Unlock Taormina

Words by Belmond Editors
A tanned man, wet from a dip in the sea, leans on his boat's canopy bar as he chats to friends on the cliff and in the sea

Culinary temptations, archaeological treasures and incomparable views of Mount Etna – we're heading to Taormina for the ultimate Sicilian itinerary. Our next stops? Villa Sant’Andrea and Grand Hotel Timeo.

1 / 6

Greek Theatre

Any mention of Taormina conjures images of the Greek Theatre—an archeological treasure right next door to Grand Hotel Timeo. It mystifies in the solitude of early morning, and regularly hosts concerts come sundown. If you get the chance to attend, take it. This stunning setting comes alive to the sound of music.

The part-ruined walls of the Greek theatre stand amid semi-tropical plants in stark relief against a cloud speckled blue sky

2 / 6

Piazza IX Aprile

Piazza IX Aprile is a gorgeous square with cafés and gelaterias. Wander into its two ancient churches and take in Taormina’s diverse architecture. Nearby Corso Umberto offers a perfect slice of retail therapy, whether you’re after the latest Italian fashions or locally made handicrafts. Head to Bam Bar for mouthwatering Sicilian treats.

People wander the checked stone floor of Piazza Nove Aprile and sit at cafés by the faded pink stucco church of San Giuseppe.

3 / 6

Castelmola

Hire an Ape Calessino and let its three wheels take you to every corner of town. You’ll want to drive up to the village of Castelmola, where the main square boasts sprawling coastline panoramas. Pick your favourite spot for lunch—the views are a perfect accompaniment.

A classic white Piaggeo Ape offers guests great views beyond its open red cabriolet roof, as it explores Taormina's streets

4 / 6

Aeolian Islands

If you want to explore off the Sicilian coast, visit the volcanic Aeolian islands. Sail to the magical island of Filicudi to feast on warm Aeolian hospitality. Visit the fascinating archeological museum at Lipari. Stroll the streets of Stromboli, made famous by the 1950 film of the same name starring Ingrid Bergman. You will be spoilt for choice.

5 / 6

Mount Etna

If you’re searching for a more traditional adventure, Mount Etna is a thrilling experience. The craters are reminiscent of Mars and the views are nothing short of spectacular. Sample some of the local honey and stop in at the Planeta winery. The varietals are full-bodied thanks to Etna’s unique mineral rich soil.

Discover Etna Wines
A puff of smoke from the volcano meets a hazy blue sky in a splendid view of Mount Etna, seen behind a pink flowering bush.

6 / 6

The Godfather Tour

Nearby to Toarmina, why not discover the world of Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather trilogy? Discover a traditional way of life at two beautiful hilltop villages that served as filming locations, Forza D’Agrò and Savoca. As you travel around the winding roads, pause at the famous movie locations. These include the Church of Santissima Trinità in Forza D’Agrò, the Church of Santa Lucia and the famous Bar Vitelli in Savoca.

Couple sitting on a bench in an Italian piazza under clear blue skies

Explore Two Havens in Taormina

Delve deeper into

You might also enjoy

An orange plate of Enchiladas del Portal, comprising a tortilla with beans and vibrant fresh ingredients, seen from above.

Recipe: Enchiladas del Portal

While the term ‘enchiladas’ covers a wide range of flavour combinations with infinite permutations of stuffings and toppings, this version uses Guajillo chillies for a beautifully smoky flavour and sweet heat, which combines perfectly with cinnamon and cumin – the ultimate Mexican comfort food.

Read More - Recipe: Enchiladas del Portal
Diners enjoy roast beef, presented in slices with Yorkshire puddings, carrots, beans, potatoes and gravy, seen from above.

The Great British Sunday Roast

The Brits’ love of a Sunday Roast has survived rationing and the rise of fads and food trends to carve out a place at the very heart of British culture. Discover the history of our national love affair with the Sunday Roast, and where to find the very best in London. 

Read More - The Great British Sunday Roast
A lace veil floats across frame in a low-angle monochrome image of a bride as she leans back on the observation deck rails.

The Wedding Trends Defining 2026

 Planning your big day? Weddings in 2026 are moving beyond tradition to embrace celebrations that are personal, meaningful and effortlessly elegant. From intimate beach elopements to sophisticated Art Deco-inspired soirées, discover the top trends for next year – each paired with the perfect Belmond venue. 

Read More - The Wedding Trends Defining 2026
Chef Dominique Crenn, in dark glasses and a flat cap, stands in a vegetable farm, holding up a bunch of fresh-pulled turnips.

Breaking Bread with Chef Dominique Crenn

Forget everything you thought you knew about dining on a boat. Meet Chef Dominique Crenn – of the 3 Michelin star Atelier Crenn – who is charting a new course for French river cruising on board Les Bateaux Belmond, her new culinary canvas.

Read More - Breaking Bread with Chef Dominique Crenn
Chef Andre Chiang stands against a red and green-patterned wall, tightening his white apron straps while looking to camera.

Breaking Bread with Chef André Chiang

With every dish he creates, Chef André Chiang wants to capture the taste of a place and the story of a journey. We stepped into the kitchen of the culinary curator onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express as it travels through Malaysia for an insight into his culinary philosophy and the art of writing a menu.

Read More - Breaking Bread with Chef André Chiang
Close-up on a tray of Peach Bellini cocktails served in four different-shaped glasses with a shimmering pool-water backdrop.

Recipe: Hotel Cipriani’s Bellini Cocktail

With fragrant white peach and chilled Prosecco, the Bellini is arguably the most famous cocktail in Venice. Learn how to make it with the original recipe from inventor Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of our iconic Hotel Cipriani.  

Read More - Recipe: Hotel Cipriani’s Bellini Cocktail
Raymond Blanc wears chef whites, blue trousers and boots as he poses for a photograph, sitting on a stone garden step.

164 Seasons of Le Manoir with Raymond Blanc OBE

For 164 seasons spanning over 41 years, Chef Raymond Blanc OBE has pioneered garden-to-table gastronomy at Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxfordshire. As we honour his legacy with his transition from Chef Patron to Founder and Lifetime Ambassador, we take a moment with him to look back at the last four decades of excellence, passion and joy.  

Read More - 164 Seasons of Le Manoir with Raymond Blanc OBE