-9)
The intense blue water of Favignana is some of the prettiest in Italy. It’s one of three Aegadian islands located off the west coast of Sicily – the charming neighbors Levanzo and Marretimo can be visited as day trips. The beaches are slices of paradise, and the island itself is completely charming. Below is a detailed three-day Favignana itinerary. For even more information, check out my Favignana Travel Guide.
Bue Marino
day 7
Pack up and depart Scopello for Favignana. A rental car is necessary to reach the ferry port in Trapani, but you’ll leave your car in Trapani and explore Favignana by bicycle.
AM: FERRY TO FAVIGNANA
Travel by ferry to Favignana from Trapani in the morning. Travel times range from 30 to 90 minutes, and an early arrival will leave you the afternoon to get settled and familiarize yourself with Favignana town. Ferry schedules, timetables and tickets are available through Ferry Hopper.
4 PM: EXPLORE TOWN | RENT A BIKE (sightsee)
After settling into your hotel, explore the charming little town loaded with restaurants, bars, shops, old churches and charming streets. While in town, visit a few of the local bike shops to rent an e-bike or bicycle for the next three days.
7 PM: OSTERIA SOTTO SALE (dinner)
Small restaurant with lovely outdoor dining in the heart of town. Osteria Sotto Sale’s specialty is seafood, and menu favorites include the tutaki tuna roll, risotto, fresh pastas and fresh fish. Reservations recommended.
9 PM: MAMA’S ICE CREAM (dessert)
Best gelato shop on the island, located in the heart of town. Flavors include chocolate, stracciatella, almond, hazelnut, black cherry and more.
Cala Rossa
Bue Marinio | Cala Rossa
day 8
A bicycle is necessary to reach the destinations below.
9 AM: CALA ROSSA (beach)
It’s the most popular beach on Favignana, and for good reason. Cala Rossa is truly amazing. The shallow, calm water is perfectly clear and sparkles the prettiest shade of turquoise. It’s one of the most epic beaches in Italy, and everyone on the island knows it. Thankfully, the expansive coastline is a massive stretch of craggy rocks and abandoned rock quarries that is plenty big to hold the crowds that show up by midday. Cala Rossa is easily accessibly by bicycle – a 10-minute bicycle ride from town. It’s also a great place to anchor if you rent a boat.
1 PM: BUE MARINO (beach)
Bue Marino is one of the most picturesque swimming spots on the island. It sits on a stretch of Favignana’s east coast where tuff rocks, caves, tunnels and cliff carve-outs overlook breathtaking patches of deep blue and bright turquoise water. It’s one of my favorite spots on the island for sunbathing and swimming. No facilities, but the cliffs offer up plenty of shady spots on a hot day. Bue Marino is a 15-minute bicycle ride from town.
4:30 PM: FAVIGNANA TOWN (sightsee)
End the day with a stroll through Favignana town – it’s a vibe in the evenings when everyone is back from the beach, cleaned up and out for Apertivo.
5:30 PM: MONIQUE CONCEPT BAR (drink)
The best spot for Aperitivo on Favignana. Monique Concept Bar sits on the main pedestrian boulevard in town, and the outdoor seating is a vibe in the evenings. The perfect spot for an Aperol Spritz, light eats and people watching.
6:30 PM QUELLO CHE C’E C’E RISTORANTE MEDITERRANEO (dinner)
Yes, that’s the name of the restaurant! This unassuming place is a casual spot in the middle of town popular for both raw and grilled fresh seafood.
Boat Day
day 9
8 AM: LA PASTICCERIA (breakfast)
This is the most popular bakery in town, and there’s always a line out the door in the morning when it opens. La Pasticceria serves all the goods including arancini, croissants, cannoli, brioche and more. Stock up on snacks for boat day.
9 AM: BOAT DAY
After a day of exploring Favignana by bicycle, I highly recommend renting a private boat to see the coast from the water. We anchored our boat at several amazing spots around the island for floating, cliff jumping and swimming into sea caves. If you rent on a day without wind, it’s possible to take your boat over to the island of Levanzo. No boat license is required on Favignana. We rented our boat from Brezza Marina, one of the larger boat rental companies on the island (I reserved in advance via e-mail).
9 PM: CIBO CHIACCIERE E VINO (drinks)
A lovely little gem located on the west coast of the island, away from the bustle of town. There are loungers to enjoy a glass of wine at sunset, or small wooden tables for cocktails, light eats and pasta. Great place for Aperitivo and sunset views.
Monique Concept Bar
WHERE TO STAY ON FAVIGNANA
Casa Mirella is the best place to stay on the island. It’s a small gated complex that offers three apartments – all are designed with a white and neutral color palette. Reminded me very much of the rentals on the Greek islands – lots of character. I stayed in the two-bedroom apartment with a terrace, and it was modern, spacious and very clean. Favignana doesn’t have the best selection of places to stay, so I felt like this was a Unicorn. The apartment is a five-minute walk to the main town.
Simple, new apartments located across the water from the port, an easy 10-minute walk to town. Dimora Delle Tonnare is nothing fancy, but the space is clean, modern and a great location.
Wonderful option if you want to stay in the heart of town. The Mazzini Accommodation apartments are small, but the modern, clean design is a rarity on Favignana. A great option while on the island, book well in advance.
Cala Rossa
RAGUSA
(days 10-11)
Ragusa is an epic hilltop city in southern Sicily that most visitors pass over, only because there’s so much to see on the island. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a pedestrian maze of dreamy Baroque architecture, churches, fountains and historic wonders. Below is an itinerary for an overnight stop in this truly amazing city, one of my favorite gems in Sicily.
Ragusa Ibla.
day 10
Pack up and depart Favignana for Ragusa. Once you pick up your rental car in Trapani, you’ll drive to Ragusa. There are paid parking lots at the edge of Ragusa Ibla where visitors can leave vehicles overnight. Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly zone where everything is accessible by walking, and you’ll be exploring on foot during your stay.
AM: FERRY TO TRAPANI
Travel by ferry to Trapani in the morning, pick up the rental car and start the four and a half hour drive to Ragusa, in eastern Sicily. Ferry schedules, timetables and tickets are available through Ferry Hopper.
4 PM: EXPLORE RAGUSA IBLA (sightsee)
Enjoy an afternoon stroll though Ragusa Ibla and start to get your bearings. Places to visit over the next couple days include Duomo do San Giorgio, Trenino Barocco, Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Scale and the Church of Saint Joseph.
6 PM: TERRAZZA DELL’OROLOGIO (dinner)
Beautiful restaurant setting that overlooks Ragusa Ibla, one of the best views in town. Menu includes pasta, pizzas and seafood. Reservations recommended – request a table with a view.
Ragusa Ibla.
day 11
All destinations and restaurants listed below are within walking distance to each other – no car or taxi needed.
7 AM: CHIESA DI SANTA MARIA DELLE SCALE (sightsee)
Visit this epic viewpoint at sunrise to snap a photo at the grand staircase that overlooks the church tower and sweeping views of Ragusa Ibla. One of my favorite views on Sicily.
9 AM: EXPLORE RAGUSA IBLA (sightsee)
Continue to explore Ragusa Ibla on foot. This historic part of town is a stunning labyrinth of old churches, little alleyways, fountains and piazzas. It’s easy to get lost, and that’s part of the fun.
12 PM: CANTUNERA IBLA (lunch)
Casual lunch stop for delicious fresh arincini.
1 PM: GELATO DEVINI (gelato)
Enjoy a midday gelato treat in Ragusa Ibla.
6 PM: Al Gradino 284 (drinks)
Return to the Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Scale for sunset drinks on the steps at Al Gradino 284. This place is an absolute vibe in the evening, and the view is spectacular.
8 PM: CAMURY RISTORANTE (dinner)
Sit down for fresh pasta and Sicilian cuisine at this little restaurant at the end of town. If it isn’t too hot, try to nab a table outside.
Ragusa Ibla.
WHERE TO STAY IN RAGUSA
This lovely little apartment has been renovated using limestone, terracotta and ceramics. There are stone archways and exposed stone walls in this spacious one bedroom property. Mario Leggio 83 is located above the Ragusa Ibla.
RELAIS ANTICA BADIA SAN MAURIZIO 1619
Relais Antica Badia San Maurizo 1619 also sits in the more modern area of Ragusa, a short walk to Ragusa Ibla. The 18th century building offers a selection of rooms and suites for guests, one of the better hotel options in town.
Ragusa Ibla.
TAORMINA
(days 12-14)
Taormina sits on Sicily’s western coast, about an hour from Catania in southern Italy, making it the perfect end to a road trip around the island. It’s absolutely my favorite destination on Sicily. There’s a reason people rave about the beauty, charm and energy of the hilltop town and sparkling coast. Below is a detailed three-day Taormina itinerary. For even more information, check out my Taormina Travel Guide.
Lido la Pigna.
day 12
Pack up and depart Ragusa for Taormina, the last leg of your trip to Sicily. Once in Taormina, everything is reachable on foot or by cable car.
9 AM: DEPART FOR TAORMINA
Drive time from Ragusa to Taormina is a little more than two hours.
1 PM: EXPLORE TAORMINA TOWN (sightsee)
Once settled in your Taormina hotel, head to the Corso Umberto to explore the main pedestrian boulevard that runs through town. It’s almost a full kilometer of boutiques, bars, fountains, restaurants, cafes and gelato shops, divided in half by the Piazza IX Aprile. The street is bustling with energy, especially during the summer months, and it’s the perfect place to hang in the evenings.
5 PM: VIA DEGLI ARTISTI (sightsee)
Stop at this cute corridor where the balconies are adorned with the iconic Testa di Moro faces.
6 PM: BAM BAR (drinks)
The little cafe sits in the heart of town, and there is always a wait. Bam Bar serves the best granita in Sicily, and it’s an absolute vibe to chill at one of the colorful outdoor tables in the early evening. The menu of flavors changes daily, favorites include peach, kiwi, raspberry and lemon.
7:30 PM: OSTERIA DA RITA (dinner)
A charming Italian eatery that serves a selection of fresh pastas including Carbonara, Pomodoro, Lasagna, the Sicilian Norma and Ragu, as well as a variety of seafood pastas. The fresh mussels in tomato sauce with garlic, chili and parsley is a highlight on the menu. There is always a line for dinner at Osteria da Rita, might be easier to get a table at lunch.
Isola Bella
day 13
All destinations and restaurants listed below are within walking distance to each other, or reachable via the cable car and free beach club shuttle. No car or taxi needed.
8 AM: LIDO LA PIGNA (beach)
The iconic Isola Bella is at the top of everyone’s must-visit list when they visit Taormina. Heck, it was at the top of my list! Turns out, Lido La Pigna was my favorite beach in Taormina. The beach has the best vibe – perfectly clear turquoise water, rocks for cliff jumping and loads of cute Italian umbrellas at the charming beach clubs. A great hang on a summer day.
3 PM: VILLA COMINALE (sightsee)
Another amazing setting in Taormina that is courtesy of Lady Florence Trevelyan. A lush tropical garden surrounds the Villa Comunale complete with palms, cactus, ponds, flowering trees and Moorish structures. Villa Comunale is completely free to the public, best time to visit is the late afternoon before sunset.
5 PM: STECCO TAORMINA (treat)
A popsicle shop located across from the Fontana di Piazza Duomo. There are dozens of popsicle flavors to choose from including passion fruit, blood orange, pomegranate, pistachio and hazelnut (to name a few), and then you select a dip and a topping. Very refreshing on a hot summer day.
7 PM: RISTORANTE LA NAUMACHIE (dinner)
Upscale dining option with an artful and delicious selection of Sicilian cuisine including fresh pastas, seafood and meats. Reservations highly recommended in summer – try to get one of the outdoor tables next to the ancient walls (the ambiance will take your meal to the next level).
9 PM: MORGANA BAR (drinks)
It’s a scene, but the ridiculous charm of Morgana Bar makes it a must-visit for drinks in Taormina. The bar looks like a pink Moroccan riad with waiters running around in turquoise bowties and matching vests. All the vibes of a Wes Anderson film. Drinks are pricey, but very good. Reservations recommended.
Testa di Moro.
day 14
Most destinations and restaurants listed below are within walking distance to each other or reachable via the cable car – no car or taxi needed. A car is only necessary if you plan to visit the Belvedere.
9 AM: ISO BELLA (beach)
The Isola Bella was gifted to Taormina by King Ferdinand in the early 19th century, and then bought by Lady Florence Trevelyan who built a house and planted tropical plants around the rocky island. Isola Bella has since become a protected nature reserve, also home to the most popular beach in Taormina. If you don’t mind crowds, it’s a lovely place to spend a summer day. The water is calm and clear, and the island serves up quite the backdrop for a day of sunbathing. Additionally, there are sun beds and loungers for rent along the beach, as well as plenty of free areas to lay a towel.
2 PM: BELVEDERE DA VIA PIRANDELLO (sightsee)
For the best view of the iconic Isola Bella, you’ll want to head to the Belvedere di Via Pirandello. It’s a small viewing platform that sits on the road that leads up to town from the beaches. The views from here are unobstructed, and quite lovely. Note that there are only a few parking spaces, and not much space on the road to pull over to wait until a space opens up.
4 PM: GREEK THEATRE (sightsee)
Built in the 3rd century BC, the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina is the second largest of its kind on Sicily. It’s located within the town, near the end of the Corso Umberto, literally next door to the Grand Hotel Timeo. The theatre is a lovely place to explore, and doesn’t require much time. The most scenic view is from the top of the cavea, looking down at the stage’s Corinthian column ruins with the Ionian Sea as a the backdrop. The Greek Theatre is a paid admission ticket.
7:30 PM: MEDOUSA BISTROT (dinner)
One of the best surprises in Taormina. Medousa Bistrot sits at the very end of the Corso Umberto, away from all the restaurants on the main drag. The tables are surrounded by lush greenery and fairy lights, an amazing setting for dinner in the evening. The food and drinks are both delicious, I particularly loved the fresh lobster linguine.
7:30 PM: CHAPEAU COCKTAIL BAR (drinks)
Very cute cocktail bar with little tables and seats scattered along the stone steps that lead down the the Piazza Duomo. Enjoy your last evening out on Sicily!
Views of Taormina from Hotel Villa Ducale.
Taormina Town | Greek Theatre
PLACES TO STAY IN TAORMINA
Grand Hotel Timeo is one of the loveliest hotels on Sicily, and one of two Belmond properties in Taormina. It’s location couldn’t be more perfect, literally next door to the Greek Theatre ruins, a couple minutes walk from the main Corso Umberto. The hotel is the epitome of five-star luxury – antique decor, ornate rooms, plush linens and the dreamiest views. Like most Belmond properties, the food is wonderful (worth making a dinner reservation, even if you’re not a guest). The hotel is home to a beautiful pool set in the serene landscaped garden, and a free shuttle takes guest to the private beach club of Villa San’Andrea.
Take one look at this cliffside pool and cave-access beach club, and you’ll be smitten with Hotel Capptaormina. The hotel itself is pretty standard, and a bit dated. A stay here would solely be to experience the epic pool and beach, both featured in White Lotus.
This converted townhouse is an amazing value for Taormina, centrally located on the Corso Umberto. 10 small rooms occupy the boutique hotel – all are simple, clean and very modern. There is a pretty rooftop terrace that serves up a lovely spot for drinks in the evening, although there are plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants just steps away from Hotel Taodomus.
This is one of the highest rated hotels in Taormina, and for good reason. The rooms are spacious, the views are sweeping and location is walking distance to town. Hotel Villa Belvedere is by no means cheap, but it’s far less than the Belmond properties and the San Domenico Palace, if you’re looking for something slightly more “reasonable.”
The lovely Hotel Villa Ducale sits perched on the cliffs above Taormina. The views from the hotel’s expansive terrace are divine, an amazing setting for breakfast in the mornings. The location is completely serene, but it’s a 15-minute walk down the stone steps to reach the Corso Umberto (or the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle).
Another beautiful boutique hotel located in Taormina town. The rooms are clean, modern and comfortable, and gardens are beautiful.
SAN DOMENICO PALACE, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL
If you’re willing to splurge, there isn’t a more iconic stay in Taormina than the San Domenico Palace. This 14th century monastery was where White Lotus was filmed, and it’s even more spectacular in person. The hotel sits on the cliffs, right below the main town, overlooking the Ionian Sea. More than 100 rooms and suites occupy the hotel, some with private plunge pools.
Set in a beautiful 19th century brick villa complete with Morrish design cues, Villa Carlotta offers guests a selection of 28 rooms, suites and a private villa, several with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Decor is bright, colorful and chic – lots of character. The Corso Umberto is a short walk from the hotel, location is very good.
Belmond’s second Taormina property sits in a seaside villa perched over a quiet bay with Ionian Sea views. Rooms have a classic look to them, several with terraces that open up to the water. Villa Sant’Andrea has a private beach club with white sun beds and umbrellas utilized by guests of both Taormina Belmond properties.
Bam Bar
