HOTEL VELLO D'ORO, Taormina

With a rooftop terrace overlooking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Hotel Vello D'Oro is a pet-friendly 3-star property housed in a former ceramics workshop that has operated as a hotel since the 1950s. The five-storey building retains original architectural features and displays art deco-style details throughout. Breakfast is served in the dining room at Hotel Vello D'Oro, with the option to eat on the scenic terrace; the buffet is available until 10:00. All rooms are en suite with a TV, and some have balconies with sea views. Hotel facilities include family rooms, a functional business center, a meeting room, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, and a rooftop bar. Guests can arrange a beach-club shuttle through the hotel for €16, with return transport, a beach bed, an umbrella, and a welcome drink included. Hotel Vello D'Oro sits 500 metres from Porta Catania and near the Lumbi car park. Hotel Vello D'Oro's central location puts shops, restaurants, the Ancient Theater of Taormina, and Villa Comunale Garden within walking distance.

The public areas display ceramics, sculptures, paintings, and ironwork by Giuseppe Cuscona, the artist who once owned the hotel.

The back stairs open directly onto Corso Umberto, giving quick access to the main shopping street.

Some rooms include premium bedding and spacious bathrooms with double sinks.

Breakfast offers cold cuts, three types of cheese, yogurt, boiled eggs, fruit, pastries, orange juice, and coffee.

Staff help with taxi bookings, parking, and local recommendations.

Live music from a nearby restaurant can be heard in rooms until around midnight.

The hilly location involves steep steps from Corso Umberto, so guests with luggage may need a taxi.