Taormina

Taormina is the best town in Sicily, be sure to include it to your route. It is also the best place to observe the Etna.


We stayed here for two nights in the hotel Villa Diodoro (booking.com), which offers best views of the volcano (on the map it is below the lower point 2). It has a huge roof terrace with great views.










Viewpoint Belvedere is in 5-minute walk from the hotel. It offers a good view of the islands and the beaches, which can be reached by cable car, though in the end of November it was not working.


It is also a good idea to come here and watch the sunrise.


On the other side of the hotel is the city park with various military exhibits, cats and birds. And of course with a great view of the city.














Trees in a memory of the soldiers.


And over the hotel is a well-preserved ancient theatre (third century BC, opening times and prices).






It's hard to get lost in Taormina, as there is only one main street (1). All the houses are very well maintained.














But that's not all. High above Taormina is Castelmola, a small, picturesque village. It can be reached by the bus from the bus station, though we took a taxi for 10 euros.










At the top of the village there is a ruined castle.


Down we went on foot along the path 3 to the Saracens castle (22) and the rock church of Madonna della Rocca (23).

Along the way found a ripe persimmon.


Passed third of the way. Castelmola has remained at the top.


Saracens castle (22)


View of Castelmola from the church


Rock church of Madonna della Rocca (23)




View of Taormina


From the church to Taormina we went down by stairs (5). At night they are illuminated with lanterns.


Tip: From the center of Taormina you can quickly get down to the train station along the path 6. Though do not walk there after the rain.

Getting there: Taormina has a railway station and you can come here from Messina or Catania. However, the station is near the sea and Taormina is on the mountain, so you also have to take a taxi for 15 EUR. Therefore, the best choice would be a bus (http://interbus.it).