Review Author

Lindsay Cohn

Contributing Writer

Small in size but big on views, Hotel Villa Ducale, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is an intimate, 18-key boîte perched high in the hills above Taormina. A departure both in scale and sweeps from the larger hotels in downtown and Taormina Mare, the upscale boutique offers personal attention, a romantic ambiance, and magnificent vistas from virtually every vantage point. 

Guests enter down the tiled stairs, which lead to the reception area where the friendly staff is waiting with a smile, a map of the city, and a glass of prosecco. Just through the cozy, fireplace-clad seating area, the true showstopper awaits. The panoramic terrace of the bar/restaurant boasts a beautiful ceiling adorned with greenery and lamps shades fashioned to look like blooms, custom Villeroy & Boch porcelain, and far-reaching views of the sparkling coastline of Naxos, the Ionian Sea, and Mount Etna in the distance (Europe’s tallest volcano is known to put on a regular show for visitors). 

In the morning, well-rested guests can enjoy a buffet of fruit, pastries, local meats, and cheeses. Cake and espresso provide a compelling counterpart to a riposo (traditional afternoon break). It’s also a stunning setting for aperitivo with snacks and a glass of local Etna Bianco wine or a cocktail. In the evening, a combination of candlelight and the moon reflecting off the sea creates a seductive complement to the gastronomic dishes that honor traditional Sicilian ingredients. 

Further down, there’s a lovely sun-dappled terrace for coffee or lingering. Another splendid place for unwinding—and cooling off from the heat of the Sicilian sun—is the swimming pool. 

The rooms feature contemporary comforts, including flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and comfortable beds, and classic touches like vintage water glasses and rich hues. Bathrooms are stocked with beautifully scented Italian toiletries. Suites add living rooms with a comfy sofa and balconies. It’s well worth splurging on the Villa 21, the most spacious accommodation with its crown-jewel private terrace. 

If you can tear yourself away from the relaxing atmosphere and amour-inducing panoramas, Taormina’s top attractions, such as Teatro Antico di Taormina and Corso Umberto I, are within walking distance. The team will happily coordinate experiences, from sunset boat rides to wine tasting.

Fast Facts

Location: Taormina, Sicily 

Rating: Four-Star

The Vibe: Boutique charm and breathtaking views.

Food + Drink: Open from early until late, Incanto Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Dapperly dressed bartenders mix up cocktails at the bar.

Amenities: restaurant; bar; concierge; pool; parking; complimentary Mercedes shuttle service

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: It doesn’t get more romantic than a candlelit dinner at the restaurant overlooking Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea.

5 Nearby Attractions: Teatro Antico di Taormina; Corso Umberto I; Duomo di Taormina; Villa Comunale di Taormina; Isola Bella

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? The hotel is a 20-minute walk (or a short shuttle ride) down to the pedestrian core. There you’ll find heaps of designer boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants, including the popular Villa Zuccaro Pizzeria Taormina and Osteria da Rita. 

Rooms: 18 rooms and suites

Pricing: Rooms start at $781/night  

Closest Airport: Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)