Hotel Baia Azzurra

Hotel Baia Azzurra is housed in an older, seven-floor building on a quiet street that hugs the Bay of Mazzaro's coast. The lobby has traditional marble that looks a bit dated, but the space is bright, with modern furniture and clean lines. When guests aren't at the beach or out and about in Taormina, they tend to gather on the terraces to sunbathe and have a bite at the cafe tables, or to just take in the spectacular views of the bay. The atmosphere here is friendly, and has local charm. The hotel mostly draws couples looking for a romantic getaway that won't break the bank. 

Hotel Baia Azzurra is situated on Via Nazionale (SS-114), which runs parallel to the bay. It's a one-minute stroll to Mazzaro Beach, which is a bit rocky and isn't scenic. Isola Beach is about a 10-minute walk, which is much prettier and has good snorkeling. The Blue Grotto sea cave is about a five-minute walk from the north end.

For shopping and dining, the hotel is within walking distance of a few options, but there are many more up in Taormina, and the cable car to get there is a one-minute walk from the hotel. From the cable car terminus in Taormina, it's a three-minute walk to Porta Messina, and about a five-minute walk to reach Corvaja Palace and the Ancient Theater of Taormina. 

Taormina-Giardini Train Station is a little under five minutes by car, and Catania Fontanarossa Airport is a 45-minute drive from the hotel.

Guest rooms and junior suites at Baia Azzurra are modern and dressed in a range of soft hues, like pale pink and powder blue, and some have accents walls behind beds covered with patterned wallpaper. The look is plain -- some might say bland -- but spaces are tidy and pleasant, and most rooms boast shared or private furnished balconies. 

All units have air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars with soft drinks and water (for a fee), safes, and free Wi-Fi. Junior suites add small seating areas. Bathrooms are slightly more design-forward, with hairdryers, bidets, and stall showers. Some have a stylish vibe, with square wash basins and stainless steel fixtures, and have shower/tub combos. 

Hotel Baia Azzurra's star features are its two lovely terraces. The patio off the lobby has dining tables and chairs with a few umbrellas, plus a cluster of casual seating at one end. The rooftop terrace has loungers, and is ideal for sunbathing. 

There's also a free hot breakfast buffet, and the generous spread includes eggs, tomatoes, ham, homemade cakes, and local treats like figs and olives. The restaurant has large windows overlooking the bay, and offers a menu with international cuisine and Italian specialties. Gluten-free items are available, and in summer, the outdoor terrace is open for alfresco dining. Room service is available. 

Other amenities include a small lobby bar, a 24-hour front desk, an elevator, free on-site parking in a back lot, and free Wi-Fi throughout.