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20 of the Best Boutique Hotels on Sicily

Spectacular, dramatic Sicily offers both a wealth of natural treasures and cultural ones. Surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, this island not only has snow capped mountains in winter, but it offers views of two active volcanoes, Etna, on the east coast and Stromboli on a small island just off the northern coast. Sicily’s beauty has charmed poets from Homer to Virgil and made it a prize for many ancient civilisations, all of whom have made their marks and built their legacies here. And today there are both majestic ruins and beautifully preserved architectural masterpieces. Use our guide to the best boutique hotels on Sicily and start to plan your grand tour!

sicilyScott Wylie via Flickr

This is certainly an island to be done in style, and our Guru’s recommendations for the best boutique hotels on Sicily are a wonderful collection of comfortable and stylish places to stay. Not all of our recommendations fit the strictest characteristics of a boutique hotel, but they’re all smaller properties with impeccable decor and design, excellent service and a certain luxurious ambience.

sicilyMiguel Virkkunen Carvalho via

Most of the properties on our list of the best boutique hotels on Sicily have a restaurant serving the wonderful cuisine Sicily is known for, but the ones that don’t are conveniently located close to restaurants and cafes that do. As we said, this is an island to be done in style. Even if you’re here to hike the hill or just relax on the beach.

For a room with a view

monaci della terre nere

  • If you want to be close to the volcano, Monaci delle Terre Nere is perched on Etna's slopes. The deep pink villa looks deceptively traditional as you approach, yet, inside, stone walls, wooden beams and bare plaster mix with shiny glass, bright art works and bold contemporary lighting. Rooms are scattered throughout the grounds in converted farm buildings as well as some new-builds. Lie by the pool and gaze up at Mount Etna, or at the vineyards fanning out below you to the coast.
  • With white-on-white bedrooms, glass-walled bathrooms and pared-down furnishings, Zash Country Boutique Hotel is a minimalist's joy. And it’s all set within a traditional, ochre-coloured country house. Outside, there’s a shimmering infinity pool, beautiful, yet simple, gardens and views of Mount Etna.

Azienda Agricola Mandranova

  • Azienda Agricola Mandranova is a gorgeous converted olive farmhouse set on a hillside. There are 16 rooms and suites, and two private cottages. The property is surrounded by African gardens, and the food is excellent. Not to mention the beautiful views!

The Most Romantic Boutique Hotels on Sicily

hotel villa ducale

  • The Hotel Villa Ducale is a romantic Sicilian villa overlooking the bay at Taormina. There are 17 characterful rooms and suites with Italianate furnishings and rose-clad terraces. They also have a very nice spa.
  • Henry’s House is a unique property on the architecturally famous island of Ortygia, with 12 bohemian style rooms and a treasure trove of antiques and objets d’art. There’s also a wonderful sun terrace with amazing views over the Med..

Palazzo Failla

  • The Palazzo Failla probably doesn’t quite qualify as a boutique hotel, but the decor is really something, so if you’re looking for a small, unique property with aristocratic details - think frescoed ceilings, Toile du jouy wallpapers and rich fabrics - then this property, in the centre of Modica, is for you. it’s also got a Michelin-starred restaurant.

The Best Beachside Boutique Hotels on Sicily

siracusa resort

  • The Siracusa Resort has the only private beach in Syracuse, and you only have to share it with the inhabitants of the other 11 rooms, one suite and three apartments. The decor is chic, lending from the natural elements - think exposed stone, whitewashed walls and fine fabrics.
  • The Hotel Villa Carlotta is a luxurious villa on a clifftop, overlooking the Ionian Sea. There are 23 sumptuous rooms, suites and apartments, all with private balconies and terraces, stone floors and rich fabrics. The pool and restaurant are also idyllic.
  • Also on Favignana, I Pretti Resort has just 16 rooms and suites, and a serene atmosphere focussed on luxury and elegance. As well as overlooking the sea, you’re just a few minutes walk from the beach and surrounded by lovely, flower-filled gardens. Perfect if you want to relax.

The Best Boutique Hotels on Sicily for Foodies

Relais San Giuliano

  • Relais San Giuliano is a fabulous little property just a few miles from Catania. The food at its restaurant I Palici is not to be missed. You can expect mouth-watering Sicilian dishes, where the cuisine is inspired by traditional dishes yet given a thoroughly modern twist. There are twelve chic rooms and suites, a soothing spa, and lush gardens with large infinity pool.

wine resort villagrande

  • Wine Resort Villagrande is a peaceful, elegant country house with four rooms overlooking its own winery. The decor is cool and quite traditional but the views spread all the way out to the Ionian coast. The sunsets are magical.
  • In the heart of the famous, family-run Planeta vineyards near Menfi, La Foresteria Planeta is, arguably, one of Sicily's prime wine hotels. Colourful, individually decorated rooms mix contemporary and period pieces; each has a private terrace. With authentic Sicilian cuisine - lessons from the chef for the keen! - an infinity pool and sea views, this is near-perfect.

Torre Marabino

  • The big draw at Torre Marabino, a working farm near Modica, is the wine cellar; a vast, vaulted space where you can taste your way to heaven. There’s a beautiful restaurant, excellent Sicilian menus and just seven airy rooms furnished with elegant simplicity.
  • Palermo’s Principe de Villafranca is a stylish, boutique hotel with parquet floors, cool white rooms and modern art. There’s a vast sitting-room-cum library and a very chic, double-height dining room. It’s close to many bars so you can pick up tips on your wine-tasting.

Sicily's Best Boutique Hotels for Families

casa italia

  • Casa Italia is a collection of wonderfully converted stone cottages on the hillside in the centre of Modica. There are ten rooms/ suites/ apartments each with a private terrace and rather wonderful design which often incorporates the original stone of the cottages.
  • Masseria degli Ulivi, tucked into the hillside above Noto and surrounded by olive groves, might not quite make the grade as a boutique hotel, but it’s definitely along those lines, while also being small, peaceful reasonably priced and family friendly. And only 20 minutes from the coast. Bedrooms are simple, cool and serene and there’s a beautiful infinity pool and open-sided dining room.

The Best Value Boutique Hotels on Sicily

Il Gardino di Ballaro

  • In the heart of Palermo you’ll find ll Giardino di Ballaro, an 18th-century townhouse, now a quirky boutique B&B. There are five spacious and contemporary rooms surrounding a courtyard, each decorated with style and panache; perhaps a vintage radio, bright modern art or boldly coloured headboard. Breakfast is served al fresco in the courtyard under the shade of the citrus trees. Rooms start from €80 per night including breakfast.
  • For as litlle as €75 per night (low season) including breakfast, you can book into the beach-y minimalist Hotel Gutkowski, a 26 room hotel with fabulous sea views and simple but elegant decor.

If you haven’t found your idea of the Sicily's best boutique hotel on our Guru’s list of 20 of the Best Boutique Hotels on Sicily you could:

20 of the Best Boutique Hotels on Sicily

  • Relais San Giuliano Viagrande, Sicily 12 rooms from £165

    Sights nearby  -  Etna is 30 minutes away and personal hikes can be arranged. Nearby beaches are only 15 minutes away.
    Hideaway  -  With just 12 rooms it's the perfect hideaway.
    Boutique  -  The rooms are invididually designed.
    Spa  -  Jacuzzi, Hammam and Treatments.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGarden

    Relais San Giuliano is an all-singing, all-dancing pocket rocket, small but perfectly formed with 12 rooms, a spa, infinity pool and restaurant 'I Palici' serving mouth-watering Sicilian dishes. Great for all the family. Just a few miles from Catania it's within easy reach of the airport. See More

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  • Musciara Resort Syracuse (Sicily) 11 rooms from £139

    Outstanding location  -  Arrive by boat to really appreciate the fabulous location
    Views  -  Lovely views over to the island of Ortigia and the Med.
    On the beach  -  The only resort in Syracuse with a private beach
    Restrictions on children  -  Adults only property. Over 14s are accepted.
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    Stylish small resort with the only private beach in Syracuse. Eleven rooms, one suite and three apartments for the more independent minded. Chic interiors with natural elements: exposed stone work, white washed walls and fine fabrics. A grown up beach retreat a stone's throw from Ortigia. See More

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  • Hotel Villa Ducale Taormina 19 rooms from £285

    Luxury  -  Traditional luxury including frescoed walls, brightly painted walls, trailing roses, hot tubs.
    Romantic Break  -  Hotel Villa Ducale is the most romantic hotel in Taormina.
    Views  -  The terraces offer sensational bay views.
    Restaurant  -  Light lunches and candlelit dinners on the terrace. Traditional and delicious Sicilian cuisine.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    Hotel Villa Ducale is a romantic boutique hotel full of character and charm with jaw-dropping sea views. Rooms and suites are decorated with exquisite Italian style, some come with private terrace. There's a lovely garden with pool, and a stunning roof terrace. The perfect choice for a honeymoon. See More

    Hotel Website
  • Azienda Agricola Mandranova Palma di Montechiaro, Sicily 16 rooms from £121

    Families
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Groups
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    Gorgeous olive farm and farmhouse on a hillside. Fabulous designer rooms, suites, and two private cottages, spectacular views, African gardens, excellent food and very family friendly. Still very romantic and very luxurious. See More

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  • Monaci Delle Terre Nere Zafferana Etnea, Sicily 19 rooms from £234

    Honeymoons
    Wellbeing
    Romantic Break
    Total relaxation
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, CN Traveller

    Wonderfully chic retreat on the slopes of Mount Etna. Rooms and suites blend contemporary design with original elements; glass walls and parquet floors complement stone walls and wooden beams. Cinema, games room, tennis, an excellent restaurant. Very romantic, gourmet and family friendly. See More

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  • Zash Country Boutique Hotel Archi, Sicily 9 rooms from £177

    Foodies  -  Zash Restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star; be prepared for something delicious!
    Sights nearby  -  Make a day trip to the ominous Mount Etna.
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Design Hotels

    Minimalist and design fans will simply love this property. Blending old and new, nature and decor this property immerses its guests in the local surroundings. Glass walls, exposed stonework and in room hot tubs. Sample the best in Sicilian cuisine in the sun filled gardens, A photographers dream! See More

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  • Hotel Villa Carlotta Taormina 23 rooms from £312

    Sights nearby  -  Only five minutes walk to the historical centre of Taormina
    Views  -  Fabulous views of the sea and Mount Etna
    Restaurant  -  Traditional Italian and Sicilian cuisine
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A beautiful luxury hotel situated on the cliff tops. Sumptuous rooms, suites and apartments most with private terraces. Rooms have stone floors, delicate watercolours and rich fabrics. Fantastic restaurant and pool. Utterly romantic, but still very accommodating for families or groups. See More

    Hotel Website
  • 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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  • Wine Resort Villagrande Milo, Sicily 4 rooms from £121

    Local exploring  -  A great base for wine enthusiasts or simply exploring the area.
    Views  -  All rooms have views over the Ionian coast
    Great walks  -  Etna National Park
    Back to Nature
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking

    A peaceful Vineyard resort with views over the winery. This elegant country house has an array of sun terraces where guests can unwind. Rooms are cool, with classic high ceilings. Have a glass of local wine with dinner, whilst enjoying the glorious sunset over the hills. See More

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  • Henry's House Syracuse (Ortigia) 12 rooms from £100

    Sights nearby  -  The hotel is walking distance from the architectural Castello Maniace
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningViewsParkingNo pets

    This unique property is located on the architecturally famous island of Ortygia. All rooms are decorated in a bohemian style with wrought iron beds, fabulous antique furniture, art work and sea views. A typical Italian breakfast can be enjoyed on the sun terrace. Local cafés are walking distance. See More

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  • I Pretti Resort Favignana TP 16 rooms from £130

    Beach Life  -  A beautiful and serene spot overlooking the sea, and just a few minutes walk to the lovely Praia Beach on Favignana.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the fascinating limestone caves and the Hypogeum Gardens.
    Fishing  -  Organise a sea fishing trip out from Favignana harbour.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    I Pretti Resort is a charming hotel situated on the quaint little island of Favignana. A serene atmosphere pervades throughout the hotel, which focuses on luxury and elegance. With a yummy breakfast each morning in the flower filled gardens, it's perfect for a restorative relaxing holiday. See More

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  • Palazzo Failla Modica 10 rooms from £96

    Foodies  -  Michelin recommended restaurant.
    Restaurant  -  Michelin recommended restaurant or cafe for more relaxed dining.
    Sights nearby  -  Located in the centre of Modica
    Private Hot Tub
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled access

    Elegant Baroque townhouse with a Michelin star restaurant. Aristocratic rooms have frescoed ceilings, rich fabrics, and walls of Toile du jouy. An excellent choice for the sophisticated cultural traveller with a sensitive palette. 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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  • La Foresteria Planeta Estate Menfi, Sicily 14 rooms from £226

    Cooking classes  -  Chef Angelo Pumilia teaches authentic Sicilian cooking in the hotel's spacious kitchen
    Wine tasting  -  Have a guided wine tour
    Great walks  -  Walk the vineyards and olive groves that surround La Foresteria
    Full of character
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Luxury wine resort in south west Sicily. Nestled amongst the vineyards, rooms are individually decorated with period pieces, all have private terraces and wonderful sea views. Authentic Sicilian cuisine and cookery lessons for the very keen! A family friendly, foodie haven, close to the beach. See More

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  • Torre Marabino Ispica, Sicily 7 rooms from £134

    Foodies
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the Unesco Baroque towns of Noto and Modica, plus much more
    Restaurant  -  Traditional Sicilian cuisine
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled access
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A lovely working farmhouse with its own wine barrels and an excellent restaurant. Rustic rooms with wooden beams, white washed walls, exposed stone and simple furniture. Lovely gardens and pool. A romantic and gourmet spot. See More

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  • Hotel Gutkowski Syracuse 26 rooms from £69

    Views  -  Wonderful seaviews or over the rooftops of Ortigia
    Value chic
    Roof terrace
    Sailing  -  Up the Ciane river in a gozzo (traditional sailing boat).
    Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Frommers, CN Traveller

    Beachy minimalism on Ortigia's peninsula with fabulous sea views from the terrace. White washed walls, dashes of sea blue, black and white chequered floors, and elegant beds. A great value choice for families or romantic breaks by the sea. See More

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  • Masseria degli Ulivi Noto, Sicily 34 rooms from £95

    Sights nearby  -  Palazzolo Acreide and the delights of the World Heritage Site Noto
    Restaurant  -  Serving typical rustic Sicilian cuisine
    Birdwatching  -  Wetlands around Vendicari.
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGarden
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A serene hillside hotel surrounded by olive groves in a remote setting above Noto. Bedrooms (plus some triples and quadruples) are perfect for families and groups, all decorated with contemporary elegance. Fabulous infinity pool and excellent restaurant. Close to beaches and sights nearby. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 18th October 2023