Ancient Theatre of Taormina
Ancient Theatre of Taormina
4.5
About
The view of Mount Etna and the sea beyond is absolutely superb at Taormina's 10,000-seat ancient Greek amphitheater, which was erected in the third century BC and expanded by the Romans.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Sally62Northampton, United Kingdom6,082 contributionsA must-see if you are in Taormina, this was built by the Greeks in 3 BC and later added to and adapted by the Romans. There is a lot to see and the views over to Etna in one direction and to Isola Bella and the Italian mainland in the other are spectacular. Entry times vary depending on the time of year so check before going. It can get very busy in the middle of the day especially if cruise ships are in so, if you are staying for a few days, go on a day when there are no ships in and either go first thing or after 4pm for fewer crowds. The ticket queue can be long so worth buying your tickets online to skip the queue. There are regular evening concerts in the theatre over the summer so you may be lucky and get a ticket to one. There is also now a small café/restaurant at the back of the theatre overlooking the coast but it's very busy and we couldn't get a seat as most were reserved. Lots to see, good information so worth the visit.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten June 15, 2024
- John and Kat ACronulla, Australia217 contributionsThose Plastic Seats We visited the ancient Greek theatre. The history is quite good. Despite the fact it was destroyed in 365 and wasn't re used till the 1465 era it's still has that Greek theatre look. That however was disappointing when we visited as plastic seats had been added for performance in summer. There were NO English leaflets available but Italian and German. For 12 eu they could give us leaflets not ask us to scan a qr codeVisited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 23, 2024
- pmh0meStratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom32 contributionsWe’re not really ones for guided tours and we were stopping pretty close so we got up early and went and paid for our tickets and did our own tour. To be honest there’s so many tours going on you can quite easily ‘lend an ear’ and pick up some interesting facts if you want to. The theatre itself is pretty spectacular and you can sit down on the seats and just take it all in. As it’s high up pretty much all the way round there are some superb views and loads of photo points. Toilets on hand and there’s a really nice cafe with gorgeous cakes right at the top. It’s not claustrophobic and lots of walk ways both stepped and sloped if your not the most mobile. Very enjoyable.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 28, 2024
- becky gIsle of Wight, United Kingdom555 contributionsA must see when in Taormina. Full of history & stunning views. We loved our visit! We went in the height of summer and it was very hot, so would recommend perhaps sunset time or early morning. I imagine the sunset sky up there would be phenomenal!Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten November 8, 2024
- robertjhnnsCologne, Germany742 contributionsThe Teatro Greco of Taormina is probably the most famous landmark and attraction of the city. Entrance fee 12€ per person. Especially at sunset in good weather, the setting of the theatre is magical. One had a fantastic view also of the sea comma as well as the entire coast. Plus the mountains in the background and a view of the other side of the coast further north. I don’t know if live music is played every day in the theatre in the evening. But there is a stage where a jazz band with singer performed. That was about 7:15. The live music along with the backdrop of the theatre and the beautiful surrounding countryside are breathtaking.Visited September 2024Traveled soloWritten September 2, 2024
- NICHOLAS TDubai, United Arab Emirates11,078 contributionsThis is an amazing sight in its own right and it also offers amazing views of Taormina and Mount Etna in the distance. The 12 euro entrance price is very reasonable and you are treated to a well preserved amphitheater and an idea of how spectacular the venue must have been it is day. There is a good shop and small museum within the ground, together with a nice cafe which also offers sensational views of the Sicilian coastline.Visited September 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 14, 2024
- carlosvelascoteran158 contributionsMy wife and I went to Taormina mid November, 2024. We have traveled to Europe many times, never in November. We were pleased, weather was excellent, days were sunny with temperatures around 70-75 F without the crowds seen summer time. The Ancient Theatre of Taormina benefits from its magnificent surroundings and is an amateur photographer's dream. I was able to fit the Aegean Sea, the Theatre and Mt. Etna in a single photo. Access is very easy, and after the visit you can enjoy a cappuccino at the cafeteria.Visited November 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten December 21, 2024
- Tony8 contributionsGreat place overrun in October. You can thank the producers of White Lotus for ruining Taormina for everyone. The city is gorgeous with some wonderful restaurants and sights. Unfortunately half the world wants to see it. Amphitheater is truly remarkable but get there early as the tour groups descend upon it in hordes You’ll probably still go but don’t say you weren’t warned.Visited October 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten October 13, 2024
- Menis TsikrasKaterini, Greece10 contributionsGreat historic site with fascinating views. The museum was very interesting despite its very small size and the liberty to walk wherever you want is also a big positive. The only downside is the price which, combined with Taormina’s overall high prices, is not ideal. However I think everyone who visits Taormina has to see this site for its rich history and incredible view of the Ionian Sea.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 16, 2024
- JoeCamachoLeuven, Belgium33 contributionsOur visit to the Ancient Theater of Taormina was a highlight of our trip, and I’m so glad we decided to book a tour guide. She was incredibly informative, sharing fascinating details about the theater's history and architecture, all with great energy that made the experience even more enjoyable. The theater itself is absolutely stunning, both in terms of its historical significance and its breathtaking views. The panoramic view from the top is simply unbeatable—a perfect spot to take in the beauty of the coast and Mount Etna in the distance. I also appreciated how well-organized the site is. Free toilet facilities are available, which is always a plus when visiting such a popular attraction. There's also a lovely bar at the top where we could take a break and refresh ourselves, which was much needed on a hot day. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. It’s a must-see if you’re in the area, and the guided tour is definitely worth it!Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 28, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Mirco_comma26
Sassuolo, Italy630 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
I recommend accessing the archaeological site early in the morning, before the crowds. to avoid important files. Possibility to purchase an audio guide at a modest and comprehensive price on site. excellent agreement with Fai which ensures a significant discount.

Written September 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kathy V
Roeselare, Belgium638 contributions
Jul 2023
The old theater is very beautiful and impressive. It is still used today, so be careful when you buy tickets: if there is a performance you pay even more and you cannot walk around freely everywhere! Ask at the counter!
So for us there was no performance and we could walk around freely everywhere. Beautiful views of the bay, although in our case these were somewhat disturbed by the heavy smoke from the forest fires we had at that time.
Very beautifully preserved theater, it is the second largest in Sicily, it has a diameter of 109 m and can accommodate 4000 spectators.
Expensive, but actually beautiful.
So for us there was no performance and we could walk around freely everywhere. Beautiful views of the bay, although in our case these were somewhat disturbed by the heavy smoke from the forest fires we had at that time.
Very beautifully preserved theater, it is the second largest in Sicily, it has a diameter of 109 m and can accommodate 4000 spectators.
Expensive, but actually beautiful.

Written August 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LAURA C
6 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Autumn is the right season to admire a land so rich in history. However, there is little time to spend in the area. An obligatory stop for our group of friends was the "ancient theater of Taormina". Through Paola's expert guidance we were able to admire its beauty and importance through the centuries, almost imagining the scenarios to the point of getting excited. Even today the theater lives on through the theatrical performances that our expert guide advised us to see, if we have the opportunity.
We want to thank you for your competence and friendliness and recommend that you accompany you on this journey through time inside the theatre.
The friends of Trento

Written November 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lilly S
Barcelona, Spain85 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
We arrived in Taormina in the afternoon, and they told us that the visits were until 7:00 p.m. because the shows were starting.
We wanted to buy tickets and they seemed very expensive!!!! We decided to go in person and got both tickets for less than half of what it cost online. Don't buy in advance. Magical theater for its architectural structure and the landscape in which it is immersed. A must visit if you are there.
We wanted to buy tickets and they seemed very expensive!!!! We decided to go in person and got both tickets for less than half of what it cost online. Don't buy in advance. Magical theater for its architectural structure and the landscape in which it is immersed. A must visit if you are there.

Written August 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jotacis
Zaragoza, Spain812 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
I give this rating because in some summer months they hold a festival inside and the appearance of the amphitheater changes with the rest of the year. The entrance costs €13.50 and includes only the individual visit, the place is very cool with beautiful views of the sea. Cdo We went, they were preparing the show for the night, setting up the scenery, etc....we paid an entry fee for the entire year, while you couldn't see the original appearance of the theater.

Written September 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ivor M M
Greater London, UK68 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Well worth going for the views alone. We were also lucky enough to get tickets for the David Garrett concert on 18th June. We sat in the cheap seats in the upper tiers and although furthest from the stage these offered the best views of mount Etna and the coastline. Listening to the concert as dusk descended in such a fabulous setting was truly magical. It was also sobering to reflect on how such a magnificent space has been used in the past to entertain audiences.
Written June 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MikeyG53
Emersons Green, UK5,907 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We were in Taormina back in 2017 as part of a tour group, where we only had a short time at each location to take in the sights (i.e. mostly ruins). This was another such ruin for us to visit here in Taormina. By the time we had got here (the final location of our tour) we were overcome with the need to relax, and visit some well established, not so old or ruined, wine bars and restaurants.
So, on this current holiday we did find a couple of hours to walk here and visit this 1,723 year old ruin, but it was a bit of a tick in the box for us. The visit was moderately interesting, particularly so the animated film that showed how the theatre was constructed and how it is thought that it would have looked at the time.
The theatre is semi-circular with a large area, that would have been the stage, along the straight edge. I believe that this means that this ruin was not an amphitheatre; as seating does not completely encircle a central performance space.
If you are interested in ancient structures then this ruin is certainly for you. We have only a scant interest in old ruins (as indicated by the fact that we were a bit CBA* back in 2017). It costs €12 (approx. £10) to visit and you should allow at least an hour to see it all. The queues at the ticket office are sometimes extremely long. Even with a relatively short 10mtr queue it took us 15 minutes to get through. You can buy advance tickets online and avoid queuing, but I suggest you use the official website at aditusculturecom.
*couldn’t be arsed
So, on this current holiday we did find a couple of hours to walk here and visit this 1,723 year old ruin, but it was a bit of a tick in the box for us. The visit was moderately interesting, particularly so the animated film that showed how the theatre was constructed and how it is thought that it would have looked at the time.
The theatre is semi-circular with a large area, that would have been the stage, along the straight edge. I believe that this means that this ruin was not an amphitheatre; as seating does not completely encircle a central performance space.
If you are interested in ancient structures then this ruin is certainly for you. We have only a scant interest in old ruins (as indicated by the fact that we were a bit CBA* back in 2017). It costs €12 (approx. £10) to visit and you should allow at least an hour to see it all. The queues at the ticket office are sometimes extremely long. Even with a relatively short 10mtr queue it took us 15 minutes to get through. You can buy advance tickets online and avoid queuing, but I suggest you use the official website at aditusculturecom.
*couldn’t be arsed
Written May 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ally.x Wright
Dorchester, UK219 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Wow! A stunning piece of history! We visited early in the morning to avoid the main heat of the day and entered just as the gates opened. There are many steps so only go if you are fit enough to to climb them! The climb is worth it as the view from the top of the amphitheater is stunning, of the theatre itself and of Mt Etna and the surrounding coast. Take water to rehydrate and comfy shoes. I would highly recommend for the reasonable price of €10
Written July 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
richardemail
Stratford-upon-Avon, UK638 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
So we went to the Greek amphitheatre to see Carmen. The performance and venue were fun, but the organisation and management of the venue is a problem. The tickets advertised a start time of 9.00, but doors did not open until 8.30 and long unmanaged queues outside were chaotic and dangerous. People were still entering at 9.30 and the performance started even later. By the time the performance actually finished (around 1am) a good majority of the audience had already left.
The seating is cramped and there is no people control. We spent most of the first half basically watching the performance through the back of mobile phones openly recording the show and listening to our neighbours loudly talking.
Even the seat numbering is very difficult to work out and we witnessed multiple arguments.
We eventually moved from our paid for seats to the upper levels where there was more space and a better view. Our tip ? Save your money and sit there from the outset.
The toilets are down steep steps and unclean.
And if you are just visiting this venue by day in performance season, bear in mind it is full of stage and seating which rather detracts from the ancient nature of the place.
Probably controversial, but on the basis of our actual experience, three stars overall.
The seating is cramped and there is no people control. We spent most of the first half basically watching the performance through the back of mobile phones openly recording the show and listening to our neighbours loudly talking.
Even the seat numbering is very difficult to work out and we witnessed multiple arguments.
We eventually moved from our paid for seats to the upper levels where there was more space and a better view. Our tip ? Save your money and sit there from the outset.
The toilets are down steep steps and unclean.
And if you are just visiting this venue by day in performance season, bear in mind it is full of stage and seating which rather detracts from the ancient nature of the place.
Probably controversial, but on the basis of our actual experience, three stars overall.
Written October 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David B
Leeds, UK56 contributions
Aug 2022
As an ancient monument, it is fantastic it is still in use for it's original function. We were staying in Taormina and bought tickets on line and got there around 10:30am, just before all the coach tours and groups from the cruise ship arrived. We were not bothered about the stage being set for a performance and think it just goes as a testiment to the Greeks and Romans for such a long lasting structure.
We took it slow going round and it took us two hours. Definitely take water as it is hot while wandering around. We started at the top and worked out way down to the stage.
We would recommend wearing proper trainers as the surface underfoot can be a bit loose and bumpy as you would expect from a 2000 year old building.
This should be on everyone's list when visiting Taormina.
We took it slow going round and it took us two hours. Definitely take water as it is hot while wandering around. We started at the top and worked out way down to the stage.
We would recommend wearing proper trainers as the surface underfoot can be a bit loose and bumpy as you would expect from a 2000 year old building.
This should be on everyone's list when visiting Taormina.
Written September 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How can I find out what performances will be held at the theatre in June 2025?
Written November 28, 2024
Mi spiace ma non ho assist a spettacoli
Written August 8, 2023
We are considering going to a concert that starts at 9:30 in the evening, so it will be too dark to see the spectacular view here. We have only been here during the day to wander around and view the theater as a tourist attraction. It seems all the seats would be good, but wonder about the acoustics. Does anyone know from personal experience if it is necessary, or worth it, to pay for the more expensive tickets to enjoy the concert, or would you say all the seats are good? Thank you for your help.
Written April 4, 2023
As we haven't attended a concert there, we can't really answer this question. Some tourist did come in during the day singing and I did notice that the accoutics were excellent from the top, centre at the back where we sat most of the time enjoying the view. You should still be able to have a lovely night view as the coast is lit, and with any luck perhaps even moonlight.
Written April 5, 2023
Dove consigliate di parcheggiare l'auto?
Written June 25, 2022
Do you still need to pre book a ticket for the first Sunday each month when the entry is free?
Written June 25, 2022
Per il concerto di Tommaso Paradiso, la cavea non numerata ha i posti a sedere ?
Written June 23, 2022
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