Off the toe of Italy’s boot, Sicily is one of the most naturally beautiful regions of the country and one of the most culturally diverse places in Europe. The island’s architecture, language, cuisine, and cultural traditions have been influenced by many civilizations over the centuries, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Romans, and British. Sicily is — to put it simply — a very special place. From world-class vineyards built on volcanic soil, and pretty fishing villages which are still traditionally operated, to seasonal farm-to-table restaurants, there’s a lot to enjoy on vacation here. There’s also a superb range of Airbnb Sicily rentals. Peppered across the island there are one-of-a-kind Airbnb properties that will take your breath away — here are some of the best.
8 Stunning Airbnbs in Sicily That Will Take Your Breath Away
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We hope you love the Airbnb Sicily rentals we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Four-bedroom apartment in the historic center of Palermo
If you’re wanting to stay in Palermo for a few days or base yourself there for your vacation, this group-sized Airbnb is fitting. It’s situated on one of the oldest streets in the city, Il Cassaro. The street dates back to the late 16th century and is a great place to start a walking tour of Palermo to explore the many historical monuments, churches, bars, street food vendors, museums, and other must-see sights.
The recently renovated apartment is set in a 17th-century building and has four bedrooms. There’s a possibility to add extra sleeping space (a double sofa bed in one bedroom, and another in the second) if needed. This can be arranged on request, so it’s worth reaching out to the owner to discuss options if you’re traveling with a large group. The rooftop terrace and other outdoor spaces that lead off bedrooms offer views of the historic neighborhood and have nice seating areas. There’s ample room in the shared living areas to accommodate a big party of guests with previous patrons raving about the spaciousness and location of this Palermo Airbnb.
Eleven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $357 per night
Artist and designers appartment in Politeama Libertà district of Palermo
Choosing where to stay in Palermo is important. It’s not difficult to find something unique here, but to truly experience the culture and history of the remarkable city, opt for an Airbnb with character. This particularly special rental is situated in the Politeama Libertà district of Palermo. Close to many of Palermo’s most popular attractions, such as the Teatro Massimo and the Palazzo dei Normanni, this area of the city is also home to some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
The sensational Airbnb is located on the second floor of an Art Nouveau building. It’s important to note that there’s an elevator. Many apartments in Palermo are reached via narrow staircases and it’s rare to find a rental with elevator access. The entire apartment has been renovated maintaining the Art-Nouveau style of the exterior. No detail has been overlooked here and it’s clear this space has been curated with love by an artist and book lover. Iconic Sicilian tiled floors can be found throughout and design-focused furniture, stacks of books, and pretty terraces make this one of the most impressive Airbnbs in Palermo.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $347 per night
Three-bedroom home with a garden and pool close to Noto
If you’d rather be situated in a more countryside location, but be close to the beach, this three-bedroom house near the town of Bochini is a great option. Located in the southeast of Sicily, Bochini is close to the ancient baroque town of Noto and is surrounded by sprawling natural landscapes. Noto is known for its baroque-style architecture and is renowned as one of the best-preserved old towns in Italy. This countryside retreat is also a short drive from the coast. The main beach of Lido di Noto is a particularly popular spot, with its long stretch of fine sand and shallow waters that make it perfect for families with young children.
On that note, this Airbnb is perfectly set up for a group or family. Set between olive and almond groves on the old road between Noto and Avola, the house sleeps six. There’s a recently renovated swimming pool and a lovely garden with organic fruit and vegetables that guests can harvest. The interior is authentically farm-house style and as well as the garden area there is a barbecue, a pizza oven, and an outdoor shower.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $331 per night
Charming apartment in the heart of Ortigia
On Ortigia, a small island located off the southeastern coast of Sicily, this apartment is in the heart of La Judecca, the historic quarter close to the famous cathedral and the sea. Considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Sicily, Ortigia is a pedestrian-only island. It’s honored for its ancient Greek ruins and production of soap, candles, and fragrances made with natural ingredients like local olive oil.
This two-bedroom apartment is on one of Ortigia’s most photographed streets. The location is ideal. It’s central but housed within a residential building so it’s a quiet escape, away from loud narrow streets and nightlife. The rooftop terrace offers views of the historic tiled buildings and has a comfortable shaded seating area and a sun lounger. The interior is peppered with traditional Sicilian pottery and art, with antique wooden headboards and Art-Deco light fixtures. It’s worth noting that the stairs leading to the second floor are spiraled and are perhaps not the best for young children or those requiring easy access.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $325 per night
Countryside villa near Agrigento
Immersed in the countryside near Agrigento — home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples) — this two-bedroom villa is an excellent base for exploring the southern coast of Sicily. The Valle dei Templi archaeological site contains some of Sicily’s best-preserved Greek temples from antiquity including Temple Euryalus and Temple Concordia and is a must-see when visiting the island. In fact, the south of Sicily is worth considering basing your trip around. From stunning beaches of Marina di Modica, Ragusa and Marina di Ragusa, Porto Empedocle and San Leone, Realmonte and Scala dei Turchi to the historic fishing port town of Sciacca there’s a lot to explore. Hiring a car in Sicily should be considered because the island is small enough for a one or two-week road trip. You can start in Palermo and then tour the coastal regions.
This traditional villa is set on 10 hectares of olive and citrus groves and has a large swimming pool with a diving board, plenty of outdoor seating, and shaded areas to relax in the warmer summer months. The interior decor is charming, with Sicilian tiles, dark wood slatted shutters, terracotta flooring, and plenty of quiet reading nooks.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $325 per night
Huge villa on wine estate with views of Mount Etna
The wine industry in Sicily is one of the most vibrant and diverse in all of Italy. With 98,000 hectares of vineyards, it leads Tuscany and Piemonte in wine production and eschews stereotypes about southern wine. For more than twenty years, the region has been investing in sustainable production methods, leading to the majority of the vineyards being certified organic or biodynamic. Sicily’s ashy, volcanic terrain, clay, limestone soil, and Mediterranean climate are in-part to thank for this and many of the vineyards built on the fertile land have been turned into vacation rentals.
This colossal villa has sprawling views of the surrounding vineyards, Mount Etna, and the Gulf of Catania. Its infinity pool is solar heated and has a hydromassage corner and a nearby minibar facility. The vineyard is close to the small village of Trecastagni which sits on the lower slope of the volcano. The region is a popular spot for wine lovers, but also outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy various hiking trails, cycling routes, and horseback riding tours.
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $325 per night
Private garden villa steps from the sea in Mondello
This private villa is meters away from the ocean in the borough of Mondello just outside Palermo. Mondello beach is a popular with locals and visitors looking to escape the city. Particularly during the summer months, Mondello’s stretch of fine white sand and shallow electric blue waters offer respite from the busy narrow streets of the capital and the heat. Due to its proximity to the airport and transport links, the old historic fishing port, and the surrounding coastal area are superb places to look for an Airbnb.
This Airbnb Plus is one to bookmark. It’s close to the famous beach and a superb transport link to Palermo. What makes this rental stand out is its proximity to the beach, shops, and the village center, but it’s situated on a quiet side street where, even in summer, guests are promised a peaceful stay. The ambiance of tranquility filters through the house too. White decor with accents of baby blue and stunning French windows make the two-bedroom feel airy and light. The garden is an added haven. With perfectly manicured lawns, a sprawling patio with ample seating, and an outdoor hot and cold shower, this Airbnb, inside and out, ticks all the boxes.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $217 per night
Seafront home in the village of Stazzo
Another Airbnb Plus, this seafront home looks out over the ocean in the small village of Stazzo on the eastern coast of the island. Stazzo is known for its stunning black sand beaches, rocky coves, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also close to the coastal city of Acireale which sits at the foot of Mount Etna. If traveling in spring, the cultural event of Carnevale di Acireale draws people to the region. The February celebration is one of Sicily’s most spectacular cultural events and one of the largest and most frequented carnivals in Italy.
This flagstoned three-floor terrace is an ideal place to base yourself in eastern Sicily. It’s a stone’s throw away from the sea and comfortably sleeps a group of six. The interior is impressive with bright, fresh, well-furnished bedrooms — the attic room has vaulted wood ceilings — and a large living room, a dining room, and a well-equipped kitchen with an adjoining terrace. 
Six guests, four bedrooms
Price: $195 per night