Top Hotels in Sicily, Italy
Photo: Courtesy of Mazzaro Sea PalaceAs you approach Palermo, Sicily, a tranquil feeling envelops you. The stunning blue waters transition into lush green hills, dotted with whitewashed buildings topped with terracotta roofs. Yes, the typical airport hustle awaits you, along with the challenge of navigating a rental car through the narrow, winding city streets. But this brief chaos fades quickly, revealing the treasures of Sicily: sprawling vineyards known for producing some of the world’s finest wines, olive groves that yield rich, golden oil, and the sweet scent of citrus groves wafting in through your open window.
Furthermore, Sicily boasts remarkable historic landmarks, including the Valley of the Temples and the Palermo Cathedral. While visiting, you have the privilege of staying in some of Europe's most breathtaking hotels. Below, explore eight must-visit hotels scattered across Sicily, chosen from our personal experiences and the esteemed World’s Best Awards and It List.
Villa Sant'Andrea, a Belmond Hotel
Courtesy of Villa Sant'Andrea Its stunning beachfront setting offers some of the finest views in Sicily.
Its rates can soar during peak tourist season.
Situated in the picturesque town of Taormina, Villa Sant'Andrea, a Belmond Hotel, is a lavish dream destination. This hotel, honored with the World's Best Awards in 2020, 2021, and 2022, is surrounded by a lush garden on one side and boasts views of the stunning Bay of Mazzarò on the other. All rooms and suites are exquisitely designed, including signature suites that feature private pools, dedicated host services, breakfast, and laundry facilities.
Guests can indulge in the spa, featuring massages and treatments in an outdoor area with stunning sea views, alongside exclusive dining options such as Brizza, a cozy 16-seat restaurant perched on the rocks above the ocean.
Key Details:
- Location: Taormina
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Isola Bella, Taormina Greek Theatre
- Loyalty Programs: Belmond Bellini Club
- Rates: Starting from $864 per night
Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Courtesy of Villa IgieaEvery corner is infused with historical allure.
To visit Palermo's city center, you'll need to drive.
Nestled on the outskirts of Palermo, Villa Igiea made our 2022 It List for its exceptional blend of historic elegance and modern conveniences. This Sicilian gem offers breathtaking sea views and refined interiors, beautifully restored by the Rocco Forte team after acquiring the property in 2019.
The rooms and suites exude regality, adorned with luxurious furnishings and canopy beds. The exterior matches this sophistication, featuring manicured gardens and a pool draped in matching emerald green umbrellas and chairs. Guests seeking adventure can partake in exclusive experiences, ranging from private tours of historic landmarks to exhilarating hot air balloon rides over Sicily.
Key Information:
- Location: Palermo
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Nearby Attractions: Palermo Cathedral, Norman Palace, Teatro Massimo
- Loyalty Programs: Rocco Forte Friends
- Rates: Starting at $485 per night
AD 1768 Boutique Hotel
Courtesy of AD 1768 Boutique HotelIt offers a rich history and breathtaking views.
Being a smaller hotel, it has limited amenities.
AD 1768 Boutique Hotel, a proud recipient of the 2020 It List award, is a delightful establishment that respects its historical roots. The 18th-century structure features restored original ceramic floors and beautifully painted frescos that grace the walls. The rooms are both simple and sophisticated, featuring wrought iron beds and soaring vaulted ceilings.
For a special touch, consider booking one of the executive rooms that offer a view of Piazza Duomo. Each morning, guests can gather in La Carretteria, the building's former carriage house, now transformed into a communal area for breakfast.
Key Information:
- Location: Ragusa
- Accessibility Features: Accessible rooms available
- Attractions Nearby: Ragusa Ibla, Duomo di San Giorgio, Giardino Ibleo
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $124 per night
San Domenico Palace Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel
Courtesy of Four Seasons HotelsThis property combines exceptional service with a rich 14th-century heritage.
Prices can soar during the peak season, making it quite costly to stay.
San Domenico Palace Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, proudly earned a spot on our 2022 It List for all the right reasons. As the brand's first establishment in Sicily, they went above and beyond to create an exceptional experience. The hotel is housed in a beautifully converted 14th-century convent, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and Mount Etna.
Each room and suite is uniquely romantic, featuring floor-to-ceiling French doors that invite the refreshing sea breeze, with some rooms boasting private plunge pools for your own personal retreat. Be sure to reserve a table at Principe Cerami, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in Sicilian cuisine—indulge in the tasting menu for a truly memorable meal.
Key Details:
- Location: Taormina
- Accessibility Features: Accessible rooms available
- Attractions Nearby: Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre, Corso Umberto
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $1,273 per night
Grand Hotel Timeo
Image courtesy of Grand Hotel TimeoThe breathtaking views of Mount Etna are always a sight to behold.
Securing a reservation can be challenging during peak season.
If you're in search of stunning views of Mount Etna, the Grand Hotel Timeo is your perfect destination. This luxurious establishment provides breathtaking vistas of both Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea, just a few steps away for a refreshing swim. Guests can also relax by the shimmering pool or savor the scenery from their private balconies in the signature suites.
Take some time to indulge in the spa, which utilizes organic products for all its treatments. The hotel boasts exceptional dining options, including the intimate 16-seat restaurant, Otto Geleng. With a dedicated staff ready to assist, they will help curate your ideal vacation experience through the hotel's personalized program.
Key Information:
- City: Taormina
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre, Villa Comunale
- Loyalty Programs: Belmond Bellini Club
- Rates: Starting at $656 a night
Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection
Courtesy of MarriottThe building's history as a 20th-century post office adds unique charm.
The hotel does not feature an outdoor pool.
Ortea Palace is a beautiful neoclassical structure overlooking Porto Piccolo, formerly serving as the local post office. This refined property boasts spacious rooms and suites, each adorned with sparkling marble floors and striking blue accent furniture.
Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor pool, adorned with stunning mosaic tiles. This pool is part of The Ortea Spa, where guests can pamper themselves with treatments or unwind in the steam room. When hunger strikes, head up to Incanto, the hotel’s rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking views.
The Details:
- City: Syracuse
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Wi-Fi: Included in the rate.
- Nearby Attractions: Ortigia, Syracuse Cathedral, Neapolis Archaeological Park
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Rates: Starting at $197 a night
Mazzaro Sea Palace
Courtesy of Mazzaro Sea PalaceThe exceptional beachfront setting provides stunning views.
The beach can become quite busy at times.
Mazzaro Sea Palace, perched on the coast of Taormina, is perfect for those seeking a beachside retreat. Each of the hotel's 70 rooms and suites features a balcony, ensuring that every guest enjoys a view, with many offering the added luxury of a private plunge pool for an intimate escape.
Additionally, there's a private beach equipped with pristine white lounge chairs reserved exclusively for guests. After soaking up the sun, replenish your energy at the hotel’s restaurant, Armònia, which delights diners with gourmet Sicilian dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
The Details:
- City: Taormina
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Nearby Attractions: Isola Bella, Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre
- Loyalty Programs: No
- Rates: Starting at $411 a night
Q92
Courtesy of Q92The intimate boutique setting naturally fosters a more tailored service experience.
It offers fewer amenities than larger hotels.
Nestled in the historic town of Noto, Q92 is a delightful boutique hotel that prides itself on providing warm, personalized service. With just nine stunning rooms and suites, each blends ultra-comfortable modern furnishings with charming old-world decor, featuring exposed stone walls and antique-style paintings and sculptures.
Each morning, guests can enjoy breakfast in the lounge with views of Noto Cathedral, and the hotel’s concierge is always available to offer insider tips for exploring Noto, ensuring a uniquely enriching stay.
The Details:
- City: Noto
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
- Nearby Attractions: Noto Cathedral, Palazzo Ducezio, Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $374 per night
Important Information to Consider
It's helpful to learn some Italian
When visiting Sicily, it's beneficial to pick up a bit of Italian. While English is less commonly spoken than in other regions of Italy, you should manage fine at larger hotels and popular tourist spots. A translation app can assist you, but knowing a few phrases like 'ciao,' 'grazie,' and 'mi potete aiutare per favore' can be handy.
Think about renting a car
Public transportation is available in Sicily, but it can often be tricky and inconsistent. If you're comfortable behind the wheel, we suggest renting a car. This will enable you to explore the island more thoroughly and at your own pace.
Experience a winery tour
The Selection Process for These Hotels
The hotels featured in this article have received accolades in our World's Best Awards and It List, and many are also cherished by our editors. Writer Stacey Leasca explored Sicily during a road trip, covering 1 euro villas for Dinogo, and is planning a return visit to officiate her first wedding in Sicily. She gathered insights from family, friends, editors, and locals, and thoroughly researched guest reviews across various websites. As always, our editors ensure that all hotel recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values.
Evaluation :
5/5