Taormina

Just an hour way to the North, on Monte Tauro (with views of the rocky coastline as far as the tip of the Italian "boot") lies Taormina - Sicily's most popular holiday destination. A must-see is the Greek Theater (founded in the 3rd century BC and refurbished by the Romans in the 1st century AD). The views are breathtaking! From via Circonvallazione take the "Salita Castello" path (20 min) to the summit of Monte Tauro where you can visit a small church carved in rock, further up - medieval castle ruins (could be closed for renovations) and enjoy the views (at this stage you will face Etna "face to face").

Below Taormina are lovely beaches, easily accessible by cable-car (3 min), mostly private though, but some strips of "public" (free) beaches still could be found. Beware of masseurs of Vietnamese origins (their speciality is foot massage) - they can be very persuasive!