Hotels near Church of Santa Maria

"We travelled to Villa Sonia as a couple in our mid-30s for 6 days in early April, staying B&B in a Superior Room (Room 410). Location Centrally located in Castelmola, with shops and bars a 5-minute walk away—plenty to do nearby for relaxed days. The walk to Taormina took around 30 minutes down and 35 back up. We’re moderately fit and it was ~20°C, but the uphill stretch could be tough in hotter months. There’s a bus stop nearby (we didn’t use it), and a taxi from Taormina sea area cost €40. We rented a car and used the secure car park (€7/day). Staff The standout of our trip—every reception staff member was kind, approachable, and gave great recommendations with detailed maps. Breakfast staff were also friendly and attentive. Cleanliness Rooms were cleaned daily to a high standard. All areas, including the pool and breakfast space, were consistently spotless. Facilities The hotel has a charming feel. Our room had an incredible view of Mt Etna, a huge balcony, and a very comfortable bed. No kettle initially, but one was provided same day on request. The pool area was lovely to relax in, though too cold to swim in April. Pool bar closed off-season, but drinks/snacks available in the lobby. Food & Drink Breakfast was good, with a small but varied selection—special mention to the apple cake. We only had dinner once, but food, wine, and service were all great and well priced. Very good value. We would return in a heartbeat!!"

"One of the best breakfasts with amazing views. "

"Our stay was absolutely wonderful from beginning to end. The hotel staff were incredibly friendly, helpful, and attentive throughout our entire visit—they truly made us feel welcomed every step of the way. Our room was beautiful and offered a stunning view overlooking the bay. Waking up to the sunrise and falling asleep to the soothing sounds of the sea right from our room was such a special experience. The concierge team was also fantastic, helping us easily arrange excursions and transfers. We booked both a boat tour and a trip to see the Godfather filming locations, and both experiences were unforgettable. The hotel’s location is another huge plus—conveniently situated near the cable car, making it easy to head up to Taormina and explore the city center. Overall, an exceptional stay that we would highly recommend!"

"I really wanted to give this hotel 5 star, but I simply can’t! The majority of the hotel is perfection and it was an absolute luxury having three days there… the pool itself is a wonder with the view to mount Etna, and so is the restaurant next door to the pool which overlooks the water. One issue was the rooms. We were give a nice room but the electricity didn’t work. An electrician came and after 20 mins of waiting, it was back on. But then it broke again the next day and we were once again waiting for an electrician to come for c.30 mins. This delayed our evening plans. They decided to move us to another room - but it was smaller! They the moved us again to one of their newly refurbished rooms which although really lovely, the air-con didn’t work. I gave up trying by that point as we had to leave anyway. The inside of the hotel is quite dated and when we arrived we really weren’t sure what we were in for, but the pool is the attraction and rightly so. Another reason why I can’t give 5 star is because of the shuttle buses. Although its great that the hotel provides free shuttle buses to and from the town, they are not frequent and book up really quickly. If you miss out, you need to pay for a taxi to the town which is around 20 euro one way. More shuttles are needed. "

"Stunning property !"

"We loved this hotel! It is in a fabulous location, right above the bus terminal, and a 5 minute walk from the Main Street. Hotel Ariston has a fabulous sea view. The hotel was spotless. All the staff were so friendly and helpful, always cheerful. Breakfast was amazing.. and plentiful. We loved the music in the evening . We enjoyed a few of evenings in the bar with Giuseppe the bar manager (his 39th year in Hotel Ariston! ) and Giovanni the hotel singer/pianist - he was fantastic!! Giovanni and Giuseppe sang a few duets together… just wonderful ! We will be back!"

"Everything was absolutely lovely. The Hotel is unique and very charmant"

"This is a very nice hotel and the staff is very helpful. It’s in a great location, close to everything in Taormina. Would stay here again. Breakfast was good with plenty of food. Do NOT use the ATM near the travel agency down the street, there is a pair of them. HUGE SCAM, they don’t provide receipts and ripped me off by 50 dollars. "

"Impressive views. Perfect location. Comfortable room. Parking! Unfortunately no electricity the day we were there so restaurant / bar were closed"