The seaside resort of Giardini Naxos lies cozily situated on the coast of the Ionian Sea. Founded in 734 BC, and a quiet fishing village until the early ‘70s, now it is famous for delightful beaches, panoramic views and as the gateway to Taormina on Monte Tauro above. Before heading up to Taormina it’s worth checking out the Greek temple of Apollo Archegetes, the Naxos Museum of Archaeology, located in the Tower of Capo Schisò, where items from recent excavations in the area can be found, the Archaeological Park, with remains of the old Giardini Naxos wall, and Vignazza Tower, a watchtower built in 1544 and used to watch for pirate boats. Discover the winding medieval streets in lovely Taromina, Italy’s best-known resort, with a backdrop of Mount Etna and dramatic views of the bay. Easily explored on foot, see one of the most popular ruins in Sicily, the beautiful and remarkably preserved Ancient Theatre. Other sites to visit include Palazzo Corvaja, built in the 10th century, and whose central core is an Arabic tower, Corso Umberto, an energetic street lined with shops and bars, Madonna Della Rocca, a 1640 sanctuary, Greek Theater, built in the 3rd century BC and still used for performances and Via Bagnoli Croce, an exotic public garden.