About the Port
Set on Sicily's eastern coast, Giardini Naxos occupies the site of the island's earliest Greek settlement, founded in the 8th century BC. Today the town is a relaxed seaside resort, its curving bay backed by views toward Mount Etna and its promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops favored by locals and travelers alike. Sandy beaches and clear water give the town a laid-back character distinct from its more famous neighbor above.
That neighbor, Taormina, sits on a hillside a short drive from the pier and has drawn visitors since the 18th century for its ancient Greek theater, elegant piazzas, and sweeping coastal views. Ships typically call here after passing through the Strait of Messina, the narrow channel dividing Sicily from mainland Italy. Giardini Naxos itself rewards unhurried time along the water, making it an easy base before or after exploring the heights above.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Giardini Naxos.
Explore Taormina's Greek Theater
A short drive or cable car ride up the hillside leads to this 3rd-century BC theater, framed dramatically by Mount Etna and the sea beyond; allow at least an hour to take in the views and ruins.
Wander Taormina's Old Town
Corso Umberto, the pedestrian main street, links elegant piazzas, baroque churches, and the cliffside Piazza IX Aprile, all easily covered on foot after visiting the theater.
Relax on the Bay's Beaches
Giardini Naxos's sandy shoreline and clear water invite a swim or a slow walk along the promenade, an easy way to soak up the coastal setting without venturing far from the pier.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Giardini Naxos
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 18, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 15 | $8,419 | |
| Aug 24, 2026 | Explora Journeys | Explora I | 14 | $15,680 | |
| Aug 24, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Shadow | 6 | $4,240 | |
| Aug 31, 2026 | Explora Journeys | Explora I | 7 | $4,485 | |
| Sep 14, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Muse | 10 | $9,900 | |
| Sep 21, 2026 | Explora Journeys | Explora I | 14 | $10,725 | |
| Sep 28, 2026 | Explora Journeys | Explora I | 14 | $11,610 | |
| Sep 28, 2026 | Explora Journeys | Explora I | 7 | $5,535 | |
| Oct 7, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 8 | $7,760 | |
| Oct 7, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Muse | 14 | $10,570 | |
| Oct 7, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Muse | 7 | $6,900 | |
| Oct 8, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Spirit | 10 | $8,320 | |
| Oct 15, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 10 | $7,250 | |
| Oct 15, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 15 | $7,300 | |
| Oct 15, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 13 | $9,150 | |
| Oct 15, 2026 | Windstar | Wind Surf | 23 | $10,756 | |
| Oct 18, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Ray | 11 | $8,540 | |
| Nov 13, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Nova | 10 | $7,560 | |
| Mar 25, 2027 | Windstar | Star Legend | 15 | $5,252 | |
| Apr 1, 2027 | Windstar | Star Legend | 16 | $6,688 |
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