Daydreaming in Italian
Table of Contents
Daydream of Sicily and you might see flashes of a beautiful piazza with an historic church overlooking a tranquil cove on the sea. From this piazza you envision a main walking thoroughfare of charming shops, restaurants and gelato bars that lead to an ancient Greco-Roman Amphitheater. This daydream is Taormina and it’s for REAL. An early spring morning can bring that tranquility, but be warned: This is a magnet for all the lovers of this daydream, and the Piazza IX Aprile leading to the shop-lined throughfare of Corso Umberto can be CLOGGED in summer. I’ve been blessed to have visited in both winter and summer, and both have their benefits. Below the Taormina is Isola Bella on the water. If an escape for some quiet time on the beach is needed, take the funicular down to relax with a brew or beverage.
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After entering under the arch of Arco di Porta Messina off of Via Luigi Pirandello, the old skinny path to the Greco-Roman Amphitheater will be just ahead on the left and it leads to the ticket booth. Once inside you’ll see the amphitheater that is still in use today! My daydream is seeing Andrea Bocelli perform there. Bring your wallet – the shopping is FABULOUS !
The Greco-Roman Amphitheater is a must see. Down Via Teatro Greco past the trinket and pottery shops you’ll find the bill. Once you enter the arena you can wander the ruins and maybe pull out that toga. The Taormina Greco-Roman theatre is thought to have been originally build around the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic period which was a time between the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC and the blossoming of the Roman Empire and the Roman ruler Augustus in Rome in the first century. They think the theatre might have been rebuild during the 3rd century AD by the Romans. In any case, it is historically beautiful.
The main entrance to Corso Umberto is through an ancient “porto”.
The other entrance to the village is Porta Catania near the main Piazza. Taormina itself is it’s own site. Wander the alleys and take in the views.
The Nitty Gritty ~
Piazza IX Aprile with the Chiesa de San Guiseppe (Cathedral), the famous Caffe Wunderbar and the beautiful view!
Palazzo Corveja is a medieval palace worth a quick stop. If a quiet hour is needed after the crowds head to the beach Spiaggia di Isola Bella.
The Greco-Roman Amphitheatre Teatro Antico di Taormina, off of Corso Umberto. Entrances to the old town are at each end of the village. Porta Catania on the east side near the cathedral and the Porto at the entrance of Corso Umberto.
Taormina is it’s own site. Stroll the lanes, have gelato and espresso and a cafe. Shop til you drop.
Getting there by Car – it’s exciting if you’re driving. Off of interstate E45 there will signs to exit. After the toll you will proceed on a crazy winding road up the hill through some tunnels. If you meet a tour bus your butt will be puckering. Hang tight and share the road. On the way up there are a few parking garages like Porta Catania parking, Near the Porta Catania entrance to the village. I’ve often gotten off the main road to park atParcheggio a Pagemento. Only a 10 minute walk to the entrance.
By Car from Catania, Messina or Palermo directions can be found here.
By Train – Trenitalia stops at the beautiful and historic “Liberty” style station of Taormina Giardini Naxos used in movies for it’s beauty. A TREAT! From there a bus takes you over to the beach or up to the town.
By Bus – you can arrive at the main bus terminal on Via Luigi Pirandello with Interbus and the schedules are here.
A Must – The Caffe Wunderbar on the main piazza
The Pub Taormina has a great selection.
Trendy and eclectic with a cool vibe is Morgana Bar
Espresso and yummy drinks Bar Trinacria.
Beach Area? Head on down to Lido La Pigna right on the water.
Mocambo Bar and Restaurant is perfectly situated off Corso Umberto with great food and decent prices. Has been awarded the Thirsty Explorer SSA stamp of approval for discriminating diners!
I like Il Ristorante La Buca. Food and wine were great and there is a nice outside terrace overlooking a garden and views of the sea.
Ristorante Pizzaria Taormina is more than a pizzaria. Live music and a beautiful view of the sea.
La Cisterna has a beautiful view and fine selection of homemade pasta, seafood and pizza
Seaside restaurant and retreats are Trattoria Il barcaiolo & dine like the other half at Belmond Resort’s Ristorante Sant’Andrea Taormina.
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