How to Spend THREE DAYS in Taormina, Italy: 3-Day Itinerary

Planning a trip to Taormina? Consider us your personal guides.

Taormina is one of those picturesque Italian places you visit once and never want to leave. The streets are narrow and cobbled, flowers adorn the balconies, and the famous Testa di Moro ceramic heads watch over the town. Best of all, the sea is always close. 

Then there’s the Greek-Roman amphitheatre, with Mount Etna in the distance! Add in classic Sicilian flavors, and you’ve got plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town might look small, but there’s more to see than you’d expect. That’s why we’ve put together this simple three-day itinerary, so you can cover all the highlights without rushing around. Ready? Let’s get into it!

Itinerary Overview

Taormina is a historic town where every turn comes with an incredible view of either the mountains or the sea. We’ve learned that two to three days is the perfect amount of time to spend here, just enough to soak it all in without feeling rushed.

This itinerary isn’t overly packed, so you can still relax between activities and wander wherever you feel like it. You’ll discover the ancient amphitheatre, brunch like the locals, sail the Ionian Sea, and explore a nature reserve that also happens to be a small island. Best of all, you won’t need a car to get around, so if you have one for exploring Sicily, it’s a good idea to leave it parked at your hotel. 

This town is easy to explore on foot, or you can catch the cable car down to the beach. Buses are another convenient way to reach places a little farther out. To make things even easier, most of the tours we’ve planned meet right in town, so moving around is simple, wherever your adventures take you. 

Let’s see what your three days in Taormina could look like:

Day 1: Jump right into exploring Taormina’s ancient Greek Theater, then unwind with lunch before discovering the historic city center in the afternoon. End your evening out on the water for some gorgeous sunset views and aperitivos on your own private boat cruise.

Day 2: Enjoy a little lie-in, then make your way to the historic center for a Sicilian breakfast followed by a fun cooking tour with a professional chef. Spend the afternoon exploring Isola Bella, swimming, and working on your tan before returning to town for a quick shower and heading out for drinks and a relaxed dinner.

Day 3: Start the day with this full-day tour of Mount Etna, then enjoy a flexible afternoon relaxing by the beach or exploring the town and nearby villages. In the evening, head to a rooftop bar for drinks, followed by the best dinner in town and a stroll through Piazza IX Aprile.

Day 1

Breakfast – CAFFÈ FORASTIERO

Kickstart your morning with a delicious breakfast at CAFFÈ FORASTIERO! From the outside, it looks like a typical cafe-bistro, but wait until you try the food. Here, there’s no shame in starting your day with something sweet, whether it’s a creamy, crispy cannoli or a slice of fluffy lemon cake. 

For something savory, you can’t go wrong with their perfectly layered lasagna or a salmon pastry, both equally tempting. There are also options for kids, like fresh fruit and chia puddings.

The atmosphere here is relaxed, despite being in a central location, and part of what brings people back isn’t just the food or the vibe; it’s actually the staff. They’re kind, patient, and speak English, so you’ll feel right at home, and not just at any cafe.

Best of all, it opens at 7:30 am and is just a 5-minute walk from the Greek Theatre, so even if you arrive at 8 am, there’s plenty of time for breakfast before the theater doors open at 9 am.

Morning – Explore the Ancient Greek Theater and Villa Comunale

This morning, you’ll have a bit of downtime to explore Taormina’s impressive history. Both Teatro Antico di Taormina and Villa Communale are essential sights to see, so starting your itinerary here only makes sense!

Teatro Antico di Taormina

Teatro Antico di Taormina is a stunning ancient Greek theater overlooking the sea, built in the 3rd century BC. It mainly served as a gathering place for festivals and plays, though that changed under Roman rule, when it became a venue for gladiator battles. 

Today, what stands out the most is the scenery. From every angle, you can see both the Ionian and Calabrian coasts, along with the famous summit cone of Mount Etna, or Mongibello, as the locals call it, which means “mountain of mountains.”

There’s plenty of signage around, so you can explore on your own and still get a lot of background information, so you can explore without a guide pretty easily. During the summer, this theater comes to life – you can often catch an opera or a rock concert (Simple Minds are regulars on this stage)!

The theater opens at 9 am, even on holidays, and we recommend getting there at that time to beat the crowds, because trust me, there are many. Tickets are €16 per person, and you can buy them at the door or in advance online to save some time (but it shouldn’t be an issue to get them when you arrive). Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours here.

Villa Comunale

If you need some peace after the crowds at the theater, Villa Comunale is the perfect spot, just a 10-minute walk away. These public gardens date back to the late 19th century, and the first thing you notice is the “Beehives,” or Victorian Follies, that were once used for birdwatching and afternoon tea.

As you wander, you’ll find rare exotic plants and Roman-style statues that make for perfect photo ops, while the spectacular backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and Mount Etna really tie it all together. 

There’s a little playground in the middle of the gardens and a few vendors selling ice cream and snacks. Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours here (or a bit longer if you’re visiting with kids).

Lunch – Liola Osteria and Bar

All that time traveling through history is sure to have worked up an appetite by now. Only an 8-minute walk from Villa Comunale, Liola Osteria and Bar is just the place to enjoy a nice, slow lunch! 

This cozy, family-run spot is all about seafood, so enjoy stuffed calamari, shrimp ravioli, and generous portions served with complimentary bread and a homemade appetizer that changes daily. And the vanilla soufflé is impossible to resist (I swear, I tried)!

What really makes it special, though, are the little touches. While we were happily digging into our food, a few people came in off the street to sing, which was a pleasant surprise. Also, as we settled the bill, we were given free shots of almond wine, a small gesture, but it made us feel truly welcome.

Another great thing about Liola is that it doesn’t close in the afternoon as some restaurants do, so you can plan on getting here around 12 pm. Just keep in mind they’re closed on Wednesdays, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Afternoon – Enjoy the historic center

The lunch spot is already in the historic center, but this is your chance to spend the next few hours wandering around and soaking in the charming atmosphere. You’ll want to finish with enough time to head back to your hotel and freshen up for this evening’s activity, so try to wrap things up by 4:30 pm. Here are a few things to check out:

• Corso Umberto – This is Taormina’s most popular shopping street, lined with cafes and galleries, palaces and churches, and it’s naturally the liveliest part. If you want to escape the crowds, don’t be scared to explore the small side streets as well – there are some hidden gems!

• Piazza IX Aprile – Walking along Corso Umberto, you’ll come across this square and immediately get why it’s one of Taormina’s most photographed spots. The views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea are stunning, and with the Baroque-style Church of San Giuseppe behind you, it just feels like there’s no place you’d rather be.

• Duomo di Taormina – Right in the center of Piazza Duomo, Taormina’s Duomo isn’t your typical Sicilian Baroque church. It looks more like a castle (thanks to its medieval exterior), and it’s definitely worth the visit. Inside, it almost looks like an art museum with 15th-century oil paintings!

• Porta Catania – This gate may look like just an arch, but it’s more than that. It was built in the 12th century and served as the city’s main entrance. Take a quick photo here, then head onto Corso Umberto for the next adventure.

• Stop for coffee or gelato – There are tons of cafes and gelato shops around here, so give your legs a break at one that looks inviting (most do). Whichever one you choose, you can’t go wrong!

Evening – Relax on a sunset sail

After a full day in Taormina, this sunset sail along the coast feels like the perfect move. This tour sets sail at 6 and returns at 8 pm, leaving you enough time to freshen up for dinner. The meeting point is about 2 km (1.2 miles) from central Taormina, so you can either take a quick 5-minute drive or about 15 minutes by public transport (there’s a bus from the main road that will bring you back into town).

As you step on board with a small, friendly group, everything starts to slow down, giving you a chance to take it all in. Prosecco, light snacks, unobstructed views of Taormina’s most beautiful beaches…it’s all part of the experience! There’s also a stop at Isola Bella, where you can take a quick dip and swim among colorful reef fish (snorkeling equipment is provided).

You’ll be sailing on a spacious boat with plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the views. Keep an eye on the water, you might even spot dolphins riding alongside (what a sight, and what an even better photo that would make)! 

All in all, this tour is an easy, memorable way to end the day, perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with a group of friends. Just don’t wear anything too fancy, you might get splashed!

Dinner – Osteria Villa Zuccaro

Tonight we are eating like the locals – late! The sunset sail ends at 8 pm, so plan on getting to Osteria Villa Zuccaro around 8:30 pm for dinner. Located right in the heart of Taormina, this charming spot might look simple at first, but let the food be the judge of that. From fish carpaccio and swordfish to spaghetti alle vongole, and cap it off with limoncello and biscotti, you can’t go wrong!

For an even more immersive experience, grab a table on the second-level terrace for amazing city views! Osteira Villa Zuccaro is open until 11:30 pm daily, so you can enjoy a nice, long dinner and soak in your first day in Taormina.

Day 2

Breakfast – Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria

Day two starts off nice and slow, which is great because you’ve got a big day ahead. You’ll meet your morning cooking tour at Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria at 10 am, so you can head here early and enjoy your morning coffee. They open at 8 am, which gives you plenty of time before you meet the rest of the group, and being right beside the historic Porta Messina, it’s an easy walk no matter where you’re staying.

The space feels small and cozy, filled with locals and tourists looking for an authentic Sicilian treat. Out front, you’ll find a few tables where you can sip an iced latte while watching people pass by, as there’s absolutely no rush here. Cannoli here are as fresh as it gets, and the shells aren’t filled until you order. You’ll have plenty to choose from, but I recommend ricotta with pistachio, sprinkled with cinnamon (I’d go back just for that)! 

I know it’s tempting, but be sure to have a light breakfast, as we have a cooking class up next! Besides, cappuccino and cornetto (a flaky croissant) are a pretty typical Sicilian breakfast, so go for it and enjoy feeling like a local for the day.

Morning – Learn how to cook Sicilian food

If you think you’ve nailed your mac and cheese at home, a few local tricks and tips will completely change the game. That’s why this fantastic Sicilian cooking experience is such a treat, plus, it doubles as lunch, as you’re basically eating your way through the class.

The tour starts at 10 am (meet at the breakfast cafe) and ends at 2 pm at the same location. Your first stop is the local market, where Chef Mimmo helps you pick up the fresh ingredients you’ll use to prep your meal. Checking out the stalls and smelling the herbs got me really excited for what was coming! 

From there, transportation takes you to the cooking space right by the sea, with views that make everything feel a tad more special. Once you put on your aprons and roll up your sleeves, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you’ll learn to make fresh pasta, whip up different sauces, and cook swordfish the Sicilian way, all under Mimmo’s patient guidance. It was so fun watching the whole family in action and the way they joked while cooking together. 

The best part, of course, comes when it’s time to taste everything you just made, served family-style. There will be treats along the way, and don’t say no, try everything they offer! We loved the limoncello and rosé wine that paired perfectly with our fish. 

For anyone who loves food as much as we do, this cooking class should definitely be on your list! It’s fun and delicious, plus it’s got hundreds of glowing five-star reviews to prove it. 

Afternoon – Isola Bella

After your morning tour, stop by your hotel to get into your swimwear—we are headed to the beach! Isola Bella is a stunning little island, and you can walk to it on the sandbar. At low tide, the sandbar is easiest to cross, but even at high tide, it’s only knee-deep. There will be a small fee to explore the island, as it’s a nature reserve.

You can also enjoy the beach, but just know that some areas are beach clubs, which means paying for loungers. Or, just bring a towel, water, snacks, and sunscreen, and claim your own little slice of the free beach. Plan on spending the rest of the afternoon here. It’s hard to leave once you settle in!

You can reach Isola Bella via the cable car (Funivia) from Taormina to Mazzarò, which runs every 15 minutes, then it’s just a 3-minute walk to the beach. Otherwise, there is a steep walk and a lot of stairs to get there, which is still an option if you’re fit! 

Please note that the cable car can be closed for maintenance. If this is the case, there is a replacement bus service that goes between Taormina town center and Mazzarò beach for your convenience!

Aperitivo – Al Grappolo d’Uva

After a few hours at the beach, head back to your hotel to freshen up. Aperitivo hour typically runs from 6 to 8 pm, so it’s a good in-between for dinner. You can really walk along the historic center and find a lot of great options, but we recommend Al Grappolo d’Uva. It’s a cozy wine bar and a great pre-dinner spot.

This is exactly the place to escape the touristy spots. Unassuming, rustic, and inviting, with barrels as tables right on the street (don’t mind the passing cars, it’s all part of the experience). Here you come for a glass and stay for the small dishes and homemade appetizers at great prices, and chances are you’ll be planning your next visit before you leave. 

Dinner – Osteria da Rita 

After your aperitivo, dinner is just a very short walk down the road. Osteria Rita is one of those places that pulls you in the second you walk by. Red checkered tablecloths and floral displays instantly catch your eye, and you know you’ve found the authentic Sicilian spot you’ve been looking for.

The food is traditional, as is the vibe, with a rich menu filled with pasta, seafood, pizza, and lots of different cheeses. You’ll be dining to the sounds of live music, with accordion players and singers moving between tables, giving the place a nice, cheerful feel. 

They open from 6 pm to 10:30 pm, and since it’s walk-in only, there’s a good chance you’ll have to wait a little, but that just gives you time to soak up the atmosphere, and trust me, it’s worth it. Our only regret was not having room to try more dishes! After dinner, I recommend heading back to your hotel, as you have an early start in the morning.

Related Read: Planning a bigger Sicily trip? Don’t miss our detailed 7–10 day Sicily itinerary, which maps out the perfect route through Palermo, Catania, Cefalù, and beyond.

Day 3

Full day – Hike around Mount Etna

Few sights in Sicily are as awe-inspiring as Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. On this full-day tour, you’ll hike through lava fields, pine forests, and crater rims, taking in views you’ll remember forever. 

The tour starts at 8:30 am and finishes around 2:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore and unwind before your afternoon adventures. Hotel pick-up can be arranged too, so you can start the day without worrying about getting to the meeting point.

When you arrive, you’ll get hiking boots if you don’t have your own, as well as a helmet and flashlight for exploring the caves. The tour takes you a little more than halfway up Mount Etna, but the stunning views make it feel like you’re right at the summit. You’ll stand at the edge of craters and pass through pine forests, with the scenery changing as you go.

This tour requires a moderate fitness level, so most travelers can join, and the guide ensures the pace works for everyone. Our expert trekking guide, Tony, was born on the slopes of Etna and knew the mountain well. His stories and humor made the hike unforgettable. 

After exploring the landscapes, you’ll stop at a nearby chalet to refuel with Sicilian dishes, cakes, and even an almond wine tasting. Be sure to dress for the weather, as Etna can be much cooler than the town. We’d recommend this tour to anyone looking for a change of scenery from the beach, and with HUNDREDS of glowing reviews you can check out here, it’s clear we’re not the only ones! 

Afternoon – Your choice!

After your Mount Etna tour, you’ll be back at your hotel around 2:30 pm. As this is your final day, you can choose how you spend your afternoon. Now is a good time to rest and relax for a bit (especially if your hotel has a pool). Or if you want to make the most of your time, here are a few suggestions:

• Relax at the beach – If the beach is still calling your name, head to Mazzarò Beach or Letojanni. Mazzarò is just a 3-minute cable car ride away and perfect if you’re after lively beach clubs with crowds and music. Letojanni is more laid-back and easy to reach by train, a 15-minute bus ride, or a taxi.

• Check out Castelmola – For something off the beaten path but just as charming, Castelmola is only a 15-minute bus ride away. It’s far less touristy, so you can take your time walking around colorful, narrow streets, peek into historic churches, explore the old town and castle, and, of course, capture views that stretch across the entire Ionian coast. 

• Casually wander the historic center – Want to explore more? Spend some time in the historic center, shop for souvenirs, walk around hidden alleys, and enjoy an espresso and cornetto without feeling rushed. 

Sunset – Sky Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

After your afternoon activities, make your way to Sky Rooftop Bar & Restaurant for elevated drinks with a view! You’ve got a couple of hours before dinner, so take it easy. The bar sits atop the Continental Hotel in the heart of the historic center, right above Corso Umberto, so it’s easy to find.

Stick around for golden hour and catch the sun-drenched views across the coast. The space is chic, with comfy loungers and little corners to settle into, perfect for a romantic sunset aperitivo. Some might even call it a great spot to pop the question!

The dishes might be tempting, and you may want a little nibble with your drinks, but don’t fill up just yet! You’ve got dinner coming up at one of the best restaurants in town.

Dinner – Osteria Rosso Divino

You could end your time in Taormina like anyone else, or do it in a way you’ll actually remember. For this, book a table at Osteria Rosso Divino, charming and quiet, but a top-rated dinner spot with an excellent wine selection. It’s tucked away on a little side street, and it’s easy to miss, but once you step inside, you feel like you’ve found something special, and trust me, you have! 

The outdoor setting is a beautiful old courtyard, with candlelight and stone walls all around, not to mention the front-row views of the 14th-century Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano. At one point, an accordion and flute start playing in the background, then a few more musicians join in, and the atmosphere suddenly becomes lively.

Inside, it’s small and cozy, with closely set tables and an open kitchen where you can watch everything come together. What stood out most was the presentation – each dish arrived on a different plate, all a bit unexpected but fun. The menu changes depending on what’s fresh from the fish market that day, while other dishes are always seasonal.

In the evenings, they open from 7 pm until 10:30 pm every day except Tuesday, when they are closed. It’s a popular spot, so it’s worth booking ahead. We reserved the night before and were so glad we did.

Evening – Piazza IX Aprile

What better way to end your vacation in Taormina than right where it all started, in the historic center? For your last night, we recommend heading to Piazza IX Aprile and soaking in the atmosphere. This charming square comes alive at night, with music, street performers, painters, and plenty of people, everyone simply enjoying themselves.

Take a stroll and see what catches your eye, or even have your portrait painted – you’ll have such a unique souvenir to bring home! Even if you just choose to admire the views and take photos, it’s time well spent.

End the night simply, with a gelato or a nightcap, and nowhere else to be.

Related Read: If you’re traveling all around the country, see our blog on the best things to do in Italy for our personal favorite cities, tours, and top recommendations!

Where to Stay in Taormina

Now that you’ve planned out the perfect itinerary, you need somewhere equally amazing to stay! Staying in the center of Taormina will offer a convenient base for exploring, and while it can be busy, there are lots of small side streets that make for a quiet stay. Here are our top options for a range of budgets and travel styles!

Luxury – $$$

NH Collection Taormina offers a sleek stay right in the heart of town. The rooms are bright and stylish, and many offer city or sea views. There’s also a rooftop terrace with an amazing infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, so if you’re looking to relax in the lap of luxury, this place really has you covered. 

In fact, the only downside to staying here might just be that you won’t want to leave, but with Corso Umberto just steps away and the Greek Theatre right nearby, there’s plenty to explore on your doorstep. 

Prices range from around €650 to €1000+ per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Mid-Range – $$

Hotel Villa Paradiso is a charming and traditional hotel with some of the best views in town. It’s perched just above the city center, so you get great views of the coast and the majestic Mount Etna when you stay here. Inside, the property has a classic, slightly vintage feel with lots of space and big bathtubs in many rooms and suites.

It’s just a short stroll to Corso Umberto from here, and you’ve got a ton of great restaurants right on your doorstep. However, the rooms are soundproofed, so you won’t be disturbed by any noise when you’re trying to get a good night’s rest!

Expect to pay between €300 and €650 per night during peak season, depending on the level of luxury you choose. Book your stay in advance here!

Budget – $

Hotel Soleado is a friendly, family-run spot in a quiet residential area of Taormina, just a short walk from the historic center and the cable car to the beach. It’s a solid budget option for travelers who want easy access to town without staying right in the middle of the action. The hotel has a casual, laid-back vibe and offers great value for money, especially if you’re visiting in high season when prices in Taormina can really spike.

Rooms are simple and clean, with air-conditioning and either pool or sea views. Breakfast is served with a view, and there’s also a small bar on-site. What more could you want from a wallet-friendly stay?

Rates here usually fall between €200 and €235 per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: For even more options, see our full guide on Where to Stay in Taormina for our top area and hotel recommendations!

Thanks for reading!

If you’re heading to Sicily, a few days in Taormina is a must! Between the hilly terrain, stunning beaches, and Mt Etna towering in the background, it’s hard not to love this town. It’s the perfect place to slow down for a few days and simply soak in the scenery (and maybe hike a volcano too!).

If you need help planning the rest of your travels, see all of our Europe blogs. We love helping fellow adventurers plan their next great trip, so check out our recommended blogs below!

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