Best Luxury Hotels in Palermo
The Sicilian capital is a fascinating metropolis. With many historic buildings dating back as far as the 9th century, it’s earned status as a Unesco World Heritage Site. But this is contrasted by bustling markets and a busy port. Once dubbed ‘The Kingdom of the Sun’ by invading Normans, it’s been home to Greek, Roman and Arab civilisations and remains culturally diverse, yet distinctively Sicilian. And as you may expect from this part of Italy, the gastronomy is incredible – the street food is both delicious and authentic. Or you may like to sample one of its fine restaurants – some of which can be found in the city’s top hotels…
Sicily, Palermo
NH Collection Palermo Palazzo Sitano
(4 stars)NH Collection Palermo Palazzo Sitano is housed in an aristocratic Baroque building along Via Vittorio Emanuele, offering 86 rooms and suites that blend original 18th-century features with contemporary touches. Many rooms have cast-iron balconies overlooking the old town, and select Junior Suites feature painted fresco ceilings restored to showcase the palazzo’s artistic heritage. The interiors create a sense of calm and heritage with classic arches, painted ceilings and warm tones softened by modern furnishings.
Dine in the restaurant located within a bright glass structure, where arches and majestic columns evoke the spirit of the neighbouring convent. The menu highlights Sicilian flavours crafted from premium local ingredients with subtle international influences. A welcoming bar opens directly onto Via Bottai, creating a lively link between the hotel and the city.
Facilities include a ground-floor sauna and steam bath, a fitness club with modern cardio equipment, and versatile meeting spaces for small events. Positioned close to Piazza Marina, Porto della Cala and Palermo Cathedral, the hotel places guests within walking distance of cultural landmarks, vibrant markets and boutique shopping
Sicily, Palermo
Grand Hotel et des Palmes
(5 stars)This Grand Hotel takes its name from the two large palms outside and has served as a private residence in times past. Reminiscent of the art nouveau era (thanks to a 1907 refurbishment by Ernesto Basile), this palatial property dates back to the late 19th century and exudes old-world grandeur. Yet it remains a family-friendly hotel and accepts pets too. 98 bedrooms here have a classical design, but with mod cons including soundproofing and minibars. With a space dedicated to mixology, this is the place to enjoy a cocktail or two, while the Neo-Bistrot provides a truly Sicilian culinary experience and the Ouverture Terrace offers Mediterranean cuisine in romantic surroundings.
Sicily, Palermo
Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel
(5 stars)Each room at Villa Igiea is completely unique. Olga Polizzi – in collaboration with Paolo Moschino – designed the bedrooms and suites to create a serene feel that echoes the island’s own vibes. Classical meets contemporary, with feature lighting, tall windows and marble bathrooms. Formal dining takes place in Florio Restaurant, housed in an original Louis XVI hall, with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, with more casual meals hosted in a winter garden room. The cuisine is local, both in terms of recipes and produce. A spa offers multi-sensory healing techniques and the hotel has its own dock, with a Villa boat offering water-based excursions.
