Car hireTaormina

Settled on the serene island of Sicily, just off Italy’s ‘boot’, there’s plenty to explore in your hire car. Several routes lead in and out of Taormina, including the E45 that loops around the eastern coast over to Italy, providing plenty of opportunities for a day trip.

Head north on the E45 to reach the mystical harbour city of Messina in under an hour, or carry on to the island’s northern peak at Torre Faro. The E45 south leads down to Catania, taking around an hour to cover the 55-kilometre route, or further along towards the ancient city of Syracuse in about 90 minutes.

Inland, you can reach Mount Etna in just over an hour by first heading south on the E45 before joining the SP4 west. The luscious Nebrodi Regional Park is just two hours west via the SS120.

Taormina itself is largely pedestrianised, with narrow streets not fit for larger vehicles. Therefore, it’s recommended you use one of the parking lots outside the main hub and make the short walk into the centre. However, Taormina does provide the perfect base for exploring Sicily’s many treasures, from idyllic coasts to ancient ruins.

The biggest difference to driving in Sicily is that you have to stick to the right-hand side of the road, overtaking on the left. Seatbelts are still necessary for all passengers and handsfree phones are permitted.

Speed laws vary but generally there’s a limit of 130km/h on motorways, which drops down to 90km/h on major roads outside built-up areas. When driving around the towns and cities, the limit is generally 50km/h.

Taormina is packed with dramatic sights, from its clifftop views to the ancient Greco-Roman theatre still in use today. Wander through its idyllic streets to soak up its culture and heritage, take a dip in the azure waters and explore the surrounding natural beauty. Hop in your hire car and you’ll have the freedom to discover some of Sicily’s most striking cities.

Ancient treasures

Sicily has a rich history, dating back thousands of years, with influences from various periods evident. It was first colonised by the Greeks in 800 BC, before being overtaken by the Romans several hundred years later, with various relics and monuments dotted around the island.

Taormina itself has a prime example of ancient influences in its Greek-Roman theatre – the Teatro Antico di Taormina – nestled in the town’s centre. Originally built by the Greeks and used for a variety of theatre performances, the Romans expanded it and turned it into a gladiatorial arena. It continues to play host to concerts and performances.

Outside the town, the city of Syracuse has an abundance of ancient ruins to explore, including another Greek theatre. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo are believed to have been built in honour of the Greek god of the sun. Discover more about its significance at the archaeological museum in the city’s centre.

Coasts and coves

Sicily’s eastern coast is home to hidden coves and golden sandy stretches at every turn.

One of the most tranquil spots lies just off the shores of Taormina, on Isola Bella island. Its beaches may be pebbled, but there’s plenty of beauty in the surrounding luscious greenery. When the tide is low, you can reach the island on foot, or you can opt to climb aboard a cable car from Luigi Pirandello.

For soft, white sands head to Giardini Naxos, just 25 minutes from Taormina. Here you’ll find facilities catering to everyone, from sun loungers to water sports. There are plenty of restaurants dotted across the stretch too, perfect for a memorable meal watching the sunset.

Mountaintop views

While Taormina is nestled against its own, smaller mountain – Monte Tauro – you’ll easily spot its grander sister, Mount Etna, in the distance. Towering 3,350 metres high, this is one of the world’s most famous active volcanoes.

It’s accessible all year round, with different experiences depending on the season. Visit in summer for a closer look at its active craters with a guided tour or hike through the national park where it’s located. In winter, it’s a sport’s lovers paradise – people from around the world visit the island to ski down its slopes.

There are plenty of other, smaller peaks to explore on the island too – Monte Tauro is only a 20-minute walk from Taormina and offers sweeping views of the bays below and across the water to Italy.

With a hire car in Taormina, you’re at the heart of the action. Whether you want to tackle a volcano, enjoy the Mediterranean climate or delve into ancient history, car hire in Taormina puts you in the driver’s seat.