Where to stay in Taormina without a car? In this article, we will look at the best areas to stay in Taormina without a car (include map), how to get around without a car, and the best hotels in Taormina without a car for all budget visitors.
Can you get around Taormina without a car? Yes, it is possible to get around Taormina without a car. It is a small walkable town, and many of its attractions are easily accessible on foot or via public transportation, making it possible to enjoy the area without needing a car.
Taormina is a charming and picturesque town located on the east coast of the island of Sicily, Italy. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby Mount Etna, an active volcano.
Taormina boasts a rich history, with various historical sites and ruins to explore. The most famous is the ancient Greek Theater of Taormina, which dates back to the 3rd century BC and offers breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Etna.
The town’s elevated location provides spectacular vistas of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding coastline. The lush greenery and colorful flowers that adorn the town’s streets add to its natural beauty.
Taormina offers a range of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving delicious Sicilian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local dishes like pasta alla norma and arancini while taking in the charming ambiance.
While Taormina itself is situated on a hill, there are nearby beaches such as Isola Bella, a small island nature reserve, and Giardini Naxos, a coastal town with sandy beaches.
Taormina is a convenient base for exploring Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. Guided tours are available for those who want to hike or take a cable car to explore the volcano’s unique landscapes.
The historic center of Taormina is characterized by narrow winding streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. It’s a great place for leisurely walks and discovering the town’s character.
Villa Comunale public garden offers another excellent vantage point for views of the sea and Mount Etna. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Where to stay in Taormina without a car?
The best areas to stay in Taormina without a car are Taormina Historic Center, Mazzarò, Castelmola, Letojanni, Giardini Naxos, Trappitello, and Calatabiano. These areas are easily explored on foot and easily accessible public transportation.
In general, Taormina Historic Center is the overall best area to stay in Taormina for first-time travelers. It is the heart of the city and the most popular area for tourists. It’s home to many hotels, restaurants, shops, and historic sites like the Ancient Theatre of Taormina.
Map of the best areas and neighborhoods in Taormina without a car:
Overviews of best areas to stay in Taormina without a car
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Taormina without a car and why you should stay in each area:
| Best areas in Taormina without a car | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Taormina Historic Center | Staying in the historic center of Taormina allows you to be in the heart of the town’s charm. You’ll have easy access to restaurants, shops, historic sites like the Greek Theater, and stunning viewpoints. |
| Mazzarò | Mazzarò is located downhill from Taormina’s historic center and is known for its beautiful beach. It’s a more relaxed area, and you can easily access the beach clubs, restaurants, and the cable car that takes you up to the historic center. |
| Castelmola | This picturesque village is perched on a hill above Taormina and offers spectacular views of the coast. It’s a quieter option with a more local atmosphere. Keep in mind that getting to and from Castelmola may require some steep walks or taxi rides. |
| Letojanni | Letojanni is a coastal town located a short distance south of Taormina. It’s less crowded and more affordable than Taormina itself. You can easily reach Taormina by bus or taxi if you want to explore the historic center. |
| Giardini Naxos | Giardini Naxos is another coastal town located north of Taormina. It’s known for its beaches and waterfront restaurants. You can take a bus or taxi to Taormina when you want to explore the historic center. |
| Trappitello | Trappitello is a quieter area located inland from Taormina. It’s a more residential area and may offer a more peaceful atmosphere. However, you’ll need to rely on public transportation or taxis to get to the town center. |
| Calatabiano | Calatabiano is a small town known for its medieval castle, which is worth a visit. While it’s not as convenient as staying in Taormina itself, it can provide a unique and quieter experience. |
How to get around Taormina without a car as a tourist?
Getting to and around Taormina without a car is quite manageable, as this charming town in Sicily has a well-developed transportation system.
If you’re arriving by air, you can take an airport shuttle or taxi from Catania’s Fontanarossa Airport to Taormina. If you arrive by train from Catania or Messina to Taormina-Giardini, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to reach the center of Taormina.
Here are some tips on how to navigate within the town without a car:
Walking:
Taormina’s historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many of the town’s attractions, shops, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance apart, so you can easily exploring on foot.
Public Transportation:
Taormina is connected to nearby towns and cities by public buses. You can use the bus system to travel to places like Giardini Naxos, Catania, Messina, and other nearby destinations. The bus station in Taormina is conveniently located near the town center.
Cable Car:
To access the beautiful beaches below Taormina, you can take the Taormina Cable Car (Funicolare) down to Mazzarò Beach. The cable car departs from the center of Taormina and provides easy access to the coast.
Taxis:
While taxis are more expensive than public transportation, they are available in Taormina and can be a convenient way to get around if you want to reach specific destinations quickly.
Tourist Shuttle:
Some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services to popular tourist attractions and nearby towns. Check with your accommodation or local tour providers for information on available shuttle services.
Bicycles and Scooters:
If you’re comfortable with cycling or riding a scooter, you can rent one to explore the town and nearby areas at your own pace. Just be aware that some of the roads can be steep and winding.
Hiking:
Taormina is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. If you enjoy hiking, you can explore some of the nearby trails and paths on foot.
7 Best areas to stay in Taormina without a car are:
1. Taormina Historic Center
Taormina Historic Center is the overall best area to stay in Taormina for car-free travelers and first-timers. You’ll be within walking distance of Taormina’s major attractions, including the Greek Theater, Palazzo Corvaja, and the Duomo. This means you can explore the town’s historic sites at your own pace.
The historic center is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and colorful buildings. It’s a charming area to wander around, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy traditional Sicilian cuisine at local restaurants.
Many accommodations in the historic center offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it a romantic and scenic place to stay.
Taormina’s historic center is bustling with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and excellent restaurants serving Sicilian cuisine. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in shopping and dining.
While you won’t need a car to explore the historic center itself, it’s well-connected to other parts of Sicily by public transportation. You can easily take buses or taxis to nearby towns and attractions.
However, if you have heavy luggage, be prepared for some uphill walks and steps, as the center is situated on a hillside.
Best places to stay in Taormina Historic Center without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): NH Collection Taormina
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Villa Paradiso
- Budget ($): Hotel Continental
2. Mazzarò
Mazzarò is one of the best locations to stay in Taormina for car-free travelers who want to combine beach relaxation with easy access to the cultural and historic attractions of Taormina.
Mazzarò is a beautiful and popular coastal area in Taormina, located just downhill from the historic center of Taormina. It’s known for its stunning beach and offers a different atmosphere compared to the bustling streets of the town center.
Mazzarò is home to one of the most picturesque beaches in Sicily. The clear blue waters of the Ionian Sea and the backdrop of lush green hills make it a relaxing and scenic spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Just off the coast of Mazzarò is Isola Bella, a small island nature reserve. You can reach it by a short boat ride or by wading through the shallow waters when the tide is low. The island is a haven for nature lovers and offers hiking trails and beautiful views.
Mazzarò is connected to the historic center of Taormina by a cable car, making it easy to visit the town’s attractions, dine at its restaurants, and explore its shops. The ride itself provides breathtaking views of the coastline.
Mazzarò boasts several restaurants and bars right along the waterfront where you can enjoy delicious Sicilian seafood and other cuisine while taking in the sea views.
Best places to stay in Taormina in Mazzarò without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Mazzarò Sea Palace – VRetreats
- Mid-range ($$): Taormina Panoramic Hotel
- Budget ($): ToviMar Apartments
3. Castelmola
Castelmola is a charming hilltop village perched above Taormina, and is a unique place to stay for those seeking a traditional Sicilian experience and a more off-the-beaten-path experience while still having easy access to the attractions of Taormina.
Castelmola is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. The vistas from this elevated village are among the most spectacular in the region, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Staying in Castelmola provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in local Sicilian culture. You can visit the village’s historic sites, such as the Castello di Castelmola (Castle of Castelmola), and interact with the friendly locals who often gather in the central square.
The surrounding hills and countryside offer excellent hiking opportunities. You can explore nature trails and enjoy scenic walks in the vicinity of Castelmola.
However, it’s important to note that Castelmola is located on a hill, and getting there can involve steep uphill walks or a taxi ride if you have heavy luggage. While it’s close to Taormina, you’ll need to travel down to Taormina to access its historic center and beaches
Best places to stay in Taormina in Castelmola without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Villa Sonia
- Mid-range ($$): Villa Regina
- Budget ($): Borgo Medievale
4. Letojanni
Letojanni is a charming coastal town located just a short distance south of Taormina. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a more relaxed and budget-friendly coastal destination while still having the convenience of easy access to Taormina’s attractions.
Letojanni boasts a long stretch of sandy beach along the Ionian Sea. It’s known for its clear waters and is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
While not as elevated as Taormina or Castelmola, Letojanni offers beautiful sea views and a more relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy stunning sunsets over the water.
Accommodations in Letojanni tend to be more budget-friendly compared to some places in Taormina, making it an attractive option for travelers on a budget.
Letojanni has a pleasant waterfront promenade where you can take leisurely strolls, enjoy gelato, or have a drink at one of the cafes overlooking the sea.
Letojanni is well-connected by buses and trains, making it easy to explore other parts of Sicily without the need for a car.
Best places to stay in Taormina in Letojanni without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Albatros Beach Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Park Hotel Silemi
- Budget ($): Hotel Sylesia
5. Giardini Naxos
Giardini Naxos is a delightful coastal town in Sicily, located just north of Taormina. It’s a popular destination for tourists and offers its own unique charm and attractions.
Giardini Naxos is known for its long and sandy beaches, which are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea make it a great spot for beach lovers.
The town has a pleasant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a meal with a sea view, or sample some gelato.
Giardini Naxos is considered one of the oldest Greek settlements in Sicily. You can explore archaeological sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Naxos, which add historical and cultural depth to your visit.
Giardini Naxos is conveniently located near Taormina, and you can easily reach Taormina’s historic center by car, bus, or taxi. This allows you to enjoy both the coastal charm of Giardini Naxos and the cultural attractions of Taormina.
Giardini Naxos has good transportation connections, including a train station and a bus terminal, making it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Sicily.
Best places to stay in Taormina in Giardini Naxos without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Nautilus Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Delta Hotels by Marriott Giardini Naxos
- Budget ($): B&B Marranzano
6. Trappitello
Trappitello is a small village located inland from Taormina. It offers a quieter and more residential atmosphere compared to the coastal towns of Giardini Naxos, Letojanni, and Mazzarò, which are closer to the sea.
Staying in Trappitello allows you to experience life in a typical Sicilian village. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Accommodations in Trappitello tend to be more budget-friendly compared to the more touristy areas closer to the coast.
Trappitello is located just a short drive from Taormina, making it easy to access the town’s historic center. You can also use public transportation or taxis to reach Taormina and nearby areas.
Best places to stay in Taormina without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): B&B Villa Chiara Bed and Breakfast
- Budget ($): Don Vittorio Country Village
- Budget ($): Sicily in Love – Rooms & Breakfast
7. Calatabiano
Calatabiano is a charming town in Sicily, situated to the south of Taormina. It offers a unique and quieter experience compared to some of the more well-known tourist destinations in the area.
The town is home to the Calatabiano Castle, a medieval fortress with a rich history. Staying in Calatabiano allows you to explore this historic site and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Calatabiano is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including vineyards and citrus groves. It’s a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the region and taking leisurely walks in the lush landscapes.
Best places to stay in Taormina in Calatabiano without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Marty Luxury B&B
- Budget ($): Antico Borgo Etneo Agriturismo
See more: Where to stay in Sicily
In conclusion, Taormina Historic Center, Mazzarò, Castelmola, Letojanni, Giardini Naxos, Trappitello, and Calatabiano are the best places to stay in Taormina without a car. These areas are walkable and easily accessible by public transport, making them great locations for car-free travelers in Taormina.