11 Best Places to stay in Taormina Italy

If Sicily is on your travel list, chances are Taormina is already calling your name. We’ve been to this clifftop town, and dare we say it has everything. Sweeping views of the sea? Delectable food? History at every corner? Check, check, and check. But here’s a secret: your stay isn’t just about where you go, but it’s also about where you unwind at the end of the day. Today, we’re going to show you some of the best places to stay in Taormina Sicily. We’ve explored this seaside city’s hotel scene, and the following are the top-tier. From boutique gems to luxury stays, they’ll help you soak up the city’s charm in the best way possible.

Hotel Villa Belvedere

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Perched high on the cliffs of Taormina, Hotel Villa Belvedere is the kind of place that will instantly make you drop your jaw. When we first arrived, we could immediately tell that we were welcomed with warm Italian hospitality. After checking in, we immediately drop our stuff in our Junior Suite. It was spacious and had a balcony with gorgeous sea views.

Most of our days fell into a blissful routine. We would linger over breakfast in the dining room, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while gazing out at the gardens and sea. By midday, you would find us by the pool, stretched out on a sunbed surrounded by terraced gardens. Lunch by the pool was also a highlight. We had simple, traditional dishes that tasted even better under the warm sun.

What about the location? A short stroll from the hotel led us into buzzing streets filled with restaurants, bars, and little shops begging to be explored. And on days when we craved the beach, we could easily swap the cliffs for the coastline thanks to the hotel’s convenient shuttle service.

Speaking of which, have you read our list of the best hotels in Taormina on the beach?

The Ashbee Hotel

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The Ashbee Hotel had us immediately hooked once we walked through its citrus-filled gardens. Sitting just steps from the ancient Greek theater, the hotel is nothing short of Sicilian, but with an unexpected English twist. Once the villa of a British colonel, the place carries this quirky, old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s elegant but slightly eccentric home.

Each of the 24 rooms has its own character, and that’s what we loved most. Bright white walls, airy curtains, and crisp sheets make the spaces glow, while small bursts of color keep things playful. Our favorite moments were sitting by the windowed alcove, coffee in hand, watching the coastline stretch endlessly.

Now, let’s talk about the pool. It’s an infinity-edge beauty that feels like it spills straight into the sea. Add in the palms swaying overhead, and you’ve got a little slice of paradise. We also loved spending our evenings on the terrace, followed by a Michelin-starred dinner at St. George by Heinz Beck. Dining outside under the summer sky was the perfect way to call it a day.

Excelsior Palace Hotel

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We still remember the first time we arrived at the Excelsior Palace Hotel, as we couldn’t help but pause and just take it all in. Perched high on a clifftop, the views of the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna were surreal. Being right in the heart of the city was also amazing. We were able to complete our go-to list easily.

Our favorite part of the stay? Without question, dinner on the terrace. The food was delicious, and being accompanied by the waves and glittering lights made our experience even more amazing. The whole place has this romantic charm that makes slowing down feel effortless. And when the sun was out, we loved lounging by the Olympic-sized pool hidden inside a Mediterranean park.

The rooms at this hotel are nothing short of elegant. Ours came with a big bed we sank right into and a sparkling bathroom with everything we needed. If you’re lucky enough to grab a suite, do it. The views of Mount Etna are unforgettable.

Hotel Metropole Taormina

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We had always associated Sicily with rustic charm and timeless earthiness, so stepping into Hotel Metropole Taormina was a complete surprise. Inside, it’s a bold mix of heritage and modern Italian elegance. The balance between old-world grandeur and sleek, contemporary design instantly set the tone for a very special stay.

It’s wild to think this grand hotel had been closed for decades, because during our stay, it felt completely reborn. The interiors struck us right away. We adored the polished marble floors, meaningful antiques, and sleek Poltrona Frau pieces. It wasn’t cold or overdone, though. The clean lines and soft color palette gave it a relaxed sophistication.

And then there was the view. Most rooms look straight out to the sea, but nothing compares to floating in that infinity pool, staring at the Bay of Naxos. Not to mention, the hotel also boasts a wonderful spa with hammam, hot tub, and pampering massage services.

Hotel Villa Ducale

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Most Romantic. At first, we didn’t really know what to expect from Hotel Villa Ducale. But after our trip, we can confidenly say it’s one of the most enchanting and romantic hotels in Taormina. Take your loved one to the terrace, and you’ll both be awed by the glittering sea on one side and Mount Etna on the other. Sure, you can take the steep steps down into Taormina, but we chose to take advantage of the hotel’s free shuttle. It saved our legs for exploring the town itself!

Breakfast was something we always looked forward to. Every morning, we were spoiled with plates of homemade Sicilian treats. Think flaky pastries, fresh fruit, strong coffee, plus jaw-dropping views. The hotel also had food available all day and even put on a lively cocktail buffet in the evenings. Between that, the pool, and the peaceful garden, we often wondered if we really needed to leave at all!

Our lovely room was just as dreamy as the rest of the hotel. Decorated in soft shades with chic Art Deco touches, it was warm yet indulgent. Meanwhile, the rooftop terrace was our little hideaway, complete with a sunken mosaic tub and views that made us pinch ourselves. The Etro sheets, Bose speakers, and pillow menu were the cherry on top.

Casa Turchetti

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Up next is Casa Turchetti, one of the best places to stay in Taormina Sicily tucked inside a 19th-century residence. It’s bursting with Sicilian charm: tiled floors, antique furniture, and dreamy linens that make you want to sink into bed early. Our suite had a four-poster bed and a private balcony where we spent slow mornings with coffee, watching the town come alive. It was both grand and cozy at the same time.

Location-wise, we couldn’t have asked for better. Step outside and you’re right in the heart of Taormina, wandering the cobbled streets, stumbling on little piazzas, and of course strolling Corso Umberto with its shops and cafes. After exploring all day, it was such a treat to return “home” to Casa Turchetti.

The rooftop terrace, though, was where the magic happened. From up there, the views stretched across rooftops to the sea, and we couldn’t resist heading back every evening with a glass of wine in hand. Romantic is an understatement. Casa Turchetti makes it almost impossible not to fall in love with the city.

La Plage Resort

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Still wondering where to stay in Taormina Italy? Take a look at La Plange Resort. Tucked along a quiet, picture-perfect beach, this resort has a chic yet laid-back vibe that instantly makes you feel like you’re on holiday. Our Deluxe Double Room overlooked the bay of Isola Bella, and waking up to those views was unreal. The room was sleek and elegant, with plenty of glass letting the light in.

Our days at the resort were both relaxing and adventurous. We loved starting off with long coastal walks, then hopping on the cable car (just a 10-minute stroll away) to explore the historic center of Taormina. Back at La Plage, we loved dining on the terrace, with Mediterranean dishes that tasted even better paired with the sea breeze and twinkling views.

And then there was the spa. Between the Turkish bath, hydromassage showers, and chromotherapy, we were renewed! One afternoon, we booked an outdoor massage in the gazebo overlooking the water, and it was hands down one of the most relaxing experiences of our trip.

Taodomus Boutique Hotel

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Best Boutique. We didn’t come to Taodomus Boutique Hotel expecting grandeur or sweeping gardens, and we surely didn’t miss them one bit. Being right on the Corso, we had everything we wanted just a stone’s throw away. Cafes, bars, little boutiques—everything was right at our doorstep. Nights in Taormina can be lively, but the moment we closed our window, it was pure silence.

The staff here was also helpful. Every suggestion, from tucked-away trattorias to must-see corners of town, was spot-on. One night during our stay, one of the bartenders called us all up to the terrace to see Mount Etna erupting. Standing there with a cocktail, watching fiery lava streak across the sky, was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

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This hotel has only nine rooms in total. While not huge, they’re so thoughtfully put together. The clean whites and creams in our room were lifted by bold pieces of abstract art, giving each space its own little personality. Smart details like sliding doors and long shelves also made it easy to settle in without tripping over our things. Even the compact bathrooms worked perfectly with their sleek walk-in showers.

San Domenico Palace

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Best Pool Suite. Want to pamper yourself with luxury and convenience? San Domenico Palace is the place to be. First, let’s talk about its location. Even though it’s right in the center of Taormina, it somehow feels hidden away. We could easily explore the charming little streets, peek into ceramic shops, then slip back behind the old monastery walls into quiet gardens bursting with bougainvillea. From there, the sea stretched endlessly below us.

This hotel has the signature Four Seasons magic, but with a distinctly Sicilian charm. We loved lounging by the 21-meter infinity pool, arguably the most beautiful we’ve ever seen in Taormina. The Botanica pop-up spa is also a can’t-miss. And the food! Dinner at Principe Cerami was certainly a highlight, with flavors that captured the soul of Sicily. That pistachio risotto alone was worth the trip.

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For us, it was go big or go home. Obviously, staying at a hotel this lovely, we had to go big. So, we decided to book one of the Sea-View Studio Suites in the renovated 19th-century wing. What we loved the most about our suite, aside from the gorgeous view, was the private plunge pool! Talk about luxury! If you stay in the old monks’ wing, you’ll find frescoes above the doors and garden views.

“Our suite is ‘the’ accommodation to book. If you’re after the ultimate self-pampering, there’s no reason not to choose it.”

WOW Travel

Hotel Villa Schuler

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Hotel Villa Schuler is easily one of the best places to stay in Taormina Sicily. It allowed us to soak up the commune’s magic with ease. Every corner of the property was designed for slowing down, from the lush gardens to the sweeping terraces that frame views of the sea and Mount Etna. And if you have time, feel free to hike Mount Etna, one of the top things to do in Sicily.

One of our favorite moments here was spending an afternoon on the rooftop lounge. With the Mediterranean stretching out in front of us, it was easy to lose track of time. Whether you’re unwinding or sipping a glass of wine, that rooftop retreat is the definition of serenity. The gardens are just as enchanting. In fact, the hotel is home to over 350 plant species!

Beyond the beauty, what really set it apart for us was its thoughtful approach to hospitality. The service was genuinely warm, and we loved learning about the hotel’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. It made staying here feel not just indulgent, but also responsible.

Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel

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Best Luxury. Sometimes, there are things you can only experience at luxury hotels like the Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel. This 5-star property had everything we wanted, and a lot more. The terrace alone was enough to steal our hearts! Mount Etna rising in the background, the pool shimmering in the sun, and a pianist playing as couples swayed on the balcony with Negronis in hand. It was simply glamorous.

Our Deluxe Junior Suite carried the same magic. The marble bathroom was elegant, the walls draped in soft silk wallpaper, and the terrace became our favorite spot to spend our morning and night. And after a good night’s sleep, we would go down to savor the breakfast. Granita with brioche, sugar-dusted pastries, endless cups of tea. There was no sweeter way to start the day.

Speaking of dining, we also loved our experience at Otto Geleng. That meal was out of this world. Oil lamps flickered while plates of seafood filled the table. And though Taormina’s ancient streets and amphitheater were just outside, the hotel’s gardens, pool, yoga classes, and spa made it hard for us to leave the hotel.

For other luxurious options, here are the 11 top villas in Sicily for rent!

Our Verdict!

Still wondering where to stay in Taormina? Take a look at our summary below to make your decision easier! We’ve categorized some of the best options based on these key factors.

• Best Luxury: Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel
• Best Pool Suite: San Domenico Palace
• Best Boutique: Taodomus Boutique Hotel
• Most Romantic: Hotel Villa Ducale

Where to Stay in Taormina, Italy

If you want to be in the heart of Taormina, the Historic Centre around Corso Umberto is hard to beat. This area puts you right in the middle of everything, from boutique shops and lively cafes to incredible historic landmarks like the Ancient Greek Theatre. The streets are full of charm, with cobblestones, old-world architecture, and plenty of spots to simply sit and people-watch.

For a seaside escape, consider Mazzarò or the area around Isola Bella. This coastal stretch is postcard-perfect, with dramatic views of the Ionian Sea, small pebble beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busier city center. The real bonus is that the funicular connects you directly to the historic center, so you can easily enjoy both beach life and sightseeing.

However, if you’re looking for something more relaxed and budget-friendly, Giardini Naxos (or nearby Letojanni) offers great value. Here, you’ll find longer sandy beaches and a laid-back holiday vibe, perfect for travelers who want to stretch out by the sea without breaking the bank. Accommodations are generally more affordable, and you still have easy access to Taormina’s center by bus or taxi.

How many days is enough in Taormina?

Two to three days in Taormina is usually enough to see the highlights. If you want a slower pace with time for day trips to Mount Etna or nearby villages, four to five days is more ideal.

What is the best time of year to visit Taormina?

The best time to visit Taormina is in late spring (May–June) or early fall (September–October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and the crowds are lighter. Summer is beautiful too, but expect higher prices and busier streets.

Is it safe to walk around Taormina at night?

Yes, Taormina is generally very safe to walk around at night, even in the lively Corso Umberto area. Just use normal precautions, like you would in any popular tourist town.