Gianni House Backpackers Hostel

The rooftop terrace and its view were lovely, and the large balcony was beautiful too. The hostel is really well located near the beach and center, and I was very happy with the price for my seven nights. The staff and owner were friendly and helpful. Rooms were cleaned every day and kept very clean, and there's a cute outdoor kitchen. My fourth-floor room meant a lot of stairs, but it also had lockers.

The rooftop gives you a spectacular view of Etna, and the beach is close by. Taormina is nearby too, and the bus stops almost right outside the building. There's a fantastic bakery in the building across the street. Since this was our first Sicily visit, Gianni's knowledge of the area, transport, and things to see was a big help. He and his wife made us feel very welcome. We stayed two nights, found everything very clean, and slept comfortably in the beds. I'd highly recommend staying here.

This was the worst place I've ever stayed. The staff were unhelpful, the rooms felt disgusting, and the beds were uncomfortable. The customer is never right at Gianni’s house. My room key didn't work, and the replacement barely worked either, which felt unsafe. Gianni emailed to say I should leave if I wasn't happy, but I'd paid for the night and he offered no refund. It seemed to me he wanted my private room free so he could rent it to someone else and make twice the money. There was a leak from the air conditioner, leaving a puddle that soaked all my belongings. I emailed reception, and someone came knocking at 4 in the morning, which was unacceptable. The water was still dripping, so I used the towels they had given me to soak it up. When I went down for more towels, staff tried to charge me. They made me wait at the front desk while they called someone higher up to waive the fee. What a waste of my time. I also asked for a hair dryer. The one they gave me started smoking and sparking when I plugged it in, which was dangerous with water on the floor from the leak. I asked for another, but they said there was only one. I went out and bought one, then found they'd left another by my room when I got back. That was too late. At checkout they tried to charge me extra, saying they'd miscalculated the second night when I extended. I hadn't extended, and had paid the full amount in cash as shown on Hostelworld and requested at check-in. I think they confused my room with another American guest's. When I refused the extra charge, Luna at the front desk said, “we don’t like your bad vibes! Just leave!” They should have apologized. The whole thing felt stupid and exploitative.

We really enjoyed the hostel. The room was cozy, there's a kitchen for cooking, and it's close to the sea. The people working there are great and always ready to help. From the balcony, you can see Etna! Gianni is a kind, responsive host. I recommend staying here. Thank you ❤️🥹