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The Best Hotels in Catania for Every Traveller

Pull up a lounger at the Romano Palace to chill in one of the original five-star hotels in Catania
Pull up a lounger at the Romano Palace to chill in one of the original five-star hotels in Catania | Courtesy of Romano Palace Luxury Hotel / Expedia

Situated between the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, Catania is an ideal starting point from which to explore eastern Sicily. The ancient settlement was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in the 12th century, and has been hit by several if Etna’s eruptions, but Unesco-worthy baroque architecture survives in the Old Town. Explore this resilient city from one of the best hotels in Catania.

Palace Catania

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

A stylish seating area at Palace Catania with sofas, chairs and stools and a circular bar

Dating back to the early 1900s, Palace Catania certainly lives up to its regal name. Guests can enjoy a Turkish bath and free fitness centre, and choose from one of two acclaimed restaurants in the hotel – head to Etnea in the rooftop garden for views of Mount Etna with your food. This Catania hotel is a 10-minute walk from major attractions such as Catania Cathedral and Teatro Massimo Bellini opera house, as well as shopping and traditional fish markets.

Airone City Hotel

Hotel

A light-coloured guestroom at Airone City Hotel with a double bed, tiled floors, and a sofa
Courtesy of Airone City Hotel / Expedia

On the outskirts of Catania, but still within 4km (2.5 miles) of the historic centre, the four-star Airone City Hotel is a great place to stay for early departures or late arrivals from Catania airport. Start your day with a sweet or savoury buffet-style breakfast. And after exploring the city, enjoy a few (non-alcoholic) drinks at the free minibar in your room. Extra features include an outdoor pool and terrace, with free parking at the front of the hotel, and an underground garage.

Liberty Hotel

Hotel, Villa

A traditional bed at the Liberty Hotel with a green, button-backed headboard and flower-print cover
Courtesy of Liberty Hotel / Expedia

In the heart of Catania, on a quiet residential street, the Liberty Hotel is a restored villa from the early 1900s. Exuding charm, each boutique suite has its own terrace, bringing true Mediterranean style and comfort to your Sicilian getaway. Head to the cosy Winter Garden for breakfast or, later in the day, a Sicilian pizza and a cocktail. The space is particularly alluring in May and October, when flowering white jasmine produces a delicate perfume.

Hotel Centrum

Hotel

A double bed at Hotel Centrum with a wooden headboard, above which is a coastal image
Courtesy of Hotel Centrum / Expedia

As the name implies, Hotel Centrum is optimally located in Catania’s historic district, between the sea and the mountains. This makes it an ideal base for beach days, rigorous hikes, and opportunities to shop along the Via Etnea. If you’re travelling with a larger group, consider booking the two-floor family suite, which has two bathrooms and a living room with a twin-size sofa bed. Staff can organise guided city tours and trips to the surrounding area, including Mount Etna.

Etnea 454

Hotel

A black-and-white bedroom at Etnea 454 with striped wallpaper, double bed and ensuite
Courtesy of Etnea 454 / Expedia

The location of this luxury hotel in Catania housed in a former palace puts you close to all the shops and restaurants of Via Etnea, the main thoroughfare in Catania. Rooms – which are dressed in a modern, monochrome design – come with a minibar, refrigerator and air conditioning. They’re also well insulated from the bustle of the street below. Guests are also treated to a daily buffet-style breakfast, replete with Sicilian treats.

Habitat

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

A traditional guestroom at Habitat with pattern-tile floors, a double bed and high, wood-beamed ceilings
Courtesy of Habitat / Expedia

Consisting of two buildings connected by a quaint courtyard, this boutique hotel in the historical centre of Catania is right next to the medieval city walls and the old San Giuliano Bastion. A daily buffet breakfast includes an array of cakes, sweets and biscuits handmade by the in-house chef. Seasonal fruits and vegetables come from short-chain and local producers to support healthier and sustainable choices.

Romano Palace Luxury Hotel

Hotel

A regal guestroom at Romano Palace Luxury Hotel with antique furniture and an ensuite
Courtesy of Romano Palace Luxury Hotel / Expedia

One of the first five-star hotels in Catania, Romano Palace is conveniently located by the sea. Behind it sits Boschetto della Plaia, a 25,000sqm (270,000sqft) park with water features and plenty of walking paths. After a morning stroll, return to the hotel to relax by the large swimming pool or in the whirlpool. There’s also private beach access just across the street. Alternatively, a shuttle bus stops outside the hotel every 15 minutes and takes you into town for a fee.

Duomo Suites & Spa

Spa Hotel, Hotel

A modern bedroom at Duomo Suites & Spa with a Pablo Neruda quote on the wall and mountain mural
Courtesy of Duomo Suites & Spa / Expedia

This boutique hotel in Catania consists of 12 rooms and suites, each named and designed after a famous film made in Sicily – the colour schemes, furniture and art featured in each room recall the settings of such cult classics as Stromboli, The Postman, and The Godfather. The theme carries into the spa, where massages are also named after films set on the island. Relax on the rooftop terrace and enjoy the views from the panoramic window of the breakfast room.

Grand Hotel Baia Verde

Hotel

A simple-yet-stylish guestroom at Grand Hotel Baia Verde with light-wood floors and furniture
Courtesy of Grand Hotel Baia Verde / Expedia

This four-star hotel in Catania sits on the rocky Sicilian coast facing the sea, offering private beach access and rooms with terraced patios. The scenic location puts you at a distance from the energetic city centre, making it an ideal place to retreat after a long day exploring Catania. Spa services include massages and beauty treatments, and the wellness centre has a pool with heated sea water, a Turkish bath, and showers that use the benefits of chromotherapy and aromatherapy.

4 Spa Resort Hotel

Spa Hotel, Hotel, Resort

A simple guestroom at 4 Spa Resort Hotel with a double bed, tiled floor and patterned wall
Courtesy of 4 Spa Resort Hotel / Expedia

The 4 Spa resort focuses on holistic wellness, including fitness, relaxation and healthy eating. The spa has a thermal circuit, with two swimming pools and a sauna. Guests can also mine the knowledge of aqua-therapy experts, taking part in integrated sports training, rehabilitation, and fun aquatic classes for all ages. A (dry) gym offers fitness classes and standard equipment. After tending to your wellbeing, indulge yourself at the sea-view restaurant, which serves traditional Sicilian cuisine with a focus on healthy ingredients and nutritional value. There is also a swim-up bar at the pool.

Catania House

Bed and Breakfast, Inn, Hotel

A stylish, modern guestroom at Catania House with a floating bed and floating stairs
Courtesy of Catania House / Booking.com

Experience the generosity of Sicilian hospitality at Catania House, which sits within walking distance of most major attractions. This B&B strikes a warm balance between private and shared space, with accommodation built around a welcoming living room and kitchen, while rooms have private balconies. Breakfast is noted for its tasty pastries, enjoyed at a communal table. The hosts also assist with booking guided tours.

Il Principe Hotel

Hotel

A suite at Il Principe Hotel with dark-wood floors, a double bed, and TV on the wall
Courtesy of Il Principe Hotel / Expedia

Il Principe is located on the Alessi Steps between Via Etnea and Via Crociferi, surrounded by some of the most impressive baroque architecture in Catania. Enjoy cityscape views from the minimalist rooftop lounge, or walk a few steps to one of the nearby restaurants where you might stumble across a market or live music. Rooms come with a stocked fridge, coffee and tea are available for free in the reception area, and a continental buffet breakfast is served daily in the dining room.

Il Leone Blu

Bed and Breakfast, Budget Hotel

A regal suite at Il Leone Blu with light-wood floors, high ceiling and off-white colour scheme
Courtesy of Il Leone Blu / Expedia

Il Leone Blu (The Blue Lion), is a charming four-room B&B in Catania that feels like visiting the home of your favourite relatives. The high, frescoed ceilings with delicate crown moulding and other intricate details, bring to mind an aristocratic past, combined with modern furnishings. The hotel is within strolling distance of the Ursino Castle and surrounding piazza, which at night becomes the hub of Catania nightlife. A traditional Sicilian breakfast of fresh pastries is served at a communal table (except on Sundays), and tea, coffee, snacks, and water are available 24/7 in the communal area.

Castello di San Marco Charming Hotel & Spa

Spa Hotel, Hotel

A calming guestroom at Castello San Marco with a cream colour scheme, double bed and desk, and fruit bowl filled with lemons
Courtesy of Castello San Marco / Expedia

Located between the romantic town of Taormina and Mount Etna, the Castello di San Marco encompasses a historical castle, large surrounding estate and Mediterranean garden that offers a fairytale-like setting for a luxurious vacation. Rooms at this hotel near Catania are laid out across the grounds like little private villas, guests have access to an on-site pool and a nearby private beach. The small spa offers massages and beauty treatments, and you can enjoy flavourful meals, including breakfast, near a charming pond in the stately courtyard.

Etna Hotel

Hotel

A simple, stylish guestroom at Hotel Etna with terracotta-colour floor tiles and canopy bed
Courtesy of Hotel Etna / Expedia

The villa-like setting of Hotel Etna is a great jumping-off point for nature-curious travellers, located close to Giardini Naxos beach and the Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park. Features include a solarium and swimming pool, a restaurant that boasts an extensive menu of Sicilian and Italian wines in addition to traditional fare, and a quaint breakfast buffet area on the refurbished site of a historic winery. There is also free on-site parking, useful as it’s a 45-minute drive from Catania.

About the author

Emily is a writer currently based in Montreal, Canada. She works with a number of online and print publications, mainly pursuing stories about arts and culture, travel, nature, and local history.

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