Where is the best place to stay in Taormina?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023
As soon as you get to Taormina, you will quickly realize that this is a very special place, in a magical and mythical setting. Situated on top of the Monte Tauro hillside, Taormina is a unique look-out point which combines views over the Mediterranean Sea with views over the Etna volcano, which is one of the most active volcanos in Europe and often covered in snow. All of this is set within beautiful surroundings of gardens and impressive ancient ruins, such as the Greek Theatre. It’s also not uncommon to find celebrities here, such as Truman Capote, Francis Ford Coppola, Greta Garbo or Woody Allen who have all enjoyed holidays in this Sicilian dream destination.
As you are at a true dream destination, it is only fitting that you pick the best possible place to stay. The best area to stay in Taormina is the historic centre, in the part that sits above the city and preferably a hotel with views over the bay and the Etna. The historic centre is an entirely pedestrianized area with one main street where all of Taormina´s commercial activity and nightlife is concentrated. If arriving by car you will need to leave your car in the municipal car park at the entrance to Taormina. To get to the beaches you can either take a bus or alternatively you can take the cable car down, which drops you at the Isola Bella beach.On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Taormina, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
If you were interested in finding out where to stay in Taormina, you may also be interested in knowing where to stay in Catania and where to stay in Palermo.
Staying on the beaches
The alternative to staying in the historic centre is staying on the beaches of Taormina. An expensive option, but one that is worth the full price, especially in summer.
Hotel Jonic Mazzaro
Hotel Jonic Mazzaro enjoys a privileged location in front of Mazzaro beach and a short distance from the cable car that connects with the historic centre.
A 3-star hotel located on an old villa from which you can enjoy unforgettable sea views.
Mazzarò Sea Palace
Mazzaro Sea Palace is a luxury hotel also located on the beachfront of Mazzaro. An exclusive hotel that will make you feel privileged.
The best choice for a long summer stay in Sicily, combining culture and beach.
La Plage Resort
La Plage Resort hotel is the only hotel located in front of Isola Bella beach. It is another 5-star hotel where you can enjoy an exclusive stay in Taormina.
The hotel is differentiated by its circular bungalow-type accommodations, some of which have a Jacuzzi and sea views.
Where to stay near Taormina
If we want to visit Taormina and at the same time enjoy the beach, we have several interesting options less than 30 minutes away, among which the following stand out:
Mazzeo
Only 15 minutes from Taormina in a northerly direction, we find Mazzeo beach. It’s a wide beach providing many services, including sun-bed rentals, but with the disadvantage of pebbles. A good option for staying next to the sea.
Letojanni
Another option if you wish to sleep in a hotel facing the beach is the town of Letojanni, next to Maezzo. The beach is the same as that of Maezzo, but the town is bigger, offering more accommodation and dining options.
Mascali
Another beach destination 30 minutes from Taormina towards Catania is the town of Mascali. Unlike the beaches north of Taormina the pebbles give way to coarse sand which makes bathing more pleasant.
Our recommended hotels in Taormina
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in TaorminaNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
