Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel

"Now run by Rocco Forte Hotels, its revival was celebrated as a triumph for the city. Stepping inside, you can feel the history of this elegant hotel designed in the Liberty style by renowned architect Ernesto Basile. For an elegant but unfussy dinner, book a table at the signature restaurant inside Villa Igiea. Renowned Chef Fulvio Pierangelini has curated a menu featuring some of his greatest hits, like his sublime spaghetti with tomato sauce, and found inspiration in Sicily’s abundant natural resources. The linguine with tenerumi (a local vegetable), candied tomatoes, lemon, and Sciacca prawn tartare is a standout." - Laura Itzkowitz Laura Itzkowitz Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributi

"Villa Igiea is located on the outskirts of Palermo, marrying historic charm with modern amenities. It offers marvelous sea views, elegant interiors, well-manicured gardens, and exclusive experiences such as private tours and hot air balloon rides." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"A Rocco Forte Hotel with gardens of oleander, palms, and cacti, offering luxury and historical charm."

"Transformed into a grand hotel in the early 1900s by the wealthy Florio family, Villa Igiea played host to royalty and celebrities like King Edward VII of England, the Vanderbilts, and J.P. Morgan in its heyday and was restored to its former glory by Rocco Forte Hotels in 2021. The redesign brightened up the hotel’s 100 rooms and public spaces while preserving original architectural details like the art nouveau frescoes by Ernesto Basile. Today’s guests can sip spritzes by the pool overlooking the sea; rub elbows with Palermo’s high society at Florio Restaurant, where lauded chef Fulvio Pierangelini oversees the menu; play tennis; indulge in a massage at the Irene Forte Spa; explore the beautiful gardens; and venture out to experience everything Sicily’s bustling capital has to offer. From $585." - Erica Firpo, Laura Itzkowitz

"Transformed into a grand hotel in the early 1900s by the wealthy Florio family, Villa Igiea played host to royalty and celebrities." - Erica Firpo, Laura Itzkowitz