San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel

From the moment you arrive at Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, Taormina, you know you are somewhere extraordinary. Set within a former 14th-century Dominican monastery, the hotel seamlessly blends history, beauty, and modern luxury. Walking through its cloisters, gardens, and terraces feels almost surreal — every turn is a photo opportunity, framed by dramatic views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. It is one of the most magical properties we have ever experienced. Even before we arrived and throughout our stay, the team was exceptional. Communication via WhatsApp was warm, prompt, and incredibly helpful, with thoughtful advice that made planning our time in Taormina effortless and reassuring. A very special thank you to Roberta Maria Cariola, who from the very beginning embodied the true hospitality gene. She and her team went above and beyond to make us feel genuinely welcomed and celebrated during our 31st anniversary. The warmth, care, and attention were sincere and deeply personal — never scripted. Lorenzo Ricci, Restaurant Manager at Anciovi, was exceptional — attentive, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate about creating a memorable dining experience on our first evening. Denise, who was our hostess that night, was absolutely wonderful. She welcomed us with such grace and generosity, gifting us a bottle of local liquor from the bar, as we loved it, and could not find it anywhere else. And Pepe at the pool truly stood out for us. His warmth, attentiveness, and enthusiasm — including taking the time to educate us about local Sicilian gins — made our pool days unforgettable. We loved Pepe, though truly the entire team was outstanding. We also deeply appreciated how the Four Seasons team connected us to the local culture beyond the hotel. They recommended and arranged a reservation at Osteria Santa Domenica, where Gianluca, the owner, welcomed us with incredible warmth and genuine Sicilian hospitality. It was a memorable evening and a perfect extension of the care we experienced at the hotel itself. While we experienced wonderful hospitality throughout Sicily, Four Seasons Taormina stands apart — not just as a hotel, but as an experience rooted in history, place, and human connection. Chris and Ruben

Today felt like waking up inside a dream — the dream of Four Seasons Taormina. I’ve followed this property on social media for years, never imagining I’d actually get to stay here. Once a 14th-century convent perched dramatically on a cliff edge, it’s easily the most luxurious hotel I’ve ever experienced. And if you know me, you know I have a soft spot for beautiful hotels.

This is a stunningly beautiful hotel. And everyone who works there is super-professional. The food and beverages are superb. Unfortunately, the overall experience was dragged down for me by the fact that the outdoor pool was too cold. Looking at the expressions of the others who entered the pool on the two days that I did, I was not the only one who thought so. I had looked forward to just lounging in the pool before going back to winter in Northern Europe, but it was not to be. But otherwise, the hotel was excellent.

Beautiful property but rude staff, and food quality not worth the five star pricing. I had better drinks and food in town without paying such a huge mark up. Ok to pay more for high quality but this four seasons isn’t that.

Last stop on a trip through Sicily. We have stayed in many hotels and many Four Seasons hotels. The service at this hotel was on par with anywhere we have stayed. Staff were efficient and friendly. Our room and all parts of the hotel were beautifully appointed. Breakfast was delightful. We ate mostly at local restaurants so cannot comment on other than the pool and the main bar. Food and service were excellent at both. As an aside, I don’t understand why TripAdvisor accepts reviews from folks that aren’t staying at a hotel. This hotel was either the beneficiary or the victim of its White Lotus featuring (depends on the lens you are using) which has lead to many folks wanting to have a drink there. Speaking as a hotel guest I am fully supportive of the hotel’s policies in this regard.