Is Taormina or Trapani better?
Are you thinking about travelling to Sicily and are debating whether going to Taormina or Trapani? Based on our experience travelling both places a couple of times in the last 5 years, we will walk you through each destination, the perks and not worth things to do in each one and lastly, our honest opinion about where you should go!
You are reading heaps of things about Taormina versus Trapani, hence, we can assume you are planing on travelling to Sicily, which is an absolute great choice, however, you are indecisive about which of those to visit, as you have limited time. Also, you are, not only concerned about time constraints, but also, Trapani and Taormina are on opposite sites of the wonderful Sicily island.
We will start by saying that, each city has its unique characteristics and genuine flavours, some of them being subjective to each individual.
In this post, we will cover which city offer better conditions depending on the range of activities that you prefer as a traveller and hopefully, it will help you making a decision on the kind of trip you are looking for!
Before you continue reading we will give you the quick answer to wether you should go to Trapani or Taormina.
You should go to Taormina. It is a much better touristic destination due to the exceptional views to the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Also, the unique culinary tradition of Taormina, the richness in historical sites and the wide range of possible activities to be done, make of this place a formidable family, couples and solo travellers friendly. Trapani on the other hand, does provide for a good “home-base” area to travel around. It dies have some sites worth seeing, though, it might no be such an excellent touristic destination compared to Taormina.
Keep reading to discover which destination aligns with your interests the most.
Trapani does have good things worth seeing, it comes in as a good port to “home-base” to visit other places around, such as, the Egadi Islands or even Palermo. We feel that Taormina will give you a great satisfaction and will fulfil your expectations as a traveller, having, not only stunning and colourful views of its own, delicious food, friendly locals, but also, the most amazing day trips.
When it comes to food, in our personal opinion and experience, we do believe that Taormina is the better place, really fresh seafood, really good home made dishes and endless places to eat with panoramic views that will take your breath away. Also people have a much better attitude toward tourists and foreigners, really welcoming.
Let us introduce each city to begin with, to have an idea of how each one look like.
Taormina is a region located on the east side of Sicily, on the coast of the Ionian Sea. Taormina is sitting right on the coast, in about 200 meters above the sea level, providing stunning panoramic views that will blow your mind. It is perfectly located, half-way across Catania, one of the major cities in Sicily, and Messina, another important industrial port of the island.
Taormina is, not only visited throughout the year by tourists due to its iconic Italian dream look and beautiful clear waters, but also, due to its richness in archeological sites.
The city of Taormina was originally developed by the people from Naxos with Greek background, who set foot in this region around 395 BC and actually naming it Tauromenion.
Taormina is full of ruins, gifts from the ancient Greek conquer during the Hellenistic period, as well as, other sites from the Roman invasion. The streets of this city reflect the ancient Roman settlement evidenced by the Roman mosaic floors pretty much in all churches, villas and houses around the area.
Since then, Taormina has been considered the pearl of Sicily, where visitors enjoy the spectacular views to Mount Etna, rich archeological and architectural splendour, exquisite cuisine and outstanding views to the Ionian Sea.
Without hesitation, Taormina fulfils the picturesque atmosphere of the Italian dream that we all have in mind even competing with iconic places like Positano, Amalfi coast or Cinque Terre. In this post, we will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of what Taormina has to offer versus Trapani.
Trapani is a city located in the northwestern side of Sicily on the coast of the Tyrrhenian sea.
This region is a port city that sits on the foothill of the Mount Erice. The city of Trapani is rich in history, originally conquered by the Elymians, who, not only named it as Drepanon, but also, took advantage of the ideal geographical location and made it an efficient maritime and commercial port.
After that the area was taken over by Carthaginians, then, Romans, Byzantines, the Arabs and lastly the Normans. Given its rich history, even modern day Trapani, exhibits strong Arabic influences in its architecture.
Unfortunately, this city suffered a high impact pf bombs during the II World War period in which new streets and buildings had to be rebuilt. A touch of that decay is still lingering, evidenced by the old houses, churches and the streets.
Nowadays, Trapani’s vital and primary industry is salt extraction and its importation/exportation, bluefin tuna fishing and marble exportation, which, accounts for a high percentage of all stones production in Sicily.
Trapani constitutes a good port or “home-base” to travel around the Northwest part of Italy, including the Egadi Islands. As mentioned above, the result of the war did destroyed a fair bit of the place and therefore, not looking so dreamy. Although, there are also things worth visiting in this city and will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of visiting it.
Which one is better for a holiday, Taormina or Trapani?
Taormina is considered the most beautiful town in Sicily, famous for its cuisine and rich Greek Heritage. Provided with a dramatic coastline, at the top of Monte Tauro in the base of Mount Etna, doted with splendorous beaches and an enthralling cuisine, Taormina offers, everything for a perfect, unforgettable holiday.
Trapani is considered one of the most important port towns in Sicily. Its main industry is tourism and salt and marble production. Delimited by a sharp and rocky coastline, Trapani is the result of the ancient Roman, Greek and Arabic colonisation. It is touched and surrounded by the waters of the Aeolian Islands, which beauty, colour and charm is simply, out of this world. Islands, such as, Favignana or Levanzo are not to difficult to reach and provide an incredible gateway. As mentioned before, we stayed in both Favignana and Levanzo adnwe totally recommend you check them out too! They are so beautiful and worth exploring. If you feel that you are a bit tight in time, consider a day trip to Lavanzo. It is one of the most popular experiences
Keep reading on this post to find out the perks and downsides of each city when it comes to choosing one or the other to spend your next holidays!
Are Beaches better in Taormina or Trapani?
Taormina beaches
Whilst the variety of beaches in Taormina is large, in this area of Sicily reside some of the most beautiful calas in the world. Some of them are made of pebbles and some others are gold sandy and with crystalline waters. Most of the beaches are free of entrance and others are private, where you can purchase/rent an umbrella and long chairs to relax and sunbathe. Spending your holidays in this magnificent coastline is immensely appealing, with many picturesque bays and caves, easily accessible.
Amongst the best beaches in Taormina, you can find the one and only, Isola Bella, the name is self explanatory, as it is absolutely gorgeous and it is not a coincidence that holds the title of “Pearl of the Mediterranean“.
This beach is connected to the mainland Sicily by a trip of golden sand that works according to the tides. The waters are so clear and pristine that snorkelling is one of the favourite activities in the area. Not worse is the tiny beach of Mazzarò. You can find this delightful beach in the bay of Isola Bella. This one is a perfect example of a pebbles type beach equipped with umbrellas for that Italian look.
Lastly, there are two other great beaches in Taormina worth mentioning, which are, Mazzeo and Letojannia made of fine sand and clear, calm and blue water for unforgettable holidays.
Trapani beaches
Trapani, being on the coast, is also equipped with tiny bays along its coastline. Some of the rocky bays, display turquoise water and some of them don’t require special rock shoes to go in.
Given its closure to the Egadi Islands, many people “home-base”in Trapani for a couple of days making these beaches very crowded, especially, during the summer months. Most of these tiny spots are free of entrance. San Giuliano beach is a good example of a deep blue water and sandy beach, that could be a good choice, if you stay in Trapani, but it is packed with tourists.
Whilst the beaches around Trapani are not as striking beautiful as the ones in Taormina, you can also find the charm in them. There is particularly a beautiful white, sandy beach an hour from Trapani port called San Vito Lo Capo, which, acquired the feel of Caribbean like beach.
Another stunning beach place to visit near Trapani is Isole de Favignana,“the butterfly on the sea”, in the Egadi Archipielago.
There are incredible blue, clear waters surrounded by rocky beaches, which will remind you how old times would have looked like. Examples include Cala Rossa, Bue Marino and Cala Azzure.
Which has better beaches Trapani or Taormina can be difficult to answer. Taormina has a wider range of spectacular beaches right around the area, whereas, Trapani will require you to move around to find a gorgeous Cala to chill. As mentioned above, Favignana is an incredible place to visit to hang out around incredible beaches, but it will involve taking a ferry and hiring a scooter/ bike to move around the island.
Is Taormina or Trapani better for Museums and Historical Sites?
Taormina museums and sites
The Taormina Greek Theatre is the most impressive ancient attraction in Taormina. Divided into 3 areas: the scene, the orchestra and the cavea, this Grecoroman Theatre is one if them ain symbol of Taormina.
The Palazzo Corvaia is another main gift from the medieval period. It served as part of the city’s defence, then, house of the Sicilian Parliament and today the building displays the Arab, Norman and Gothic influences in its architecture.
The Cathedral of San Niccolo is such a unique Cathedral very different from the rest of Cathedrals in Italy. This Cathedral is more like a fortress, as supposed to look over ornate in its mosaics and marbles.
The Roman Odeon is a small theatre, a remaining from the first century AD when Taormina was a Roman colony. And actually, it is placed in the same side street from the entrance of the Palazzo Corvaia, behind the Church of Santa Caterina. Not only it was used for theatrical performances, but also, for musical auditions.
One of the highlights of Taormina is the gardens, they are somewhat english style like gardens where you can go and relax, far from overcrowded places just being surrounded by vegetation and some historic items, like old artillery, birds and cottages.
Naumachie is another good ancient site in Taormina. It is actually the remaining of an old Roman wall, which was built around the 1st century BC. Together with the Greek theatre, they are the oldest structures in Taormina.
Right next to The Palazzo Corvaia, above mentioned, you can find The Chiesa of Santa Caterina. This church was also built right next to The Roman Odeon. There are some historic, valuable sculptures and paintings from the 17th Century inside this church.
Another main attraction when in Taormina, is a day trip to Mount Etna. You can even plan a winery visit on the same day for a fully round experience.
Lastly, Castillo de Castelmola, which is right above Taormina, where you can even hike all the way up for spectacular views and trying a genuine wine made in the area which is Almond Wine.
Trapani museums and sites
One of the main attractions in Trapani, and to be honest, the only one worth visiting, in our opinion, is the Saline di Trapani e Paceco, or the Salt walks. They are surrounded by windmills that have become iconic of this landscape.
Salt production has always been Trapani’s main industry, it started around the 15th century and it lasted until today.
The Ligny Tower & La Colombaia are another two historical areas that represent the culture of Trapani and worth visiting if going to Trapani. The Torre di Ligny is a square tower found at the end of a long pier found in town. It served as a naval anti-aircraft post during the World War II period.
Today it serves as a maritime archaeological museum that exhibits a lot of prehistorical items from the Mangiapane era and it is also a popular point to watch the sunset.
Also as you come off the Harbour area, you will come across the octagonal Torre Colombaia. This building is known as Castello di Mare which used to be used as a prison and fortress back in the 15th century.
As for the important museums around Trapani, you can visit Museo Regionale Pepoli and Museum of Illusions.
The Museo Regionale Pepoli, displays a medieval architectural look and the ruins of sculptures, including the statue of San Giacomo by Antonello Gagini. A chain of stairs will take you to the Pinacotheca, as well as, other galleries, where some coral jewels and archaeological crafts from the medieval period can be found.
The Museum of Illusions uses art, architecture and optics to exhibit magic shows and innovative creative spaces, such as, the ones defying gravity or people suddenly appearing through the walls. Pretty interesting.
Lastly, visiting Mount Erice is a must. It is located in a romantic small town surrounded by flowery courtyards and churches. Hiking up to the tower is quite an adventure and you will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views over the salt flats of Trapani.
How expensive is the accomodation in Taormina and Trapani?
Comparing accomodation prices between both cities, Trapani is generally cheaper than Taormina. This is good for those on a budget plan but obviously this is linked to what you get around Trapani.
Taormina might be a little more pricey but you get the views, you get the authentic romantic Italian vibe. We actually stayed at Don Vittorio Country Village and it was pretty awesome at a very decent price!
Next, we have gathered some actual average prices per night depending on the type of accomodation in each city to help you out making a decision.
Luxurious villas and hotels in Taormina, are amongst the most beautiful accomodations in the entire Italy. The average price per night is around 290 USD a night, usually, including breakfast buffet.
Choosing a mid-range hotel in Taormina can be a great choice, getting both a good price and still awesome places with fantastic views. The average price per night is usually around 150 USD, normally, including breakfast options and good quality services.
Finding budget hotels in Taormina can be challenging, especially, during the summer times, where the tourism is at its highest peak. However, if you book in advance, you can actually find a couple of good gems on a lower cost plan. The average price per night on a budget hotel in Taormina is about 82 USD, usually only including accomodation. We sometimes have spotted flash offers and got breakfast included in this inspiring deal box:
If you are wondering about the price of the best hotels in Trapani we have researched the average across 40 hotels and it usually sits at 115 USD with very decent views and usually having breakfast covered.
Mid-scale hotels prices in Trapani sit around 80 USD a night, offering decent quality services.
Finding super cheap hotels in Trapani for those travelling on a budget is pretty easy, especially, if booked ahead of the summer time. If this option is something you might be considering, the average price per night is 55 USD, usually only covering accomodation.
In conclusion, in our opinion, even with great views, lux hotels in Trapani can’t be compared to the clear waters and ancient Greek/Roman atmosphere that Taormina offers, even some mid range hotels in Taormina can have fabulous views.
Is Taormina or Trapani safer to travel as a tourist?
We will start by saying that Sicily is a pretty safe place overall. Having said that, you do have areas where small crime or petty theft can happen. There are no major assaults anymore from the Mafia or other terrorist groups. The Mafia is still active in Sicily but focused on politics and other business alike. Definitely, not a threat to tourists. This is still a major point of concern for many tourists when they think of coming to Sicily, particularly to places like Palermoor Catania. Just legends!
When it come to Taormina, we can confidently stat that it is an absolutely safe place both during the day and night. It is a place where people go for holidays, being very lively and vibrant with focused attention on tourism due to the spectacular views and ancient remains.
Even, bag snatches and small theft is really unlikely and speaking to the locals, they have assured me that they haven’t heard of any of those small rimes in over decade.
In Trapani, however, pickpocketing and purse snatches do happen sometimes. Still it is a pretty safe place overall, especially, nearby the port and more touristy area, but we would be cautious with some the less transited narrow streets during the nighttime.
But worry not, there are no Mafia shoot-outs in Sicily nowadays, especially, affecting tourists or engaging in street crime.
In conclusion, we did find Taormina safer and felt more comfortable when walking alone by ourselves or having a couple of drinks late at night.
In Trapani, the vibe can turn a bit dodgy specially in pubs and not well illuminated streets and frankly, we felt a bit vulnerable when coming back to my accomodation by foot.
Is Taormina or Trapani better for Families?
There are so many things to do in the idyllic Taormina with kids. As it is a pedestrian only place, the towns makes it for the perfect holiday location to go with your family and be care free without having to supervise your children constantly.
There are infinite glorious beaches to go to with sandy and shallow waters where they can swim and play in the shore, as well as, many walks and hikes where they can explore without danger.
There are not too many children's activities, per se in Trapani. But if travel there in the summer you can go to the Lido in San Giuliano beach, as it is close to the town center and it is a safe small beach where kids can play on the shore and swim in the not too deep water.
Visiting great places close by Trapani is San Vito Lo Capo can be very family friendly, however, Mount Erice not so much, as the walk can be pretty steep and although, doable, it might be a bit of a pain!
The town is safe and walkable if you go with a family and travelling by ferry to Favignana or Levanzo is an absolutely incredible destination for families with kids, as the Calas and small beaches are quite safe and secluded if you come with kids. So much so, that we ended up spending about a week in each island and let us tell you, it was incredible. The most beautiful blue waters that you will ever see. Totally recommend going to both if you can. There are incredible deals for stays below:
Transport in Taormina and Trapani.
One of the aspects of picking a destination is how to get around the place you are travelling to. If public transport works well and it is safe, if you should rent a car/scooter or bike instead and so on.
One of the differences between Trapani and Taormina is, precisely, how to get around the place and how to get to the each of the cities.
Getting to Taormina takes about an hour by car from Catania airport (the closest one). There is a direct bus service from Catania airport to Taormina and you can buy tickets at the airport.
Alternatively, you can book a private taxi transfer from Catania Airport to Taormina. on a total price of 200 USD. This is an efficient way to do it but expensive.
If you stay in Catania first for a couple of days before, when it is time to move on to Taormina, simply take the regional train, which will take around 45 mins. Once in Taormina, getting around is mainly by foot.
Everything around Taormina is walking distance, in fact, the city centre, is pedestrian only. No traffic is allowed. This is very convenient, as you don’t have to be worried about renting a car, which are, usually, expensive.
However, getting around Trapani requires getting a bike, especially, if you want to see the sites worth visiting around this area.
Getting to Trapani, you will need to fly into Palermo, if you come internationally, to then grab a regional train or bus, that will take about two hours and a half to reach Trapani Central Station.
Though, Trapani bus system is efficient and can be used to travel around, you might be frustrated by the delays and changes in schedules that often happen in that area. Also, sometimes, even though, you might have your ticket purchased, sometimes the bus driver is unable to validate it and if you don’t have cash with you, you can be denied boarding. Make sure to always have coins and cash with you when use public transport.
Trapani also has a small airport only for domestic flights in case you are coming for another Italian town.
Cuisine in Taormina and Trapani
It is hard to go wrong with food in Italy, both of these cities do offer a wide range of food opportunities due to the diverse population and influences over the years. Each one has its unique flavours and unique dishes, as both of them have similar items but different influences.
When it comes to food in Taormina, there are restaurants, bars and street food pretty everywhere in this gorgeous city. We, personally, found Taormina, one of the best in the whole Italy! Cuisine in Taormina is absolutely authentic Italian food and some dishes still have remaining of Greek, Spanish and Arabic influences. The historic, traditional food in Taormina, pretty much specialises in seafood. This can be found, not only, in more upscale restaurants, but also, in budget friendly places, where even pizzas have some of this fresh ingredients at an affordable price.
Trapani’s cuisine is slightly different in background and culture. The gastronomic culture of Trapani is known for the unique Street food. The food culture in Trapani goes so far that we had to have professional guidance to indulge in the best food in town! We joined a private tour that not only guided us through the best food in Trapani but also the best areas of Erice and Segesta. We totally recommend you join the best experience in Trapani!
Among the unique dishes that you can find in Trapani, besides the aforementioned street food, are dishes that contain fresh tuna and Couscous. This is due to Arabic and North African influence.
Food is definitely at a cheaper price in Trapani, whereas, in Taormina, in most of the places, you also pay for the views you get. I mean, the panoramic views are insane and the food incredibly but it is pricer than in Trapani. Also in Trapani, there a re a lot of delicious street food. This can be very convenient if you are planning on travelling or need a quick bite on the go.
Final Thoughts
Taormina and Trapani are both small and cute little Italian town and they both have their unique halo and a vibe of their own. But in general, in my opinion Taormina is a sure winner when it comes choosing between Trapani and Taormina.
Taormina is a traffic free zone, which makes your trip way easier and relaxed. The Greek and Roman cultural background of Taormina, is one of the richest in Italy, as well as, the formidable views that the hill offers, including the one to Mount Etna. Taormina can be overly touristy and crowded, especially, at summer time. But also, counts with an important port, both getting ship traffic from Messina and Catania.
Taormina’s location on top of a hill, makes it the perfect spot for those wanting to fulfil the Italian dream and enjoy outstanding views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
All of them, swimmers, snorkelers, sunbathers, couples and family oriented, will find the perfect spot whether you set your day in Mazzaro or Isola Bella.
When it comes to budgeting in Taormina, we will be frank, it is probably not the place to backpack. Sure you can find modest priced hotels but they won’t be cheap. Everything is quite overpriced due to the views and the touristic level that Taormina has. There are no food supermarkets or street food, making it a bit harder if you want to travel on the cheaper end.
Having said that, Taormina counts on the most wonderful beaches in Italy, even the Mediterranean.
The most beautiful food and fresh produce, cultural history and if you are into wine, oh my god! That is the place for you. Not cheap! but incredible.
Wine, food (especially seafood) and gelato are local delicacies that will make of your evening stroll and incredible experience.
Lastly, culturally speaking, Taormina is rich in history and ruins, as a heritage of past conquers, making it a unique spot. The historical center is lively and vibrant surrounded by boutiques, shops and restaurants where buildings and streets will catch your eye.
Trapani’s location, makes of the city, a great port for, not only, favour the industry production of tuna, marble and salt around the western part of Sicily, but also, as a touristic home base to travel around the coastline, including the Egadi islands.
Trapani is a genuine working class Sicilian, fishing town, that got pretty beaten up in the World War II period, but its old town, has also a charm and can be beautiful to wander around. Holidays in Trapani is a cultural and different culinary experience.
There’s a family friendly town beach, San Giuliano beach, where you can go and chill, get some sunshine and relax, but truth be told, this beach wont’ be the best beach you have ever seen.
In our opinion, Trapani is not a destination point itself, but it is an excellent place to “home-base” to go an explore other areas of Sicily as well as the Egadi Islands. Pubic transport works well and it will take you to most cities around at an affordable price, which also, makes for Trapani, an excellent base, if you are on a budget.
The town looks a bit poor. The streets are not so beautiful, there are apartment blocks around the town and that, definitely, subtracts beauty from the place.
Also, you will find rubbish around the port and on the streets, where you can see heaps of stray dogs and cats and their faeces. This is not so pleasant.
Trapani itself can be attractive in some places (described above in the post), but we find it very limited, generally, unless, you plan on travelling around to places like the Salt paths (Saline di Trapani e Paceco) and windmills, San Vito Lo Capo and Erice.
There you go! We hope this post helped you in deciding which of the cities you will be travelling to, Trapani or Taormina. We have given you a fair comparison and my honest opinion of what we would do, but obviously based on your expectations and budget, the choice is yours!