5 Of the Best Hotels in Sicily
Arriving to Sicily
Getting to Sicily is a breeze with major airports like Palermo (PMO) and Catania (CTA), both serviced by international flights from Europe and beyond. From there, a private transfer or rental car can whisk you to your hotel. Catania is about an hour from Taormina, while Palermo is just a 30-minute ride to Villa Igea. For a scenic twist, ferries from Naples or Reggio Calabria take 5–6 hours..
Why Sicily?
Even with great popularity over the last few years, Sicily can still feel like a hidden gem with its mix of volcanic wonders like Mount Etna, historic sites like the Valley of the Temples, and laid-back coastal towns. It’s less crowded than Capri or Amalfi yet brims with culture and flavor, from fresh seafood to robust wines. Compared to Ischia’s thermal focus or Puglia’s rustic charm, Sicily offers a broader canvas with nature and heritage in a way that’s perfect for travelers seeking something new.
Hotel Highlights
Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, Taormina
Imagine yourself entering the world of White Lotus in Taormina, where the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace sits high above the Ionian Sea with Mount Etna in view. Its signature rooms, like the Etna Suite, come with a private terrace, frescoed ceilings, and marble bathrooms that mix historic charm with today’s comforts. Dining at Principe Cerami, a Michelin-starred spot, serves up Sicilian seafood paired with estate wines, while the spa offers volcanic stone massages inspired by local traditions. You can explore Taormina’s ancient Greek theater or unwind by the infinity pool, making it a perfect combination of culture and relaxation.
Rocco Forte Villa Igea
In Palermo, Rocco Forte Villa Igea brings Art Nouveau elegance to life. Its signature villas, like the Villa Igiea Suite, feature private gardens and sea views, with plush decor and marble baths to sink into. Dining at La Terrazza delivers Mediterranean dishes with panoramic vistas, and the spa uses Sicilian citrus in treatments for a refreshing escape. Check out Palermo’s historic center, the Palatine Chapel, or book a private boat trip as there’s plenty to explore nearby.
Rocco Forte Verdura Resort
Down in Sciacca, Rocco Forte Verdura is a dream for golf lovers, with signature villas boasting private pools and sea views, designed with neutral tones and outdoor showers. Dining at Il Lago highlights fresh seafood, and the spa’s thalassotherapy pools come with massages using local olive oil. Activities include tennis, water sports, or a visit to the nearby Valley of the Temples, offering a mix of sport and history to enjoy.
Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea
Back in Taormina, Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea offers a beachfront retreat with exclusive villas like the Villa Maria, complete with a private pool for that secluded feel. Its dining at La Tonnara focuses on fresh seafood, and while there’s no formal spa, you can arrange in-room treatments or access nearby facilities. Boat trips to Isola Bella or lounging on the private beach are must-dos, perfect for a quiet escape.
Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo
Also in Taormina, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo is rich with history, featuring signature rooms like the Etna Suite with panoramic views to savor. Dining at Il San Domenico, another Michelin-starred gem, serves Sicilian cuisine with a creative twist, and the spa uses volcanic stone for treatments. Spend your days visiting Taormina’s cultural sites or enjoying cocktails on the terrace.
Activities to Enjoy
The diverse landscape offers a lot of opportunity for exploration. Hike Mount Etna for volcanic views, wander through the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, or taste wines in Marsala. Boat tours along the coast, cooking classes with local chefs, and exploring ancient ruins like Segesta add a cultural layer, offering a fresh contrast to other Italian destinations.
A Fresh Perspective
Sicily stands out from Capri’s glamorous buzz or Amalfi’s steep cliffs with its bold mix of fiery volcanoes and ancient ruins, like the hauntingly preserved Pompeii-like villas of Villa Romana del Casale. It weaves a tapestry of Greek, Roman, and Arab influences into its allure, offering a cultural depth that invites you to step back in time.
Craft Your Vacation
Ready to experience Sicily? Let’s team up to design a bespoke five to ten-day itinerary that puts together the best of this island paradise. Start with Taormina’s cultural riches at Four Seasons, then Palermo’s historic charm at Villa Igea, followed by Sciacca’s coastal elegance at Verdura. Add private boat tours, exclusive vineyard visits, and insider cultural stops, all tailored just for you. Contact me at Mark@MDTraveling.com today to build your ultimate Sicilian adventure.