The hotels in Taormina are the best in Sicily -- in fact, they're the finest in Italy south of Amalfi. All price ranges are available, from army cots to sumptuous suites.
If you're coming primarily to hit the beach, at least in July and August, you may want to stay at Mazzarò, 5km (3 miles) from the center, and trek up the hill for shopping, nightlife, and dining. Mazzarò is the major beach and has some fine hotels. Buses connecting Mazzarò and Taormina leave every 30 minutes daily from 8am to 9pm; the fare is 1.50€ ($1.80). Otherwise, we recommend that you stay in Taormina -- it has far more charm than anything down by the sea.
In summer, the curse of Taormina hotels is the noise, not only of traffic but also of visitors who turn the town into an all-night party. If you're a light sleeper and you've chosen a hotel along Corso Umberto, ask for a room in the rear -- you'll be trading a view for a good night's sleep.
If you're driving to a hotel at the top of Taormina, call ahead to see what arrangements can be made for your car. Ask for exact driving directions as well as instructions on where to park -- the narrow, winding, one-way streets can be bewildering once you get here.
