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.
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.
After travelling all around Sicily, we found that there are some cities, towns and areas that will suit some travellers more than others! So whether you’re looking for a beachy holiday, a family-friendly spot or a romantic couple’s getaway, there is a part of Sicily for you!
Table of Contents
Palermo – Best for a City Break
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.
I think Palermo is also one of the best areas to stay in Sicily without a car. This city in Sicily 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. 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 – This mid-range hotel is well-located for exploring all this incredible city has to offer and they have great rooms on offer. There is also a buffet breakfast available each morning.
Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel – This luxury hotel is centrally located for exploring Sicily’s vibrant capital and they have wonderful amenities and plush rooms on offer.
Appartamento Piazza Pretoria – This 2-bedroom flat is located within a stone’s throw of the Quattro Canti and comes fully furnished and equipped with all essential items.
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.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Palermo!
Cefalu – Best for a Lively Beach Escape
If you’re looking for a smaller town in Sicily 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 several historic sites, Cefalu is one of the best places to stay for beaches. This is 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 has many lovely rooms on offer (some with balconies and sea views!) and there is an on-site bar and a continental breakfast available each morning.
Hotel La Plumeria – This 4-star hotel has an excellent location for exploring the town and lounging on the beach, several lovely rooms available and there is even an on-site restaurant and an airport shuttle provided.
Horizon Suites – This aparthotel has several flats available depending on your group size, a good location and plenty of other amenities.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Cefalu!
Catania – Best for Exploring Eastern Sicily
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 clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and there is also breakfast available each morning.
Liberty Hotel – This luxury hotel has 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.
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 variously-sized apartments available and they are well-located for taking in the highlights of the city.
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.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Catania!
Taormina – Best for a Romanic Getaway
As one of the most popular destinations to visit on the island, I think 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 volcano of 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 on the east coast of Sicily 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 via cable car 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 lovely rooms, breakfast each morning and beautiful sea views from their on-site bar.
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.
Hostel Taormina “Homstel” – This social hostel has a central location with both private rooms and dorm beds available making it ideal if you’re after a social atmosphere or on a budget.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to see browse more options in Taormina!
Siracusa – Best for Mixing Beach & History
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 several 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 World Heritage 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 lovely rooms available (some with balconies and great views!) and there’s even a terrace, bar and spa/wellness on site!
Caportigia Boutique Hotel – This 5-star is one of the best hotels in Sicily. They have an excellent location, beautiful views, plush rooms and an excellent buffet breakfast available each morning.
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!
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to see browse more options in Syracuse!
Noto – Best for Picturesque Small Towns
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 as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Situated in the eponymous Val di Noto, this town is compact and easy to digest but it is also filled with incredible historic buildings and lots of things to see and do. There are lots of grand Palazzi to tour and several 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 for couples.
Where to Stay in Noto
Hotel Flora – This 3-star hotel has bright, cool and comfortable rooms available, an on-site café/bar and are even pet-friendly for those travelling with a furry companion.
Hotel Porta Reale – This luxury, 4-star hotel has plush rooms and villas on offer, a fantastic location for exploring this historic town and plenty of delightful amenities to ensure you have the best stay possible.
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.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Noto!
Trapani – Best for a Coastal Getaway
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 such as San Vito Lo Capo, making Trapani a fantastic place 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 a great option 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.
Room Of Andrea Hotel – This 4-star hotel 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.
Residence La Gancia – They have fully furnished apartments available and there are also amenities like an on-site fitness centre and bar.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Trapani!
Agrigento – Best for History Buffs
Located just outside of the famed Valley of the Temples, Agrigento is an excellent place to visit and 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 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 drive from Agrigento and the nearby Lido Rosello is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily.
Though close to one of the most popular tourist sites on the island, Agrigento is one of the best towns 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 – Situated in Agrigento’s centre, this mid-range hotel has a range of clean, comfortable and air-conditioned rooms on offer and they also have a great breakfast available in the mornings.
Doric Boutique Hotel – This luxury hotel has 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.
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.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Agrigento!
Marsala – Best for Wine Lovers
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 cities to stay for couples looking for a wonderful romantic escape.
Where to Stay in Marsala
Hotel Carmine – This elegant, 3-star hotel is well-located for exploring the town and they have a range of lovely rooms available to ensure you have a comfortable stay.
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.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Marsala!
Aeolian Islands – Best for an Island Escape
If you’re looking for a quiet and unique escape, then the Aeolian Islands is the place to stay for you!
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!
Where to Stay on the Aeolian Islands
Odysseus Hotel – Located on the island of Lipari, this lovely hotel has a range of beautiful rooms available, an excellent location and a great breakfast available in the morning.
Residence Acanto – This 4-star aparthotel is great for travellers looking for a furnished holiday home while visiting the Aeolian islands. They have several apartments to choose from — ranging from studios to 2-bedroom flats with balconies — and it has a great location on the island of Lipari.
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 location 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!
