A Dreamy Sicilian Escape: Taormina, Mount Etna & Godfather Legends

Last summer, I finally ticked a big one off my bucket list: a sun-drenched escape to Sicily. If you’ve ever daydreamed about coastal views, timeless villages, and meals so good they make you reconsider your entire culinary history, then Taormina is your place.

Where We Stayed: Cliffside Luxury in Taormina

Two stunning properties, both offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.

• Atlantis Bay: Where we stayed. Built right into the cliffside, this hotel felt like something out of a movie. Mornings began with the sound of waves crashing just below our balcony. The sea-facing pool and private access to the bay made it hard to leave.

• Sant’Andrea (by Belmond): Another recommendation. Set in a serene cove, this hotel felt like an old-world escape with all the modern comforts. Service is impeccable and the garden terrace breakfasts? Heaven.

What We Ate: From Casual Cravings to Culinary Art

Taormina knows how to treat its guests when it comes to food. We tried a mix of laid-back eats and upscale dining, each memorable in its own way.

• Tiramisu: A casual gem perfect for an easy night. Great pizza, pasta, and of course, don’t ever skip dessert.

• Sant’Andrea Restaurant: Dining here was as much about the setting as the cuisine. A more elegant affair with fresh seafood, Sicilian wines, and impeccable attention to detail.

• Timeo Restaurant (at the Grand Hotel Timeo): Formal and romantic, with views over the coastline and Mount Etna in the distance. This is your spot for that “pinch me” dinner moment.

• Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro: Perfect for a relaxed dinner. Their wood-fired pizzas are legendary, and the casual garden setting feels authentically Italian.

• Bam Bar: A must for afternoon drinks. This place is famous for its granita, especially the almond and coffee flavors. We spent a lazy afternoon sipping cocktails and cooling off with icy delights.

• Four Seasons San Domenico Palace: Go here for an aperitivo with style. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, and the views over Taormina and the sea are breathtaking.

Adventures Beyond the Town

Mount Etna was an unforgettable highlight. Don’t just settle for the basic viewpoint, take the extra tour to reach the summit. The stark, alien landscape and the sheer scale of the volcano are humbling. We combined this with a winery visit on the slopes of Etna. After hiking the craters, we were treated to a wine tasting and a leisurely Sicilian lunch with vineyard views. Heaven.

The Godfather Tour was another must. Everyone goes to Bar Vitelli in Savoca (and yes, it’s worth it), but make sure you go further and visit Villa del Padrino, the actual villa used in the film. The stories behind the scenes and cinematic history make it a powerful stop, even if you’re only a casual fan.

Explore: The Soul of Taormina

Wandering the medieval streets of Taormina was a daily joy. Cobblestone lanes, colorful boutiques, tiny piazzas, and sweeping views at every turn. The Greek Theatre is an unmissable highlight and is set against the backdrop of Mount Etna and the sea, it’s one of the most stunning historic sites I’ve ever visited.

Style Notes: Why Labradorite Belongs in Sicily

There’s something about labradorite jewelry that just fits in Taormina. The stone’s shimmering blues, greens, and greys seem to echo the colors of the Ionian coast, the silver light on Mount Etna, and the timeless elegance of the old city. It feels mystical, earthy, and elevated... just like the energy of Sicily itself. Whether worn with a flowing linen dress or something more dressed up for dinner at Timeo, labradorite feels like it was made for this place.

Final Thoughts

Sicily, and Taormina in particular, is the perfect blend of ancient history, luxurious relaxation, unforgettable food, and cinematic charm. Whether you’re hiking a volcano, sipping a glass of Etna Rosso, or standing in the footsteps of Corleone legends, you’ll find yourself wanting to slow down and savor every second.

I already want to go back.