Corso Umberto I

The basics

Corso Umberto I runs the entire length of Taormina’s pretty historic center and is lined with bustling shops, restaurants, and hotels. No visit to the old town is complete without a turn down this lively and picturesque street, generally included in Taormina walking and Segway tours. In addition to Corso Umberto I, sightseeing itineraries stop in the city’s 13th-century Duomo and adjacent square, the famous Greek Theater overlooking the coastline, and historic palaces including Palazzo Corvaja, Palazzo Ciampoli, and Palazzo Municipale. Taormina is a popular day trip or shore excursion from Syracuse, Messina, or Catania, and many also include visits to Mount Etna and the nearby town of Castelmola.

Things to know before you go

*The road is paved and relatively flat, so easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller. Though traffic is limited, there are no sidewalks, so be cautious of passing cars and scooters. *Taormina’s main road is a great place for souvenir shopping, and there are also a number of pastry and food shops where you can sample the local cuisine. *Be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen when strolling through Taormina in the heat of summer. *Piazza IX Aprile along the street offers some of the best views from the historic center, so bring your camera.

How to get there

Corso Umberto I runs through the center of Taormina’s old town. To reach the historic center from the train station from the valley below, you must catch a bus up to the town center.

When to get there

The best time of day to meander the length of Corso Umberto I is during business hours, when most locals are out to shop, or join the after-dinner crowds taking an evening passeggiata (stroll).

Taormina’s Main Piazza del Duomo

You can follow Corso Umberto I to the far end and visit Taormina’s main square, Piazza del Duomo. The bustling square is home to the Cathedral and an iconic baroque fountain topped by a centaur sculpture, the city’s official symbol. Take a break at one of the sidewalk restaurants for a meal al fresco and enjoy people-watching in this busy piazza.