Hotel Isola Bella

I had a wonderful stay at Hotel Isola Bella and would happily return. In fact, I’m already looking at booking again for next year. The highlight has to be the view. I was fortunate enough to have had a view at the front of the hotel directly overlooking Isola Bella. Waking up every morning to that view was absolutely breathtaking and something I’ll never forget. It’s one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever had from a hotel. The staff were all incredibly welcoming, friendly and helpful throughout my stay. They always had a smile, were happy to answer any questions and made me feel very well looked after. I travelled as a solo female and felt completely safe throughout my stay, both in the hotel and walking around the local area. The staff were lovely, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. The hotel was spotlessly clean. Housekeeping came in every day, cleaned the room thoroughly and provided fresh towels, which was much appreciated. Breakfast was fresh, plentiful and had everything I needed to start the day. There was a good selection, and everything was well presented. The room was on the small side, as was the bathroom, and the shower is particularly compact. However, I quickly got used to it, and everything was clean and perfectly adequate. The bed was surprisingly comfortable, and I slept really well every night. The air conditioning was excellent and very welcome in the Sicilian heat. The rooftop pool area was another highlight. It was clean, peaceful and never felt overcrowded, with plenty of sunbeds available. It was the perfect place to relax after a day exploring. The location is beautiful, with Isola Bella just a few minutes walk away. There are also little shops nearby where you can pick up water, snacks and other essentials. Getting into Taormina takes a little planning. The local buses are regular but not always reliable if you’re trying to keep to a schedule. I found the cable car to be by far the easiest option, although it is a little more expensive it is well worth it. As other reviews mention, the hotel is on a main road and there aren’t any pavements immediately outside. I was a little concerned about this before arriving, but it really wasn’t an issue. Everyone walks along the roadside, and the local traffic seems very used to pedestrians, so I never felt uncomfortable. The only thing I’d mention is that the hotel probably isn’t ideal for anyone with mobility issues. There are quite a few steps in the area, and although there is a lift, it was often out of service during my stay. This wasn’t a problem for me, but it’s worth bearing in mind. Overall, I absolutely loved my stay. Between the spectacular views, genuinely kind staff, comfortable bed, lovely rooftop pool and fantastic location, it was the perfect base for exploring the area. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again and would highly recommend it, especially for solo travellers looking for a friendly, welcoming hotel with one of the most incredible views you’ll ever wake up to.

First, the positives: Super friendly and accommodating staff. And of course, a splendid view of the famous Isola Bella. A truly hearty and varied breakfast. On the other hand, the negatives, and there are many: Terrible bedding, you could feel the springs. Impossible to adjust the shower water. One moment hot, the next cold. An air conditioning unit so old that every time it started, it woke up the whole family. It was installed facing the bed. Enough to get sick. No parking (the closest is 100m away… $20 per day). To be taken into account in the budget. The pool, the worst. Bird droppings everywhere. Inside the pool and outside. Has never been cleaned. Pool entirely painted blue, the waterline is orange with grime and sunscreen. The skimmers too. When you sit down, it sticks and the paint stays on your legs. A real mess. I really insist that the hotel staff, from the reception to the restaurant to the housekeepers, is truly great!

I stayed at this hotel for three nights, and I had a good experience. The hotel is a bit dated, but everything is very clean, the staff is kind and helpful, the room is quite spacious, and the bed is comfortable. The view from the room is splendid as it is located right in front of the beautiful island. Even though it is on the road that leads to Taormina Alta, there are no annoying noises. I hope to return to this hotel soon. I recommend it!