Next stop Palermo: The ancient pearl of Sicily is a dream destination for a luxury getaway between Monte Pellegrino and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city, which has played a major role in the region throughout history, is over 2700 years old and is known for its diverse architectural marvels. The Arab, Norman and Byzantine influences can be seen everywhere, taking visitors on a historical journey through Sicily's multicultural past. Whether traveling to the Sicilian capital for its Mediterranean flair, rich history or local charm, Palermo captivates everyone.

A multicultural city full of history and life: stunning Palermo. © Shutterstock

Villa Igiea - a newly renovated palace in Palermo

A picture-perfect domicile: the legendary 19th-century palazzo opened in June 2021 after extensive renovations as part of the Rocco Forte family. With fabulous suites, an excellent restaurant, two refreshing bars, a pool, a round-the-clock gym and an exclusive spa, the opulent villa fulfills every wish of its guests. With the reopening of Palazzina Donna Franca in April 2022, the new renovation will be fully completed.

The newly renovated villa is a luxurious residence straight out of a picture book. © Rocco Forte Hotels

Palazzina Donna Franca

The elegant wing of the historic villa was recently renovated to the last detail and from this season welcomes guests for the first time in its opulent suites, which once housed the "Circle des Etrangers" of the influential Florio family. Today, the 12 rooms and suites shine in new splendor, including the jewel of Villa Igiea - the Donna Franca Suite. Spanning 144 square meters, you live here in a modern-decadent ambience and with maximum privacy. A super king-size bedroom, a marble-clad bathroom and a 96 m² terrace overlooking the Golfo di Palermo leave nothing to be desired.

The living room of the Donna Franca Suite has modern furnishings and exudes the feeling of luxurious comfort. © Rocco Forte Hotels

Decorated with local artifacts and artwork, the suites reflect Palermo's regional identity. © Rocco Forte Hotels

The suites can be connected with neighboring rooms if desired. Thus, the new Palazzina Donna Franca is the ideal domicile for the entire family and offers enough space and private space for everyone. The two suites on the top floor, together with the 410 m² shared terrace, can even be rented together as a huge penthouse - perfect for private events such as weddings or family celebrations.

On the private terraces directly on the bay facing the Golfo di Palermo, you can listen to the sound of the Tyrrhenian Sea from early morning until late at night. © Rocco Forte Hotels

Culture, culinary and sea

A varied range of events and activities ensures that boredom is never guaranteed. From Sunday brunch at Ristorante Florio to popular aperitivo DJ nights on the terrace of Bar Igiea and special spa packages for couples, it's all here.

Even the bar shines in opulent splendor - and becomes a dance floor on DJ nights. © Rocco Forte Hotels

For contemporary art lovers, the hotel has a very special ace up its sleeve: during Cook & Dine evenings in the studio of the Palermo painter Nicola Pucci, who is currently exhibiting in New York, and a meeting with the artist Ignazio Schifani, painter and master restorer of frescoes, whose work has taken him as far as Buckingham Palace, you will get an intimate glimpse into the life of a successful artist.

Villa Igiea"
Salita Belmonte 43, 90142 Palermo, Italy
Tel.: +39 091 6312111
Web: roccofortehotels.com
Price: double room incl. breakfast from €410,- per night

Palace in Palermo: the pool of Villa Igiea also impresses with architectural highlights. © Rocco Forte Hotels

More about Sicilies: A guide through the southern Italian island