Taormina's best views
Perched on a hillside above the Ionian Sea, Taormina has more genuinely spectacular viewpoints packed into a small area than almost anywhere else in Sicily. Here's where to go, and when.
Piazza IX Aprile
The most accessible viewpoint, right on Corso Umberto. The terrace looks straight out over the coastline and makes a natural stop as you're walking the main street — especially striking at sunset. See our sunset spots guide for timing.
Teatro Antico (Ancient Theatre)
Beyond its historical significance, the theatre offers one of the best framed views anywhere in town — the stage opens directly onto the sea with Mount Etna visible behind it on a clear day. Worth visiting for the view alone.
Castelmola
The single best panoramic viewpoint near Taormina. This hilltop village looks down over the entire coastline, with Taormina itself visible below. Pair it with a stop at Bar Turrisi for the almond wine.
Madonna della Rocca
A small sanctuary partway up the hillside toward Castelmola, offering an elevated view over Taormina without the full trip up to the village — a good option if you're short on time.
Isola Bella from above
The road and paths above Isola Bella beach give a striking bird's-eye view down onto the island and its sandbar — quite different from the ground-level view once you're actually on the beach.