Jolly Hotel Foro Italico

Many hotels of charm and grace now compete for the position of the top five or six "best in town." Given the added competition, this 1960s chain hotel, once one of the best, is now much lower on the food chain. That doesn't mean that it's fallen off in standards. It's still the same well-organized, well-run hotel it always was. Its major selling point is that it's the only hotel in the center with a swimming pool -- and on an August day in Palermo, that's one heck of a selling point. Its location overlooking the sea and the Foro Italico adds to its allure.

A few steps from the Villa Giulia, the Jolly is also close to the harbor and the rail station. As was the style in Italy in the 1960s, rooms tend to be small. They are comfortable, however, and well organized, with lots of built-ins, frequently renewed bed linens, and tiled bathrooms. To escape the traffic noise, ask for one of the more tranquil units on the upper floors, which also have better views of the sea.

Facilities:
Restaurant; bar; outdoor pool (seasonal); room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.