Travel & Accommodations
Getting to Sicily
Most of you will be flying into Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), the most convenient airport for our villa near Taormina. Another option is Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), but it is farther from our base.
Flight Options
From the U.S. – No direct flights, but easy connections through Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), or Naples (NAP) via ITA Airways, Delta, or United.
From Europe – Direct flights to Catania or Palermo from London, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, and Berlin on airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and British Airways.
Airport to Villa Travel Times
From Catania Airport (CTA)
Private Transfer: ~50 minutes (recommended)
Taxi: ~50 minutes
Bus + Taxi: ~1.5 hours (cheaper but less convenient)
From Palermo Airport (PMO)
Private Transfer: ~3 hours
Train + Taxi: ~4 hours
Car Rental: ~3 hours (scenic drive)
If you land in Palermo, consider staying a night before heading to Taormina to break up the travel time.
Where We’re Staying
We’ll be staying in a private villa near Taormina, one of Sicily’s most beautiful coastal towns.
The villa offers panoramic views, a private pool, and easy access to beaches and nightlife—the perfect home base for the trip.
Nearby Hotels & Accommodations
For those who prefer their own space or need additional lodging, there are several great hotels and Airbnbs near Villa Tauro in Taormina. Below are some recommended options within close proximity:
Luxury Hotels
Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: A five-star hotel with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, located next to the Greek Theatre.
Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea: A beachfront property with a private beach, lush gardens, and top-tier service.
Hotel Villa Belvedere: A charming boutique hotel surrounded by gardens, featuring an outdoor pool and sea views.
Other Hotels & Options
Don Diego: Modern and stylish accommodations in the heart of Taormina.
If you’re considering staying elsewhere, we recommend booking early to secure the best rates and availability. If you need help choosing a place or coordinating accommodations, feel free to reach out.
Getting Around Sicily
Private Transfers – We’ll coordinate group rides for planned activities.
Taxis – Readily available but can be inconsistent.
Car Rentals – Great for those staying longer or wanting to explore more of Sicily. Driving is scenic but parking in towns can be difficult.
Public Transport – Buses and trains connect major cities but may not be the most reliable for day trips.
Estimated Drive Times from Taormina
Mount Etna – 1 hour
Syracuse & Ortigia – 1 hour 30 minutes
Catania – 50 minutes
Palermo – 3 hours
Cefalù – 2.5 hours
Extending Your Stay
If you’re planning to extend your trip, here are a few great places to explore:
Taormina – Boutique hotels with incredible cliffside views
Syracuse & Ortigia – A mix of history and coastal charm
Marsala – Wine country meets beach town vibes
Palermo – Vibrant city, street food, and nightlife
Aeolian Islands – Remote, volcanic islands with stunning beaches
Travel Checklist Before You Go
Book your flights and transfers early
Confirm your arrival time with us for group rides
Check your passport (Italy requires three months of validity beyond your departure date)
Pack for warm weather, beach days, and nights out
For any questions on travel logistics, reach out to elizabeth(917-705-5253). Looking forward to an unforgettable week in Sicily.