What You Can Expect From Taormina, Sicily

6th September 2019

Throughout the autumn of 2019 and the spring of 2020, Royal Clipper and Star Flyer will be making regular visits to the beautiful island of Sicily on some of our Western Mediterranean cruises. After sailing along the glorious shoreline of the Amalfi Coast, you’ll arrive in Taormina where a wealth of adventures await.

So, here’s what you can expect from your time in Sicily.

Mount Etna

The island’s active volcano is likely to be the first thing you see as you approach port, dominating the skyline as it does and offering the chance to get close to the action. From nature trails in the summer to snow sports(!) in the winter, there are plenty of activities to choose from, but by far the most popular is a trip to the craters and the summit. The journey to the top is taken via a cable car and specially adapted buses. Along the way, you’ll see lava fields, caves and active fumaroles.

Greco-Roman Ruins

Taormina itself is most famous for its impressive ruined amphitheatre that dates back over 2,000 years. However, the fact that it’s crumbling doesn’t stop modern performances still being held there to continue ancient traditions. The theatre has features typical of both Greek and Roman arenas, due to the fact that it was built by one civilisation and then adorned with architectural aspects from the other. The seating area is vast and a popular photo opportunity sees visitors frame Mount Etna through one of the archways.

Natural Coasts

The coastline on this part of Sicily is littered with beaches and coves that can provide a tranquil place to relax under the sun. However, one of the most picturesque spots is Isola Bella, an offshore islet that’s only just joined to the main island via a narrow isthmus that reveals itself at low tide. Classified as a nature preserve, the rocky terraces provide great views out to sea and back towards Taormina.

Charming Streets

Taormina is a delightful port to explore on foot, allowing you to take things at a slow pace and soak up your surroundings. The main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, epitomises this atmosphere and hosts a number of pleasant shops, cafés and restaurants interspersed with views out to sea through the sporadic gaps in the buildings. You’ll also see the magnificent cathedral on Piazza Duomo and the equally alluring San Giuseppe façade on Piazza IX Aprile. This small town sure packs a large punch when it comes to architecture.

If you would like to know more about the sailings that can take you to Sicily, you can call the team on 0845 200 6145. Our online chat online chat service is also available during office hours.