Caught in the crosshairs of countless civilizations, Sicily’s geography has made it the ultimate hot potato of the Med for centuries. This small but stunning island is a complex cultural cocktail—think of it as the ultimate blend, where each sip reveals a new flavor. And the cherry on top? Some of the best hotels in Sicily Italy that the Mediterranean has to offer.
But don’t be fooled by its size; Sicily packs a punch with its unique identity that stands proudly apart from mainland Italy. It’s this quirky mix of unity and diversity that makes Sicily irresistible. And guess what? Sicily’s best hotels reflect this curious combo, each one spinning its own tale of conquest, culture, and coastal charm. Whether it’s a salvaged 18th-century palace in Palermo or a cozy, salt-kissed room in the Aeolian Islands, these hotels celebrate their extraordinary surroundings with flair—offering breakfast spreads that would make any Italian nonna proud, complete with cannoli, granita, and brioche con tuppu.
Ready to explore the best hotels Sicily Italy? Let’s dive in!
1. Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: Best Hotels Taormina
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a Slim Aarons photograph, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo is your ticket to Taormina’s high-octane glamour. As one of the best hotels Taormina has to offer, this iconic Sicilian gem is a haven of elegance and breathtaking beauty. Part of the renowned Belmond hotels Italy collection, it offers unmatched luxury with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the shimmering coastline. Picture yourself lounging poolside, soaking in the scenery, as a pianist sets the mood for an evening of negronis and unforgettable moments.
Opulence? Check. Marble bathrooms and rooms wrapped in silk wallpaper spill onto terraces bathed in golden sunlight. And let’s talk breakfast—where else can you indulge in granita brioche, tea fit for royalty, and pastries so delicate they should come with a ‘handle with care’ label?
After a luxurious siesta at sister hotel Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea’s beach cabanas, you’ll want to dress to impress for dinner at Otto Geleng. Here, flickering oil lamps cast a magical glow over seafood plates that look straight out of a still life painting—just don’t be surprised if the artist is jealous!
While the iconic Greek amphitheatre and Amalfi-like charm of Taormina are just a short stroll away, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo stands out among Taormina Italy hotels as a tranquil haven. With its lush manicured gardens and serene poolside ambiance, this luxurious retreat lets you experience paradise without ever leaving the property.
Hotel Address: Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Via Teatro Greco, 59, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy
Price: From £327
2. Monaci Delle Terre Nere
When it comes to the best hotels Sicily, Monaci Delle Terre Nere is a standout agriturismo trailblazer. This isn’t just any country hotel; it’s a 17th-century monastery turned chic escape that epitomizes the charm of the best hotels in Sicily Italy. The main house, with its faded grandeur, sits comfortably on the fertile slopes of Etna, surrounded by olive groves, apricot trees, and vineyards that make your morning orange juice look basic.
With Etna as your ever-present, slightly ominous neighbor, you’ll find 27 design-forward rooms and villas sprinkled across rolling hills that lazily roll down to meet the sea. This go-slow paradise uses its 60 acres of organic goodness to fuel Locanda Nerello, a restaurant where ancient Sicilian flavors like scabbardfish ragout and courgettes parmigiana shine. It’s no wonder Monaci Delle Terre Nere is celebrated among the best hotels in Sicily Italy.
Mornings here are worth getting out of bed for, with scrambled eggs dressed in wildflowers and black bee honey slathered on homemade Sicilian bread. Afternoons? They’re dedicated to mastering the art of doing nothing—Sicilian style. It’s the kind of experience that truly sets Monaci Delle Terre Nere apart as one of the best hotels in Sicily Italy.
Hotel Address: Monaci Delle Terre Nere, Via Monaci, Via Pietralunga, sn, 95019 Zafferana Etnea CT, Italy
Price: From £232
3. Hotel Signum
Nestled between Naples and the rugged Sicilian port of Milazzo lies one of Italy’s best-kept secrets: Salina, a volcanic island floating in a sea so blue, it might make the Mediterranean jealous. Among the best hotels in Sicily Italy, Hotel Signum stands out as a charming retreat, tucked away in an old fishing village at the foot of a dormant volcano. Here, the go-slow lifestyle is an art form, and the scenery looks like it stepped right out of an 18th-century novel.
Hotel Signum is the kind of place where Mediterranean sunshine filters through a maze of lemon trees, honeysuckle, and jasmine, casting a golden glow on chipped shutters and vintage cast-iron furniture. The rooms are simple yet elegant, with mahogany accents and white curtains that dance with the sea breeze. But the real showstopper? The jaw-dropping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, with Panarea and Stromboli’s smoky silhouette on the horizon.
Dining at Hotel Signum is nothing short of theatrical, thanks to Michelin-starred chef Martina Caruso, who turns local ingredients into masterpieces. It’s no wonder Hotel Signum is celebrated as one of the best hotels in Sicily Italy.
Hotel Address: Hotel Signum, via Scalo, 15, 98050 Malfa, Salina, Italy
Price: From £167
4. Villa Igiea, Palermo
Nestled in the heart of Palermo, a city steeped in opera and aristocratic grandeur, Villa Igiea is a standout among the best hotels in Palermo Sicily. Originally built in 1900 for the illustrious Florio family, this palm-lined retreat has been transformed into a luxurious haven that would leave even Sophia Loren and Queen Victoria green with envy.
Villa Igiea has been reborn with a stylish mix of Art Nouveau splendor and sleek modernity, thanks to the genius touch of Olga Polizzi and Paolo Moschino. Think antique chandeliers and frescoes mingling effortlessly with contemporary furniture and minimalist décor. It’s like the best of Sicily Italy’s past and present had a chic dinner party and invited everyone who’s anyone.
Since its grand reopening in 2021, Villa Igiea has become more than just one of the best hotels in Palermo Italy—it’s a beacon of Sicily’s ongoing creative renaissance. With a menu inspired by local flavors and art that highlights the island’s breathtaking natural beauty, this hotel is both a luxurious retreat and a living masterpiece, capturing the essence of Palermo’s golden era.
Address: Villa Igiea, Via Belmonte, 43, 90142 Palermo PA, Italy
Price: Doubles from £291
5. Zash Boutique Hotel and Spa
Surrounded by lush citrus groves and set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Etna, Zash Boutique Hotel and Spa is a standout among boutique hotels Italy has to offer. Once a glamorous summer retreat for Catania’s elite, this charming escape combines historic elegance with modern luxury, making every moment feel like you’ve stepped into an Italian postcard—or a dream come true.
The main house, with its charmingly peeling peach facade, now hosts a sophisticated restaurant where you’ll savor local delicacies like Guiseppe Raciti’s signature uovo poche croccante—trust us, it’s as magical as it sounds. Below, the spa bubbles away in a dimly lit, volcanic-inspired sanctuary, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring this gem of the best hotels in Sicily Italy.
Zash’s Iconic Rooms and Poolside Villas blend old-world charm with contemporary cool. Think lava stone walls meeting sleek, modern furniture, all while the scent of citrus lingers in the air. Pro tip: avoid rooms near the train track unless you fancy a complimentary wake-up call. For a truly Sicilian experience that stands out among the best hotels Sicily Italy, Zash is your perfect escape.
Address: Zash Boutique Hotel, Strada Provinciale 2 I-II N60, 95018 Riposto, Sicily, Italy
Price: From £158
6. Dimora Delle Balze
Who knew that an abandoned 19th-century castle north of Noto could turn into one of the best hotels in Sicily Italy? Well, Elena Lops and interior designer Draga Obradovic did, and after nine years of elbow grease, they’ve transformed it into a dreamy retreat. This castle—once a crumbling relic—is now a stylish sanctuary where history and luxury waltz gracefully.
The estate’s charm lies in its earthy elegance, with freckled grey walls and rustic tiled rooms that blend into the surrounding rolling woodlands and scrubland. Picture sun-dappled courtyards adorned with wrought iron daybeds and terracotta pots, leading you to pastel-hued bedrooms that whisper “relax” in every corner. Breakfast? It’s a feast fit for royalty, with local cheeses, apricot pastries, and brioche spread across a farmhouse table on a weathered stone terrace. Views of Val di Noto’s golden haze framed by salvaged classical columns add a touch of classical charm to your morning.
The pool area, with its moonlit ripples and focaccia generously doused in the estate’s olive oil, completes the organic vibe of this Sicilian jewel. Dimora Delle Balze isn’t just a hotel; it’s a slice of heaven among the best hotels Sicily Italy.
Address: Dimora Delle Balze, SS287, Noto SR, 96017, Italy
Price: Doubles from £440
7. Villa Sant’Andrea, a Belmond Hotel
Perched in the picturesque town of Taormina, Villa Sant’Andrea, a gem among Belmond hotels Italy is renowned for bringing travel dreams to life. Overlooking the stunning Bay of Mazzarò, this luxurious retreat has earned prestigious World’s Best Awards in 2020, 2021, and 2022, proving its reputation extends beyond its breathtaking beauty. With lush gardens and unparalleled beachfront views, Villa Sant’Andrea redefines the essence of luxury.
Inside, the rooms and suites are as exquisite as you’d expect from one of the best hotels Sicily Italy, featuring private pools and dedicated host services that cater to your every whim. The outdoor spa is practically begging you to enjoy a massage with an ocean view, while Brizza, the 16-seat restaurant perched on rocks, serves up seafood with a side of stunning sunsets.
Address: Villa Sant’Andrea, a Belmond Hotel, Via Nazionale, 137, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy
Price: Starting at $864 a night
Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Isola Bella, Taormina Greek Theatre
Loyalty Programs: Belmond Bellini Club
