“Sadly closed”

This was a great hotel full of faded charm in a beautiful courtyard building, now appears to be closed which is a great loss, not many like this left these days. Stayed here about three years ago and had two different rooms, both gorgeous and the owners were really charming and very helpful when … more

This was a great hotel full of faded charm in a beautiful courtyard building, now appears to be closed which is a great loss, not many like this left these days. Stayed here about three years ago and had two different rooms, both gorgeous and the owners were really charming and very helpful when we got mugged, calling the police and doing everything they could to sort things out. Hope it reopens one day although saw signs of bad renovation in other parts of the building so could end up going the same way as many other lovely old hotels trying to please a globalised clientele. Will be missed.

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“A wonderful introduction to Palermo”

We arrived late at night and were transported immediately into another world. The communal courtyard full of used and disused cars, cats and washing; then the red marble sweeping staircase that took us to the first floor where the hotel was situated. It was a bonkers place and we loved it. We had … more

We arrived late at night and were transported immediately into another world. The communal courtyard full of used and disused cars, cats and washing; then the red marble sweeping staircase that took us to the first floor where the hotel was situated. It was a bonkers place and we loved it. We had requested quiet rooms not overlooking the main road so forfeited a window with a view but it was very clean and perfectly comfortable if a little basic. Good value for money and although the breakfast was a little sparse with coffee best left alone, it was more than compensated by the original painted ceiling. Very well situated, close to the station and one of the best Palermo markets, Ballaro which was operating even on a Sunday. Within walking distance to some major historic sites and the harbour area in the other direction. Not for the faint hearted or luxury seekers as no lift and slightly haphazard service as somewhat understaffed, at least at the beginning of the season. Wifi worked in reception area best as in all old Palazzi the walls are too thick for signals to travel far.

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“Cheap, basic, but odd welcome...”

This was a great place to spend the night for very little in Palermo, and I agree with others that the lead up to the place is CRAZY, with the palatial courtyard, grand staircase and random signs leading you to the door of Orientale. I, unfortunately, had a rather harrowing experience checking in … more

This was a great place to spend the night for very little in Palermo, and I agree with others that the lead up to the place is CRAZY, with the palatial courtyard, grand staircase and random signs leading you to the door of Orientale. I, unfortunately, had a rather harrowing experience checking in with the Nonna who takes care of the place during the day when the owner is out doing errands - suffice it to say that I found myself outside with no key, no passport, no bags, and no idea how I was going to get back in later! Everything worked out well in the end, and the owner cleared everything up with me, The place has a cool, old world feel, which means that there are creaks and groans and noises, but I found it added to the charm. The shared bathrooms are at the end of a long hall of rooms, upstairs from the lobby. With a soft bed, closet for our bags, small table and chair for writing, we didn't need anything more, and we were within 5 minutes of the train station. It's nothing spectacular, but it served well for one night. Don't go looking for a 5-star establishment here. Lower your expectations - you, and your wallet, will thank me.

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