Mercure Catania Excelsior

From the street, the first floor of Mercure Catania Excelsior looks stately and grand with a multi-colored stonework exterior and gray columns (with just a little graffiti). Four international flags hang over the porte-cochere. However, the remaining floors are covered with a less impressive white siding. Inside, the lobby includes some well-worn tan leather couches on white marble floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the street and an elaborate chandelier provide ample light. A dramatic red curtain and short white wall separates the bar L’Incontro from the rest of the lobby. Though the facilities here cater mostly to business travelers, a fair number of tourists are drawn to the hotel for its low rates and walkable location.

Mercure Catania Excelsior overlooks Piazza Giovanni Verga, one of the main squares in the heart of the legal and administrative sections of Catania. Just in front of the hotel is Malavoglia Fountain, which has fallen to disrepair but is still an elegant nod to one of Catania's writers, Giovanni Verga. The Palace of Justice and several law offices are within the vicinity, along with a variety of lively bars, restaurants, and newsagents. Piazza Verga is crossed by Corso Italy, a major city artery known for its jewelry and clothing shops. The area is also well connected with public transportation. Expect a 20-minute walk to Europe Square and views of the Mediterranean.

There are 176 rooms and suites at the Mercure Catania Excelsior. Each is decorated in a classic European style with charming details like muted fleur-de-lis wallpaper, sculpted white headboards, and ornate gold mirrors hanging over a small wooden desk. However, drab and stained carpet detracts from the overall effect. Some rooms have small balconies better for smoking than relaxing, but views of the Fountain of Malavoglia are a welcome touch. Modern comforts include a small minibar refrigerator and a flat-screen TV. However Wi-Fi isn't available in the rooms. All units have spacious bathrooms (especially for European standards) with shower/tub combos and single sinks. Towel warmers, toiletries, and hairdryers are included. Upgrade to a suite for more space and worn living room furniture. Watch out for twin beds pushed together to make a double.

Features at Mercure Catania Excelsior are convenient for business travelers and tourists. The former will appreciate expansive event space including several meeting rooms and a conference center, with a maximum seating of 350 people. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby and there's a desktop computer and a printer for guests to use.

There's a small gym on the top floor, with massage-style showers and a Turkish bath. The lobby bar, L’Incontro, is popular with locals and guests for pre-dinner drinks and a buffet lunch. Le Zagare serves a free daily breakfast and a la carte regional-style dinner, though the evening meal gets mixed reviews. Room service is available until late. The hotel offers gated outdoor areas that don't seem to get much use, though green lawns and lemon trees are picturesque.