Taormina Luxury & Private Vacations

As the Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily has always been a haven for those in the know, with the town of Taormina at the center of the action. On the east coast of Sicily just off the toe of Italy’s boot, Taormina sees visitors soaking up the sunshine on the beaches of the Ionian Sea, and taking in the dramatic views of nearby Mount Etna, which is still an active volcano.

Taormina sits on an ancient site, about 800 feet above the sea, anchored to a Norman castle. Its 3rd-century Greek-Roman theater, well-preserved medieval streets, and Baroque buildings serve as a beautiful backdrop to any vacation.

Visit some of Europe’s first grand hotels.

The Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo first opened in 1873 and maintains the high level of service that befits the Belmond name. Opposite the amphitheater, with superlative views of the coastline, the cosmopolitan and unstuffy Timeo is noted for its sumptuous rooms, stunning gardens, and Michelin-starred dining.

The Grand Hotel Timeo’s sister Taormina property, the luxurious seaside villa Belmond Sant’Andrea, looks out on the Bay of Mazzarò. Guests find old-fashioned Italian elegance here, along with subtropical gardens, marble floors and staircases, exquisite artworks, and amazing beach facilities.

And thanks to the hit TV series White Lotus, a Taormina landmark is the star of the show – the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace. This 14th-century convent became a hotel in 1896, welcoming the likes of Oscar Wilde, Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor over the years. And just like the series characters, guests enjoy the hotel’s layered history, comforting salons, clifftop infinity pool, and Michelin-starred dining at Principe Cerami restaurant.

Welcome to your new favorite place.

Taormina has been a luxury resort playground for a long, long time – so its citizens are very practiced at making visitors feel welcome. Indeed, affluent Europeans have been coming here since the 19th century.

When you tire of the view – which isn’t likely – Taormina is filled with things to do. Enjoy wine tastings at some of the region’s top vineyards, take a yacht cruise, go snorkeling or diving, and visit the famous Isola Bella and Grotto Azzurra, the beach reachable via aerial tram. A Taormina private tour will reveal all about the many cultures that have lived on these lands over time, from the ancient Greeks to the Arab and North African peoples.

Farther into the island, there are also day tours to places like the Valley of the Temples and the famous castle remains of nearby Monforte San Giorgio. And the rest of the time? Just find a comfortable spot – of which there are many – and enjoy the breeze, the food, the wine and the sun.