Taormina

Taormina

Catania

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Taormina

Half-way between Catania and Messina lies the picturesque, waterside Town of Taormina. It's situated at an elevation, which makes for some splendid views over the water, and has a few pleasant beaches down below. A not-to-be-missed attraction is the ancient Greco-Roman theatre.

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addressTaormina, Province of Messina

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Duomo Square (Piazza del Duomo)

Duomo Square (Piazza del Duomo)

Duomo Square (Piazza del Duomo), encircled by impressive Baroque buildings in the heart of Catania, recently became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the middle of the square is the Fontana dell’ Elefante, Catania’s most famous monument — the lava stone Elephant Fountain.

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Catania Cathedral

Catania Cathedral

Piazza del Duomo is also home to the elaborate Baroque Cattedrale di Sant’Agata (or simply the Catania Cathedral). Behind the marble walls is the final resting place of the city’s patron saint, Agata. Every February processions are held in her honour.

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Vincenzo Bellini Museum

Vincenzo Bellini Museum

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Teatro Romano & Odeon

Teatro Romano & Odeon

At Via Vittoria Emanuele you will find Catania’s best kept ruins from Roman times. The Roman Theatre, including gladiator tunnels and the circular auditorium Odeon are next to each other, surrounded by residential buildings dating to later centuries.

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Mount Etna

Mount Etna

Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, stands about 3,330 metres high between Catania and Taormina. It erupts regularly and since 2002 visitors are not allowed to climb to the top of any of its four craters (hiking up is allowed). Regular buses depart for Etna from Catania.

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Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena

Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena

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Massimo Bellini Theatre

Massimo Bellini Theatre

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Marionettistica Fratelli Napoli

Marionettistica Fratelli Napoli

This theatre, only a 5-minute walk from the historical centre, tells the story behind the typical Sicilian puppet theatre. Visitors can both see and hold a puppet. If you wish to watch a show, bear in mind that there is a summer break.

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Etnaland

Etnaland

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Monti Rossi Adventure Park

Monti Rossi Adventure Park

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Giardino Bellini

Giardino Bellini

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Butterfly House (Casa delle Farfalle)

Butterfly House (Casa delle Farfalle)

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San Benedetto

San Benedetto

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Orto Botanico

Orto Botanico

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Museo del Cinema

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Museum of the Landing in Sicily 1943

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Aci Castello

Aci Castello

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San Giovanni Li Cuti

San Giovanni Li Cuti

The curious beach not too far from downtown is made up of volcanic eruption remains. This results in a beach consisting of black stones – in contrast to the regular golden sands. The padding might not be ideal for sunbathing, but the water is certainly crystal-clear. San Giovanni Li Cuti is located in Catania's north.

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Caltagirone

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