Hotel Etnea 316

Hotel Etnea 316's old-stone, four-story facade shows the grime, peeling paint, and chipped plaster of age, but its large pale-blue doors with heavy knockers, shutters, and small balconies reveal a homey charm. Inside, the guest house retains many of its period details, including marble stairs, wrought-iron handrails, and molded ceilings, although some wear and tear is evident. The lobby, whose rustic decor includes a tile floor, yellow drapes, wicker couches, and wood tables and chairs, feels cozy and welcoming -- if a bit grandmotherly. The breakfast room has a country-kitchen charm -- with yellow walls, patterned tile floors, and striped floral curtains. The hotel attracts tourists from across the spectrum, including couples, and families and groups of friends drawn to its large rooms that can sleep up to four.

Hotel Etnea 316 takes its name from its address on Via Etnea in Catania, Sicily's second-largest city. The street is filled with shops and restaurants, and Giardino Bellini park is across the street (a one-minute walk), while the botanical gardens are about a seven-minute walk away. The historic center, with such sights as the Piazza San Placido, the Cathedral of St. Agatha, and the 19th-century Teatro Massimo Bellini, is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. The city's train hub, Catania Centrale, is a 20-minute walk, which is a bit of a hike with suitcases -- so most guests take taxis to the hotel. Catania Fontanarossa Airport is a 15- to 25-minute drive away. There's a taxi stand right outside the hotel, and buses are within easy walking distance. Limited on-site parking is available for a fee.

The 12 country-inspired rooms at Hotel Etnea 316 are large, and they can sleep from one to four people. Rooms have either checked, tiled, or wood floors, and walls are light yellow. Ceilings are white, and some have retained their ornate, original molding. Traditional wood furniture, wicker seating, and wrought-iron beds round out the country look. Rooms come with air-conditioning, desks, and free Wi-Fi, and some rooms include mini-fridges and balconies, but amenities aren't exactly state-of-the art -- TVs are tube-style, and there are no coffee- or tea-making facilities, some past guests have complained about dark rooms and sagging beds. The white-tile bathrooms are a bit dated and cramped -- there are no bathtubs, only standing showers, and little storage space -- but they include bidets, and toiletries are provided.

This is a modest, budget-friendly guest house, with few extras. There's a cozy TV and reading lounge, and a charming country-style breakfast room. A continental breakfast with cereal, bread, and fruit is included in most room rates (for guests who book their rooms online). Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Limited on-site parking is available for a fee. What stands out here are the owner, Marco, and the staff, who are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to help with luggage and recommendations. Marco even arranges his own tours of area sights. Small pets are allowed at no extra fee.