Ortigia or Taormina

I would choose Siracusa, but I would not zigzag across the island just for 2 days. If your time is limited, I would pick someplace nearer Palermo (e.g. Erice) if you are only exploring that region of Sicily. So it really depends how your entire trip is laid out and where you're flying into, out of, and the total time you have. I think Siracusa is more varied and interestng than Taormina, which is more beautiful and resort-like.

I haven't been to Taormina, but spent 2 nights in Ortigia in May 2022. Loved it! We flew into Catania and took the bus to Siracusa, which was much easier than I feared. Many family members also stayed in Ortigia around the same time, everyone loved it as well. It's definitely on my list to return, but maybe 3 nights next time! I also loved Palermo (3 nights, same trip) there's so much to see and do in Palermo and just walking around to look at the architecture and absorb the city takes a few days. Also on my list to go back!

I've been to both towns and although Taormina is beautiful, I would suggest two nights in Siracusa (Ortigia). There's more to do/see there than Taormina and it's much easier to get around on the train from Siracusa.

We spent 17 days in Sicily and really enjoyed our trip. We took a nice train from Palermo to Agrigento and spent one night there . From our hotel (choose well) we could walk to the temples which are huge and amazing and unforgettable. We then took the train north to Cefalu. I really liked Ortigia and it's lovely at night. We also enjoyed walking to the ruins in Siracusa. Taormina is pretty but it doesn't have as much to do.

For our next trip we are starting in Ortigia for 3 nights, then taking the train from Siracusa up to Taormina, where we visited 13 years ago, and will also stay 3 nights. Then we take the train across the Strait of Messina and onto the mainland, and north, eventually reaching Rome.

If those are the only options then I vote for Ortigia. I do like Agnes’ suggestion of staying closer to Palermo rather than crossing the island for two nights, unless you’re flying out of Catania.

Thank you all so much! I am sorry to miss Ortigia, but you are all right in suggesting not to go across the island for 2 days. We will stay in Palermo and day trip to Cefalù and Trapani. Any other ideas for a day trip.?

Erice is a good day trip and, of course, Monreale.

We plan to go and see the ruins at Agrigento from Palermo while we are there.
Two hours by direct train, so ok for a day trip.