Taormina and the east coast
Areas of Sicily
The Ionian Riviera runs down the east coast of Sicily, from the enchanting hill-top town of Taormina to the bustling lavastone city of Catania. In between them are charming seafront villages, a diverse range of evocative beaches, and a coastline of elemental, volcanic beauty. Surveying it all from on high is the magnificent, mythical wonder of Mount Etna, whose presence has shaped the entire area geologically, culturally, gastronomically and historically since time immemorial.
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The Ionian Riviera in more detail
The east coast of Sicily is at once dramatic and idyllic. Sea stacks, tiny islets, paradisiacal bays, cliffs, and transparent waters create an enchanting scene that never ceases to inspire.
The wide sandy sweep of the Gulf of Catania gives way to a ruggedly beautiful stretch of coastline, characterised by lavastone formations and small fishing villages, including Aci Castello, Santa Maria La Scala, and Aci Trezza. After a 9km-long stretch of beach between Riposto and Naxos, steep cliffs and rocky outcrops rise up from the sea, sheltering the bewitching pebbly-sandy bays of Isola Bella and Mazzarò below Taormina.
Things to see and do
- Explore Catania: an ideal starting point is the main square, Piazza Duomo, an architectural masterpiece dominated by the Cathedral of St. Agata and the iconic lava elephant fountain, symbolising the city's strength and resilience. Nearby, passing under the 17th-century arch of Porta Uzeda, is the colourful, boisterous fish market, a different world with an atmosphere that has changed little over the centuries.
- Lose yourself in Taormina: idyllically perched on a rocky promontory high above the sea, Taormina has been Sicily’s most popular tourist destination since it became part of the Grand Tour in the 19th century. Its main attractions include the stunning Graeco-Roman theatre, its picturesque and perfectly preserved web of pedestrianised streets and its enchanting views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. In the summer months, the theatre plays host to concerts, operas and cinema screenings. Because Taormina has so much history and so many things to see, we recommend the services of one of our expert private guides.
- Get up close with Mount Etna: any holiday spent in the east of Sicily should include a trip to mighty Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. If you're staying at one of our villas, why not let us arrange for an expert volcanologist guide to whisk you off to experience the power of the volcano and marvel at the remarkable landscapes. Alternatively, head to one of Etna's many wineries for lunch and a tasting?
- Cruise up the coast on a luxury yacht: arguably the best way to explore the Ionian Riviera’s enchanting coastline is on board one of our luxury charters. Your expert skipper will sail you up the coast to admire the inspiring views of Mount Etna, Taormina and Calabria on the mainland. You’ll stop off to swim in deserted bays, and the crew will prepare a delicious lunch accompanied by a bottle of wine made on Etna.
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