In short: The Museo archeologico and excavation area of Naxos in Giardini-Naxos mark Sicily’s first Greek colony (8th century BC) – right on the sea, easy to combine with Taormina. Plan on 1.5 to 2.5 hours (museum + site).
Quick Facts
- Type: Archaeological museum with open-air excavation area
- Location: Capo Schisò, Giardini-Naxos (Province of Messina)
- Duration: approx. 1.5–2.5 hours (museum + site)
- Highlights: Sicily’s first Greek colony, an exposed city area right on the sea
- Without a car: good – bus from Taormina/Taormina-Giardini train station
- Opening & admission: daily from 9am; admission €5 / reduced €2.50 (as of 07/2026)
Who Is This Museum For?
| Target group | Well suited | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Families | museum + a walk through the seaside area | little shade on site |
| Ancient history travelers | Sicily’s first Greek colony | – |
| Without a car | bus connection to Taormina | – |
| Taormina visitors | an ideal half-day trip down to the sea | – |
What You’ll See
- Finds from Sicily’s first Greek colony (founded in the second half of the 8th century BC).
- The exposed excavation area of ancient Naxos, right on the sea.
- Its connection to the shared park with Taormina (Teatro della Nike).
History & Background
Naxos was Sicily’s first Greek colony in 734 BC, founded by settlers from Chalkis. After its destruction by Syracuse in 403 BC, its inhabitants later resettled in the higher-lying Tauromenion (Taormina). The museum and site sit at Capo Schisò.
Planning Your Visit
1.5 to 2.5 hours for the museum and excavation area. There is little shade on site – come early in summer and bring water. Check opening hours in advance.
Getting There
Giardini-Naxos is closely linked by bus to Taormina and the Taormina-Giardini train station; the museum sits on the harbor/Schisò promenade. Beyond the region: Buses & trains in Sicily.
Best Time to Visit
Spring through autumn; in midsummer, come early because of the open site. For context: Best Time to Visit Sicily.
Nearby Alternatives
Easy to combine with Taormina and the Teatro Antico; further north, the Museo Regionale Messina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Naxos significant?
It was Sicily’s first Greek colony in 734 BC – a key site in the island’s ancient history.
How do I get there without a car?
Very easily: Giardini-Naxos is connected by bus to Taormina and the Taormina-Giardini train station.
How much time should I plan for?
1.5 to 2.5 hours for the museum and excavation area.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes – the combination of the museum and a walk through the seaside area works well with kids; remember sun protection in summer.
Taormina & Naxos
We combine Taormina, ancient Naxos and the coast into a single itinerary and book the accommodation. Just send us a no-obligation travel request.
Opening Hours & Admission
Open daily from 9:00am; no binding closing time is officially listed. According to the Regione’s official pages, museum admission is €5 (reduced €2.50) – as stated on the ticket page of the Parco archeologico di Naxos e Taormina. Note: the museum was briefly and partially closed in April 2026 (the excavation area remained accessible). As of: 17.07.2026 – be sure to check with the Parco archeologico di Naxos e Taormina before your visit.
Sources & Updates
Core data: Open Data Portal of the Regione Siciliana (CC-BY 4.0). Collection details based on official and established sources. As of: 17.07.2026. Opening hours and admission vary and should be checked before your visit.
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