6 Best Shopping in Mount Etna and Eastern Sicily, Sicily

The primary passage between Taormina's two imposing gates (Porta Messina and Porta Catania) is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with both locally owned boutiques and massive international chains. During the height of summer, it can be an untenable traffic jam of foot traffic, but in the shoulder seasons, it's a lovely quick stroll for shopping and stops for coffee at area cafés.

Owners Filippo and Jelena welcome shoppers into their well-stocked enoteca as if they are inviting friends into their home. In this little spot just outside the city center, they stock one of the area's best selections of Etna and Sicilian wines as well as boutique amari, Etna-distilled gins, and a whole wall of sparkling wine. Rely on their expertise to navigate the offerings. The couple knows every bottle in the shop and never tries a gratuitous upsell. 

For a more pop art take on traditional Sicilian ceramics, visit Folk, a little boutique and gallery run by artist Magda Masano. You'll find iconic ceramic pinecones and teste di Moro (a ubiquitous pair of heads) in vibrant colors such as emerald green, lilac, or turquoise. Additionally, there are kitchenwares like plates, spoon rests, and cheese boards, all made of lava stone.

The classic Capri sandal has been part of the Italian summer uniform since the 1960s, and icons like Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, and Anita Ekberg ensured its enduring legacy. Stop into the Taormina outpost to have a pair custom-made.

The brainchild and passion project of a former graphic designer, Uau sells handmade leather bags with a bit of whimsy. Look for clutches inspired by old coin purses, slim backpacks in nature-inspired prints, and bold shoulder bags—the whole line wouldn't be out of place in a Tim Burton film. 

First opened in 2019, this Catanesi-owned shop and clothing line embraces body positivity. So much so, they abandoned all traditional sizes and instead offer five unique fits. Constucted with an eye on sustainability, the clothes are made of all natural, vegetal fabrics. And the owners work with local women artisans to highlight their hand-crafted accessory wares (like necklaces and purses) within the shop.