The 12 best hotels in Sicily

A hotel that truly deserves the title ‘grand’ in its name, this delectable abode is a mixture of historic glamour with modern Insta-beauty. It dates back to the 19^th century and, more importantly, it has Sicily running through each and every vein. The colours, the ambiance, the food, the smells, the tastes and the views are all so perfectly located in place that, if you were airdropped into the Grand Hotel Timeo while asleep, we wager that you would wake up murmuring the word ‘Sicily’.

It's also hard to talk about this place without getting hung up on its literal location. The hotel is just down the road from the area’s famous Greek amphitheatre and has insane views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Gaze lovingly upon both from your seat on the hotel’s generously sized terrace. Or, if you’re feeling in need of being more immersed in a setting instead of looking down on one, sneak off for some alone time in the lush six-acre gardens. Here is your personal horticultural haven.

Internally, the suites and rooms are styled with Italianate simplicity and an elegance which never goes out of fashion. We’re particularly fond of the Junior Suites with their irresistible sea views.

And finally – because this is Sicily, don't forget – dining is a big deal here. There’s the Ristorante Timeo for long, loud, indulgent lunches or dinners, plus the boutique Otto Geleng which only seats 16 people each evening. However, if you’re in need of writerly inspiration, pay a visit to the Bar Timeo where D. H. Lawrence, Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams all visited once upon a time.

Mood? Coastal vibes. 
Location perks? With panoramic views over the Sicilian Coast, this hotel's gorgeous location is pretty hard to beat.
Budget range? On the pricey side.

The Minareto resort knows how to deliver the goodies when it comes to ‘wellness’. Made up of suites, rooms and entire villas to book, the resort is in the Bay of Latomie and within the Plemmirio Marine Reserve. In practice, that means unparalleled views of Ortigia Island, along with crystalline waters to dive into, oh-so-very soft sands to walk upon and mesmerising plants to admire (there’s also a private natural solarium to discover).

The resort prides itself on representing the best of southeastern Sicilian culture, a theme that is reflected most heavily in the dining options. Head to the Plemmiro Terrace Restaurant at any time of the day for dishes that showcase the variability and uniqueness of the area’s culinary traditions. Or, plan ahead and book for an evening over on Ortigia Island at Area M. The itinerary includes a taxi boat ride of just over ten minutes each way. There are also some stunning drinks-only options, including the bar that keeps those lounging poolside refreshed and the super chic Ortigia Terrace (spoiler: it will make you feel like an extra in a James Bond film).

If you’re really ready to go ‘all out’, the resort’s eight villas all have their own private swimming pools and Jacuzzis – who could refuse? – but what we really love them for is their gardens, a saturated mass of Mediterranean heat-infused abundance. Book the Villa Moneta di Mare and that aforementioned private pool also gives way to ever-expanding costal views. Here is where you come to really draw breath.

Mood? Island livin'.
Location perks? The balcony from your room offers next-level sea views and a whole lotta sun-bathing. 
Budget range? Well priced for what's on offer.

A pastel blue boutique hotel on the Lungomare Levante, Hotel Gutkowski is perfectly perched on a waterfront promenade on the island of Ortigia. It’s made up of two old fishermen’s cottages that have been beautifully restored to offer 26 individual rooms, decorated with a pared-back seaside aesthetic and choice pieces of designer furniture. There are two sea-view terraces, a delicious buffet breakfast (including freshly squeezed juice and homemade pastries) is served, and a small ground-floor restaurant that serves modern Sicilian-based cuisine until late. Meanwhile, services include free bike hire if you fancy cruising around the island of Ortigia.

Mood? Bohemian dreamin'.
Location perks? In the heart of Siracusa with breathtaking ocean views all round.
Budget range? Surprisingly affordable. 

On the greenest of the Aeolian Islands, within the Tasca d’Almerita vineyards at the foot of two extinct volcanoes, a few whitewashed Aeolian houses have been converted into a refined yet minimalist haven. Each of the 27 sea-facing rooms has its own terrace, whitewashed walls and simple decor. A few more rooms are being added within a lighthouse. An infinity pool, tennis courts and gastronomic-level dining complete the picture, along with a chance to taste the Malvasia wine. Regular yoga, pilates and cookery courses are arranged throughout the year.

Mood? Romantic retreat. 
Location perks? With incredible views of the surrounding cliff-top vineyards and the most active volcano in Europe, you're spoilt for choice here.
Budget range? A fantastic deal for what's on offer.

This once privately owned villa maintains its stately elegance. With its own stretch of beach and sub-tropical gardens, the hotel’s enormous floor-to-ceilings windows maximise the views, while contemporary artworks give classically decorated rooms an updated feel. There’s a heated infinity pool, and wellness centre with an open-air gazebo for massages, and guests can take advantage of facilities at sister-hotel Timeo. The Oliviero terrace restaurant specialises in local cuisine, particularly seafood, and the casual beach bar serves drinks and light meals all day, with music in the evening.

Mood? Private paradise.
Location perks? Aside from views of the Mediterranean, you're no more than a five-minute drive the centre of Taormina tops. 
Budget range? The price you pay for privacy...

Found 20 miles from Catania, this stylish eco hideaway is perfect for those looking to lounge by the pool or sea, have a massage and occasionally go trekking the slopes of Mount Etna. The restored 'palmento' – an old winery featuring many traditional Sicilian materials – is made contemporary with art and designer furnishings. The rooms are stylish, with weathered beams and lava stone walls, and feature wood-burning stoves that are essential for the cooler months. If you feel peckish, stop by the restaurant, which serves seasonal and local food. It even uses ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic farm – a lovely touch.

Mood? Southern Italia villa vibes.
Location perks? Due to its unique positioning 500m above sea level, Monaci delle Terre Nere garners some pretty spectacular 360º views.
Budget range? Well worth saving up for.

Giuggiulena is a clifftop B&B overlooking the sea. It’s got just seven rooms, but each of them is decked out in bright, stylish furnishings with vintage touches that add extra character. The terrace is the perfect place to take in the spectacular views, especially with an apero in hand. In the morning, you’ve got a substantial breakfast buffet to get stuck into while the Jonico restaurant serves everything from pizza to traditional dishes. When you’re not making the most of the fresh Italian grub, you’ve got free bike hire and the Solarium Zen, where you can lounge on a sunbed terrace, to keep you entertained.

Mood? High-end B&B.
Location perks? An easy 20-minute stroll from the historic heart of Syracuse with epic views over the bay.
Budget range? A fantastic deal.

Set in fine gardens, the Ashbee is a sensitive conversion of a grand villa, with marble and atmosphere aplenty. Light spacious rooms –  all 24 of them – are understated but feature elegant antique furniture, and some have patios or a terrace overlooking the sea. The panoramic rooftop Terrace Bar serves an excellent buffet breakfast and pre-prandial cocktails, and, in between, if you can drag yourself out the infinity pool, more food and drink are available at a garden bar. A more formal restaurant serves classic Italian dishes for dinner.

Mood? Five-star luxury. 
Location perks? You're surrounded by the Nebrodi Mountains, the hotel's lavish gardens and of course, the ocean. What's not to love?
Budget range? As pricey as you might expect. 

The family-run Alma is a tiny gem set in the centre of Palermo’s historic centre. The service is noteworthy, as owners Paolo and Antonella and their staff go out of their way to make you welcome, with recommendations, directions and information. Yes, it’s located in an anonymous block, but this hotel is bright and contemporary on the inside. Choose from 15 rooms, each offering wall-sized images of the historic city, with breakfast including homemade cannoli or cassata. There’s no onsite restaurant or bar, but you’ve got plenty of fantastic places to eat beyond the hotel entrance.

Mood? Eclectic energy. 
Location perks? Less than a mile away from Palermo harbour and walking distance from local shops and cafes. 
Budget range? Extremely affordable. 

Comprised of eight guest rooms, Terra del Sole Ibla is an idyllic choice for romantic hilltop vistas overlooking Ragusa on a budget. Each room comes equipped with air conditioning, a balcony, private bathroom, and other essentials like bed linen and spare towels. As the name suggests, you can also tuck into an assortment of Italian breakfast options and pastries each morning or enjoy a morning espresso at the on-site coffee shop and lounge. 

Mood? A secluded couples' getaway. 
Location perks? You're in a prime location to lap up the Sicilian sunshine and go for a pedal.
Budget range? A pretty cheap weekend away for two. 

Want front-row seats at the beach? Luna Minoica Suites offers this and more. Situated just a few short steps away from Spiaggia di Eraclea Minoa, the hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, a garden and a sun terrace. In other words, it's a literal sunbathing haven. Rooms are airconditioned, and feature a flat-screen TV, private bathroom and a bidet. For even more creature comforts during your stay, you can opt for a dishwasher and kitchen in your room. Though, we'd highly recommend dining at il Canaima on the first. 

Mood? Sicilian romance.
Location perks? Continental breakfast, bike hire and car hire.
Budget range? A little on the pricey side, so it's well worth booking in advance.

Traditional tiles, local stone and eclectic furniture have been used by architects Marco Guinto and his wife Viviana Haddad to create a hipster hideaway in a pretty Baroque town, an hour from Syracuse. The converted fishermen’s cottages house ten individually designed rooms, all with balconies or terraces. Delicious breakfasts, including Sicilian pastries, are served in a dining area hewn out of a rock, and services include the provision of picnic hampers and tours to local hotspots where you can enjoy them.

Mood? Historic charm.
Location perks? With a 'slow living' philosophy, everything here suggests taking your time to relax and unwind. That includes its garden and stunning surrounding views.
Budget range? A wide variety of options.