Taormina & Giardini Naxos

The queen of all resorts, Taormina, perching on a clifftop above the sea, is sophisticated, chic and exclusive. Despite its unashamedly touristy nature, Taormina’s historical side is ubiquitous and the town remains an achingly beautiful spot, full of ancient charm.
Medieval walls enclose beautifully restored buildings, fascinating archeological monuments and a giddy network of winding streets and tiny passages, each with its own secrets, shops, restaurants and cafes. Some of these intriguing places are secluded gardens hidden by stone walls, others are set on terraces overlooking the coast or in more public but equally pleasant squares.
Taormina buzzes all summer long with world-class festivals of film, theater, music and dance staged at the famous Greek Theater. The town is beautiful by day but in the evenings its atmosphere is simply enchanting, whether you decide to stroll along the illuminated streets or indulge in the view of the coast over a delicious dinner.
Then there is the rarer spectacle of Etna’s nocturnal fires as lava from the volcano flows along the snow-covered slopes of Europe’s greatest natural wonder, leaving a stream of steam and light in its wake.
The main attraction is the stunning setting of the Greek Theater and its memorable views towards Volcano Etna and the Bay of Naxos down below.
Other sights include the main avenue – Corso Umberto I, lined with antique and jewelery shops, delis and high-end designer boutiques; the charming Rococo church (Chiesa San Giuseppe), the palaces of Corvaja and Duca di Santostefano, the mosaic icon of the Mother of God which has been perfectly preserved in the archway passage under the Clock Tower, the Piazza del Duomo square complete with the 13th Century Cathedral and Baroque fountain, the Villa Comunale public gardens, a lush paradise of tropical plants and delicate flowers and the Church of Saint Pancras, one of the examples of a temple being converted into a church with the introduction of Christianity.
The best views can be enjoyed from the Greek theater, Piazza IX April square, the Villa Communale public gardens and the two medieval fortresses, the Saracen Castle and the castle of Castellmola
The best swimming spots are the pebbly beach of Mazzarò, the tiny island of Isola Bella which is set in a stunning cove, the sandy beach of Spison and the long beach of Giardini-Naxos which consists mainly of sand and coarse grey pebbles.
The Giardini Naxos is the oldest Greek settlement in Sicily, dating back to 735 BC. Unfortunately only scant remains can be visited.