Australian travellers have long held a deep love for Italian culture, but Sicily is in a league of its own. Growing steadily in popularity (thanks in part to The White Lotus-inspired “set jetting” phenomenon), this sun-drenched island brims with character and authenticity, offering an idyllic mix of Mediterranean beaches, raw natural beauty, and vibrant urban energy.
At the heart of it all? Palermo. The island’s magnetic capital is alive with animated locals, legendary street food, craggy hidden coves, and a heady blend of grandeur and grit that captures the soul of Sicily.
Whether it’s a 600-year-old Rococo apartment overlooking the bustling Capo Market, a mesmerising casa draped in historic charm, or a serene clifftop villa with a jaw-dropping infinity pool, we’ve curated a lineup of Palermo Airbnbs to help you soak up the Sicilian spirit – and live like a local, if only for a moment.
The best stays in Palermo in 2025

La Bella Palermo
Sleeps: Eight guests
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to sleep in a museum, well… this property comes pretty close to the real deal. Positioned in the picturesque district of Castellammare, it’s adorned with towering ceilings, ancient statues, captivating sculptures, and mesmerising artwork. Seamlessly blending lived-in luxury with elegant preservation, La Bella offers a generous slice of a refined Palermo palazzo complete with a private library and expansive, light-filled terrace – it’s simply spectacular.
Reasons to stay:
- Unique museum-like abode that’s perfect for large groups or families
- Moments away from Palermo’s bustling marina, fashion boutiques, and the Museo Palazzo Branciforte
- Likely to be one of the most unique Airbnbs you’ll ever stay in
Location: Castellammare di Stabia

Casa Del Rais
Sleeps: Eight guests
When it comes to planning a Sicilian getaway, sometimes there’s only three words necessary to sway the uncertain: private sea access. Nestled on the rocks under Solanto Castle, this unique villa is equally historic as it is breathtakingly beautiful. What was once an ancient tuna fishery used to signal the start of the brutal Mattanza is now a lavish renovated two-unit property boasting a spacious outdoor terrace with unobstructed Mediterranean views.
Reasons to stay:
- Sundrenched, expansive terrace with private sea access
- Adjacent to the Nautical Club where you can hire various boats, snorkels, and learn to dive
- A stone’s throw from exceptional Sicilian restaurants with seafood-driven menus
Location: Solanto

Casa Balmossière
Sleeps: Six guests
Paying homage to the immaculate Rococo architecture of yesteryear, this 600-year-old renovated casa is bursting with charm and character. Previously home to revered 18th century painter Gaspare Serenario, the apartment is Plastered with striking pictorial paintings and complete with both a harp and grand piano. Designed for history buffs with a penchant for art, music, and culture, it’s positioned smackbang in the middle of Capo Market, making it an idyllic refuge after an enriching day of Sicilian adventures.
Reasons to stay:
- Convenient location overlooking the main street of the historic Mercato del Capo
- Fully equipped kitchen primed for homestyle cooking using fresh Sicilian produce
- A unique apartment artistic intrigue
Location: center of Palermo

Sky Blue Design House
Sleeps: Eight guests
Plunging straight into the turquoise sea from your own private sunbathing platform is a rare luxury – but this impeccable Airbnb delivers just that. Located just a 30-minute drive from Palermo in the charming seaside town of Solanto, this villa leaves little reason to stray far, generously stocked with everything (and more) you could possibly need. Epitomising Mediterranean opulence, you can soak in sweeping views from the jaw-dropping infinity pool or while away the days stretched out on a sun-drenched rooftop lounger. Consider this your invitation to a private resort experience, minus the crowds.
Reasons to stay:
- Freshly caught seafood delivered straight from the fishing to your door
- Fully equipped gym complete with a luxury spa, sauna, hydromassage, and chromatic shower
- Explore Solanto’s coastline via your own stand-up paddleboard or kayak
Location: Solanto

Trinacria luxury suite
Sleeps: Six guests
Tucked away inside the old Trinacria Hotel – once the crown jewel of Palermo’s belle époque – this luxe suite is steeped in old-world glamour. Adorned with plush velvet, eclectic art, and awash with jewel hues, it’s just a five-minute walk to the city’s historic heart and palazzi, so you can soak up the Sicilian sights atop the expansive patio that spills out from the apartment and overlooks Palermo’s bustling marina and sea.
Reasons to stay:
- A stone’s throw from exceptional Sicilian restaurants with seafood-driven menus
- Plush queen bedrooms with ensuites, and balconies overlooking Palermo’s marina
- Expansive terrace primed for entertaining
Location: Palermo

Holiday house Sicily Romitello
Sleeps: Four guests
If secluded rejuvenation tops your holiday itinerary, this peaceful property perched in the mountains of Borgetto is designed for just that. Just a 30-minute drive from buzzing Palermo, this rustic, open-plan apartment is attached to the main house – hosted by a trusted local – so you can savour slow, quiet moments while living like a true Sicilian. Kick back and dine alfresco beneath a canopy of lush vines, with golden Castellammare del Golfo sunsets as your backdrop. Pure bliss.
Reasons to stay:
- Tranquil outdoor terrace pool surrounded by vibrant greenery
- Fully equipped kitchen primed for homestyle cooking using fresh Sicilian produce
- Calm hilltop location away from the crowds
Location: Borgetto

Palazzo Pantelleria Blue House
Sleeps: Five guests
Seamlessly blending old-world charm with contemporary flair, this spectacular yet understated two-bedroom condo, positioned right in the centre of the pedestrian Piazza Meli, is made for travellers with a penchant for architecture and interior design. A coveted project by internationally-recognised Lyga Studio, it flaunts a stunning church backdrop, dramatic ceilings, and impeccable decor. If you’re unphased by a little late-night lively atmosphere and urban energy, this condo is an exceptional choice.
Reasons to stay:
- Convenient location surrounded by Sicilian historic monuments, restaurants and bars
- Fully equipped open-plan kitchen perfect for homestyle cooking, or hosting
- Aspirational decor and interior design
Location: Historic centre of Palermo

Beachfront villa
Sleeps: 10 guests
Just a 12-minute drive from the heart of Palermo lies this beautifully-refurbished three-level villa. Built over a century ago, the property boasts direct sea access from the garden and a charming turret, framing unobstructed views of The Gulf of Sferracavallo and the dramatic peak of Capo Gallo. The fresh interior styling pays homage to Sicily’s rich heritage, with nods to classic features like ceramic Moro Heads and traditional fishing oars, while the fully equipped kitchen is awash in vibrant Sicilian blue.
Reasons to stay:
- Sundrenched, spacious terrace with private sea access
- Nestled in a quiet neighbourhood, approximately 12 minutes drive to Palermo’s historic centre
- Storybook-style exterior with sweeping sea views
Location: Palermo

Downtown designer apartment
Sleeps: Five guests
If you love the charm of compact, character-filled stays, this beautifully re-imagined 17th century convent offers a truly memorable base in Palermo’s historic heart. Spread across three levels, the apartment artfully fuses original Sicilian features – cracked, colourful tiles and wrought-iron spiral staircases – with contemporary furnishings and curated modern art. Two outdoor terraces invite slow mornings and alfresco dinners, all set against sweeping views of both the city skyline and sparkling sea.
Reasons to stay:
- Peaceful retreat tucked within Palermo’s vibrant historic centre
- Alfresco dining with panoramic city and coastal views
- Authentic Sicilian personality blended with thoughtful, modern art
Location: Historical centre of Palermo

The Liberty Mood Residenza
Sleeps: 10 Guests
Live like Sicilian royalty in this historic-yet-contemporary abode set just one block away from the water in the coastal enclave of Mondello. Both its architecture and interior design strike the perfect balance of understated luxury with airy, sundrenched terraces, sleek marble bathrooms, and charming Sicilian plantation shutters. Get lost in the ornate, Fresco-style painted ceilings as you drift off to sleep after a day of exploring, and breathe in the aromatic seaside air while kicking back in the pool – spritz in hand.
Reasons to stay:
- Just steps away from fresh seafood and classic Sicilian restaurants
- One block from Sicily’s coveted Mondello Beach
- A rare seaside oasis that blends urban energy with laid-back coastal lifestyle
Location: Mondello