Albergo Athenaeum

“Good location”

We stayed at the Albergo Athenaeum for several days mid-Sept 2023. The hotel was chosen for its proximity to the E90 autostrade, 10 minute walk from the airport/main station railway line, and good-sized underground car-park (very important!). It's about 20 mins walk into the city - very straightf... more

We stayed at the Albergo Athenaeum for several days mid-Sept 2023. The hotel was chosen for its proximity to the E90 autostrade, 10 minute walk from the airport/main station railway line, and good-sized underground car-park (very important!). It's about 20 mins walk into the city - very straightforward once you get the hang of how to cross the roads. We were apprehensive about driving in Sicily, but we survived unscathed 1000 miles of driving in 8 days; the route from the hotel out to the autostrade involves crossing a busy three(ish) lane road, making a U-turn, and coming back in the other direction. When motoring here, you learn new driving techniques.... But the hotel's great position means that you're well away from the ZTL and the manic roads nearer the city centre. Good room with all that you'd need, comfortable beds, well serviced and good bathroom. The area where the hotel is located is a fairly typical Palermo side-street, lots of rubbish, cracked pavements etc; this is fine, just accept and go with the flow. Greet the locals, they are friendly! Reception staff, with just one exception, are friendly and helpful (take a bow, Salvo!). The exception could do with some training maybe. We thought the breakfasts were very good - loads of carbs, pastries, cake etc (typical Italian), fruit, and of course coffees of all types. We ate dinners in the hotel when we were too tired to walk into the city. The evening food is adequate (this is a 3* hotel, not a restaurant). All-in-all this hotel was fine, and a good base for our trips. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Sicily, lovely country and people.

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“Good deal for the money”

While the hotel is about a mile away from the heart of the city, at $80/night including free parking and breakfast, with clean rooms with AC, a fridge and a quiet balcony, one can hardly go wrong. Competent, pleasant staff who speak English. I'd go back anytime.