Welcome to the beautiful Taormina, a unique tourist destination that offers unforgettable experiences even for the little ones! If you are planning a vacation to Taormina with children, you are in the right place to discover everything this charming location has to offer to families. From magnificent cultural attractions to breathtaking views, as well as fun activities suitable for the little ones, this guide will take you on a memorable journey to discover Taormina with your children. Get ready to explore with your young travelers, because Taormina is ready to welcome you with its timeless magic!
Taormina with kids, let's start with the theater
The meaning of its name offers a fascinating starting point to explore this city. Tauromenium, the original denomination, literally translates to "dwelling on Mount Tauro." However, it is the captivating legends that add a touch of magic to this destination, giving us the opportunity to look at Taormina with new eyes. It is fascinating to discover that the roots of its name are linked to mythological creatures, such as the Minotaur, or figures like the princes Taurus and Mena, coming from Palestine, who would have contributed to the foundation of the city and its name. Regardless of the version, delving into mythology proves beneficial when traveling with children, and I can guarantee you that in Taormina, mythology is an integral part of the experience!
The Greek Theatre of Taormina stands out as the preeminent architectural masterpiece of the city. Originally designed to host dramatic and musical performances of Greek tradition, during the Roman era it underwent a transformation becoming an arena for gladiators and simulations of naval battles. Visiting the ancient Theatre of Taormina takes approximately an hour and a half. On hot summer days, it is recommended to explore the theater during the cooler hours, while at sunset it offers the perfect atmosphere to admire the scenery and capture evocative photographs.
At the entrance, you will have the option to purchase an audio guide at an additional cost. Fun audio guides designed specifically for children are also available, where kids can discover the history of this fascinating monument through mythological tales and legends.
It seems that the ancient theater has madly fallen in love with Mount Etna!
I advise you to avoid bringing the stroller inside and, if possible, leave it at the entrance; it is preferable to opt for a comfortable baby carrier or a baby sling! It is advisable to bring water and snacks with you, as dining options inside the theater are limited. Remember that on the first Sunday of each month, admission is free.
The Public Garden of Taormina is perfect for children
The Villa Comunale of Taormina is the green heart of the city, a charming, well-kept garden that offers a spectacular view of the gulf. It represents a valid alternative to the crowded tourist streets of the center, also providing a liberating space for children, where they can run and play among magnolias, hibiscus, and bougainvillea bushes.
Where to eat in Taormina with kids
Food has the power to bring everyone together, and ice cream or granita do it even more! However, not all bars and restaurants in Taormina live up to expectations. Some are overly touristy and should be avoided. If you want to taste a real Sicilian granita in a lively and typically "Sicilian" atmosphere, I recommend stopping by Bambar.
Recommended for lunch: Trattoria Don Ciccio or StriFud.
Where to swim in Taormina with children
The beaches of Taormina may not be particularly suitable for families. The coast, mainly characterized by pebbles and rocks, has a seabed that quickly becomes deep. However, if you visit Taormina, especially during the summer, a must-see stop is Isola Bella, a true nature reserve. Here, you can admire typical Mediterranean vegetation and observe some species of birds and other animals of great beauty.
To reach Isola Bella, you will have to go down a staircase of about a hundred steps, so using a stroller might be inconvenient. However, I can assure you that the short effort will be amply rewarded by the beauty of the landscape. The large inlet where the islet is located forms a sort of natural pool, perfect for children during the summer (make sure to have water shoes). It is advisable to avoid the hottest hours and the month of August, as the area can become very crowded.
For those looking for an alternative to the beaches of Taormina, the locations of Giardini Naxos (which I will talk about later) and Letojanni represent valid options.
Submarine Experience
For an extraordinary adventure that will capture the imagination of both the younger and older ones, do not miss the opportunity to explore the wonders underwater along the coast of Taormina aboard the Nemosub submarine. Children will be thrilled at the idea of diving into the marine depths and admiring up close the rich marine life of the Ionian Sea.
The journey begins from the port of Giardini Naxos and provides a panoramic view through the submarine's windows, allowing the whole family to observe fish with vibrant colors and picturesque marine landscapes. It is important to note that, for those suffering from claustrophobia, the submarine is not completely closed, offering the possibility to be outdoors and admire the coast directly from the sea.
Taormina and surroundings with children
A short distance from Taormina, you will find Giardini Naxos, a charming seaside resort with a lovely coastline, establishments, and services.
I highly recommend Giardini Naxos as an option for accommodation because, although costs are still significant during the summer months, they are generally more affordable compared to the lively Taormina.
The beaches, wide and fascinating, are particularly suitable for families. At Lido di Naxos, I highlight the presence of a sand playground, which makes the experience even more fun for children. Personally, we also visit it during the winter, and my kids love it!
Another fascinating location is Castelmola, a small village suspended between sky and sea, located a few kilometers from Taormina.
For fans of "The Godfather" by Francis Ford Coppola, the village of Savoca is a must-see, as some scenes of the famous film were shot at the historic Bar Vitelli. If you are passionate about the genre, you will certainly be satisfied. And for children? In Savoca, there is a fascinating thematic park called Kontiland, an artistic and cultural place immersed in greenery that reproduces Sicily in miniature, offering a fun and educational experience.
E per i bambini? A Savoca, c'è un affascinante parco tematico chiamato Kontiland, un luogo artistico-culturale immerso nel verde che riproduce la Sicilia in miniatura, offrendo un'esperienza divertente e educativa.
How to get to Taormina
Taormina is excellently connected with the main cities of Eastern Sicily and is located exactly halfway between Catania and Messina. It is important to note that Taormina is divided into two parts: the upper part, located on the top of the mountain, and the lower part, also known as Taormina mare. By car, it is possible to access both the upper and lower parts. The parking rates at Porta Catania, the closest parking to the center located near Corso Umberto, are available here.
A convenient alternative is represented by Parking Lumbi, from which you can reach the historic center via a comfortable shuttle. An equally valid option is to park the car in Taormina mare and reach Taormina alta through a convenient cable car, with the particularity that children under one meter do not pay.
Taormina is also easily accessible by train or bus, with numerous connections available from Catania and Messina stations.
Go to Mount Etna from Taormina
If you are staying in Taormina, you cannot miss a volcanic experience on Mount Etna. Choose the north side, which is the closest, and book a tour with SICILIA FAMILY TOUR: excursions and experiences that are 100% family friendly
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