🇮🇹Taormina

Ancient Theatre of Taormina

This is one of those places that genuinely takes your breath away. The Teatro Antico was built in the 3rd century BC and later expanded by the Romans to seat around 10,000 people. What makes it extra special for families is that you get sweeping views of both Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea right from inside the theatre. Kids who are into history will love imagining the crowds who once filled these stone seats.

Isola Bella and the cable car

Isola Bella is a tiny islet connected to the shore by a narrow strip of pebbles, surrounded by crystal-clear water. It is Taormina's symbol for good reason. You can reach the beach below the cliffs by cable car, which is a fun experience in itself for kids. The nature reserve around the island is protected, so the water stays beautifully clear. Pack water shoes as the beach is pebbly.

Corso Umberto and Piazza IX Aprile

Taormina's pedestrianised main street is a joy to walk with kids. Corso Umberto runs through the heart of the historic centre past baroque churches, elegant palaces like Palazzo Corvajo, and more gelato shops than you can count. It leads you to Piazza IX Aprile, a stunning square with distinctive black and white tiles, sea views, and a clock tower. Grab a table at one of the cafés and let the kids watch the world go by.

Villa Comunale gardens

This lush public garden was originally designed by a British noblewoman in the English garden style, and it is completely free to enter. It is a great spot to let younger children run around while you take in the views of the sea and Mount Etna. There are shaded benches, exotic plants, and a genuinely peaceful atmosphere away from the busier streets. A perfect pit stop when little legs need a rest.

Mount Etna day trip

Europe's most active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site looms over Taormina and is one of the most memorable day trips you can do from the city. Seeing Etna's crater landscape feels like another planet, and kids absolutely love it. The lower slopes have forests and lava fields you can explore, while the upper areas offer more dramatic terrain. It is a full day out, so plan accordingly and bring layers as it gets cold at altitude.

Chiesa Madonna della Rocca

This hilltop church is built right into a cave on Monte Tauro, and the hike up to reach it is a mini adventure for families. The walk takes around 20 to 30 minutes on a steep path, but the panoramic views over Taormina and the sea from the top are absolutely worth it. It is a great way to burn off some energy and give kids a sense of achievement. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

The Naumachia

Tucked along one of Taormina's streets is this ancient Roman wall, believed to have been part of a large pool used for mock naval battles. It is not a big attraction, but it is a fascinating curiosity that sparks great conversations with curious kids. The sheer scale of the wall gives you a real sense of how impressive Roman engineering was. It is easy to visit as you walk through the historic centre.