To me, Sicily is like a wedding cake. Layers upon layers of heritage and tradition, combined with a landscape that sweeps from the mountains towards the glistening sea, all of which can be explored from Sicily’s best hotels. Between the fiery Mount Etna and the colourful, narrow streets of the ancient cities, travel experts still regard the largest of the Mediterranean islands to be one of the most attractive holiday spots in Italy – and with some of the finest places to stay.
For those looking for history and culture, cities like Taormina, Ragusa and Syracuse show off the foundations of Sicily through its architecture and museums. Active travellers will find the wilderness of the Madonie mountain range perfect for hiking and cycling. Eating will always be top of the agenda on a holiday in Sicily, with influences from Greece, Spain and France melding with Jewish and Arabic flavours through the conflicts and conquest of past centuries.
The island’s popularity has seen a surge in hotel openings. From ancient monasteries and century-old family farmlands, restored palaces and luxurious seaside resorts, there is a place for everyone who visits Sicily. Here are the best hotels on the island.
Best hotels in Sicily 2025
At a glance
- Best beach hotel: Hotel Le Calette
- Best family hotel: Monaci delle Terre Nere
- Best five-star hotel: ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA
- Best boutique hotel: San Giorgio Palace
- Best hotel in Palermo: Villa Igiea
- Best hotel in Taormina: San Domenico Palace, Four Seasons
- Best hotel in Syracuse: Hotel Des Étrangers Siracusa
1. Monaci delle Terre Nere hotel
Zafferana Etnea
Monaci delle Terre Nere began as an Augustinian monastery in the 17th century, and it has become the passion project of its owner, Guido Coffa, to restore the property from ruin to its former glory. While retaining the monastic heritage, Guido had added personal touches to the interior by combining the rustic foundations with dashes of fine contemporary art among the antique pieces. According to the Slow Food movement, ingredients for the on-site fine dining restaurant Locanda Nerello are mostly sourced from the 25 hectares of the estate’s farm and organic vineyard on the slopes of Mount Etna.
Address: Via Monaci, Via Pietralunga, sn, 95019 Zafferana Etnea CT
Highlights: Beautiful interiors, locally-sourced food, nearby vineyard
Distance from airport: 30km (18.6 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: Where to visit in Sicily
2. Hotel Le Calette
Cefalu
One couldn’t imagine a more picturesque place than Cefalu, with its sandy beach and bustling town centre flanked by mountains that dip dramatically into the sea. And yet, follow the rocks into its coves and you get a completely different perspective, and this is where Hotel Le Calette sets itself apart. Wedged into the coves (calettes) of the rocks at one end of Cefalu, hidden behind a bay, are two parts to the hotel – one five-star wing, one four-star. Both share an excellent beach club with a bar and restaurant, as well as a separate dining area called Gourmet Cala Luna for a more romantic dining experience. There is also an excellent spa and wellness area for all that important pampering after a day out exploring.
Address: Via Cavallaro, 12, 90015 Cefalù PA
Highlights: Beach club, spa
Distance from airport: 100km (62 miles) from Palermo Airport
Read more: The best places to cruise in Italy
3. ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA hotel
Siculiana
If trying to disconnect and disappear is one of your reasons to come to Sicily, then ADLER Spa Resort, on the quiet south coast surrounded by wilderness, is the perfect retreat. Its architecture is designed to blend into the hills of the surrounding nature reserves – it seemingly disappears into the curves of the landscape. Guests are invited to join daily guided hikes to learn about the flora and fauna of the area. A white sandy beach at the base of the hill can be reached via a walking track or a quick buggy transfer. The spa is a dream, where a rejuvenating massage is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours before a scrumptious dinner at the end of the day.
Address: Contrada Salsa, 92010 Siculiana AG
Highlights: Hiking opportunities, nearby beach, spa
Distance from airport: 141km (87.6 miles) from Palermo Airport, 128km (79.5 miles) from Trapani–Birgi Airport
Read more: The best holiday destinations in Italy
4. San Domenico Palace, Four Seasons hotel
Taormina
The White Lotus did not choose this hotel to be its backdrop for no reason. The San Domenico Palace is almost too stunning for words. It has the charmed location of being close to all of Taormina’s historical sights while at the same time feeling a world away from the crowds on its clifftop position with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Other than the modernised room interiors – according to the Four Seasons standard – much of the historic monastery ambience has been carefully preserved. It is worth trying to stay in the smaller bedrooms found in the original wing of the building, where the monks used to live.
Address: Via S. Domenico, 5, 98039 Taormina ME
Highlights: Best views, star-studded pedigree
Distance from airport: 64km (39.7 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: Best luxury and boutique hotels in Sicily
5. La Foresteria Planetaestate hotel
Menfi
La Foresteria Wine Resort is among the best boutique hotels in Sicily. Its 14 rooms may not have the slick decor of many high-end properties, but the welcome here is akin to being inducted into the family. Guests can sign up for vineyard tours and tastings of the Planeta family’s award-winning wines or choose to do very little and simply relax. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and a garden of flowers and herbs, the outlook from the terrace is perfect for enjoying dolce far niente – sweet idleness. Adding to the resort’s intimate allure, La Foresteria is a short trip away from the beautiful Blue Flag Fiori Beach, and has its own beach club that guests of the resort have free access to. Wine with a side of beach? Yes please.
Address: Contrada Passo di Gurra Ex S.S. 115 s.p. 79, Km 91 92013 Menfi
Highlights: Boutique stay, vineyard tours, beach club
Distance from airport: 100km (62 miles) from Palermo Airport
Read more: Best cheap hotels in Sicily
6. Rocco Forte Villa Igiea hotel
Palermo
Glamorous Villa Igiea is a long-time favourite of royalty, dignitaries and celebrities. Sat in the shadow of Mount Pellegrino, this 19th-century palazzo is a step away from the hustle and bustle of Palermo and remains one of the best hotels around the Sicilian capital. The Art Nouveau interior is impressive, while the elegant garden, shaded by umbrella pines and perfumed by citrus trees, is close to the marina and the indigo waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The highlight is dining in the original Louis XVI hall that is home to Florio Restaurant, which serves up a menu of modernised Sicilian flavours.
Address: Salita Belmonte 43, Palermo
Highlights: Garden, renowned restaurant
Distance from airport: 29km (18 miles) from Palermo Airport
Read more: This ivy-clad Rome neighbourhood is where the locals come to eat
7. Hotel Des Étrangers Siracusa
Syracuse
Imagine staying among the ancient ruins, fortress and museums of the small island, Ortygia, where original Syracuse was founded, in a grand hotel that was once part of the iconic Grand Tour of Italy, frequented by the rich and famous. Well, you can – the Grand Hotel Des Etrangers is one of the best luxury hotels in Syracuse. The property embraces its past – you won’t miss its classical palatial façade – but it has been brought up to date with its modern guest facilities. The views from the terrace towards the Ionian Sea are perfect for that sunset aperitif after a couple of hours of pampering in the spa.
Address: Passeggio Adorno 10/12, Siracusa 96100 (SR)
Highlights: Historic stay, best views, spa
Distance from airport: 65km (40 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: Best luxury and boutique Sicily hotels
8. Hotel Villa Favorita
Noto
A historic hotel that was born from an 18th-century summer residence of the Di Lorenzo family, barons of Granieri and marquises of Castelluccio – and it’s still managed by the same family. Hotel Villa Favorita retains much of the grandeur of nobility, with a beautiful Italian garden and ancient almond trees; the latter line the entrance and the pool, which overlooks the Unesco-listed Baroque city of Noto. The Villa’s production of olive oil and wines, as well as a small farm with citrus fruits, almonds and a flock of chickens, supplies the ingredients to its restaurant, which serves traditional Sicilian dishes.
Address: SP34, 96017 Noto SR
Highlights: Historic stay, hotel-produced olive oil and wines, farm produce
Distance from airport: 86km (53 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: The best destinations in Italy for a city break
9. San Giorgio Palace hotel
Ragusa
Ancient Ragusa Ibla is commonly described as an island within the island. As the former house of Sicilian nobility, in this old part of Ragusa, San Giorgio Palace seems to be carved into the island’s ancient rocks. The surprise comes not from the modern bedrooms that retain part of the stone foundations, nor the private garden with colours and aromas that sends guests into a sensual bliss. It is the hotel’s vast array of Sicilian art, from ceramics to mosaics, sculptures to paintings, celebrating Sicilian culture and heritage through visual interpretations displayed in every corner of the Palace.
Address: Via Avvocato Giovanni Ottaviano, 97100 Ragusa RG
Highlights: Garden, beautiful interiors
Distance from airport: 91km (56.5 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: The ultimate Italy travel guide
10. The Ashbee hotel
Taormina
The Ashbee was built in 1908 by Colonel Shaw-Hellier, alongside his friend and architect Charles Robert Ashbee, a lead figure in the Arts & Crafts movement. Shaw-Hellier built it as his primary residence to enjoy in his latter years, and the British colonial vibe prevails today. Each room has a character of its own, and the hotel’s restaurant, which has two Michelin stars, is considered one of the “most desirable and exclusive locations” by the prestigious guide. Step outside and you’re in the heart of Taormina, with easy access to the Teatro Antico di Taormina and many of this city’s other attractions.
Address: Viale S. Pancrazio, 46, 98039 Taormina ME
Highlights: Two Michelin-star restaurant, near town centre
Distance from airport: 69km (42.8 miles) from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
Read more: Best hotels on the Amalfi coast
11. Villa Athena Resort hotel
Agrigento
Located within the Unesco World Heritage Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, Villa Athena Resort is the ideal hotel for visiting the 2025 Italian Capital of Culture. This 18th-century villa is the only five-star property within the compound, offering an unobstructed view of the ancient Temple of Concordia from its restaurant and some of the rooms; the quiet surrounds of the olive groves and farm create an illusion of being the only house among the ruins. Recently renovated rooms are spacious and furnished with all the essentials for a comfortable stay that feels like home for travellers, including a writing desk and armchairs, plus a separate living space in the suites. When not sightseeing, guests can join cooking classes, have picnics on the farm, or unwind at the spa.
Address: Via Passeggiata Archeologica, 33 cap. 92100 Agrigento
Highlights: Best views, cooking classes, farm, spa
Distance from airport: 160km (99 miles) from Palermo Airport
Read more: Five of the best views in Rome
12. Polizzi Generosa hotel
Susafa
Surrounded by Sicily’s biodiverse Madonie mountain range and 600 hectares of farmland, Susafa is a little luxury retreat from the world. The farmhouse has been owned by the Saeli-Rizzuto family since the 19th century, who have transformed the building into a cultural destination. Each room had a traditional function in its past life, and is now tastefully decorated, with modern facilities. The property still maintains a working farm, producing many of the ingredients you’ll find on the seasonal menu at Susafa’s Il Granaio restaurant. Food is at the centre of the Susafa experience, and guests are offered cooking classes, picnics and lunches in the fields, garden tours and wine tasting.
Address: Contrada Susafa, 90028 Polizzi Generosa PA
Highlights: Luxury stay, farm produce, cooking classes, wine tasting
Distance from airport: 116km (72 miles) from Palermo Airport
FAQs
What currency do I need in Sicily?
Sicily uses the euro (€).
When is the best time of year to visit Sicily?
In the summer months, between June and September, daily average highs stay above 30C, with the hottest month being August, with a daily average maximum of 35C.
For those who are seeking a slightly cooler holiday, visiting in May or October sees average highs of around 26C.
Is Sicily expensive?
While Sicily offers plenty of five-star and luxury stays, many of which are worth splashing out on, the island can be done on a budget if you consider your options closely.
For the cheapest time to visit Sicily, plan your trip in low season between November and April. Check out our guide on the best cheap hotels in Sicily for the island’s top accommodation that won’t break the bank.
However, if you are planning to indulge in a luxury Italian getaway, Sicily is also a fine choice for opulent hotels and exquisite cuisine.
What are the must-sees in Sicily?
Before The White Lotus’ second season chose Sicily as its backdrop to the hit show, this island has long been loved by tourists for its historical charm, hilltop towns and magnificent architecture.
For city exploration, hit up the capital Palermo for its architectural styles, from Roman to Norman and Arabic. One of its most impressive buildings is the grand Palermo Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century. Another city worth a visit is Modica, famed for its baroque architecture carved into rocks, while the hilltop town of Taormina also boasts a cliffside ancient Greek and Roman theatre, Teatro Antico di Taormina, which still hosts performances today.
Other Baroque towns include coastal Cefalu and Noto; meanwhile, the medieval town of Erice features a different side of history, from a Norman castle to an ancient temple, all set 750 metres above the sea and showcasing breathtaking views.
History buffs shouldn’t miss the Valley of the Temples archaeological site in Agrigento, while active travellers will find no better place to hike than the stratovolcano Mount Etna.
How to travel around Sicily?
For the best flexibility, renting a car to make your way around Sicily will be the easiest option, especially if you want to get to more rural areas of the island. Towns and cities are also connected by rail and bus.
Best way to get to Sicily from the UK?
The fastest way to reach Sicily is to fly, with journey times typically around three hours from the UK.
Direct flights are offered by easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, Jet2 and Wizz Air, among other airlines.
Read more: Best things to do in Milan
The best hotels in Rome for location and value for money
Where to visit in Sicily: 9 best places for beaches, architecture and Italian charm
The 13 best hotels in Edinburgh for castle views and Old Town getaways
The best Greek island hotels, for sea views and romantic retreats
The 11 best hotels in Paris for budget-friendly breaks and luxury stays
