Tour difficulty
- Easy
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Duration
3 hoursSicily Walking Tours: City Tours
Introductory Tour of Taormina
Discovering Taormina: A Jewel of Sicily
An Introductory Tour of Taormina with Your Own Italy offers a captivating exploration of one of Sicily’s most picturesque and historically rich towns. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, Taormina is renowned for its stunning views, ancient Greek theater, and charming medieval streets. This personalized tour immerses you in the beauty and heritage of Taormina, from its ancient ruins to its lush gardens and elegant piazzas, providing a comprehensive introduction to this enchanting town.
Discovering Taormina: A Jewel of Sicily
The Ancient Greek Theatre
Your journey begins at Taormina’s most iconic landmark, the Ancient Greek Theatre. Built in the 3rd century BC, this theater is one of the most celebrated ruins in Sicily, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Explore the theater’s ancient stones and imagine the performances that once captivated audiences in this magnificent setting.
Corso Umberto I
Stroll down Corso Umberto I, Taormina’s bustling main street, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and historic buildings. This lively pedestrian thoroughfare is the heart of Taormina, where the town’s vibrant social life unfolds. Stop by the Piazza IX Aprile, a beautiful square with stunning views of the sea and Etna, and visit the nearby Church of San Giuseppe, an example of Sicily’s baroque architecture.
Public Gardens (Villa Comunale)
Escape the bustle of the town center with a visit to the Public Gardens (Villa Comunale), gifted to the town by Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman who made Taormina her home. These lush gardens offer a tranquil retreat with exotic plants, shaded walkways, and ornamental structures, alongside panoramic views that make it a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation.
Isola Bella
A short distance from Taormina’s center lies Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a thin strip of beach. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” Isola Bella is a nature reserve with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy a visit to this enchanting island, exploring its rich biodiversity and picturesque beauty.
Your Own Italy: Tailoring Your Taormina Experience
With Your Own Italy, your introductory tour of Taormina is more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience tailored to your interests. Whether you’re drawn to the town’s ancient history, its natural beauty, or its cultural charm, we ensure your exploration of Taormina is as enriching as it is memorable.
Embark on Your Taormina Adventure
Are you ready to discover the enchanting beauty and rich heritage of Taormina? Contact Your Own Italy to plan your personalized tour. Experience the magic of this Sicilian gem, from its ancient ruins to its breathtaking views, and create lasting memories of one of Italy’s most picturesque towns.
What's Included
– Personal Guide: A dedicated guide to provide insights and stories, bringing the rich history of each site to life.
– Start at Porta Messina: The historic gateway sets the stage for your exploration, marking the entrance to the city’s bustling life.
– Stroll Down Corso Umberto I: Known affectionately as “Main Street,” this picturesque thoroughfare is the backbone of the city, lined with shops, cafes, and historical sites.
– Palazzo Corvaja: Admire the exquisite architecture of this medieval palace, a testament to the city’s multifaceted history, from Arab to Norman influences.
– Roman Odeon: Discover this intimate ancient venue, where the echoes of the past meet the whispers of today.
– Piazza IX Aprile: Pause at this stunning square, offering breathtaking views and a pulse on the city’s social life.
– Cathedral Visit: Explore the spiritual heart of the city, standing as a beacon of faith and artistry through centuries.
– The Roman Naumachia: Uncover the remnants of Roman naval battles in this remarkable testament to engineering and entertainment.
– Ancient Greco-Roman Theater: Conclude your tour at this majestic site, still alive with performances, just as it was millennia ago, blending the acoustic marvels of the past with the cultural dynamism of the present.
This city tour is designed to immerse you in the essence of Sicilian history, culture, and art, guided every step of the way by an expert who knows not just the stories of these ancient stones but the soul of the city itself. Enjoy an experience tailored to your pace and interests, ensuring a journey that’s not just seen but felt, leaving you with memories that are as enduring as the sites you’ll visit.
Tips for Your Taormina Tour
– Comfortable Footwear: Taormina’s streets and pathways can be steep and cobbled, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
– Sun Protection: With its sunny climate, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for protecting yourself during the tour.
– Hydration: Keep a water bottle handy to stay hydrated as you explore the town’s attractions.
– Camera Ready: Taormina’s scenic beauty is unmatched, so make sure your camera or smartphone is ready to capture its stunning landscapes and architectural details.
Faq
- Is there a dress code I should know about?
- There is a dress code for churches and basilicas. Shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. It is also recommended that you not take large bags or backpacks on tours that include churches as you may not be permitted to enter and storage accommodations are not usually available.
- What if there is bad weather?
- Our tours operate rain or shine!
- Is tipping customary in Italy?
- Tipping is indeed customary in Italy ! It is considered a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave “a little something extra” depending on the level of service you receive. For a private guide it is suggested to leave 15 – 25 euros for a typical 3-hour tour.
- What happens after I’ve requested a booking through your website?
- Your Own Italy will send a confirmation email within 24 hours of your booking. You will then be invited to make your payment using a link that will be provided.
- Can wheelchair users go on this walking tour?
- Not all walking tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities. However, if anyone in your group requires special accommodation, please let us know when completing the booking and we will work out suitable alternative routes.
- Can tours be modified?
- Yes, we will do our best to adjust any tour to accommodate special requests.
- How far in advance should I book my walking tour?
- Tours should be booked 48 hours in advance. While we cannot guarantee availability if booking occurs in less than 48 hours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
- What are Your Own Italy’s payment terms?
- Full payment is due when the tour confirmation email is sent, within 24 hours of your booking. You will be provided with a link to our payment page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Tours must be canceled by email 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. If cancellation is made in less than this time, Your Own Italy cannot guarantee a full refund.
- How do I amend a reservation?
- Any changes to existing reservations must be requested by email. All efforts will be made to accommodate changes, but they cannot be guaranteed.
- What should I do if I have a larger group than the size suggested on the website?
- Your Own Italy is delighted to accommodate large groups. Please specify the number in your party when booking, and every effort will be made to organize a tour within the time limits provided.
Meeting Point
Duration Of Tour
Tour times are average – some groups prefer a more leisurely pace with fewer sites, with your private guide, this is your option.