Our stay in Taormina was thoroughly enjoyable. Luca messaged us a day before to help coordinate our check-in and met us at Porta Messina (the gate into the old city) after our taxi dropped us off from the train station. He walked us through the apartment and also helped coordinate a boat tour out of Giardini Naxos, which we also enjoyed. He's very prompt and a great communicator over WhatsApp. The apartment is in an excellent location - 5 minute walk to the cable car (to take to the beach) and just around the corner from Teatro Antico, where we saw a concert one night. It is also very close to the main street, where you can walk from one gate (Porta Messina) to the other gate (Porta Catania). The place is very spacious with 2 bedrooms upstairs (one master and one with a twin bed - both with AC units), a rooftop patio (which we used everyday), and a large living area, where there is a pull-out couch in one side, and a separate couch on the other. The view from the living room is unbeatable - the city below, Etna in the distance, and the hillside of Taormina in the forefront.
The master bedroom is a little tight in space, but not a real concern as many of the older buildings have unique floorplans and constraints. AC worked great in the upstairs bedrooms and is highly needed in the summer as we were there in July. There isn't an AC unit downstairs, but a fan, which helps some to cool. The rooftop is a great place to unwind, have a glass of wine, or eat dinner once the evening allows for cooling and a breeze. It's very private and up against a small hillside. There's a slight view of the ocean from the patio as well. We utilized the washing machine, which is also a plus.
If you have a chance, book a tour of Etna, make sure to hike to the church on the top of the hill, and explore the botanical gardens. There's so much to do in Taormina - the beaches, of course are also amazing. If you want a break from the crowds and easier swimming (less rocks, more sand), take the bus to Giardini Naxos for a day. We loved it. The bus terminal is also in close proximity - roughly 8 minute walk. We also took the bus to the Catania airport. Very easy.