Travel Discovery

Day Trips from Taormina: Exploring Sicily's Coastal Charm & Ancient Wonders

Destination: Taormina, Sicily

    1. Mount Etna
    2. Overview: Begin your day with an exhilarating ascent to the tallest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a range of activities, from guided hikes across its lunar-like terrain to visits to the fascinating Silvestri Craters. Marvel at the panoramic vistas stretching from the summit to the coastline below, and explore the unique flora and fauna thriving in this volcanic environment.
    3. Duration: Full Day (approx. 6 hours)
    4. Departure: 09:00 AM / Return: 03:00 PM

    5. Recommended Meal: Sample local delicacies such as Pasta alla Norma, a traditional Sicilian dish inspired by Mt. Etna's eggplants.

    6. Giardini Naxos and Isola Bella

    7. Overview: After a morning on the mountain, head down to Giardini Naxos, the first Greek colony in Sicily. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along its charming beaches before visiting the nearby Isola Bella, a tiny island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. This nature reserve boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, surrounded by lush vegetation.
    8. Duration: Half Day (approx. 3 hours)
    9. Departure: 04:00 PM / Return: 07:00 PM

    10. Must Try Delicacy: Savor fresh seafood dishes like grilled swordfish or 'Pesce spada alla ghiotta' at one of the seaside restaurants.

    11. Syracuse and Ortigia Island

    12. Overview: Take a step back in time with a visit to Syracuse, a city rich in ancient history. Start at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to the impressive Greek Theater, and then cross the bridge to Ortigia Island, the historic heart of Syracuse. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with Baroque architecture, visit the stunning Piazza del Duomo, and don't miss the chance to admire the Fountain of Arethusa.
    13. Duration: Full Day (approx. 8 hours)
    14. Departure: 08:00 AM / Return: 04:00 PM
    15. Local Speciality: Taste the traditional Sicilian granite, a semi-frozen dessert made with fresh fruit, at one of Ortigia's gelaterias.