From gentle fading palazzos to little apartments with majestic views and locally run B&Bs with frescoed ceilings. These are 20 boutique hotels in Palermo that will make you want to stay. All of them were carefully chosen on one of my many trips back to the capital of Sicily.
The beauty of falling in love with a Palermitan living abroad is the many “obligatory” visits to the family. These numerous trips to Sicily combined with an insatiable curiosity and my snap-happy camera have resulted in a deep knowledge of the various places to stay in Palermo – and where to avoid.
Truth be told, Palermo is not the easiest city to get to know. It requires patience and an inquisitive mind to uncover its true beauty. This guide will help you comb through the vast offering of hotels in Palermo and give you a good overview of the type of unique accommodation that fits your needs.
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Boutique Hotels in Palermo Planning Guide
MORE PALERMO GUIDES
- TO DO: 20 Things to do in Palermo
- FOOD: Guide to street food in Palermo
- DAY TRIPS: 15 Day trips from Palermo
- ACCOMMODATION: Where to stay in Sicily
TOP BOUTIQUE HOTEL PICKS
- LUXURY: Rocco Forte Villa Igiea
- BEST VIEWS: Cathedral View Apartments
- BEST LOCATION: Porta di Castro
- VALUE FOR MONEY: B&B Better & Better
- TOP TOURS IN PALERMO: The Original Street Food Walking Tour// No Maffia Tour
- GETTING TO PALERMO FROM PALERMO AIRPORT: Private Transfer or take the direct train (book tickets via Omio)
- PRACTICAL SICILY GUIDES: Local guide to driving in Sicily // Sicilian traditional food to try
- EASTERN SICILY GUIDES: 20 Sustainable hotels in Taormina // 10 Day trips from Taormina// 15 Day trips from Catania
Where to Stay in Palermo
TEATRO MASSIMO – POLITEAMA – LIBERTA (IN AND AROUND RUGGERO SETTIMO)
Located just inside the historical center, but just far enough not to have too many boisterous late-night party goers ruin your good night’s sleep. This part of Palermo is slightly more upscale and hotels tend to have private parking (reco: Palazzo Sovrana// B&B Porta Maqueda).
PALERMO CATHEDRAL – HISTORICAL CENTRE
For travelers looking to be at the heart of the action, in and around the Cathedral is where to stay in Palermo. If you are staying here, make sure to bring a pair of earplugs as most hotels do not have soundproof rooms. (Reco: La Terrazza sul Centro//B&B InCanto).
MONDELLO – BEACH NEAR PALERMO
If you are looking for a place to stay in Palermo near the beach, there is but one spot to check out: Mondello. This neighborhood of the city is located 13 km away from the historical center. During the summer a direct bus connects both (reco: Villa Mallandrino)
20 Palermo Boutique Hotels
To help you navigate the various accommodations in Palermo I took the liberty of splitting them up into four distinct categories for you.
- Six Small luxury hotels in Palermo
- Nine Boutique hotels in Palermo with the best views
- Five B&B’s in Palermo
When doing the research for this article, I honestly was shocked at the quality of the images available for the vast majority of the hotels. It might take a little imagination to see through the hazy, grainy and dark pictures. But perhaps that is just the photographer in me talking.
6 SMALL LUXURY HOTELS IN PALERMO
1. Rocco Forte Villa Igiea
WHY BOOK: Historical Building; Tranquil; Wellness Facilities; 5-Star Service; Exclusive
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.3
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €750/night
The 5-star Rocco Forte Villa Igiea is one of the most luxurious hotels in Palermo. Originally constructed in 1900 as a private villa for the aristocratic Florio family, what sets the hotel apart is the impeccable service and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Palermo.
Guests are drawn to the hotel for its opulent ambiance and array of amenities. The property features sumptuously decorated rooms and suites, each exuding sophistication and comfort. Personally, I am a big fan of their meticulously landscaped gardens, outdoor swimming pool, exclusive spa facilities, and, most of all, killer aperitivo menu served on their panoramic terrace.
Villa Igiea has played host to many illustrious guests and its grandeur and architectural splendor reflect a bygone era. It is worth noting Villa Igiea is the most exclusive place to stay in Palermo, located slightly outside of the historical center. Head into the city center with the free shuttle or simply rent the on-site Porsche or iconic Cinquecento cars for the day.
2. Porta di Castro Boutique Hotel & SPA
WHY BOOK: Central Location; Outdoor Pool; Private Parking; Wellness Centre; Air Conditioning
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.9
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €218/night
Nestled within the historic heart of Palermo, Sicily, the Porta di Castro Boutique Hotel & SPA is located in a meticulously restored medieval chapel. Many of the original features have been kept, giving the hotel an undeniable charm.
The hotel’s allure lies in its unbeatable location, a mere 300 meters from the bustling Ballarò. This part of town is traditionally very busy I was therefore very surprised at how wonderfully tranquil the boutique hotel was. Having an outdoor pool to cool off is unique for hotels this size inside historical Palermo.
Two other major selling points for this accommodation are the private parking and the host of wellness treatments on offer in the on-site spa. All in all, Porta di Castro is probably my most recommended place to stay in Palermo as the value for money is simply unbeatable.
3. Massimo Plaza Hotel
WHY BOOK: Location; Private Parking; Ample Activities & Tours; Wellness Facilities
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.3
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €218/night
The 4-star Massimo Plaza Hotel is one of the boutique hotels in Palermo with spectacular views over the beautiful Teatro Massimo. This part of the city is where I recommend friends and family to stay when they visit Palermo. It is easily accessible via car, super safe, and a convenient 5-minute walk from the historical center.
Travelers are drawn to the Massimo Plaza Hotel for its intimate atmosphere, location and wonderful service. and personalized service. Pop up to the hotel’s terrace for a drink and get a beautiful view of Palermo’s historic center!
Key amenities include a charming breakfast room serving delectable Sicilian specialties, a cozy bar offering refreshing cocktails, and attentive concierge services to assist guests in exploring the city’s cultural treasures.
4. Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes
WHY BOOK: Art Nouveau Architecture; Central Location; Private Parking; Fitness Centre
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €255/night
If you are a lover of architecture, like myself, then this 5-star hotel in Palermo is worth checking into. The Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes was once the residence of the affluent Ingham-Whitaker family. Their home has beautiful high frescoed ceilings, original Art Nouveau stained glass windows, and an Art Nouveau Winter Garden.
The hotel has managed to keep the grandeur of a bygone era alive through the careful decoration of its spacious rooms and suites. Think old-world architectural splendor meets 5-star modern amenities! Visitors particularly appreciate the hotel’s central location, just on the outskirts of the historical center.
Key amenities include a gourmet restaurant serving Sicilian delicacies, a sophisticated bar offering signature cocktails, a The hotel’s illustrious history is evident in its architectural splendor and storied past, adding depth and character to the guest experience.
5. Palazzo Arone dei Baroni di Valentino
WHY BOOK: UNESCO-classified aristocratic residence; Exclusivity; Location;
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.1
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €213/night
As you stroll through the historical center of Palermo, the sheer amount of palazzi (palaces) might take you by surprise. The gently crumbling capital of Sicily was once a rich and important city filled with the nobility of the Kingdom of Sicily, each with a few glamorous palaces to their name.
These days many of the palaces are still in private hands and it is therefore very rare that one can visit, let alone spend the night. Palazzo Arone dei Baroni di Valentino is an unbeatable place to stay in Palermo for those looking to get the comfort of a luxury hotel, in a UNESCO-classified aristocratic residence.
Aside from the divine interior, guests can enjoy relaxing in the tranquil courtyard amidst lush greenery and tranquil fountains. The hotel also offers a delectable breakfast showcasing Sicilian flavors, served in a charming dining area that reflects the palace’s rich history.
6. Palazzo Santamarina Luxury Suite & Spa
WHY BOOK: Wellness Facilities; Indoor Swimming Pool; Yoga Classes; On-site Restaurants
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €195/night
Originally constructed in the 16th century, this wonderfully restored palace offers guests an indulgent retreat. Unlike the abovementioned palazzo, Palazzo Santamarina does not offer the touch of old-world glamour, instead, it has opted to plunge headfirst into the 21st century with a state of the art spa facilities.
Key amenities at Palazzo Santamarina include a luxurious spa, a heated pool along with a treatment room, a jacuzzi, an indoor pool, and a terrace offering panoramic views of the city. Conveniently located inside the historical center of Palermo within walking distance from the main attractions.
9 APARTMENTS & BOUTIQUE HOTELS PALERMO WITH A VIEW
7. I Mori di Porta Nuova Suite & Terrace (Boutique Hotel)
WHY BOOK: Central Location; Rooftop Views, Private Parking; Elevator
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starting €117/night
The 4-star I Mori di Porta Nuova is one of the newer boutique hotels in Palermo. Located inside the historical center of the city, right next to the beautiful Porta Nuova. Surrounded by plentiful bars and restaurants and 300 meters from Palermo Cathedral, you cannot do better in terms of location.
The fact this boutique hotel has private parking, a sundrenched rooftop terrace with views over the monumental Porta Nuova and is accessible via elevator make this hotel a rare find. The spacious rooms have plush kingsize beds and are tastefully decorated.
I strongly encourage you to book a room with a balcony as the people-watching from this hotel is simply unparalleled. Grab yourself a piping hot espresso, and a Sicilian cannolo, and watch the bustling city awaken from the comfort of your private terrace.
8. Suite Cathedral Palermo (Apartment)
WHY BOOK: Location; Views Palermo Cathedral
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.3
PRICE RANGE: €358 for 2 nights (minimum length of stay)
Talk about a room with a view! There are a few places to stay in Palermo that allow you to see Palermo Cathedral from their bedroom window. Next time I visit my parents-in-law in the city, I am definitely going to pop into Suite Cathedral Palermo for a night.
Housed within a historic building dating back to the 16th century, Suite Cathedral Palermo has but two apartments, each fully furnished, bright, and – not unimportant – with air conditioning. The Suite Delux is located on the fourth floor and has a private terrace as well as a panoramic window overlooking the cathedral. The Loft Superior is 45m2 and comes with a private balcony containing a partial view of Palermo Cathedral.
LOCAL TIP | From experience, I know this part of town tends to get very busy. The coffee and pastry shops on the ground floor tend to open at around 06.00. Bring a pair of earplugs, you never know.
9. Al Massimo Piacere (Boutique Hotel)
WHY BOOK: Locally Run; Unique Historical Building; Location
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.5
PRICE RANGE: Starts €274 for 2 nights (minimum length of stay)
B&B Al Massimo Piacere is certainly a unique accommodation in Palermo. Located in a quieter part of Palermo, on the outskirts of the historical center opposite the beautiful Teatro Massimo. I stumbled upon it randomly when walking through the city.
Tucked away in a historical palazzo, this little B&B has but three rooms and is usually booked out many months in advance. The three guest rooms have a balcony and a dressing area, along with coffee/tea-making facilities and a fully equipped kitchen.
10. Maison Opéra (Adults Only Apartment)
WHY BOOK: Spacious; Stellar Reviews; Central Location
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starts €271 for 2 nights (minimum length of stay)
Maison Opéra is an 80m2, fully furnished, apartment in a tranquil neighborhood of Palermo in the vicinity of Teatro Massimo. The spacious apartment features 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bidet.
This accommodation is very well located, spacious, recently renovated, has stellar reviews, and has a really nice view from its little balcony! As it is reasonably good value for money, it tends to book out many months in advance.
11. Palermo al Massimo (Apartment)
WHY BOOK: Location; Value for Money; Newly Renovated
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.1
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €132/night
Palermo al Massimo is located in a historic building opposite the Teatro Massimo in a safe and relatively tranquil part of Palermo. It offers 3 newly renovated, spacious, apartments (52m2, 55m2 and 62 m2). If views are what you are after make sure to book the Mondello or La Cala apartments.
Situated in the vibrant Albergheria district, this Palermo hotel offers easy access to the city’s renowned landmarks, including the Teatro Massimo and the Quattro Canti. Guests can immerse themselves in Palermo’s bustling markets, cultural attractions, and culinary scene, all within walking distance of the hotel.
12. La Terrazza sul Centro (Boutique Hotel)
WHY BOOK: Central Location; Wonderful Staff; Great Views; Rooftop Terrace
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.2
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €119/night
One of the boutique hotels in Palermo, Sicily that my partner and I stayed in just recently. La Terrazza sul Centro is located smack in the middle of the historical center of Palermo. This is the perfect accommodation for travelers looking to get a feel of the real Palermo.
What I really loved about staying here was the very friendly staff, the amazing rooftop terrace and the vicinity of plenty of bars and restaurants. You cannot get more central than La Terrazza Sul Centro. I do recommend you book the superior double room as the other rooms are fairly small.
LOCAL TIP | La Terrazza sul Centro is located in a lively part of the city, make sure to bring a pair of earplugs with you.
13. Palazzo Sovrana (Apartments)
WHY BOOK: Tranquil Location; Spacious; Views; Bicycle Rental Service; Yoga Classes
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.4
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €221/night
Palazzo Sovrana, has long been a hub of the city’s commercial and cultural life. From hosting esteemed tailors to housing the renowned DiVarese shoe factory until 2008, its walls resonate with the echoes of Palermo’s past.
Today, Palazzo Sovrana has evolved into a haven of hospitality, offering serviced apartments that blend luxury with personalized service. Each apartment, ranging from 40 to 72 square meters is designed with bespoke furnishings crafted from pure wood and adorned with works of art.
Guests are welcome to experience the comfort and refinement of home, coupled with the indulgence of a dedicated concierge service. Nestled in the heart of Palermo, Palazzo Sovrana treats guests to unparalleled views of the Teatro Massimo and the city beyond from its terraces.
14. Residenza del Castillo (Boutique Hotel)
WHY BOOK: Location; Views; Value for Money
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €70/night
Residenza del Castillo is a little no-nonsense B&B offering fantastic value for money. The location, right opposite the Palermo Cathedral, and the private balcony with jaw-dropping views are priceless.
This Palermo hotel features 7 rooms of varying sizes. I strongly recommend you book the Suite with Balcony as the other rooms are considerably smaller and do not offer the abovementioned spectacular views. On-site car rental is available upon request.
LOCAL TIP | From experience, I know this part of town tends to get very busy. The coffee and pastry shops on the ground floor tend to open at around 06.00. Bring a pair of earplugs, you never know.
15. Cathedral View Apartments
WHY BOOK: Views; Central Location; Spacious; Recently Renovated; Accommodates Groups
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.4
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €285/night
Cathedral View Apartments is probably one of my favorite places to stay in Palermo with friends. Housed in a beautiful 18th-century palace, this locally run property has only two apartments. Each of the units can accommodate 7 adults and both have a terrace overlooking the magnificent Palermo Cathedral.
The two flats are fully furnished, come with air-conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen. Breakfast can be bought at the little bar on the ground floor of the building. I highly recommend this hotel for first-time visitors traveling with more than 2 people. Be warned, however, the apartments tend to book out months in advance, especially during the summer months.
5 BEST B&Bs IN PALERMO
16. InCanto
WHY BOOK: Views; Central Location; Historical Palace
BOOKING.COM RATING: 8.8
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €122/night
Incanto is the most romantic B&B in Palermo and one I am dying to visit myself. Housed in the recently restored 18th-century building right by Quatrocanto in the heart of the historical center. Rooms are elegantly furnished and have been soundproofed (which is very rare in the historical center).
The real showstopper of B&B InCanto is the 25 m² Executive Suite with has the most beautiful views and a little panoramic balcony, perfect to enjoy breakfast. Speaking off, the B&B offers a delicious delicious breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients, served right in your room! Parking is available, although needs to be requested well in advance.
17. B&B Dimora Tomasi
WHY BOOK: Historical Building; Central Location; Spacious; Locally Run
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.6
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €100/night
Housed in one of the most beautiful palaces of Palermo lies a veritable gem. What makes this B&B so interesting is the fact the entire palace was once the home to the noble family Di Lampedusa. Nowadays it has been divided into exclusive private residences and the B&B Dimora Tomasi.
Palermo Cathedral is 1.3km away and Teatro Massimo is a mere 400 meters from the property. Despite being in the very midst of the historical center, the property is wonderfully tranquil. The small B&B has only two bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and access to the garden and patio.
TIP | If you want to learn more about the family and how the nobility lived at the turn of the 20th century I highly recommend you read Il gattopardo. Written by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa.
18. B&B Porta Maqueda
WHY BOOK: Central Location; Locally Run; Value for Money; Bicycle Rentals; Elevator
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.4
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €100/night
B&B Porta Maqueda is one of the top-rated B&B’s in Palermo. The strategic location just steps away from the historic city center, offering easy access to Palermo’s renowned landmarks, including the Quattro Canti, the Palermo Cathedral, and the Teatro Massimo is the main selling point.
Guests are raving about the very helpful concierge service and the delicious breakfast; Buffet and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, fresh pastries, and fruits are available every morning at the bed and breakfast.
19. Bed and Breakfast Sant’Agostino
WHY BOOK: Historical Building, Location (500 meters from Catedral); Bicycle Rental; Family Run
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.0
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €112/night
Nestled in the heart of Palermo, B&B Sant’Agostino boasts a prime location, just 550 meters from the Cathedral and a brief 10-minute drive from the seafront. This charming bed and breakfast offers air-conditioned rooms and a splendid furnished terrace overlooking the city.
Each room at Sant’Agostino Bed and Breakfast features classic-style furnishings and exposed-beam ceilings, complete with a flat-screen TV. Private bathrooms with bath or shower include complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. Guests indulge in a daily Italian breakfast of croissants and cappuccino, with savory options available upon request.
Conveniently, a bus stop connecting to the train station is a mere 300 meters away, while the Teatro Massimo is within a leisurely 10-minute walk. Originally envisioned by Beppe Vesco, a renowned painter and sculptor, this family-run establishment boasts restored frescoes that adorn the ceilings and vaults, preserving its artistic legacy.
With 9 rooms and 2 apartments, guests can enjoy the tranquil garden and relish a homemade breakfast, making B&B Sant’Agostino an idyllic retreat in Palermo.
20. B&B Better & Better
WHY BOOK: Value for Money, Location
BOOKING.COM RATING: 9.3
PRICE RANGE: Starts at €77/night
Nestled in a serene residential area, B&B Better & Better is strategically located just 300 meters from Politeama and 400 meters from Massimo, providing easy access to major cultural centers without the need for transportation.
Each room is designed to provide utmost relaxation, equipped with air conditioning for summer and radiators for winter, ensuring a comfortable stay year-round. Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a 42″ smart TV, and a charming flowery balcony, adding a touch of tranquility to their experience.
Private bathrooms feature modern showers with complimentary toiletries and hairdryers. The breakfast room beckons with its array of amenities, including a refrigerator, microwave oven, kettle, Nespresso machine, and coffee makers, allowing guests to start their day with ease or unwind upon returning.
Minimize Your Impact When Visiting Sicily
AVOID SINGLE USE PLASTIC: Water from the tap in Sicily is drinkable in most places. Make sure to pack a reusable water bottle for your trip.
DISCOVER THE VEGETARIAN CUISINE: There is a lot of vegetarian food in Italy. Although Sicily is very fish-based, they equally love their veggies. Aubergines and zucchini are a staple in the Sicilian diet.
EAT LOCAL: Palermo is known as the capital of street food. A rosticceria can be found on just about every street corner. Do not be afraid to try Palermitan street food, it’s great for both your soul and the local economy.
SHOP LOCAL: Try the little stores called Ceramicando and Nino parrucca for high-quality locally (hand-)made ceramics. Via Alessandro Paternostro & Via Alloro both have a whole section of little boutique stores filled with locally made handicrafts ranging from jewelry to paintings.
HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES: One of the top things to do in Palermo is to see the historical center in a horse-drawn carriage. There is no regulation to protect the horses and I have seen the poor animals collapse under the blistering summer heat. The horses are not treated humanely.
Good to Know Before Booking a Hotel in Palermo
Best time to visit Palermo
Temperatures in summer soar well past 45°C (113°F) and it is very humid. This means that exploring the city turns your version of Dante’s inferno. While January through to March see the largest rainfall of the year. The best months are April, May, October and November as they see the lowest amount of footfall and have moderate temperatures.
How many days is enough in Palermo
I would count on one to three days in Palermo. On day will give you enough time to breeze through the historical center with a brief visit to the Norman Palace and Palermo Cathedral. Two days or three days means you get to hang out at the local markets and pop into a few more UNESCO-Classified Arab Norman churches and have time for a night out on the town.
Is staying in Palermo expensive?
Compared to Taormina and Catania, the city is a lot less expensive. For €15-20 you can grab a decent meal, while mid-range accomodations range between €90-150/night in high season.
Are there any areas in Palermo that are off-limits to tourists?
Generally speaking, Palermo is safe, especially during the day. At night I would avoid walking around the Zisa Castle or around the back of Palermo Cathedral as these areas can get a little dodgy. There is of course the notorious ZEN neighborhood which is off-limits for both locals and tourists at all times.
Parking in Palermo
Make sure you read my local guide to driving in Sicily as it touches upon the unofficial parking guards in Palermo and how you must pay them, even though the parking is technically free. At least if you want to find your car in one piece.
Map of Boutique Hotels in Palermo Sicily
On the below map, you will find the various boutique hotels that are covered in this guide. If you click this interactive Google Map you can take a closer peek.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING SICILY
ITALY Typical vegetarian dishes in Italy from every region
SICILY: Where to stay in Sicily for a relaxing holiday
SICILY: Traditional Sicilian recipes you need to try in Sicily
SICILY: 13 Villages in Sicily to visit
SICILY: Driving or renting a car in Sicily
PALERMO: Streetfood in Palermo
PALERMO: A local’s guide to visiting Palermo
PALERMO: Day Trips from Palermo
TAORMINA: Where to stay in Taormina
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