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Palermo

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About Palermo

Sicily’s capital promises more adventure than your average island city break. Its wonderfully worn buildings, on slightly chaotic streets, show the architectural marks of the island’s many inhabitants, who’ve passed through this crossroads of a city on the edge of Europe. Many of the best places to stay in Palermo today are found in the old historic centre, amongst the domes, cupolas, Baroque churches and Gothic palaces. Some of our recommendations have been converted from a single building, a palazzo or villa, while others are clusters of buildings. In Palermo we favour the smaller properties, and have a great list of B&Bs and guesthouses, as well as elegant, historic hotels, and a handful of very family-friendly options.

If Palermo seems busy, that's because there’s a lot going on here! But once you’re past the main streets you’ll be rewarded by a less uniform pattern of lanes and piazzas, where it’s possible to come upon a market as fragrant and colourful as a souk, or a chapel filled with wonderfully detailed mosaics. Most of our favourite hotels here are located between Palermo’s grand and patterned cathedral and the sea; within these few neighbourhoods you can also find the city's impressive opera house, palace, its giant fountain, and a magically varied collection of religious buildings. This is also a fantastic area for eating and drinking well, with piazzas and streets lined with both old and new places to try out.

Palermo is lively and fun and full of not only great history and architecture, but also wonderful places to eat, drink and just hang out. If you can be bothered to hop on the bus for 20 minutes, you'll also find a superb beach in Mondello.

However don't forget that this is an incredibly busy place during the peak summer months. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Palermo in July or August, you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to stay in Palermo

For Central Palermo

  • Palazzo Natoli is a small and stylish B&B in central Palermo, with nine, bright, spacious rooms, decorated to complement the palazzo’s charming original features. Think white walls, French windows, and floors tiled in grey. The breakfast is a generous spread, and guests are well located for visiting local bars and restaurants, and for exploring the city.
  • The Palazzo Arone dei Baroni di Valentino is a stunning historic 'residence d'epoca' located just steps from the famous Quattro Canti. A private noble house and boutique B+B, its eight elegant rooms and suites and beautifully preserved salons are furnished with antiques and priceless cultural collections. 
  • The B&B Il Giardino di Ballaro is a centrally located B&B, with plenty of character to its five rooms and suites, and plenty of individuality too. Think quirky art, unusual antiques and wonderful original features. The citrus-scented courtyard is the hub of the B&B, a place for an al fresco breakfast, or an evening drink, or a dip in the hot tub. Families are welcome, with babysitting easily arranged, and lots of different room configurations to choose from, but this can also be an intimate spot.

For Romantics

  • The Principe di Villafranca is a stylish choice in the heart of town, a short stroll from bars, restaurants, and the Politeama and Massimo theatres. Its 32 rooms and suites are simply decorated, with plenty of white, parquet flooring, the odd Sicilian antique, and contemporary art and design pieces to make a statement. The hotel often hosts art exhibitions in the communal areas, which include a beautiful lobby and a lounge and library. The hotel’s restaurant is a cosy affair with a typically Sicilian menu, and there’s also a bar, and gym.

For Families

  • The Palazzo Brunaccini is a chic hotel on a pretty piazza in central Palermo. Its 18 rooms are individually laid out and decorated, but all come with a neutral colour scheme and contemporary furnishings, accented with contemporary art and the odd antique. The contemporary simplicity makes a good contrast with the building’s original beamed ceilings, arched doorways, and large windows. The most romantic rooms have four-poster beds and private balconies. The family rooms are spacious, with lots of living room. The restaurant is cosy and welcoming for both couples and families.
  • L'Hotellerie Easy Suites has been converted from a large and shapely, 16th century villa, right in the heart of historic Palermo. This property has bags of charm both inside and out. Its ten rooms and suites have all been individually designed and decorated, with contemporary additions making the most of the original features. Expect exposed stone, pillars, vaulted ceilings, stone and marble fireplaces, and huge windows. Outside is a lovely sun terrace with a view, and a small pool. There’s no restaurant, but they serve an excellent buffet breakfast, and there are plenty of eateries nearby. Perfect for families — the superior doubles and suites all comfortably accommodate four.

For Great Value

  • Considering its location in the heart of the old town, the B&B Delle Vittorie has very contemporary decor. Each of the five rooms and suites has been individually decorated, and features square-edged wooden furniture, sophisticated colour schemes, and large, comfortable beds. Some rooms have four-poster beds. The service is warm and friendly, and they offer a babysitting service if you need one.

Best B&Bs

  • The BB22 Palace is a small, boutique-style B&B, converted from a beautiful palazzo in central Palermo. There are only five rooms; each has been individually decorated, based on its own merits, so that some are crisp and contemporary, and some cosier and more traditional. All have large bathrooms and high-quality linens. Breakfast is served on the terrace when possible, and it’s a wonderful place for drinks in the evening too.
  • Sister of the BB22 Palace, the original BB22 is also an excellent boutique-feeling B&B, also converted from an elegant old building in central Palermo. The BB22 has five rooms and a suite, all decorated with contemporary flair, think bold wallpapers, plush furnishings, and creative use of lighting. Each the rooms is uniquely decorated, but the larger rooms, and the suite, have stand-alone bathtubs too.

For a Private apartment or private villa

  • If you're travelling as a family or a group of friends it may be a better option to book a villa or apartment. For a wide range of properties for all tastes and budgets we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Palermo has its own airport, Palermo Airport, which is about 20 minutes from the centre of Palermo by taxi, 25 on the bus, or around 40 minutes on the train. You can also reach Palermo by ferry.
  • If you want to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Sicily, unlike some Italian destinations, remains open all year round. That doesn’t mean it’s equally nice all year round, it’s definitely chilly in winter. If you do come between November and February expect the daylight hours to impact opening hours too. Spring, or March through June, is one of our favourite times to visit Sicily, because the weather is sunny and mild, and the festival and events calendar is packed with activity leading up to Easter. July and August are properly hot, the beach and sea are very pleasant, and there are lots of food and music festivals held around Palermo at this time — so it can be expensive. But the Scirocco winds also bring a good amount of rainfall to Palermo in summer, so don’t expect clear skies all the time. Visitor numbers tail off in September, though the sea is still warm and pleasant. October is a good pick if you’re planning to visit the museums and palaces, and admire the architecture. We recommend September and October, and April and May, if you're planning a walking holiday.

Still not sure which to book?

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Best Hotels in Palermo

  • B&B Delle Vittorie Palermo 5 rooms from £94

    Romantic Break  -  A pampering pad in the centre of the city, boasting comfy and stylish suites, four poster beds and excellent views.
    Local markets  -  Just a short stroll to the popular markets of Ballarò and Vucciria, head down to pick up some regional specialities.
    Sights nearby  -  Within walking distance of the Cathedral, the Quattro Canti, the Teatro Massimo, the Royal Palace.
    Great walks  -  Right in the centre of the historic old city, head out and explore her streets on foot.
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParking

    A chic and contemporary B&B, in the heart of the old city. Elegant and understated interiors, are matched by excellent service and a friendly atmosphere. Perfectly located for explore all the city has to offer, from bars and restaurants to museums and cathedrals. An excellent breakfast is included. See More

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  • Maxim B&B Palermo 5 rooms from £95

    Value chic
    Sights nearby  -  Central Palermo so easy access to all the sights
    Local markets  -  Vucciria, Ballarò and del Capo street markets.
    Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
    Air conditioning
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A sweet, great value B&B in a central location in Palermo. Charming rooms and one suite have parquet floors, creamy tones, four poster beds and occasional modern art. Close to beaches and sights. Family friendly. See More

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  • B&B Il Giardino di Ballaro Palermo (75/77) 5 rooms from £98

    Sights nearby  -  Moment from cathedral, Cappella Palatina, Tower of San Nicolò
    Local markets  -  Close to Ballarò
    Boutique
    Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyParking

    Charming, characterful, colourful boutique B&B in the heart of historical Palmero. Rooms with quirky art and furnishings, air conditioning and direct access to lovely outdoor courtyard. Traditional Sicilian breakfast available. Child friendly and great value. See More

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  • Palazzo Brunaccini Palermo (Albergaria) 18 rooms from £103

    Families  -  The family rooms are a great option for parents travelling with children, offering lots of extra living space
    Romantic Break  -  The classical interior and cosy restaurant make this hotel a romantic setting for couple's getaway
    City Style  -  Located in the centre of Palermo in a heritage building, this hotel has reams of Sicilian style
    Local markets  -  Shop like a local with a trip to the Ballarò Market, a fresh fruit and vegetable market close to the hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    This boutique hotel is located on a pretty piazzetta in central Palermo. Rooms are bright and modern with luxurious linens and quality furniture; the best suites have marble floors, four-poster beds and a private balcony. Have lunch at the stylish Da Carlo restaurant. A stately Sicilian hotel. See More

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  • BB22 Palermo 6 rooms from £104

    Honeymoons
    Romantic Break
    Sights nearby  -  Situated in the heart of historic Palermo
    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 8 welcome.
    Air conditioningPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Excellent boutique B&B with attractive bedrooms in Palermo. Rooms and one suite combine contemporary lighting, artwork, and jazzy wallpapers with parquet floors, gilt mirrors and stand alone bathtubs. A great city spot for a romantic holiday. See More

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  • BB22 Palace Palermo (Castellammare Vucciria) 5 rooms from £121

    City Style  -  Located in a heritage building typical of Palermo, this hotel is a chic and stylish Italian guesthouse
    Local exploring  -  The hotel's central location makes it a great base for local exploring in Palermo
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's cosy rooms and the pretty outdoor terrace
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Chiesa di Sant'Agostino, a 13th-century church with an impressive mosaic facade
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This hotel is housed in a beautifully renovated palazzo in the centre of Palermo. Rooms boast modern interior design and high-quality linens; book the deluxe room for a feature wall comprised of stone from the original palazzo. Relax with a drink on the hotel's chic terrace; a stylish guesthouse. See More

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  • Principe di villafranca Palermo 32 rooms from £143

    Great walks  -  Walk the city from Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuel
    Sights nearby  -  Explore 16th-century catacombs
    Local markets  -  Explore Ballarò Market
    Short break
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    Boutique hotel in the heart of Palermo, a short walk from the Politeama and Massimo theatres. Rooms have antique furnishings, marble floors, and vaulted ceilings giving an authentic, luxurious feel. A cozy Sicilian restaurant at the hotel and many bars on nearby streets. Ideal for work or pleasure. See More

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  • Palazzo Natoli Palermo 9 rooms from £154

    Short break  -  Easily accessible European destination with a range of low-cost airlines flying to its airport located 19kms from the city
    Local exploring  -  Close to the major attractions the city has to offer and organising guided tours too
    City Style  -  A taste of Sicilian hospitality within easy reach of restaurants and attractions
    Sights nearby  -  The crossing of the Cathedral and Quatro Canti is where many of Palermo's major attractions can be seen
    Air conditioningNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, I Escape

    An upmarket B&B in Palermo's centre that retains its historic character. The bright and spacious rooms are simply styled with soft hues, whitewashed furniture and the odd antique. Offering a delightful breakfast and walking tours through Palermo. A charming residence. See More

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  • L'Hotellerie Easy Suites Palermo 10 rooms from £156

    Families  -  The property is ideal for families as the superior doubles and suites can accommodate four people easily
    City Style  -  A stunning 16th century property with smart up-to-the minute contemporary interiors
    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for exploring all the sights of historic Palermo
    Sights nearby  -  Minutes from the Foro Italico and Santa Maria della Spasimo church
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews

    A beautifully converted 16th century property right in the heart of historic Palermo. Rooms and suites are individually designed and feature a smart blend of original details and contemporary style. Plus there's a lovely sun terrace and small outdoor pool. No restaurant, but plenty close by. See More

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  • Palazzo Arone dei Baroni di Valentino Palermo (Sicily) 8 rooms from £174

    Hideaway  -  Centrally located yet with the feel of an intimate hideaway with its stunning interiors and shutters to block out the noise
    Romantic Break  -  The handful of rooms and suites boast glorious period details for romantic, atmospheric stay
    Sights nearby  -  Being right in the centre of Palermo's old town, you'll find all the highlights within walking distance
    Cooking classes  -  These can be arranged by reception
    Air conditioning

    A stunning, historic residence d'epoca, now a boutique B&B, located in the old centre of Palermo, steps from the famous Quattro Canti. Still a private noble house, eight elegant rooms and suites and beautifully preserved salons are furnished with antiques and priceless cultural collections. See More

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