Once you reach the village of Castelmola, you'll see a sign for the parking lot on your left. From there, you can reach the center via the two flights of steps in the parking lot.
Castelmola is the small medieval village above Taormina. In the distant past, it was used as a fortress by the civilizations that colonized Taormina, providing a defensive position and a defensive point for attack against enemies threatening Taormina. Its name derives from the shape of the rock on which the village rests, which resembles a molar, hence the name Castelmola. Today, the village is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and you'll see why. From its summit, where the castle (n.2) once stood, you can enjoy sweeping views of both the Messina and Catania sides. The view is stunning, especially of Mount Etna, which appears to be at the same level.
In this guide, we begin in Piazza Sant'Antonio (no. 1), continuing along Via Tutti i Santi, from which you can reach the panoramic terrace overlooking Taormina (n. 6). Walking around the church of San Giorgio (n. 5), you'll reach Piazza San Giorgio, opposite the church of the same name, built around 1450. Continuing along Via della Rabbia, you'll reach Piazza Duomo, where you'll find several attractive little shops, both for their aesthetics and their products. To the side of the square is the Duomo (n. 3), built in 1935 from local stone. Its facade opens onto a small square with a beautiful view of Mount Etna. Going up Via Pio IX, you'll reach Piazza Sant'Antonio (n. 1), and from there, a flight of steps takes you to the highest point of the town, where the castle once stood (n. 2). Today, only a few walls remain, leaving a large space with a fantastic view.