Bar Turrisi
A legendary Sicilian bar in Castelmola, famous for its quirky fertility-themed decor, delicious almond wine, and breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy drinks with stunning views
Bar Turrisi
Best Time
Enjoy drinks with stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Sicilian bar in Castelmola, famous for its quirky fertility-themed decor, delicious almond wine, and breathtaking coastal views.
"It's really very quirky - there's lots of phallic sculptures in here, apparently to represent fertility. It is quite amusing though."
😂 Sense of Humor Required
Go with an open mind and a sense of humor; the unique decor is a major part of the experience!
🍷 Try the Almond Wine
Don't miss the famous almond wine, it's delicious and makes a great gift!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Phallic Decor Galore
Throughout the bar
A unique and amusing collection of fertility symbols adorning every surface, from furniture to bathroom fixtures.
Almond Wine Tasting
Bar counter
Savor the sweet, locally famous almond wine, a delightful treat and a popular souvenir to take home.
Panoramic Terraces
Upper levels
Enjoy breathtaking views of Castelmola and the surrounding coastline from the bar's multi-level seating areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Charm
Almond Wine & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
😂 Sense of Humor Required
Go with an open mind and a sense of humor; the unique decor is a major part of the experience!
🍷 Try the Almond Wine
Don't miss the famous almond wine, it's delicious and makes a great gift!
📸 Photo Opportunities
This place is a photographer's dream with its quirky details and stunning views.
⬆️ Higher Floors, Better Views
The higher you go, the better the views and generally quieter the seating.
Tips
from all over the internet
😂 Sense of Humor Required
Go with an open mind and a sense of humor; the unique decor is a major part of the experience!
🍷 Try the Almond Wine
Don't miss the famous almond wine, it's delicious and makes a great gift!
📸 Photo Opportunities
This place is a photographer's dream with its quirky details and stunning views.
⬆️ Higher Floors, Better Views
The higher you go, the better the views and generally quieter the seating.
💰 Reasonable Prices
Surprisingly affordable for both food and drinks, especially considering the location and views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bar Turrisi is celebrated for its incredibly unique and amusing phallic-themed decor, offering a memorable and quirky experience. Visitors rave about the delicious almond wine and the breathtaking panoramic views from its terraces, all at very reasonable prices. While the food is basic, the overall novelty and atmosphere make it a must-visit spot.
"Very cool and unique place! It's really very quirky - there's lots of phallic sculptures in here, apparently to represent fertility. It is quite amusing though. We had a drink here and they brought over some complimentary snacks, which was a nice touch. I only marked it down one star for service as although it was good and he was friendly, we only got over the one drink."
Lyndsey Dunwoody-Sharpe
"Our B&B host sent us here to try the almond wine, asking that we not spoil it. It was a fascinating surprise, considering the furniture, decorations, bathroom walls, door handles...
The wine was good and at the end we ordered something in the same style of the place (photo) and we were happy; they gave us the glasses in the pictures after paying (no reasons for a boring order like in a usual pub 😁)."
Matteo Dal Ben
"We were sitting in a bar one afternoon in September. The impressions are great: great music and service. I dropped my wallet somewhere in the square and I realized it 3 hours later. I called them from Taormina. They searched the square, found the wallet and returned it to me.
Thanks again!"
Ljubica Milenković
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bar Turrisi is located in Castelmola, a charming village above Taormina. You can reach Castelmola by local bus from Taormina's Piazza San Pancrazio, or by taxi. The drive offers scenic views.
Parking in Castelmola can be challenging due to narrow streets. It's often best to park in Taormina and take a bus or taxi to Castelmola. If driving, look for designated parking areas outside the main village center.
While possible, the walk from Taormina to Castelmola is quite steep and can take over an hour. Most visitors opt for public transport or a taxi for convenience.
Castelmola is best explored on foot. Wander through its narrow, winding streets to discover hidden corners and enjoy the stunning vistas. Bar Turrisi is a central point within the village.
Due to its multi-level structure and the hilly terrain of Castelmola, Bar Turrisi might present challenges for individuals with significant mobility issues. The terraces involve stairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Bar Turrisi. You pay for the food and drinks you consume.
Bar Turrisi is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their social media or call ahead, especially if visiting during off-peak times.
There is no formal dress code. Most visitors dress casually, though some enjoy dressing up to match the 'bella vita' vibe.
Reservations are typically not required, especially for drinks. For dining, particularly during peak season or for specific events, it might be wise to inquire about booking options.
Yes, Bar Turrisi occasionally hosts special events, such as themed dinners or musical evenings, like their 'Cena Sotto le Stelle' paying homage to Ennio Morricone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bar Turrisi offers a range of food options including pizza, pasta, bruschetta, and toasties. They also make fresh cannoli. +1
The most famous drink is the almond wine (vino alla mandorla), which is highly recommended and often purchased as a souvenir.
While specific vegan options might be limited, vegetarian choices like pizza and bruschetta are available. It's best to ask the staff about ingredients.
Yes, it's common for Bar Turrisi to offer complimentary snacks with drinks, which is a nice touch for visitors.
Prices are considered very reasonable, especially for the quality, unique experience, and stunning views offered.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The unique decor, especially the phallic sculptures and bathroom fixtures, are prime photo opportunities. The panoramic terraces also offer incredible shots.
Absolutely! Bar Turrisi encourages photos, and its distinctive decor makes it a popular spot for capturing memorable moments.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the quirky details. If you have a wide-angle lens, it can help capture the expansive views from the terraces.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography for personal use. Be mindful of other patrons' privacy if they are in your shots.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for the views, while daytime allows for clear shots of the interior decor. Evenings can be atmospheric with lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the decor is unconventional, it's generally presented in a lighthearted manner. The food options like pizza and cannoli are usually kid-friendly. However, parents should be aware of the theme and gauge their children's reactions. The stunning views from the upper levels are a definite plus for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for drinks and complimentary snacks is a great way to experience Bar Turrisi without committing to a full meal. Trying the famous almond wine is a relatively inexpensive indulgence that provides a taste of local flavor and makes for a memorable souvenir.
couples
Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to experience the magical ambiance as the lights twinkle across the landscape. The multi-level seating allows for finding a cozy spot to chat and enjoy each other's company amidst the distinctive surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Decor of Bar Turrisi
The decor is not just for shock value; it's presented with a sense of humor and cultural context, celebrating life and abundance. Visitors often find it amusing and a great conversation starter. The sheer inventiveness and dedication to the theme make it a truly unforgettable place, prompting many to remark on its distinctiveness and the memorable faucets in the bathrooms.
While the decor is the main talking point, it's important to note that the bar also offers a pleasant atmosphere for enjoying drinks and snacks. The multi-level layout provides different seating experiences, with the upper floors offering spectacular views. This blend of quirky art and stunning scenery creates a unique proposition that sets Bar Turrisi apart from typical establishments.
Savoring the Flavors: Almond Wine and More
Beyond the almond wine, the bar also serves a selection of food items. While not the primary focus, options like pizza, pasta, bruschetta, and toasties are available, offering a simple yet satisfying culinary experience. They also prepare fresh cannoli, another Sicilian delight. The food, combined with the drinks and the ambiance, contributes to the overall enjoyable experience.
The pricing at Bar Turrisi is also a significant plus. Visitors frequently mention that the costs for both food and drinks are very reasonable, especially considering the prime location in Castelmola and the unique selling proposition of the bar. This affordability allows more people to enjoy the offerings and soak in the atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Capturing the Views and Vibes
The unique decor provides endless opportunities for creative photography. From the playful phallic sculptures to the quirky bathroom fixtures, every corner offers a potential photo op. Visitors often share their amusing shots on social media, showcasing the bar's distinctive character. It's a place where you can capture both the cultural quirks and the natural beauty of Sicily.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the late afternoon for the golden hour light on the landscape, or during the day to clearly capture the intricate details of the interior. Evenings can offer a more atmospheric, albeit darker, setting, especially if there are events with special lighting. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with a wide-angle lens will serve you well.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit