J & B

While you're here

Things To Do

We'll be busy in the run up, so here are our recommendations for the days around the wedding.

The ancient Greek-Roman theatre of Taormina overlooking the sea
01

Teatro Antico di Taormina

The famous Greek-Roman theatre, begun in the 3rd century BC, with panoramic views over the Ionian coastline and Mount Etna. It still hosts concerts through the summer, so it's worth checking what's on while you're here.

  • About 10 minutes' walk from Corso Umberto
  • Entry around €14–16, open daily from 9am (last entry early evening)
  • Go early or late to dodge the heat and the crowds
Taormina's hillside town above the Ionian coast
02

Taormina town

Wander Corso Umberto, stop for a granita and brioche, and get lost in the side streets and terraces above the sea. Piazza IX Aprile has the best view for an aperitivo, and the Villa Comunale gardens are a lovely, shady escape.

  • Free to wander — the public gardens are free too
  • Park at Porta Catania or Lumbi and take the shuttle up
  • Dinner books up fast in September — reserve ahead
Isola Bella island joined to the shore by a narrow beach
03

Isola Bella

Take the cable car down from town to Mazzarò, then it's a short walk along the shore to this tiny nature-reserve island, joined to the beach by a thin strip of pebbles. Bring water shoes — the snorkelling here is genuinely good.

  • Cable car (funivia) runs every few minutes — roughly €8 one way, €15 return
  • The beach is free; sunbeds are hired from the lidos
  • Small separate entry fee for the island nature reserve
Mount Etna rising above the Sicilian coast
04

Mount Etna

Europe's most active volcano, and unmissable. Guided tours run from Taormina with hotel pick-up, taking you up towards the craters by cable car and 4x4, usually with a winery or lava cave stop on the way back.

  • Half-day and full-day tours run daily from Taormina
  • Around 1h15 drive each way
  • Take a fleece and trainers — it's cold and windy up top
The baroque waterfront of Ortigia in Syracuse
05

Syracuse (Siracusa)

A day trip south to Ortigia's baroque streets, the seafood market and the ancient Greek ruins of the Neapolis park. Easily the best day out if you fancy going further afield.

  • About 1h30 by car, or by train from Taormina-Giardini
  • Neapolis archaeological park has a separate entry fee
  • The Ortigia market is at its best before midday
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