Ciao travelers, and welcome to one of Sicily’s best-kept secrets!
Well, it’s not such a secret anymore since the town was recently popularized by the popular TV show, The White Lotus.
Perched on a cliffside, Taormina may be on the small side, but it’s absolutely massive on charm! I’m talking incredible views of the Ionian Sea glistening in the distance, cobblestone piazzas, and ancient ruins galore. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Italian destination without some scrumptious eats, so you can expect plenty of good food too!
When picking a place to unpack those bags, though, location is absolutely everything! After all, you want to savor those jaw-dropping views without breaking your budget or sacrificing your comfort, right? Well, don’t worry- I’m here to dish the dirt on the best places to stay in Taormina.
Whether your idea of fun is to lounge on the beach with your toes burrowed in the warm sand, mosey around ancient ruins, or dance the night away, I’ll guide you precisely on where to stay in Taormina.
So… Andiamo! (That’s Italian for ‘Let’s Go’!)
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Top 3 Recommendations for Where to Stay in Taormina
Are you planning a backpacking trip across Italy? Or perhaps you’re a fan of The White Lotus and want to check out all those incredible filming locations for yourself?
Then, be sure to check out my top 3 recommendations for the best places to stay in Taormina!
Hotel Metropole Taormina | Best Hotel in Taormina
Housed in a former noble residence that dates back to the 18th century, Hotel Metropole Taormina features generously sized rooms, some with ocean views.
Spend a day lounging on the beautiful Taormina Coast or explore attractions like the Villa Comunale and the Riserva Naturale Orientata Fiume Fiumefreddo.
You can also treat yourself to a meal at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, which specializes in Sicilian cuisine.
Centrally Located House for 2 | Best Airbnb in Taormina
A quaint retreat located smack in the heart of Taormina, this house comfortably sleeps two in a cozy bedroom.
There’s also a sofa bed in the living room if you need to squeeze in a couple of extra guests.
Offering classic home comforts like a well-equipped kitchen, this is undoubtedly one of our cherished stays in Italy.
It’s also really close to the Villa Comunale, Corso Umberto, the Teatro Antico, and the White Lotus’ main filming location! You’ll also be close to some of Taormina’s most renowned clubs.
Gianni House Backpackers Hostel | Best Hostel in Taormina
Located just 3 km from Taormina’s vibrant center, his hostel offers mixed and single-sex dorm rooms that won’t break the bank!
If you’re traveling with your family or would rather have your own private space, rest assured that the hostel also features private single, double, or quadruple rooms.
Various on-site amenities await, including a rooftop terrace, patio, common room, computer room, and even bicycle rentals.
Giardini Naxos
Traveling on a budget and wondering where to stay in Taormina? How about the seaside town of Giardini Naxos? While it’s not located in Taormina per se, it’s just a quick, 20 minute drive away.
Centro Storico
Ah, Old Town Taormina. The epicenter of everything fun and exciting! Also referred to as Centro Storico, the Old Town isn’t just a great spot for taking in that Sicilian nightlife, but it’s also one of the most historically significant areas of Taormina.
Letojanni
If you’re wondering why Letojanni made this list of the best places to stay in Taormina, wait until you see this scenic seaside resort for yourself!
With a smallish population of around 11,000 residents, Taormina is quite a compact town. As such, it’s quite easy to take in the best sights in just a day! There’s no denying that the town is super walkable, but remember to bring your best hiking shoes since Taormina has quite hilly and rocky terrain.
Most neighborhoods in Taormina tend to be quite close together, but if you want to be smack where the action is, there’s no better destination than the Old Town. Locally known as Centro Storico, this area is awash with pubs, restaurants, and shops galore!
Traveling on a limited budget? Then I would suggest dropping anchor at Giardini Naxos, a truly charming oceanfront commune located just a short drive from Taormina’s center.
Speaking of the ocean, you may also wish to check out Letojanni, another seaside village that’s found just 6 kilometers from Taormina. An excellent summer destination, this area in Sicily houses lively piazzas and folk music performances.
3 Best Areas to Stay in Taormina
Now that you know a bit more about Taormina, let’s take a deeper dive into each neighborhood!
1. Giardini Naxos – Where to Stay in Taormina on a Budget
Backpacking on a budget and wondering where to stay in Taormina? How about the seaside town of Giardini Naxos?
While it’s not located in Taormina per se, it’s just a quick 20-minute drive away. Best of all, this area is known for its laid-back vibes and affordable accommodations. Perfect for travelers who want to experience the very best of Taormina without burning a hole in their pocket!
Be sure to amble through Lungomare, a lively area fringed by pizzerias, boutiques, lidos, and bars. In the evening, the promenade flares to life, and virtually everyone – tourists and locals alike – spills outside to socialize over drinks while watching the sunset.
In addition to being a pretty affordable town, Giardini Naxos is known for its awesome festivals. If you’ve ever attended a festival in Italy, you’ll know that no one knows how to throw a great cultural event quite like the Italians.
I mean, have you ever been to Giardini’s Sagra del Pesce (the fish kermis)? Everybody comes together to celebrate the local fishing heritage and taste varieties of seafood.
In August, you can catch the Festa di San Pancrazio festival which celebrates the town’s patron saint with lively processions.
Hotel San Giovanni | Best Hotel in Giardini Naxos
I sure hope you’re ready to live it up by the shoreline because this hotel comes with its very own private beach area!
One of the best places to stay in Taormina, Hotel San Giovanni offers various room configurations, including an Economy Double or Twin room. Groups and families can always opt for the Junior Suite, which can accommodate up to four guests.
Best of all, there’s a bus stop right outside the hotel where you can catch a ride to Taormina’s lively center!
Oceanfront Apartment for Two | Best Airbnb in Giardini Naxos
Located in the historic city center, this oceanfront apartment is well-suited to couples and solo travelers.
With a stay in this apartment, you’ll be just a short drive from Taormina’s most coveted attractions, like the Teatro Antico di Taormina and the Duomo di Taormina.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the apartment to relax on the balcony overlooking the ocean. If you don’t feel like heading out to eat, you can always take advantage of the well-equipped kitchen.
Gianni House Backpackers Hostel | Best Hostel in Giardini Naxos
Located just 3 km from Taormina’s vibrant center, his hostel offers mixed and single-sex dorm rooms that won’t break the bank!
If you’re traveling with your family or would rather have your own private space, rest assured that the hostel also features private single, double, or quadruple rooms.
Various on-site amenities await, including a rooftop terrace, patio, common room, computer room, and even bicycle rentals.
Experiencing hostel life is far and away one of the best ways to travel the world on a budget.
We’ve created this Hostel Life Guide to help you book awesome accommodation, make great friends, and travel around the world all the while saving on your dollaridoos!
Things to Do in Giardini Naxos
- Admire Mount Etna and the Taormina coastline on a scenic boat ride.
- Visit the Naxos Archeological Park, which once housed Sicily’s first Greek Colony.
- Grab your best hiking boots and head up to the medieval village of Castelmola, which is perched on a hilltop.
- Take a semi-submarine trip to Isola Bella.
- Go body-rafting on the Alcantara Gorges.
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Centro Storico – Where to Stay in Taormina for Nightlife
Also known as Centro Storico, Old Town Taormina isn’t just a great spot for taking in Sicilian nightlife; it’s also one of the most historically significant areas of Taormina.
Oodles of history beckon from the medieval buildings speckled along the quaint cobblestone lanes. This neighborhood is also home to the popular Corso Umberto Lane. Known for its incredible shops, restaurants, and stalls, this area is ideal for a chill weekend in Italy.
There are heaps of venues to explore after dark, including BamBar Taormina, the Re di Bastoni brewery, and the famous Daiquiri Lounge, which is said to be among the best haunts in the area.
If you’re visiting Taormina in the summer, you can also head over to the Teatro Antico di Taormina. It offers an extensive range of outdoor shows, including theatrical events, pop concerts, and string quartet performances. That’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique Sicilian culture!
Hotel Metropole Taormina | Best Hotel in Centro Storico
Housed in a former noble residence that dates back to the 18th century, Hotel Metropole Taormina features generously sized rooms, some with sea views.
Spend a day lounging on the beautiful Taormina Coast or explore attractions like the Villa Comunale and the Riserva Naturale Orientata Fiume Fiumefreddo.
You can also treat yourself to a meal at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, which specializes in Sicilian cuisine.
Centrally Located House for 2 | Best Airbnb in Centro Storico
A quaint retreat located smack in the heart of Taormina, this house comfortably sleeps two in a cozy bedroom.
There’s also a sofa bed in the living room if you need to squeeze in a couple of extra guests.
Offering classic home comforts like a well-equipped kitchen, this space is located near many popular attractions.
It’s close to the Villa Comunale, Corso Umberto, the Teatro Antico, and the White Lotus’ main filming location! You’ll also be close to some of Taormina’s most renowned clubs.
Hostel Taormina Homstel | Best Hostel in Centro Storico
Commanding an excellent location in one of the liveliest Taormina neighborhoods, this hostel features both mixed and single-sex dorms.
Each bed is fitted with privacy curtains, a socket, a locker, a safe, and even a reading light.
Travelers who would rather have their own space can always opt for the on-site apartment with private bathrooms. On-site amenities include a shared kitchen, a lounge bar, and a sprawling terrace with gorgeous city views.
Things to Do in Centro Storico
- Take a local cooking class, so you can easily replicate those scrumptious dishes back home.
- Visit the Piazza Duomo, home to a Medieval cathedral and Baroque fountain.
- Stroll through the Piazza IX Aprile, a vibrant square that houses the Greek Theatre, restaurants, and bars offering traditional granitas.
- Have a pint at Re di Bastoni Pub, known for its lively evenings and extensive selection of beers.
- Enjoy appetizers and aromatic cocktails at Daiquiri Lounge, a popular cocktail and wine bar located on a beautiful staircase.
3. Letojanni – Coolest Neighborhood in Taormina
If you’re wondering why Letojanni made this list of the best places to stay in Taormina, wait until you see this scenic seaside resort for yourself!
Located just 6 kilometers north of Taormina, this neighborhood is one of Italy’s hidden gems and it has a pretty unbeatable location. Not only does it offer proximity to some of the most beautiful golf courses in town, but you’ll also be close to the ocean and exciting city pursuits.
More importantly, this destination enjoys abundant sunshine. You’ll be able to go for a dip in that glorious Ionian sea whenever the mood strikes!
While Letojanni originally started as an unnamed fishing village, it has since become one of the most popular attractions in Taormina. There’s plenty to see there, including turn-of-the-century buildings like the Palazzo Durante and the Villa Hauser.
In my opinion, the best time to visit Letojanni is in the summer, when you can wander the atmospheric piazzas while enjoying fresh gelato. Summer also sees the arrival of various activities and festivals, including local folk music performances.
Albatros Beach Hotel | Best Hotel in Letojanni
Set right opposite a private beach, the Albatros Beach Hotel offers Economy and Standard Rooms that can accommodate 1-2 guests. Family rooms add extra beds for up to four people.
Fuel up with a scrumptious complimentary breakfast in the morning before exploring nearby attractions like the Alcantara River Park.
As the evening settles in, you can always head to the hotel’s on-site restaurant.
Hostel Beach House | Best Hostel in Letojanni
Located just a 10-minute’ drive from Letojanni, Hostel Beach House offers spacious and comfortable dorms just a few steps from the ocean.
With a stay at the hostel, you’ll be just a short distance from the Villa Comunale and Mount Etna.
The hostel does provide a shared kitchen, but with some of Letojanni’s best eateries practically on your doorstep, why bother cooking, right?
Charming Apartment with Pool | Best Airbnb in Letojanni
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Taormina, I can absolutely vouch for this apartment!
Overlooking the Gulf of Taormina, this space offers private beach access and a seasonal swimming pool. The bedroom can accommodate up to two guests, but you’ll also find a sofa bed in the living room for a couple of extra friends.
After spending the day on the beach, you can always whip up a meal in the kitchen or treat yourself to dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
Things to Do in Letojanni
- Visit the Godfather filming locations.
- Relax on La Spiaggia Libera di Letojanni, a beautiful pebbled beach popular for paragliding, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.
- Treat yourself to a fun night out at the Horn Pub.
- Escape the crowds with a refreshing stroll at the Villa Comunale Gardens.
- Embark on a wine tasting experience.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Taormina
And don’t forget to take out travel insurance for your trip! Taormina is safe, but if you’re anything like me, you WILL need insurance. Stay protected and get insured for maximum peace of mind.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Taormina
Holy cannoli – it looks like we’ve come to the end of our little neighborhood tour!
Your vacation casa can easily make or break your trip, which is why it’s crucial to make the best possible choice. I hope this guide helped you decide where to stay in Taormina, but don’t worry if you’re still on the fence: the town is quite compact, so everything’s pretty close together!
If you need to narrow it down to one, I would recommend staying in the Centro Storico, a place that’s brimming with good ol’ Italian charm and excellent accommodation options like the Hotel Metropole Taormina.
Photo: @audyscala
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