Taormina

Dominated by the silhouette of Mount Etna, the eastern coast combines sea and mountain in a spectacular way. People come here to taste the seaside pleasures in Giardini Naxos, the Taormina beach, as well as to discover the incomparable charm of this city appreciated by people since ancient times. Another attraction of the region is the Etna nature park. You can explore on short excursions of one or two hours by foot, or go on longer, more substantial hikes.

It is impossible to go to the east coast without making a stop in Taormina. This city, perched high up, looks onto the blue of the Mediterranean. Particularly famous for its ancient theatre, Taormina is most enjoyed at sunset, at one of the panoramic viewpoints of the town which both looks onto the sea and Mount Etna in the background. Still active, the volcano of Mount Etna lets its anger steam out regularly, with eruptions that can last for several months.

Dominated by the silhouette of Mount Etna, the eastern coast combines sea and mountain in a spectacular way. People come here to taste the seaside pleasures in Giardini Naxos, the Taormina beach, as well as to discover the incomparable charm of this city appreciated by people since ancient times.

Remember to cover your shoulders and legs in churches, and, on the beach, avoid going topless!

Avoid making inappropriate comments concerning religion, as the Sicilians are dedicated believers. Do not talk about the Mafia, it is still a sensitive subject, along with the vendetta.

The Sicilian cuisine is excellent. Pizza and pasta are understandably very widespread, but you will find numerous other dishes. Antipasti (meats, cheeses, small fried fish), i primi (rice and gnocchi or minestre), i secondi (meat or fish), i contorni (potatoes, salads) and finally, i dolci (pastries made of almonds, candied fruit, ice cream).

Sicilian crafts are quite varied. You can bring back some ceramic, papyrus or even 'pupi', Sicilian puppets. As for flavours, it is possible to buy capers, olive oil, real pasta and fruit in an almond pastry.