The Sicilian province of Catania has firmly-established itself as one of the most-popular holiday destinations in all of Italy, with leisure travellers attracted by its clear-blue seas, stunning beaches, volcanic scenery and historic architecture.
As such, there are hotels in Catania to suit all budgets, while business travellers heading to the city of the same name, which is slowly emerging as a major European technology hub, will also find themselves well-catered for.
Santa Tecla Palace Hotel
A popular choice among holidaymakers keen to use their stay in a Catania hotel to unwind from the stresses of everyday life, the Santa Tecla Palace is located in the Timpa Natural Reserve and right on the beachfront, giving guests the chance to swim in the crystal-clear Ionian Sea or stick to the in-house pool.
Stylishly decked-out in chic yet simple decor, all the guestrooms have sea-facing balconies, air conditioning and mini-bars, while the hotel also has its own restaurant, bar area and private beach.
While many guests are content to just sit back and enjoy a luxury stay in the contemporary hotel, those venturing out are well-placed to explore local highlights, including the Cathedral of Acireale and the historic Palazzo degli Elefanti - or Elephant's Palace - which was constructed in the 1690s and served as a palace before becoming the city's Town Hall.
The Santa Tecla Palace Hotel is located just 20-kilometres from the main Catania port and 30 kilometres from the Vincenzo Bellini Airport.
Santa Caterina Hotel
Away from the hustle and bustle of Catania, the Santa Caterina Hotel is located in the quiet and picturesque town of Acireale, with both the beaches of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Mount Etna just a short distance away.
The three-star hotel has just 23 rooms, making it one of the more-intimate of
Catania hotels, with each of these equipped with every modern comfort a business or leisure traveller could wish for, including wireless internet access and contemporary furnishings.
As well as the swimming pool, which is surrounded by a tranquil and colourful garden, the Santa Caterina also boasts its own solarium and restaurant, which prides itself on giving guests a true taste of local cuisine, including the best Sicilian wines.
In addition to being popular among leisure travellers keen to explore inland Sicily and in particular the nearby Mount Etna, the hotel also has two meeting rooms, with hostesses, secretaries and translation services on offer for corporate travellers.
All Seasons Hotel Catania
Located in Acireale, just a 25-minute drive from Catania Airport, the All Seasons Hotel offers guests the chance to enjoy simple yet comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price.
As well as its proximity to the airport and the scenic SS 114 motorway, the three-star hotel is ideally-located for those guests keen to explore the history of the Catania region.
The Cathedral of Acireale and the Norman Castle are both within walking distance, while the Basilica di San Sebastiano is just a short drive away, and the hotel also runs regular excursions to places of interest on Sicily, with the staff speaking French and English as well as Italian.
At the same time, the hotel also boasts a range of home comforts for those guests keen to kick back and relax, including its own bar and restaurant and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
