I'm very comfortable offering ideas to people visiting the 'boot', but I've only had one experience in Sicily - which was wonderful but I'd rather ask: where to stay in Palermo? Neighborhood? Hotel? I not only want to visit the city but also the area I couldn't easily get to when in Siracusa last year. All ideas welcome!!!
Anywhere in the proximity of the Politeama Theatre and the Massimo Theatre is the top area of the city center. Most nice hotels will be there as well. It’s also nice a bit down along the Via Roma or Via Maqueda corridor, closer to the Quattro Canti and the cathedral, which could be more convenient to the sights. However for some reason, most hotels are a bit more to the north near the two theatres.
We love the Ambasciatori! It's an easy walk from the train station. There's a great rooftop bar and breakfast area. The staff members are very friendly and helpful. It's also definitely affordable. When you email for a quote, ask for a Rick Steves rate.
I've stayed at Hotel Ambasciatori and also at hotels near Teatro Massimo (the opera house). Both are great locations for exploring the sights in Palermo. The walking distance between the 2 locations isn't very far, so pick between them based on your hotel preference.
We have stayed at the Palazzo Pantaleo B&B in the Teatro Politeama area that Roberto recommends. We were very satisfied with our choice.
We also enjoyed the Hotel Ambasciatori.
Eurostars Centrale Palace great location.
We enjoyed B&B Belle Vittorie, on Via Maqueda. Totally remodeled, spotlessly clean, wonderful breakfasts included, very helpful staff, very quiet. It has a great location about half-way between Quattro Canti and Teatro Massimo. Highly recommended.
Violette,
Lucky you! I just read your profile. It must be so great to visit Italy every year!
Here’s another vote for B&B delle Vittorie. Giuseppe, the owner, and his staff are very friendly and helpful.
My room was amazingly comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious.
One night when I was staying at this b&b (last May), I heard someone singing in the distance. When I opened my window (which faced Via Maqueda), I was enchanted by a couple who were singing opera from their balcony across the street! The crowd that assembled on the street, and I, truly enjoyed this unexpected performance!
And... As my late friend, Zoe, wrote; “B&B Delle Vittorie is a keeper”
Enjoy your time in beautiful Sicily!
Thank you all! I'm used to responding to inquiries about Italy - not asking for myself. It is nice to be 'on the receiving end' of some knowledgeable and helpful travelers! I'm comfortable in new places and every year I add to my Italian adventure. This will be year 16 (in a row but my 18th time in Italy), so I'm venturing further onto Sicily (last year was Ortigia - which I can't wait to get back to!). This year, with your help, Palermo. I have a few extra days in my schedule so Vicenza gets a first look. More than glad to hear ideas about Vicenza!
I recommend the highly rated and great value Stupor Mundi Bed & Breakfast with its shabby chic decor. Danilo enjoys sharing his information and a fun breakfast. The location, Politeama, near the Teattro Massimo and the airport shuttle stop is great. We enjoyed strolling with the locals in the evening. Danilo made a reservation for us at Osteria Mercede which was our best dinner in our 18 day visit to Sicily.