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Sicily Itinerary: 5 Days Through Taormina & Palermo
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Greek Theatre in Taormina faces northeast toward Etna, and that orientation is the whole point: a clear morning puts the volcano framed in the cavea opening, which explains why the site has been in continuous use for two and a half millennia. The Valley of the Temples before the coach groups arrive is a completely different Agrigento; the Temple of Concordia in low slanting February light with the almond trees below the ridge is an image the postcards haven't exhausted. For Syracuse, spend the morning at the mainland archaeological park first; the Ear of Dionysius and the Greek theatre before the heat, then Ortigia's baroque piazzas and the market in the cooler afternoon.
The Greek Theatre in Taormina faces northeast toward Etna, and that orientation is the whole point: a clear morning puts the volcano framed in the cavea opening, which explains why the site has been in continuous use for two and a half millennia. The Valley of the Temples before the coach groups arrive is a completely different Agrigento; the Temple of Concordia in low slanting February light with the almond trees below the ridge is an image the postcards haven't exhausted. For Syracuse, spend the morning at the mainland archaeological park first; the Ear of Dionysius and the Greek theatre before the heat, then Ortigia's baroque piazzas and the market in the cooler afternoon.
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Taormina
Day 1 - 2
Taormina enjoys an idyllic location, favourably perched on a steep mountainside with panoramic views of Mount Etna, two grand sweeping bays and a picturesque Graeco-Roman amphitheatre. Drenched in sunshine year-round, this chic resort town attracts a steady stream of celebrities and holidaying high-rollers. Despite its unashamedly touristy atmosphere, its natural beauty is undeniable. The town’s chaotic network of winding streets is strewn with luxury designer boutiques, ancient churches and flower-filled balconies adorning beautifully restored medieval buildings and intimate piazzas. Taormina is especially magnificent on clear days when you can view the exquisite flora and flora against a backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes spewing puffs of white smoke into a mesmerizingly blue sky. Make sure to spend an afternoon picnicking in the gorgeous Giovanni Colonna Park.
NH Collection Taormina
With a stay at NH Collection Taormina, you'll be centrally located in Taormina, steps from Corso Umberto and 6 minutes by foot from Taormina Cable Car. This luxury hotel is 0.3 mi (0.6 km) from Greek Theatre and 3.2 mi (5.1 km) from Giardini Naxos Beach.
Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 63 guestrooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature deep soaking bathtubs and rainfall showerheads. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Etna Half Day Tour
Enjoy a morning tour to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Driving through some of the quaintest villages placed on the slopes of the volcano, you will reach 1,986 meters where you will be able to visit the Sylvester Craters. Afterwards, you will return to Taormina. Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is in an almost constant state of activity. The fertile volcanic soils support extensive agriculture, with vineyards and orchards spread across the lower slopes of the mountain and the broad Plain of Catania to the south. Due to its history of recent activity and nearby population, Mount Etna has been designated a Decade Volcano by the United Nations. You have the option to take the cable car from 1,986 to 2,500 meters for further exploration of the volcano's higher regions.
Palermo
Day 3 - 5
Palermo lies on the northern coast of the Italian island of Sicily. The Sicilian capital, this ancient city – about 2700 years old – boasts numerous cultural and historical sights. Begin with the UNSECO listed sites, including the Palazzo Reale and churches such as the 12th-century San Giovanni degli Eremiti (with Arabic influences; and cultural treasures such as the 19th-century Teatro Massimo and the UNESCO-listed tradition of Puppet Theatre (performed through-out the city) and detailed in the Museo delle Marionette. Then head to religious sites including the Palermo Cathedral with a 12th-century mausoleum and explore unique attractions such as the macabre Catacombe dei Cappuccini – a cemetery holding mummified corpses (some dating from the 16th-century). Finally, visit markets, artisanal eateries and bars in town, while there are numerous near-lying sights, for fantastic day-trips from the city.
Grand Hotel et Des Palmes
With a stay at Grand Hotel et Des Palmes, you'll be centrally located in Palermo, steps from Via Roma and 5 minutes by foot from Politeama Garibaldi Theater. This luxury hotel is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Teatro Massimo and 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Quattro Canti.
Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a fitness center, or other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services. Additional amenities at this hotel include babysitting (surcharge), a hair salon, and discounted use of a nearby fitness facility.
Make yourself at home in one of the 98 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and Smart televisions. Your memory foam bed comes with Egyptian cotton sheets. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms feature bathtubs or showers with rainfall showerheads and designer toiletries.
Your activity
Walking Tour of Palermo
Discover the soul of Sicily with a captivating morning walking tour through the historic streets of Palermo. Stroll past architectural gems such as the Quattro Canti, a stunning example of Spanish Baroque style, and admire the majestic Norman Palace. Step inside the Palatine Chapel, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman art, and explore the imposing Cathedral of Palermo, where history and grandeur come together. Continue to the lively Capo Market, one of the oldest and most vibrant street markets in the city, where colors, aromas, and voices tell the true story of Palermo. Pick-up included is only for hotels located in the historic city center.
