Castelmola
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Latest page update: 3 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Castelmola
Castelmola, perched above Taormina, is a small hilltop village known for its historic streets and views over the Ionian coast. Accommodation is mainly made up of smaller residences, but a few established hotels exist locally, with further options available nearby in Taormina.
In Castelmola itself, Hotel Villa Sonia is a well-rated property featuring panoramic terraces, a pool and a restaurant, regularly praised for its setting and hospitality (€€€). Just below in Taormina, Hotel Villa Belvedere offers elegant rooms, a pool and consistently excellent guest feedback (€€€). Another option in Taormina is Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina, which provides comfortable accommodation near the historic centre, often noted for its facilities and location (€€).
In Castelmola itself, Hotel Villa Sonia is a well-rated property featuring panoramic terraces, a pool and a restaurant, regularly praised for its setting and hospitality (€€€). Just below in Taormina, Hotel Villa Belvedere offers elegant rooms, a pool and consistently excellent guest feedback (€€€). Another option in Taormina is Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina, which provides comfortable accommodation near the historic centre, often noted for its facilities and location (€€).
Where is
Where is Castelmola?
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The town of Castelmola is situated within the Metropolitan City of Messina province and has a population of around 1,100.
It stands at an elevation of 501 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Taormina, Isola Bella, Mazzarò, Giardini Naxos and Letojanni. |
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Comune di Castelmola
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Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: 1,068 (in 2024 - source) Size: 17 km² Elevation: 501 metres Close by: Taormina, Isola Bella, Mazzarò, Giardini Naxos, Letojanni Recommended accommodation: Hotel Villa Sonia |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: L'Acropoli di Taormina (The Citadel of Taormina)
Listing headline: L'Acropoli di Taormina (The Citadel of Taormina)
What People Ask About Castelmola, Sicily
Is Castelmola worth visiting?
How do I get to Castelmola?
What are the main attractions in Castelmola?
When is the best time to visit Castelmola?
How long should I stay in Castelmola?
Related links
Discover
Discover Castelmola
Castelmola is a hilltop town in the Province of Messina, perched high above the Ionian coast near Taormina. Its houses cluster around a rocky summit, with steep lanes, terraces, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea, Mount Etna, and the sweeping curve of the coastline below. The compact historic centre, built from pale stone and lava rock, reflects the town’s medieval origins and its strategic role as a natural lookout over the eastern approaches to Sicily.
The remains of the Castello di Castelmola crown the highest point, recalling the centuries in which the town served as a defensive stronghold. Small churches, traditional houses, and scenic piazzas give the settlement its distinctive character, while local crafts and long-standing traditions continue to shape cultural life. Positioned directly above Taormina, Castelmola forms part of one of Sicily’s most visited areas, linked by panoramic roads and walking paths that connect the coastal resorts with the mountain landscapes behind them.
The remains of the Castello di Castelmola crown the highest point, recalling the centuries in which the town served as a defensive stronghold. Small churches, traditional houses, and scenic piazzas give the settlement its distinctive character, while local crafts and long-standing traditions continue to shape cultural life. Positioned directly above Taormina, Castelmola forms part of one of Sicily’s most visited areas, linked by panoramic roads and walking paths that connect the coastal resorts with the mountain landscapes behind them.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Castelmola
- Castello di Castelmola is a ruined Norman fortress perched at the highest point of the village, offering panoramic views over Taormina, Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Although only parts of the walls and foundations remain, the site is atmospheric and well worth the short climb. Informational panels explain the castle’s history and strategic importance. The surrounding terraces provide ideal spots for photos and quiet reflection.
- Piazza Sant’Antonino is the central square of Castelmola, paved with traditional black and white tiles in geometric patterns. The square is framed by bars and restaurants, with open views across the coastline and hills. It serves as the heart of village life and a starting point for exploring local shops and historic sites. In the evenings, it becomes a popular spot for socialising and taking in the views.
- Chiesa di San Giorgio is a small 15th-century church located near the entrance to the village, featuring a simple stone façade and a bell gable. Inside, it holds religious artwork and a revered statue of Saint George slaying the dragon. The church remains active and is central to local celebrations and feast days. A nearby viewpoint offers a scenic stop just before reaching the main square.
- Duomo di Castelmola (Chiesa di San Nicola di Bari) is the village’s main church, with a Neo-Romanesque façade and spacious interior. Located near the castle, it features a marble altar, stained glass windows and a bell tower overlooking the valley. The church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas and hosts key religious festivals. Its elevated position makes it visible from much of the surrounding area.
- Bar Turrisi is a well-known local bar housed in a multi-level building filled with carved wood, ceramics and mosaics reflecting ancient fertility themes. While the bar is famous for its eccentric decor, it also offers views from its balconies and rooftop terrace. The menu includes almond wine, a Castelmola speciality. It has become a quirky but iconic part of the village’s identity.
Tours and Activities
Castelmola Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Castelmola Photo Gallery
Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Castelmola
By Rail: Castelmola does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is Taormina–Giardini, about 6 kilometres away, on the Messina–Catania line operated by Trenitalia. Regional and intercity trains connect Taormina–Giardini to Messina in around 45 minutes and to Catania in about 1 hour. From the station, buses and taxis provide regular connections uphill to Castelmola via Taormina.
By Road: Castelmola is located in north-eastern Sicily, just above Taormina, overlooking the Ionian coast. The drive from Taormina takes around 15 minutes via the SP10 road. From Messina, the distance is approximately 55 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour via the A18 motorway. From Catania, the distance is about 60 kilometres, with a drive of roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes along the same motorway. Parking is available just outside the historic centre, as the main streets are pedestrianised.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Castelmola is located in north-eastern Sicily, just above Taormina, overlooking the Ionian coast. The drive from Taormina takes around 15 minutes via the SP10 road. From Messina, the distance is approximately 55 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour via the A18 motorway. From Catania, the distance is about 60 kilometres, with a drive of roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes along the same motorway. Parking is available just outside the historic centre, as the main streets are pedestrianised.
Nearest International Airports:
- Catania Fontanarossa Airport: Situated around 65 kilometres south of Castelmola, with a drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A18 motorway. This is the most practical airport, offering frequent domestic and international flights.
- Reggio Calabria Airport: Located approximately 90 kilometres northeast, taking around 2 hours by car including the ferry crossing between Villa San Giovanni and Messina. It provides domestic routes and limited European connections.
- Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport: Roughly 270 kilometres west, with a journey time of around 3 hours and 30 minutes via the A19 and A20 motorways. It offers a wide range of national and international services.
Private Transfers
Castelmola Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and efficient way to travel to or from Castelmola, with a professional local driver offering direct, door-to-door service. It’s a convenient option for visitors heading to this hilltop village above Taormina, avoiding the need to drive the winding roads or rely on limited local bus services.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport, which operates both domestic and international flights, as well as from Reggio Calabria Airport for those arriving from mainland Italy. Private transfers also connect Castelmola with nearby destinations such as Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and Letojanni, providing comfort and flexibility for exploring Sicily’s eastern coastline.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport, which operates both domestic and international flights, as well as from Reggio Calabria Airport for those arriving from mainland Italy. Private transfers also connect Castelmola with nearby destinations such as Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and Letojanni, providing comfort and flexibility for exploring Sicily’s eastern coastline.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
