Giardini Naxos Holidays

Giardini Naxos is an affordable and laid-back resort, close to Taormina and with plenty of charm of its own. Stretching along the beachfront in the same wide bay as Taormina, this authentic Italian town thrives in the summer, and is a tranquil option outside of peak months. Designed around a long promenade packed with shopping and dining, the town of Giardini Naxos is perfectly suited to a relaxed seaside escape.

There’s plenty of history to enjoy too, with the 15th-century Vignazza Tower and 16th-century Schisò Castle dominating the town’s skyline. Activity in the Giardini Naxos generally revolves around relaxing by the seafront, with several lidos providing easy access to the beach. In the evening, many of the beachfront bars and cafes stay open late and it is not uncommon to dine late into the evening, with ice cream or crepes to finish. Should you wish to see more of the area, then Taormina is just a 15-minute drive across the bay, and boasts an ancient amphitheatre, historic streets and a 13th-century cathedral.

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Start planning your Citalia holiday by getting in touch with one of our Personal Travel Planners.

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Holidays along the Tuscany Coast take you beyond the beautiful gently undulating, tree spiked countryside that is characteristic of this enchanting part of Italy.

As well as the peaceful, artist inspired countryside, there’s a wonderful contrasting coastline to experience. The Tuscany Coast boasts many kilometres of enticing sandy beaches, perfect for those who just want to relax and enjoy the sun, as well as charming restaurants and bars for an early evening Tuscan Negroni aperitif.

Tuscany is renowned for its cuisine; from comforting winter soups made with different types of cabbage and beans, to Panzanella, a popular salad made with bread and lardo di colonnata, which is pork lard cured on local marble.

The Tuscan Coastline offers everything from sunbed and umbrella striped private beaches to free beaches with intimate coves boasting calm, clear blue water. Everything’s on offer here; the peace and tranquillity of beaches surrounded by pine forests and sand dunes or fishing harbours offering bars and restaurants to suit all tastes along. Adventurous travellers will love the water and wind sports which can be enjoyed off the coast.

Explore Tuscany Coast like no other

With 95 years of expertise in providing holidays on Tuscany’s Coast, there are plenty of hidden treasures we can introduce you to. Tuscany’s sandy beaches stretch for many kilometres and for those who like some privacy, a top tip is to seek out single cars parked along the road. You’re likely to find a subsequent steep trail which leads down to a quiet stretch of beach.

The Versilia resorts along the northern coastline favour the archetypal Italian beach, with rows of sun loungers, umbrellas and coast guards on hand. Travelling further south there are pine woods and extensive sand dunes to enjoy in the Migliarino San Rossore nature reserve just east of Pisa. To add variety to your holiday, a trip to the multicultural sea port of Livorno offers the opportunity to hire a bike or a Segway and travel along the Terrazza Mascagni, the black and white chequered waterfront terrace favoured as a meeting place for locals. If you start your ride at the right time of day you can enjoy the panoramic sunset views.

Handpicked hotels in Giardini Naxos

Discover the real Giardini Naxos while staying in one of our carefully selected hotels

Sicily, Giardini Naxos

UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia

Located in picturesque resort of Giardini Naxos, 6km from bustling town Taormina
Wide choice of sports and activities to suit the whole family

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Things to do in Giardini Naxos

The coastal town's main draws are its beautiful beaches (perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling and diving), friendly restaurants and lively bars. The town is also home to the church 'Chiesa di Santa Maria Raccomandata', which dates back to the 18th century. Inside you can view the 15th-century painting of the 'Madonna di Porto Salvo'. Every Saturday, the street leading to Hotel Sant Alphio Garden diverts into a market selling everything from shoes and clothing, to flowers, dried fruits, fashion jewellery and home ware.

Things to doRelax on the BeachThe beach of Giardini Naxos is a big draw for many of the town’s visitors. Soft golden sands slope gently into the sea and the backdrop of Mount Etna is truly stunning.Find out more about the beach

Things to doVisit TaorminaTaormina is Sicily’s most popular destination, and with its beautiful views, warm seas and picturesque streets, it’s easy to see why many people flock to this coastal town. Find out more about Taormina

Flight Information

The closest airport to Giardini Naxos is Catania (CTA), which is about 1 hour from Giardini Naxos. Direct flights to Catania are available from Birmingham, London Gatwick, London Luton and Manchester and take approxmimately 3 hours.

When to go

Thanks to its southerly location, Sicily enjoys mild temperatures all year round. Spring and autumn are both lovely times to visit, with temperatures in the high teens and early 20s (although up in the hills and on the slopes of Mount Etna it can be significantly cooler). In summer, you can expect temperatures in the high 20s – perfect for spending time on the island's beautiful beaches.

Visa Information

At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.

Tipping

Whilst tipping isn’t embedded into Italian culture it is always appreciated as an acknowledgement of good service. Nowadays people generally round up a bill in a bar or cafe and leave 5-10% extra on a restaurant bill. Taxi bills are usually also rounded up.

On guided tours/excursions, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide.

On small group escorted tours, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide at the end of the tour.

Introduction to languages

The official language of Italy is Italian. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.