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Visiting Ancient Theater of Taormina | Timings, location, tips & more

The Ancient Theater of Taormina | Visitor information at a glance

Theater of Taormina
  • What are the Theater of Taormina opening hours?
    The Ancient Theater of Taormina is open from 9 AM to 4 PM throughout the week.
  • Where is the Theater of Taormina located?
    The Theater of Taormina is located at Via Teatro Greco, 1, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy. Get directions.

What are the Ancient Theater of Taormina opening hours?

Daily: 9 AM to 4 PM

Last admission: 45 minutes before closing time.




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What’s the Best Time to Visit the Theater of Taormina?

To make the most of your visit to the ancient theater of Taormina, target the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons. During these times, you can enjoy comfortable weather and a less crowded environment, enhancing your overall enjoyment of this historic attraction.

Where is the Ancient Theater of Taormina located?

Address: Via Teatro Greco, 1, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy

Find on Map

The ancient theater of Taormina is situated on the hill of Monte Tauro, overlooking the Ionian Sea, in Sicily, Italy.

Closest Landmark:  Piazza IX Aprile (1 km away)

Getting to the Ancient Theater of Taormina in Taormina

By public transportation

By public transportation

By Bus: If you are traveling to Taormina from Catania via bus, make sure to get on the Interbus to Taormina Terminal. If you are arriving at Taormina-Giardini train station, you can take a local bus from Taormina Bus Terminal to reach the town center of Taormina.

By Train: The closest major train station is Taormina-Giardini Naxos Railway Station, located in the lower part of the town. I you're boarding from Catania Centrale, make sure to get on the REG 5382 towards Messina Centrale.

Taxi to the Town Center: From Taormina-Giardini train station, you can take a taxi (anywhere between €10 and €15) to reach the town center of Taormina, where the ancient theater is located. The town center is situated uphill from the station, and you can walk to the theater from there.

By car

By car

To reach the ancient theater of Taormina by car, take the A18 highway (Catania-Messina) and exit at Taormina. Follow signs to the town center, where you can park your car and take a short uphill walk to the ancient theater.

Parking Facilities

In Taormina, there are several parking facilities near the ancient theater. One of the main parking areas is Parking Lumbi, which is located at the entrance of Taormina. This parking facility is well-signposted and provides a convenient option for visitors.

Know before you go to the Ancient Theater of Taormina

Facilities
Rules
Dining
Stay
Tips
Shop
Accessibility
bookshop
  • There is a bookshop located inside the Ancient Theater of Taormina.
  • A cafe is also present at the site, and it is the only cafe within it. 
  • Toilet facilities are available at the site as well.
food and drinks are not allowed inside the theater
  • Refrain from bringing pets.
  • Flash photography is not permitted.
  • Food and drinks are not allowed inside the theater.
  • Please note that backpacks are not permitted.
local wines

Semaforo Cafe: the exclusive cafe located within the theater invites you to discover the diverse palate of Sicily's local wines, delectable cold cuts, and gourmet sandwiches. 

Should you prefer to dine at a restaurant outside the theater premises, here are some alternatives for you:

Bam Bar: Located just 450 meters from the theater, Bam Bar offers delightful traditional granita, a frozen dessert akin to a sorbet.

Caffè Wunderbar: Just a kilometer away, this stylish cafe-bar has been a favorite haunt of celebrities such as Greta Garbo and Tennessee Williams and is renowned for its exceptional coffee and delightful cocktails.

Bar Pasticceria Etna Dal 1963: Situated 2.8 kilometers away, Bar Pasticceria Etna Dal 1963 opens its doors at 7:30 am, providing an ideal spot for a morning coffee and a light breakfast.

Stay

Budget

Hotel Continental Taormina (2.1 km away), Hostel Taormina (2.6 km away)


Mid-Range

Hotel Excelsior Palace (1.9 km away), Maison Blanche Taormina Luxury B&B (2.7 km away)


Luxury

San Domenico Palace (1.5 km away)

comfortable shoes
  • Stay informed about upcoming events and performances at the theater, as it may lead to early closures.
  • The ancient theater has uneven surfaces, so make sure to wear comfortable clothing and sensible footwear. Avoid high heels or shoes that are difficult to walk in on uneven terrain. Don't forget your hat and sunscreen.
  • It's recommended to arrive two hours before sunset to enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Keep in mind that on the first Sunday of the month, entry is free, but be prepared for large crowds. 
  • Take a moment to watch the brief 2-minute video displayed at the venue. It offers a glimpse into the theater's former grandeur, allowing you to appreciate its full glory.
  • Prepare for a slight incline on your way to the entrance; a brief uphill walk is involved.
theater of Taormina features a shop

The ancient theater of Taormina features a shop where visitors can purchase books, unique design objects, or one-of-a-kind artistic handcrafted pieces as memorable souvenirs.

wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.

The Ancient Theatre of Taormina is partially wheelchair accessible and offers wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting the Ancient Theater of Taormina in Sicily

Is the Ancient Theater of Taormina worth visiting?

Absolutely, the Ancient Theater of Taormina is an architectural marvel perched on a Sicilian hillside, offering breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, while also serving as a historical treasure trove with performances still held in its remarkably preserved 3rd-century BC structure. If you're interested in history, culture, and architecture, it's definitely for you.

What are the operating hours for the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

The Ancient Theater of Taormina is open from 9 AM to 4 PM throughout the week.

How long should I spend at the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

To fully immerse yourself in its timeless charm and captivating history, plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the Ancient Theater of Taormina.

Where is the Ancient Theater of Taormina located?

The Ancient Theater of Taormina is located at Via Teatro Greco, 1, 98039 Taormina ME, Sicily, Italy.

How can I reach the Ancient Theater of Taormina from the city center?

You can easily reach the Ancient Theater of Taormina from the city center by walking up Via Teatro Greco or taking a short bus ride from Piazza Stesicoro, with the theater perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.

How can I optimize my visit to the Ancient Theater of Taormina for a more personal and less crowded experience?

To optimize your visit to the Ancient Theater of Taormina for a more personal and less crowded experience, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon, exploring the site during weekdays rather than weekends, and utilizing online ticket booking to avoid long queues.

Can I visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina for free?

No, entrance to the Ancient Theater of Taormina requires purchasing a ticket.

How do I book tickets to visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

Tickets to the theater can be booked online or bought at the ticket counter. It is highly recommended to use the online booking system. Online booking allows you to secure your entry in advance, avoiding long queues and ensuring a hassle-free experience.

How much does it cost to visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

A standard ticket to the theater is €17.

Can I visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina with kids?

Yes, you can visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina with kids, but be mindful of steep steps and consider their interest in ancient history and archaeology, while also exploring nearby attractions suitable for children like the public gardens and beaches.

Are prams allowed in the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

Prams are generally not recommended in the Ancient Theater of Taormina due to its uneven terrain and steep steps, but baby carriers or slings can be more convenient for exploring the site with infants or toddlers.

What are the available amenities and assistance available for visitors with disabilities?

The Ancient Theater of Taormina offers limited accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.

Are dogs allowed inside the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

Generally, pets including dogs are not permitted inside the Ancient Theater of Taormina, except for service animals assisting visitors with disabilities.

Can I bring my food and drink to the Ancient Theater of Taormina?

Outside food and drink are typically not allowed inside the Ancient Theater of Taormina, but there are designated areas where visitors can enjoy picnics nearby before or after their visit.