Contemporary comforts hidden away in a historic palazzo in Palermo’s atmospheric Ballarò market

Extensive buffet breakfast. The restaurant serves well-presented meals in a delightful courtyard setting.

Family Suites with a separate bedroom can sleep up to 4.

This former aristocratic palazzo, once home to the Brunaccini family, has been refurbished to provide a sophisticated, modern hotel in the heart of the historic centre of Palermo. Set amidst the atmospheric but slightly rundown setting of the Ballarò market, the hotel is in an excellent location for exploring the city’s food markets and churches.

Step in from the slightly chaotic surrounding streets into an elegant lobby with leather armchairs and floors scattered with oriental rugs.

Outside, a courtyard provides the perfect setting for an extensive buffet breakfast and evening drinks. Dinner is in the stylish and highly acclaimed restaurant Da Carlo.

Accommodation is in a choice of studios, suites and two-floor apartments, all with modern bathrooms and with space for up to four people. Bedrooms are a minimum 18sqm and overlook the square or narrow streets of the old town;

''Da Carlo'' takes its name form its chef-owner Carlo Napoli. Carlo's menu changes daily based on the fresh produce found in the Ballaro' market every morning, observing a strict 0km food policy. Food and service are excellent with an extensive choice of seafood. Gluten-free is also well catered for.

Only a block away from the bustling market, Palazzo Brunaccini is tucked away in a piazzetta close to the Cathedral, the Capella Palatina and several impressive churches but the real beauty of the city is the ability to get to most places of interest within a 30 minute stroll.

Palazzo Brunaccini is also just a few blocks from the station and from here there are quick connections to the airport. A short bus ride out of town, directly from the hotel, takes you to the turquoise waters of Mondello Beach where the 2km long stretch of fine white sand is fringed with Art Nouveau villas, cafés, boutiques and excellent seafood restaurants. Another popular excursion is a visit to the Norman cathedral at Monreale.