The largest island in the Mediterranean, located just off the toe of Italy’s boot, Sicily is an incredible place to go when you want to unwind and forget about your hectic life back home. Boasting hidden sandy bays, thick rolling vineyards, and dramatic ancient wonders, Sicily is full of breathtaking panoramas you’ll never want to forget.
The island has many wonderful characteristics that make it unique. It’s home to the largest active volcano in Europe, and it’s where you’ll find some of the best-preserved Greek ruins outside Greece.
It also has its own style of pizza with a wonderfully thick crust and no cheese, and it’s where delicious cannoli come from! Stay in one of the best Sicily hotels, and you’ll be able to experience all the history, beauty, and drool-worthy cuisine for yourself.
Sicily boasts a fantastic choice of accommodation, with everything from rustic farmhouses to luxurious boutique hotels. In fact, there are so many wonderful places to choose from that you may find it impossible to pick just one. So, we’ve put together a list of the 12 best hotels in Sicily to help you plan the perfect getaway!
Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Sicily
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Where to Stay in Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and there are loads of amazing places to stay in Sicily. If this is your first time, we recommend booking a hotel in Palermo. The capital of the island, Palermo has a fantastic mix of cultural attractions, Baroque architecture, and trendy bars and restaurants. It’s got a vivacious vibe and is where you’ll find some of the best hotels in Sicily.
Agrigento is a great choice if you’re a fan of history. This neighborhood has roots that date back to 400 BCE and is packed with fascinating monuments, excavation sites, and museums. It’s also home to a wide selection of cafes, bars, restaurants, and hotels.
For something a little livelier, consider staying in Taormina. This area is one of the most beautiful parts of Sicily, with grandiose buildings covered in flowers and vines. The enchanting town boasts a great number of casual bars, cocktail lounges, and vibrant nightclubs to keep you entertained in the evenings.
If you’re traveling with your kids, we suggest staying in Syracuse. This neighborhood is full of family-friendly hotels, and all the attractions, boutiques, stores, bars, and restaurants are within walking distance. You’ll also find some wonderful sandy beaches here!
The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Sicily
1. Relais San Giuliano
Hidden away in peaceful Viagrande, just a short drive from Catania, Relais San Giuliano is the place to stay when you want to get away from it all. Set inside a historic mansion, this hotel is comprised of farmers’ houses and a wine cellar, all of which have been beautifully restored and transformed into a gorgeous place to relax.
You’ve got to visit the spa during your stay. Decorated in neutral tones with stone and wooden accents, the spa boasts a hot tub, a Finish sauna, aromatherapy showers, and a hammam. There’s also an extensive selection of body and facial treatments using organic products to choose from.
The outdoor pool area is the ideal place to chill out and sip on tropical cocktails during the day. Make sure you return to the pool bar in the evening, which is perfectly positioned to watch the sunset. If you’d prefer something a little more formal, the hotel also features a sophisticated winery, an international restaurant, and an elegant lounge bar.
2. Hotel Gutkowski
Located on the seafront of Lungomare di Levante in Syracuse, Hotel Gutkowski is one of the best boutique hotels in Sicily if you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s ideally positioned for exploring, just a short walk from countless monuments, fountains, churches, and temples.
The hotel is set inside two renovated historic buildings which date back to the 19th century. Just steps away from the sea, it retains its charming Mediterranean character and features 26 individually-designed guest rooms.
Here you can choose between comfortable Basic Rooms, bright and airy Classic Rooms, and stunning Plus Rooms. While all accommodation options are graceful, we suggest you book a Plus Room. These are the most spacious rooms with loads of natural light and beautiful views of the sea or Old Town.
If you’re planning on spending a lot of time in Sicily, you may want to consider booking the hotel’s apartment. Just a 1-minute walk from the main building, the apartment is much larger than the rooms and features a separate bedroom, lounge, kitchenette, and bathroom.
3. Monaci delle Terre Nere
Situated directly on the slopes of Mount Etna, Monaci delle Terre Nere boasts some of the most stunning views in Sicily. From the hotel, you can see the imposing volcano, sprawling Sicilian countryside, and all the way out to sea.
The giant estate covers 61 acres and features a charming farm, alluring vineyards, and terraced gardens. The hotel produces its very own wine, and you can take a behind-the-scenes tour to find out how it’s made before trying a few varieties yourself.
The hotel focuses on keeping things as local and natural as possible. The Locanda Nerello restaurant dishes up delicious Sicilian cuisine using ingredients sourced from the on-site farm. In summer, you can dine on the gorgeous outdoor terrace, and in winter, the indoor dining room with a roaring fire is a wonderful place to eat.
To make you feel great inside and out, Monaci delle Terre Nere organizes morning yoga sessions with remarkable views, guided walks in the surrounding countryside, and a healthy organic breakfast each morning.
4. Dimora di Catullo
If you want to surround yourself with peace, quiet, and dazzling views, Dimora di Catullo is one of the best Sicily boutique hotels. Hidden away inside a building that was once a great mansion, the hotel has everything you need to relax and unwind.
Freshen up with a swim in the cute outdoor pool, enjoy some delicious grilled goodies with the help of the BBQ facilities, or just find a quiet space in the garden and relax. Everything here is designed to help you chill out and escape your busy life.
Breakfast is superb. Although the hotel is quite small, it puts on a lavish buffet laden with local delicacies. Sicilian cannoli, fresh-from-the-oven croissants, homemade cakes, organic jams, and fresh fruit are just some of the things you can expect. You can even try the typical ricotta of the area, made by a local farmer!
The rooms are just as beautiful as every other part of the hotel, boasting original features such as exposed stone walls and wooden beamed ceilings.
5. Le Case dello Zodiaco
Wonderfully positioned in the center of Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Case dello Zodiaco is surrounded by ancient palaces, centuries-old temples, and archaeological sites. An interesting combination of home and hotel, the property features a single reception building with guest rooms scattered throughout a number of historic buildings in a small community.
Each of the five rooms is unique and boasts several original features. Authentic stone walls, huge French-style beds, and collections of classic Sicilian books in various languages are just some of the things you can expect. Whichever room you choose, you’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi access, air conditioning, and a well-equipped kitchenette.
Modica is famous for its incredible chocolate, which tastes unlike any other. It’s got an amazing roasted cocoa taste with hints of cinnamon or vanilla, depending on which type you get.
You’ll get to try some of the local chocolate for free within the hotel. Plus, you can sign up for a chocolate factory tour or even pamper yourself with a spa treatment with Modica chocolate!
6. La Foresteria Planeta Estate
One of the coolest hotels in Sicily, La Foresteria Planeta Estate is perched on a lush, green hill and enjoys spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. The hotel is encompassed by stunning olive groves and vineyards, giving you the chance to really immerse yourself in nature and forget about the outside world.
The 14 guest rooms are named after herbs and boast gorgeous panoramas. Each is wonderfully spacious and features a king-size bed, private balcony, and room service for lunch and dinner. Whichever room you choose, the fragrant smell of grape vines, olives, and fresh herbs will fill the space every time you open the windows.
La Foresteria Planeta Estate organizes loads of amazing experiences to help you submerge yourself in the local culture and area. From wine tasting tours and cooking classes to essential oil massages and an art gallery filled with contemporary pieces, you’ll never be stuck for something to do here.
7. Mea Hotel
Just a short walk from the historical center of Lipari in the Aeolian Islands, you’ll find Mea Hotel. This gorgeous resort fuses Western and Arabian cultures to bring you a unique experience that highlights charm, elegance, and service.
The hotel offers an excellent choice of accommodation, ranging from basic, affordable rooms all the way up to glamorous suites. If you feel like treating yourself, we definitely recommend you book one of the suites. These sophisticated rooms are incredibly spacious and boast a separate lounge with a sofa bed, a private terrace with fantastic views, and free Wi-Fi access.
You’ve got to make a reservation at Chimera Restaurant during your stay. Located just a short walk from the hotel, this charming restaurant is owned by the hotel and dishes up incredible Sicilian cuisine accompanied by Italian, Sicilian, and Aeolian wines.
Within the hotel’s grounds, you’ll find a number of swimming pools to chill out in. There’s even a spa-style pool with immersed loungers and chairs with bubble jets.
8. Zash Country Boutique Hotel
A truly unique hotel in Sicily, Zash Country Boutique Hotel will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Surrounded by aromatic lemon and orange trees, the hotel is set inside an ancient winery and still contains many original features.
Volcanic stone walls, oak floorboards, lofty vaulted ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows make this hotel achingly beautiful. The building was originally a manor house from the 1930s. But a talented Italian architect transformed it into the amazing hotel it is today.
You’ll find the hotel’s restaurant tucked away in the old wine chamber. Focusing on slow food, the restaurant encourages you to relax, take your time, and savor every bit of creative cuisine the Michelin-starred chef dishes up.
When you need to relax, retreat to the spa. Featuring a pool with stones made from Mount Etna’s lava, an intimate hammam, and a steamy sauna, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling like a whole new person. For even more indulgence, sign up for a massage or beauty treatment carried out with natural products.
9. Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel
Wonderfully positioned in the historic center of Ortigia while still being just steps away from the beach, Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel is a great choice if you want to split your time between sightseeing and relaxing. With many historic wonders and beautiful sandy bays within easy reach, you’ll never get bored here!
Boasting brightly colored tiles, highly polished stone, and beautifully coordinated lines, the accommodation here is designed to help you relax. Whichever room you choose, you’ll be treated to rustic artwork on the walls and authentic period pieces from Spain, Morocco, and Sicily. All rooms also come with a free minibar.
For a true taste of Sicily, make a reservation at Algilà Restaurant. Here you can choose from a wonderful selection of traditional local dishes made with top-quality seasonal ingredients. If you’d rather get out and explore the area, the hotel offers electric bike rentals.
10. Azienda Agricola Mandranova
An incredibly cool Sicily hotel, Azienda Agricola Mandranova is like a dream come true! This stunning property offers the perfect combination of rural farmhouse modesty and unashamed elegant luxury.
Surrounded by miles of olive groves and fruit trees, the hotel’s magnificent location guarantees you’ll always get a wonderful night’s sleep. Large comfy beds, romantic mood lighting, and individual air conditioning will help you quickly drift off, too.
Every room is full of rustic charm, with exposed brickwork, wooden beams, and four-poster beds. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling as a group, we suggest splashing out on the villa. This huge property is separate from the main building and boasts a private pool with wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and out to sea.
Creative cooking classes are held every day, and you get to eat what you make for lunch. If you’d rather let someone take care of the cooking for you, the hotel’s restaurant dishes up a fantastic selection of Sicilian dishes.
11. Quartara
An award-winning hotel just steps away from the port of Panarea, Quartara is a great place to stay if you want to be in the center of all the action. Located in the bustling hub of the neighborhood, the hotel is surrounded by fantastic bars, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops while still being quiet and peaceful.
The accommodation here is sophisticated and sublime. Each room features a clean white color palette, handcrafted wooden furniture, and detailed artisan textiles.
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, we suggest splashing out on the Rooftop Terrace. This remarkable room boasts a four-poster bed, a minibar with exclusive Made in Sicily goodies, and an incredible rooftop terrace with a hot tub and unbeatable sea views.
Head to the Cantina to discover the amazing world of Sicilian wines. Here you can try around 250 different varieties from Sicily, Italy, and the rest of the world. If you need something a little more substantial, visit the hotel’s restaurant, where you’ll find all kinds of gastronomic delights made from products grown in the local area.
12. I Pretti Resort
One of the most unique hotels in Sicily, I Pretti Resort offers guests the best of both worlds. The hotel is set inside a historic house that dates back to 1873 but features minimalist rooms with modern decor.
Tucked away on the island of Favignana, the hotel has an enchanting Mediterranean garden with lush grass and thick bushes. It’s the perfect place for enjoying a drink as the sun dips into the ocean. Steps away, you’ll find Lounge Florio with a piano and mini library. The lounge is usually peaceful, but it’s sometimes used for live music concerts, literary talks, and art exhibitions.
When you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, treat yourself to something off the wellness menu. You’ll find a wonderful selection of beauty treatments and massages on offer.
I Pretti Resort dishes up a fantastic breakfast buffet each morning. You can treat yourself to everything from homemade cakes, filled croissants, and local cheeses to fresh fruit, sweet muffins, and healthy juices. It’s the perfect way to start yet another incredible day in Sicily!
That completes our list of the 12 best Sicily hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Sicily? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Hidden away in peaceful Viagrande, just a short drive from Catania, Relais San Giuliano is the place to stay when you want to get away from it all. You’ve got to visit the spa during your stay. Decorated in neutral tones with stone and wooden accents, the spa boasts a hot tub, a Finish sauna, aromatherapy showers, and a hammam. There’s also an extensive selection of body and facial treatments using organic products to choose from.
Situated directly on the slopes of Mount Etna, Monaci delle Terre Nere boasts some of the most stunning views in Sicily. From the hotel, you can see the imposing volcano, sprawling Sicilian countryside, and all the way out to sea. To make you feel great inside and out, Monaci delle Terre Nere organizes morning yoga sessions with remarkable views, guided walks in the surrounding countryside, and a healthy organic breakfast each morning.
Wonderfully positioned in the center of Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Case dello Zodiaco is surrounded by ancient palaces, centuries-old temples, and archaeological sites. Modica is famous for its incredible chocolate, which tastes unlike any other. It’s got an amazing roasted cocoa taste with hints of cinnamon or vanilla, depending on which type you get. You’ll get to try some of the local chocolate for free within the hotel. Plus, you can sign up for a chocolate factory tour or even pamper yourself with a spa treatment with Modica chocolate!
An incredibly cool Sicily hotel, Azienda Agricola Mandranova is like a dream come true! This stunning property offers the perfect combination of rural farmhouse modesty and unashamed elegant luxury. Surrounded by miles of olive groves and fruit trees, the hotel’s magnificent location guarantees you’ll always get a wonderful night’s sleep. Large comfy beds, romantic mood lighting, and individual air conditioning will help you quickly drift off, too.
An award-winning hotel just steps away from the port of Panarea, Quartara is a great place to stay if you want to be in the center of all the action. Located in the bustling hub of the neighborhood, the hotel is surrounded by fantastic bars, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops while still being quiet and peaceful.
