Part of a luxury chain with properties across Europe, the Verdura Resort is a large, self-contained resort on the southwest coast of Sicily. The all-suite property is completely self-contained and offers private access to a lovely, calm beach, two 18-hole golf courses, four restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, and huge indoor and outdoor pools. Contemporary suites are spacious and stocked with creature comforts.

The 10-room Hotel el Jebel is a luxurious oasis set within the Historic Center of Taormina. The boutique hotel is located up a flight of stone steps off a tiny side street, this Catalan-style building has amazing views of the Ionian Sea and picturesque town, which can be seen from the beautiful rooftop terrace and the all-glass exterior elevator. The guest rooms are all individually decorated in an elegant, eclectic style that provides a refined yet comfortable atmosphere. The hotel includes a spa, two restaurants, and an intimate bar. Prices are high, especially since there isn't a swimming pool or gym, but free Wi-Fi and breakfast are a nice touch. 

This luxury hotel is in a renovatedDominican monastery and offers stunning views of Mount Etna and Taormina Bay. The hotel is surrounded by colorful flowering gardens and manicured courtyards. One interesting feature is the chapel still intact from the hotel's days as a monastery. There are an outdoor pool, a spa, and three restaurants -- one with two Michelin stars.102 rooms range from Classic accommodations, which overlook the cloister and the town, to several categories of suites with private outdoor hot tubs and terraces and multiple bathrooms. All are decorated with lush fabrics, beautiful lantern-style lighting, and carved wood furniture.

A former palazzo built after the earthquake of 1693 and transformed into a small hotel three centuries later, this property has plenty of opulence balanced with modern, stylish touches. The luxurious amenities include two restaurants and a spa, and each of the 12 flower-themed guestrooms has antique furnishings and its own unique look. While there are plenty of attractions near the hotel, including the Piazza San Giovanni, it’s a bit of a steep hike to the old city.

The 202-room Donnafugata Golf Resort and Spa is a large, chic resort with two 18-hole golf courses, a massive outdoor pool and pool bar, and a posh spa. In close proximity to beaches and area attractions, this property has a peaceful feel, complete with three charming restaurants and a wine bar showcasing Sicilian wines. The stylish rooms are spacious and inviting with gorgeous bathrooms and scenic patios. While service can be slow and the location isn't right on the beach, this is an excellent pick for a relaxing retreat.

Located in the Valley of the Temples, the luxurious Hotel Villa Athena is in a prime spot for guests who want to be in the center of the famous UNESCO World Heritage site and don't mind driving a few minutes to get into Agrigento. This romantic property is ideal for honeymooners and features 27 renovated rooms and suites, some with views of nearby temples. Note that rooms advertised as having private terraces might actually share the space with neighbors. There's also a restaurant on-site and ample free parking. A small pool is open in summer months. 

This hip, yet elegant four-pearl boutique hotel provides gorgeous views of the vibrant Mediterranean Sea from the many outdoor spaces, which are surrounded by beautiful lush gardens. Located on a slope off a windy mountain road, the Villa Carlotta is within a five-to fifteen-minute walk of many of the popular attractions within Taormina and the nearby area. 23 accommodations including guest rooms, suites, and villas are comfortable and nicely furnished, with large windows and pretty views. Luxe features include a shallow outdoor pool, access to a nearby health club, and an on-site restaurant serving organic Italian cuisine. Still, expect to pay for parking on top of already high rates.

The 33-room Hotel Porta Felice is a boutique hotel built into an old Sicilian palace on the outskirts of the historic city center of Palermo. Completely refurbished, the property has a sleek, modern design, large rooms, and a beautiful wellness center in which visitors can indulge in massages and a variety of treatments. Guests are served a free breakfast on the rooftop terrace each morning, and the restaurant is also open for dinner. While the facilities are pleasant, the area surrounding the hotel can be a mixed bag, as some guests have complained about rundown buildings and poor street lighting at night.