Whether you’re exploring the city or just looking for a relaxing place to get away from all the activity, Villa Comunale di Taormina or Taormina Public Gardens is definitely a worthwhile place to spend and hour or two. The gardens can be accessed by either the main entrance across from the Ristorante Al Giadino, or through a small entrance on the side of the Hotel Villa Paradiso, in between the hotel and the Mirage restaurant’s patio.
The gardens are incredibly quiet for being so close to center city. Its a great place to grab a sandwich and have lunch on one of the park benches. The park is rather large, so you don’t have to worry about it getting too crowded. On the back side of the park you can find beautiful views of Mount Etna and the nearby beaches, on clear days you can see as far as Catania!
There is some interesting history behind the park, and there are many artifacts in the park that tell it’s story. The park was originally the residence of Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman who is said to have left the country in 1884 after having an affair with Edward VII. She eventually married Salvatore Cacciola, the mayor of Taormina at the time. Remnants of their house can still be found in the gardens.
Whether you plan to stroll through and admire the luscious magnolias, and hibiscus plants, or sit down and unwind for a few hours, the Public gardens are a must see when visiting Taormina.