Solsicily B&B

The apartment has a lot of old-time charm, with vintage decor that I really liked. It was perfectly clean, and the host was kind and helpful. Ask him for tips and he can tell you about Catania and the surrounding area. The location is handy, around 10 minutes from the train and bus station and from Piazza Stesicoro and the center. There’s a balcony, a private bathroom with everything I needed, and a big kitchen where you can cook for yourself. I had no complaints. Some people might object to prostitution nearby, three flights of stairs with no elevator, or amenities that are a little old. But this place suits regular travelers who want a clean room and a feel for real Catanese life and hospitality, rather than fussy travelers. Thank you, Cristian!

The B&B is on the third floor of a colorful apartment, with different rooms, separate bathrooms, and a warm shared living room and kitchen. We had four beautiful days exploring the whole city, including museums, clubs and the seaside. With its kind host, Cristian, and its lively San Berillo district, Solsicily B&B is a great way to get to know Catania and its vibrant life. Excellent value for money!

We never paid and found another hotel. We’d booked a room for me and my friend, arrived in Catania at 12, then took the bus to San Berillo district, arriving after 20 minutes. We were very afraid in the area at night, especially as two women. On the street we encountered drunk men who harassed us, pimps sitting along the road, and what looked like brothels everywhere. It felt like a sex-work ghetto. When we reached the hotel’s front door, the owner, Christian, hadn’t left our key in the locker. We called many times with no answer, while people passing by asked if we worked in sex. After an hour he finally picked up and said, “Sorry, I forgot to leave the key for you.” We were lucky to get away from there, and I don’t recommend this hotel, especially for girls. This isn’t about racism or having a problem with sex workers. The area didn’t feel safe at all, and the owner wasn’t trustworthy. I can’t understand all the good reviews, maybe they’re fake? Especially at night, it just wasn’t safe for us. I’m replying to the owner’s comment: there was no misunderstanding. As you told us on the phone, you forgot to put the key in the box. Your account misleads about the location. We contacted other Catania residents and they confirmed what we said. The building next to your hotel is also a brothel, like most buildings on these streets, regardless of the route we took from Google Maps.

I went in worried after seeing the Google Maps reviews, but our stay turned out positive. We knew we’d have to carry our luggage up three floors, so we were prepared for that. The room was spacious, and we didn’t mind the bathroom being outside it. The shared kitchen is huge. I was there with my family and felt safe in the evening. I think the people calling this a “shady neighbourhood” must be racist, since many businesses here are owned by Arabs, Indian and black people. Our rating is mostly based on the value for money.