How to Spend 1 Day in Taormina

From its hilltop location to its Greek Theater, Taormina is striking from all angles. On a visit, stroll through the historic streets, browse the market for ingredients for a cooking class, and learn about Sicilian wines on a wine-focused tour. Here are tips for getting the most out of one day in Taormina.

Morning: Welcome to Taormina

Get your bearings on an introductory tour of the city. For ease, choose a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Or, take a walking tour with a local guide to see top landmarks including the Greek Theater (once host to gladiatorial games), Corvaia Palace, and Porta Messina. To cover ground quickly, opt for a Segway tour that zips through Borgo Medievale, the oldest district in Taormina, and the city park of Villa Comunale. See views of Mount Etna from Villa Comunale and stop in Piazza del Duomo to learn about its baroque fountain.

Afternoon: Cooking Classes and Boat Journeys

Discover the distinct flavors of Sicily with an afternoon devoted to food or cooking. Bring your appetite to food-themed walking tours or cooking classes and explore the Taormina market to see where locals buy fresh produce. Learn how to make a variety of Italian food including pizza from scratch or Sicilian dishes such as pasta with caponata. Alternatively, get a view of Taormina from the sea on a sailing excursion with views of Mount Etna. Set out on a boat for a scenic ride with time for swimming, sunbathing, and maybe even a seafood lunch.

Night: Opera Concerts and Wine Lessons

Experience the Italian tradition of opera by attending an evening performance. Listen to classic arias and duets from famous Italian operas such as Verdi’s La Traviata and Puccini’s La Boheme. Wine enthusiasts may want to opt for an evening wine- and food-themed walking tour. Taste several varieties of Sicilian wines paired alongside traditional snacks. Sample Italian liquors and learn about Taormina’s culinary history from a guide. Travelers looking to experience the culture behind Sicilian food can take a tour that includes a traditional meal in the home of a local chef.