Taormina is one of Sicily’s most beloved destinations, perched between the crystal-clear Ionian Sea and the slopes of Mount Etna. But it’s also something more: the ideal place to learn Italian, immersed in authentic culture and breathtaking scenery. Here are the 10 things you must do during your stay in Taormina and how to make them part of your study experience with Babilonia.
1. Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina
Built by the Greeks and later expanded by the Romans, the Ancient Theatre offers one of the most photographed views in the world: the stage frames Mount Etna and the sea in a single shot. It still hosts summer performances and events today.
Learn Italian among the places you study: in Babilonia’s culture classes, we talk about Sicily’s Greek-Roman history.
2. Head down to Isola Bella
At the foot of Taormina, reachable by cable car, lies Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a sandy strip. A nature reserve since 1998, it’s perfect for a swim or a nature walk.
Practice Italian by the sea: our students often organize group outings here after class.
3. Stroll along Corso Umberto
Taormina’s main street runs through the entire historic center, past boutiques, baroque churches, and scenic terraces like Piazza IX Aprile. It’s the perfect place for shopping — and above all, for practicing Italian with local shopkeepers.
Babilonia tip: try ordering a coffee or asking for directions in Italian only it’s one of the exercises we recommend to our students.
4. Relax in the Villa Comunale Gardens
Also known as the Trevelyan Gardens, these seaside public gardens offer a peaceful oasis with exotic plants, scenic benches, and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a study break with an Italian book.
5. Climb up to Castelmola
The village of Castelmola sits 550 meters above Taormina. You can reach it on foot (about an hour) or by bus, and the view over the Ionian coast is among the most beautiful in Sicily. Don’t miss the world-famous Bar Turrisi.
Babilonia tip: a perfect weekend excursion during your course.
6. Take the cable car down to the Mazzarò beaches
Taormina’s cable car connects the historic center to the beaches below in just a few minutes, with a spectacular view over the gulf. Mazzarò is the most famous beach, with turquoise waters and beach clubs.
7. Explore the Alcantara Gorges
About 30 minutes from Taormina, the Alcantara Gorges are a basalt rock canyon carved by the Alcantara River, formed from ancient lava flows from Mount Etna. A unique natural experience, between trekking and swims in the cool water.
Learn nature vocabulary: a great opportunity to expand your landscape and geology vocabulary during lessons.
8. Take a trip up Mount Etna
Europe’s highest active volcano is visible from almost every corner of Taormina, but it’s worth climbing to the summit craters with a licensed guide. An unforgettable experience, especially at sunset.
9. Enjoy the sunset from Piazza IX Aprile
This scenic terrace in the heart of the historic center is the perfect spot for a sunset aperitivo, with views over Mount Etna and the bay of Giardini Naxos. A daily ritual for locals and Italian students alike.
10. Live like a local: markets, food, and aperitivo
Taormina isn’t just about views: it’s also granita, arancini, local market, and evenings spent with friends. Living the everyday life: shopping, ordering at a bar, chatting with neighbors, is the most natural way to learn Italian.
This is exactly the Babilonia method: classroom lessons in the morning, real life in Italian in the afternoon.
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Discover our Italian coursesFrequently Asked Questions about Taormina
Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) are the ideal months: mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, and more affordable prices. If you also want to study Italian, October and November are perfect (see our dedicated guide).
2-3 days are enough to see the main sights (Ancient Theatre, Isola Bella, historic center), but if you also want to explore Castelmola, the Alcantara Gorges, and Mount Etna, we recommend at least 5-7 days.
Yes, it’s one of the best destinations: it combines breathtaking scenery, authentic culture, and an international community used to welcoming foreign students. With Babilonia, you can take an Italian course while experiencing the city at the same time.
The nearest airport is Catania (about a 45-minute drive or bus ride). There are also direct connections from Palermo airport (about 2.5 hours).
The historic center can be pricier than other areas of Sicily, especially in high season, but with a bit of planning (accommodation outside the center, low season), it’s possible to visit on a modest budget.
Study Italian in the most beautiful place in Sicily
Taormina isn’t just a tourist destination: it’s an open-air classroom for anyone who wants to learn Italian while living the culture, food, and scenery that make it unique. Discover Babilonia’s courses and turn your next holiday into an unforgettable learning experience.
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- When Is the Best Time to Study Italian in Sicily? - 5 October 2026
- Top 10 Things to Do in Taormina: The Complete Guide - 28 September 2026
