I'm starting my Sicily trip in Palermo in early May and have been looking for a hotel or b&b. Has anyone stayed at Ai Cartari b&b? Seems nice and reasonable at 90 Euro a night. It's just southeast of via Roma and via vittorio Emanuel. Any other recommendations for in or near historical center are appreciated.
Will also be staying in Siracusa, Ragusa and Catania. Haven't looked at accommodations for those yet.
My only recommendation is to stay in Ortigia, the old section of Siracusa.
In Ortigia ( Siracusa) I can recommend a most beautiful B&B with charming and helpful hosts. Our room was large and elegantly furnished and breakfast was served in the antique filled dining room. lacortedegliangeli.com
I stayed at Federico Secondo B&B in Palermo, it was very nice, in the historic center. I paid 70euro for a single with breakfast.
In Ortigia (Siracusa), I really loved B&B La Via della Giudecca. I paid 100euro for a single with breakfast (excellent).
David, We've stayed at the Hotel Ambasciatori in Palermo twice. It's on Via Roma, within walking distance from the train station, which is where the shuttle bus from the airport lets you off. The rooms are nice, the rooftop patio is wonderful, the staff is very friendly and helpful, and the rates are reasonable. Last February we paid €55 a night for a double before a Rick Steves tour. That price may have included a discount for our being on a Rick Steves tour. Highly recommended. Breakfast is included, and is served on the rooftop patio.
I enjoyed the Grande Albergo Alfeo in Siracusa - wonderful modern hotel with old touches, paid 85 Euro w/breakfast included last Sept. Very relieved to have an open uncramped bathroom/shower with a rainshower head. The room felt bright and airy, with high ceilings. I purposely asked for a quiet room not facing the street (would rather have quiet than a view).
http://www.alfeo.it/
Thanks for all the responses and suggestions. Much appreciated. Will look into Ortygia.
Here are my reviews of the the places I stayed in Palermo: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy-reviews/palermo-bed-and-breakfast-la-bella-vita
and Siracusa (on Ortigia): https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy-reviews/siracusa-airbnb-in-ortigia
I'd stay in both again in a heartbeat.
