On the eastern side of the island of Sicily, the medieval town of Taormina perches high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the gorgeous blue of the Mediterranean sea and facing the volcanic peak of Mount Etna. Most of the year is perfect sunbathing weather, but you'll have to take a cable car to get down to the pebble beach.
Every great civilization around the Mediterranean basin has, through the centuries, taken an interest in Sicily, from the Greeks and the Phoenicians to the Romans and the Normans. This mix of cultures is still evident today.
The beautiful countryside, clement weather and delicious food has drawn tourists to Taormina for many years - famous sojourners who fell in love with the town include the great German poet Goethe, who wrote lyrically about the city in his book "Journey to Italy", playwright Oscar Wilde, author DH Lawrence, and artist Gustav Klimt.