When planning out your Sicily itinerary, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out where you want to base yourself on the Mediterranean’s largest island. Finding the best places to stay in Sicily – whether you’re after a lively city or sleepy beach town – can be a difficult task when you factor in all of the incredible places to choose from.
From chaotic Catania and tranquil Trapani to the laid-back vibes of the Aeolian islands and the historic temples of Agrigento, there are so many areas to stay in Sicily that you cannot go wrong with most places on this incredible island.
However, there are some cities, towns and areas of Sicily that will suit some travellers more than others so if you’re looking for the best area to stay in Sicily, whether you’re looking for a beachy holiday, a family-friendly spot or a romantic couple’s getaway, you’re sure to find somewhere perfect for you.
10 Best Places to Stay in Sicily
Palermo
No list of places to stay in Sicily would be complete without including the capital of the region, the dynamic city of Palermo. Palermo has a ton to offer visitors – not only is it packed with interesting historic sites and beautiful points of interest, but it also has an undeniable energy that makes it an absolute joy to visit. It is also a great choice if you want to stay somewhere in Sicily for the nightlife.
Palermo is also one of the best places to stay in Sicily without a car. The city is pedestrian-friendly with many of the sites within walking distance of the centre of town. This is helpful as driving within Palermo can be a hectic and stressful experience! Even if you want to go on a day trip from the city – say to Cefalu or even south to Agrigento – this is all possible to do via public transport.
The Sicilian capital is also well-connected via air, bus and rail to the rest of Italy and elsewhere in Europe.
Home to one of the highest-traffic airports on the island, it’s easy to reach Palermo from anywhere in Europe. There are also train connections linking Palermo to major Italian cities like Rome and Naples (as well as major areas within Sicily).
Where to Stay in Palermo
Alma Hotel – Mid-range travellers in Palermo will love this 3-star hotel. It is well-located for exploring all this incredible city has to offer and they have a number of great rooms on offer. There is also a buffet breakfast available each morning. Click here to see their availability
Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking for a luxury option in Palermo, then this boutique hotel is a great choice. They are centrally located for exploring Sicily’s vibrant capital and they have a number of wonderful amenities and plush rooms on offer. Click here to see their availability
Appartamento Piazza Pretoria – This private holiday rental is great for those looking for the convenience of their own apartment when visiting Palermo. The 2-bedroom flat is located within a stone’s throw of the Quattro Canti and comes fully furnished and equipped with all essential items. Click here to see their availability
A Casa di Amici Boutique Hostel – Budget or solo travellers will love this backpacker’s hostel. They have a great location, offer both shared dorms and private rooms and have an excellent social atmosphere, perfect for meeting other visitors to Palermo. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Palermo!
Cefalu
If you’re looking for a smaller town to base yourself in during your trip to Sicily, then consider the town of Cefalu on the north coast of the island.
This beautiful coastal town has a lovely historic centre that begs to be explored coupled with an excellent beach and seaside promenade area that make it perfect for those craving a bit of sunshine, sand and saltwater.
Located less than an hour away from the capital of Palermo, Cefalu is also easily accessed, however, this may be a better base if you have a car in order to easily reach some areas beyond. However, a car is not entirely necessary.
Along with a lovely old town with a number of historic sites, Cefalu is one of the best places to stay in Sicily for beaches. This is really a great place to base yourself if you want the beach within easy reach but also want a cool town to explore.
Where to Stay in Cefalu
Ossuna Bay Hotel – Located a few steps from Cefalu beach, this 3-star accommodation is a great option for mid-range travellers. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer (some with balconies and sea views!) and there is an on-site bar and a continental breakfast available each morning. Click here to check their availability
Hotel La Plumeria – This 4-star hotel is the perfect option for those looking for a bit of luxury while staying in Cefalu. They have an excellent location for exploring the town and lounging on the beach, a number of lovely rooms available and there is even an on-site restaurant and an airport shuttle provided. Click here to check their availability
Horizon Suites – Those looking for their own private apartment in Cefalu will love this aparthotel. They have a number of variously sized flats available depending on your group size, a good location and plenty of other amenities to ensure you have a great stay. Click here to check their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Cefalu!
Catania
If you are visiting the eastern part of Sicily and want the energy and liveliness of a big city, then Catania is the perfect choice for you.
Another option for places to stay in Sicily without a car, Catania is easy to get around on foot and is well-connected to destinations like Taormina and Syracuse via public transit. It’s also a great base for visiting Mount Etna, making it a top choice if it’s your first time in Sicily.
Catania can have a bit of a dodgy reputation and it is certainly a little bit rough around the edges, but it is very much worth visiting and has an energy and vibe that is all its own. You can see a lot of the city by spending just 2 days in Catania, however, the city makes for an excellent base when exploring the east of Sicily, so it can be worth spending even more time here.
Catania is also very well-connected via train, bus, ferry and air to elsewhere in Italy and further afield in Europe. As home to Sicily’s highest-traffic airport, Catania is likely going to be your first point of entry to the island and it makes it easy to visit the city.
Where to Stay in Catania
Hotel Centrum – Centrally located very close to the Teatro Bellini, this quaint hotel is perfect for mid-range travellers exploring Sicily’s second city. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and there is also breakfast available each morning. Click here to check their availability
Liberty Hotel – Those looking for luxury in Catania are sure to love this highen-end hotel. They have a number of plush and chic rooms to choose from, a lovely buffet breakfast is included each morning, it’s well-located for exploring the city’s top sites and even an airport shuttle is available. Click here to check their availability
La Dimora del Barbiere – These flats are an excellent choice if you’d like to have your own private holiday home while in Catania. They have a number of variously-sized apartments available and they are well-located for taking in the highlights of the city. Click here to check their availability
The Yard Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget (or simply want a lively social atmosphere), then this hostel is an excellent option. They have both private rooms and dorm beds available, great common areas and shared spaces and a perfect location for exploring Catania. Click here to check their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Catania!
Taormina
As one of the most popular destinations to visit on the island, Taormina may well be one of the best places to stay in Sicily for couples looking for a romantic getaway. This historic town is located on a dramatic hilltop overlooking the beautiful Ionian Sea with the peak Mt Etna as a backdrop.
Taormina is perhaps best known for its historic Greek Theatre, which is certainly worth visiting when in this town, but there is more to this lovely place than just that.
The town itself is absolutely lovely and it’s well worth it to take the time to get lost in the winding alleys and side streets, away from the tourist crowds.
And though Taormina isn’t located directly on the beach, it is easily accessible and there are some beautiful beaches and coastal areas within easy reach of the historic centre.
Where to Stay in Taormina
Hotel Continental – Located in the centre of Taormina within spitting distance of the Greek Theatre and main piazza this hotel is perfect for mid-range travellers. They offer a number of lovely rooms, breakfast each morning and beautiful sea views from their on-site bar. Click here to see their availability
Casa Turissi – Luxury travellers to Taormina will love this 4-star bed and breakfast. They have countless beautiful rooms on offer, a fantastic, central location and there is an airport shuttle available for easy access to the property. Click here to see their availability
Hostel Taormina “Homstel” – If you’re sticking to a tight budget or travelling solo and looking for a good social atmosphere, then this hostel is a great option. They have a great, central location and they have both dorm beds and private rooms available. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to see browse more options in Taormina!
Siracusa
Another popular place to stay on the eastern coast of the island, the historic city of Siracusa (Syracuse) is another of the best towns to stay in Sicily.
A popular city with tourists with countless historic sites but not quite as big and overwhelming as something like Catania or Palermo, Siracusa is also located close to some truly beautiful areas of Sicily.
Siracusa is also well known for its archaeological sites – it’s home to the Neapolis Archaeological Park and its own Greek Theatre. Because it is located on the coast, there are also a number of great beaches nearby so it can be a good option for those who want a mix of a beach holiday and historic sites to explore.
Siracusa is also located close to the UNESCO-listed towns in the Val di Noto and makes for a great base for exploring this area of Sicily.
Where to Stay in Siracusa
Domus Mariae Albergo – Boasting beautiful sea views and an unbeatable location, this 3-star hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors in Siracusa. They have a number of lovely rooms available (some with balconies and great views!) and there’s even a terrace, bar and spa/wellness on site! Click here to check their availability
Caportigia Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious escape in this area of Sicily, then this 5-star hotel is an excellent choice. They have an excellent location, beautiful views, plush rooms and an excellent buffet breakfast available each morning. They also include a number of other fantastic amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic. Click here to check their availability
Palazzo Alfeo Aparthotel – Located in the heart of Siracusa, this plush aparthotel is a great option for those who aren’t worried about their expenses in Sicily and want the convenience of a private apartment with the amenities of a nice hotel. They have a range of flats on offer (ranging in size) and some even include sea views and jacuzzis! Click here to check their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to see browse more options in Syracuse!
Noto
Located in southeastern Sicily only about 40 kilometres south of Siracusa, Noto is a beautiful hill town well known for its grand Baroque architecture and incredibly picturesque surroundings. Famed for its ornate cathedral, both this and the town itself are enshrined on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Situated in the eponymous Val di Noto, this town is compact and easy to digest but it is also filled with incredible historic sites and lots of things to see and do. There are lots of grand Palazzi to tour and a number of beautiful churches and other sites to take in.
If you’re looking for somewhere quaint and beautiful with none of the hustle and bustle of a big city, then Noto is a great choice for you. Because of its beautiful atmosphere, Noto is also a great place to stay in Sicily for couples.
Where to Stay in Noto
Hotel Flora – Located in the centre of Noto, this 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range travellers. They have a number of bright, cool and comfortable rooms available, an on-site café/bar and are even pet-friendly for those travelling with a furry companion. Click here to check their availability
Hotel Porta Reale – This luxury, 4-star hotel is a wonderful choice for those who are looking for a high-end option in Noto. They have a number of plush rooms on offer, a fantastic location for exploring this historic town and plenty of delightful amenities to ensure you have the best stay possible. Click here to check their availability
Al Corso Apartments – This 1-bedroom apartment is perfect for those who want the convenience of their own flat while visiting Noto. It is fully furnished with everything you may need and has an excellent location for exploring this historic town. Click here to check their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to see browse more options in Noto!
Trapani
Located on the beautiful west coast of Sicily, Trapani is one of the best areas to stay in Sicily for those looking for a tranquil, beachy escape and who are looking for a great place to base themselves when exploring western Sicily.
Trapani is a major port and is home to its own lovely historic centre that begs to be explored. It also has its own unique regional cuisine, including things like pesto alla Trapanese and dishes with a distinct North African influence, such as fish couscous.
There are lots of things to do in Trapani itself, but there are also lots of interesting places to explore within very easy reach of the city. The hill town of Erice, the island of Favignana and the archaeological site of Segesta are all within 30 minutes of the centre of the city.
There are also countless beautiful beaches both in the city and surrounding it, making Trapani a fantastic place to stay in Sicily for beaches. And because of its laid-back nature, lots of interactive things to do and plenty of sandy beaches to enjoy, Trapani is also one of the best places to stay in Sicily for families.
Where to Stay in Trapani
Hotel San Michele – This mid-range accommodation located in the centre of Trapani is and makes for a fantastic base for exploring the city and its surroundings. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer and there is a great breakfast available to enjoy each morning. Click here to see their availability
Room Of Andrea Hotel – Luxury travellers will love this 4-star hotel in the centre of Trapani. It is perfectly located for exploring the city and the area surrounding it, they have a range of beautiful rooms on offer and plenty of other wonderful amenities to ensure your stay is truly memorable. Click here to see their availability
Residence La Gancia – This aparthotel is a great choice for those who love the convenience of their own flat with the amenities of a hotel. They have a number of fully furnished apartments available and there are also amenities like an on-site fitness centre and bar. It’s also very well located for exploring all Trapani and the area has to offer. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Trapani!
Agrigento
Located just outside of the famed Valley of the Temples, Agrigento is an excellent place to stay in the south of the island.
The town itself has a lot to offer visitors and it’s located only a few kilometres from the incredible UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples, an archaeological site filled with a number of excellently preserved ancient Greek temples.
Agrigento is also situated within easy reach of some of the most pristine beaches and coastlines on the island. The gorgeous white limestone cliffs known as the Scala dei Turchi is only a few minutes driving from Agrigento and the nearby Lido Rosello is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Sicily.
Though close to one of the most popular tourist sites on the island, Agrigento is one of the best towns to stay in Sicily for those looking for a peaceful escape as it doesn’t have the chaos of a larger city.
Where to Stay in Agrigento
Hotel Exclusive – This mid-range hotel is a great option for exploring the surroundings of this historic town. Situated in Agrigento’s centre, they have a range of clean, comfortable and air-conditioned rooms on offer and they also have a great breakfast available in the mornings. Click here to see their availability
Doric Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking for luxury while exploring Agrigento and its surrounding area, then this plush hotel is a fantastic choice. They have a myriad of luxe and chic rooms on offer, an on-site restaurant and bar and there is even a spa/wellness centre to unwind in should you choose. Click here to see their availability
A Cantunera LittleHouse – This quaint two-bedroom house is a perfect base for those looking for a self-catering option close to Agrigento. It’s excellently poised for exploring the Valley of the Temples and other nearby attractions and it comes fully furnished and well-equipped with everything you may need for a great stay. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Agrigento!
Marsala
Situated on the west coast of Sicily about 30 kilometres south of Trapani, the coastal town of Marsala makes for another great town to base yourself in Sicily. Known for the fortified Marsala wine, this lively town has a lot to offer visitors and can make for an excellent alternative base for exploring the west of the island.
Marsala itself is surrounded by wineries and it is a great place to base yourself if you’re interested in sampling some world-class wines from the region. The city is home to a charming and compact historic centre, a lovely harbour area and some delicious regional eats.
If you venture a bit outside of the centre, you also can enjoy the views from the salt pans, which are especially nice to experience at sunset. Because of what it has to offer, Marsala is one of the best places to stay in Sicily for couples looking for a wonderful romantic escape.
Where to Stay in Marsala
Hotel Carmine – This elegant, 3-star hotel is perfect for travellers looking for a mid-range option in Marsala. It’s well-located for exploring the town and they have a range of lovely rooms available to ensure you have a comfortable stay. Click here to see their availability
Viacolvento – Travellers will swoon over this beautiful 4-star aparthotel in the centre of Marsala. They have myriad plush suites to choose from and there are even apartments available for those who are looking for the convenience of a self-catering option. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Marsala!
Aeolian Islands
If you’re looking for a quiet and unique escape, then the Aeolian Islands can be one of the best areas to stay in Sicily.
Located north of the main island of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea, this volcanic archipelago consists of seven major islands: Salina, Lipari, Vulcano, Filicudi, Alicudi, Panarea and Stromboli. The last of these islands is known for being the filming location of the 1950 Roberto Rosellini film of the same name, starring Ingrid Bergman.
The Aeolian islands are a great option for fans of Greek Mythology, as they feature heavily in Homer’s Odyssey. In the epic poem, Aeolus (for whom the islands are named) gifted Odysseus a bag of wind to assist him in his journey home to Ithaca following the Trojan war.
The Aeolian Islands are absolutely beautiful and filled with history and incredible sites to see and they can be the perfect place to stay while visiting Sicily.
Where to Stay on the Aeolian Islands
Odysseus Hotel – Located on the island of Lipari, this lovely hotel is an excellent place to base yourself while exploring the Aeolian islands. They have a range of beautiful rooms available, an excellent location and a great breakfast available in the morning. Click here to see their availability
Residence Acanto – This 4-star aparthotel is great for travellers looking for a furnished holiday home while visiting the Aeolian islands. They have a number of apartments to choose from — ranging from studios to 2-bedroom flats with balconies — and it has a great location on the island of Lipari. Click here to see their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options on the Aeolian Islands!
With so many cities and towns to choose from, finding the best area to stay in Sicily for your travel style can be a difficult task. However, there really is no bad option and you’re sure to love your visit to this incredible Italian island no matter where you end up resting your head.
Are you wondering where to stay in Sicily? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!
