Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive

Experience the beauty of Italy on the Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive! This 75km route takes you through the towns of Francavilla di Sicilia and Novara di Sicilia, with plenty of attractions along the way. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of rolling hills, lush forests and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The best time to take this trip is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the scenery is lush. The roads are generally in good condition, though they can be narrow and curvy in some areas. This scenic drive is sure to provide a great experience and lots of lasting memories. It is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed with a fair budget.

Taormina is an enchanting town in Sicily, Italy, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Ionian Sea. With its stunning views, cobblestone streets, and impressive architecture, it is no wonder that it is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. For those looking to explore the area, Taormina is the perfect starting point for the Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive. This drive takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside in Sicily, passing through vineyards and olive groves, with stunning views of Mount Etna along the way. When you reach Taormina, there are plenty of sights to see. The town is home to a number of historic churches, castles, and palazzos, as well as the Teatro Greco, a spectacular ancient Greek theatre. Don’t miss a chance to take a cable car ride up to the beautiful hilltop town of Castelmola, which offers amazing views of the surrounding area. If you’re flying in to Taormina, the closest international airport is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). From there, you can rent a car to explore the area. So, start your journey in Taormina and explore the stunning countryside of Sicily with the Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive. You’ll be sure to find plenty of breathtaking views and unique experiences along the way.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Taormina, Italy and traveling through Giardini Naxos to Francavilla di Sicilia! This 24 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you will be rewarded with stunning views and plenty of interesting stops. In Giardini Naxos, take a stroll along the beach and explore the ancient Greek ruins. Don't miss the Museum of Ancient Naxos, which houses artifacts from the Greek and Roman periods. Continue your journey to Francavilla di Sicilia, where you can admire the Baroque style architecture of the historic center. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of San Salvatore and the Church of San Francesco. As you travel, take the time to appreciate the beautiful scenery and explore the historical sites along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on a magical journey from Francavilla di Sicilia to Novara di Sicilia! This 30 km drive will take you less than an hour and you will be able to admire the stunning views of the Sicilian countryside. The road is full of steep ramps and winding sections, as well as narrow roads, so be sure to keep your eyes on the road. As you drive, you will be able to spot numerous attractions, such as the majestic Francavilla Castle, the beautiful Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montevergine and the picturesque Novara di Sicilia Castle. Don't forget to stop for a bite to eat at the charming local restaurants and take in the breathtaking views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an adventure along the stunning 21km-long road trip from Novara di Sicilia to Tonnarella! This journey will take you less than an hour to complete and you will be surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Sicilian countryside. As you drive, be sure to look out for the steep ramps, winding roads and narrow sections. You will be able to take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, you can make stops at the quaint towns of Novara di Sicilia and Tonnarella, where you can explore the local culture and cuisine. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the natural environment, and to take some photos for your memories. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing road trip experience and enjoy the journey!

Tonnarella is a small coastal town in Sicily, Italy, located at the end of the Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive. This drive is a popular choice for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of the region. It offers stunning views of Mount Etna, the Mediterranean Sea, and the towns of Taormina, Giardini-Naxos, and Letojanni. Upon arrival in Tonnarella, visitors will be met with a picturesque beach and plenty of activities to enjoy. The nearby Tonnarella Marina offers boat tours, fishing, and boat hire. The area is also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can take a walk around the town and discover the various churches, monuments, and small cafes. For those looking for a more active adventure, the nearby mountains offer plenty of hiking trails and activities. The surrounding countryside also provides unique opportunities for birdwatching and photography. The closest international airport to Tonnarella is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). From there, it's only a short drive to the town. Tonnarella is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Sicily. With its stunning beaches, nearby marina, and plenty of activities, it's the ideal spot for a relaxing road trip. End your journey with a visit to Tonnarella and experience all that this charming town has to offer.

Before you set off

Embark on an unforgettable 75km journey along the Taormina to Tonnarella Scenic Drive in Italy, where you'll be captivated by stunning landscapes, rich history, and the allure of Sicilian culture.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Taormina: This hilltop town is not only famed for its well-preserved ancient Greek theater, Teatro Antico di Taormina, but also offers spectacular vistas of Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, and the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Explore the charming streets, lined with boutique shops and traditional restaurants.
• Francavilla di Sicilia: Nestled in the Alcantara valley, this town's quaint streets lead to historical treasures like the Byzantine Castle, which dates back to the 14th century, and offers a glimpse into Sicily's layered past.
• Novara di Sicilia: This village boasts remarkable medieval architecture that transports visitors back in time. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a standout attraction, showcasing exquisite religious art and intricate stonework.
• Tonnarella: Known for its inviting beaches and laid-back coastal ambiance, Tonnarella is the perfect place to unwind after the drive. Enjoy fresh seafood and relax by the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time for this Scenic Drive is during the spring (April to June) and summer (July to September) months when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is in full bloom, enhancing the Trip with vibrant colors and fragrant breezes.

Potential Risks:

The journey includes narrow, winding Roads that may be challenging for drivers unaccustomed to such conditions. Extra caution is recommended, particularly on stretches with steep inclines or sharp bends.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Taormina's Greek theater hosts annual arts and film festivals, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
• Along the route, you'll have the chance to taste local Sicilian specialties such as arancini (fried rice balls), cannoli (sweet ricotta-filled pastries), and the region's acclaimed wines.
• The Alcantara Gorge near Francavilla di Sicilia is a natural wonder, formed from ancient lava flows, and offers opportunities for hiking and cooling off in the river.

A good choice for:

A journey from Taormina to Tonnarella is more than a Road Trip—it's an immersive experience that combines the beauty of Sicilian landscapes with the region's rich history and vibrant local culture, creating memories that will last a lifetime.