Giardini Naxos

Giardini Naxos is a coastal town in Sicily, in the province of Messina, set at the head of a bay between Capo Taormina and Capo Schisò. Built on the site of Naxos, the first Greek colony on the island (8th century BC), it retains an archaeological park and a small museum displaying remains of the ancient city. Unlike Taormina, perched on the cliffs above, Giardini Naxos lies at sea level and boasts long, sandy beaches, making it a popular seaside base for families. Its seafront promenade, lined with restaurants and shops, offers easy access to Taormina by bus or along the coastal road, as well as to Isola Bella. Local cuisine centres on fresh seafood, pasta with shellfish and traditional Sicilian sweets such as granita and cannoli. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, draws visitors from spring through to autumn. The nearby presence of Mount Etna also makes the resort a convenient starting point for volcano excursions.