Il Principe Hotel

When Il Principe Hotel was renovated, construction workers found remains that led historians to believe the building was originally owned by a regional prince, which explains the property's name. The facade is done in traditional Baroque architecture that's found throughout the neighborhood. Indoors, the vibe is elegant and masculine. The hotel is divided into two buildings joined together by the lobby. The first two floors have original ceilings and stairs, and the interior balcony in the lobby is ancient. Overstuffed floral upholstered couches are placed in front of windows by the dark wood and marble reception desk.

With a central location in the heart of Catania's UNESCO World Heritage neighborhood, near Crociferi Street (several Italian movies have been filmed there) and the Duomo, this hotel is an ideal spot for tourists who want to explore the area on foot. Alessi Steps, the center of Catania's nightlife, is just outside Il Principe’s entrance. Here, you'll find a plethora of pubs, pizzerias, and restaurants -- along with crowds of Italians and tourists. There are a few pedestrian-only streets, but traffic can be noisy on roads that allow cars. Getting to the airport is about a 10-minute drive to the south, while Catania Centrale Train Station is a about a mile away. Parking isn't available on-site, but there is a nearby paid lot.

There are 80 rooms and suites at Il Principe, and each comes standard with a flat-screen TV, minibar, safe, and quality air-conditioning. Double glazed windows seem to adequately block street noise. Hardwood floors and white striped wallpaper look elegant, but shiny gold bed coverlets and skirts are out of place in the otherwise classic decor. Built-in closets provide a long hanging rack and deep drawers. Even the cheapest rooms have plush robes, luxe toiletries, and long vanities in the bathroom. Some rooms also have romantic but tiny Juliet-style balconies overlooking the street. Upgrade to a Deluxe unite or Suite for a whirlpool tub and more space.

Features at Il Principe are mostly geared toward business travelers and tourists who want to eat breakfast and check their email before spending the day in meetings or exploring the historic neighborhood. The free continental breakfast gets mixed reviews but does serve hot items like eggs and bacon. There's a desktop computer and laptops for guests to use, along with free Wi-Fi. Seven meeting rooms can seat dozens of people.

The lobby includes an elegant looking and fully stocked bar with piano, but don't expect to hear any live music; the closed piano looks like its main use is to hold the day's newspapers on its lid. A steam room in the wellness center (no fitness equipment) is an unexpected touch. Bike rentals are available as well.