Asmundo Di Gisira in Catania, Sicily

Asmundo Di Gisira is a converted 18th-century palace that doubles as a contemporary art gallery. The hotel has design rooms with artworks and interiors inspired by Sicilian folklore. It received the Best Urban Hotel 2018 award by Wallpaper magazine.

Each room is named and decorated with unique artworks and antiques, creating a museum-like atmosphere. The Rooftop Suite offers two terraces with views of the Duomo and Mount Etna. Rooms come with air conditioning, soundproof windows, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with Ortigia toiletries.

The hotel sits in the old town of Catania, 350 metres from Catania Cathedral and a 2-minute walk from Casa di Verga. Guests are steps from the Roman Theatre of Catania, Ursino Castle, and the lively fish market. Catania itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many restaurants and sights within walking distance.

Breakfast is a buffet-style continental meal served on a beautiful veranda overlooking a square, including local specialties and fresh pastries. The hotel has a bar on the second-story balcony and a coffee house on site. Guests can also enjoy free tea and local liqueurs available in the common area.

The property has a rooftop terrace with scenic views of Mount Etna and the city skyline. Guests can join walking tours, bike tours, and visit temporary art galleries arranged by the hotel. Concierge service, daily housekeeping, express check-in/check-out, and luggage storage are included.

Awards: Best Urban Hotel 2018 by Wallpaper

Artistic Design: Converted 18th-century palace with contemporary art

Location: 350 m from Catania Cathedral, steps from fish market

Rooms: Rooftop Suite with two terraces and Etna views

Dining: Buffet-style continental breakfast on a veranda