This was a very positive experience – Elena and Giovanni are caring and helpful hosts and have equipped the apartment with practically everything you could wish for (perhaps a toaster could be added). Only one aspect may be a problem: The second bedroom in the upper level could be a bit hot in the summer and the low ceiling may not be to everybodys taste; annexed are two smaller rooms for children, but no toilet. So beware when you have to climb down during the night…
Breakfast is „self-service“, but you’ll find everything provided for or you can buy it round the corner (fresh bread, cheese); internet worked very well.
The location – close to the palazzo del Conte Federico (if you want to tell a taxi where to go) is just perfect: In 10 min you reach the cathedral, the palazzo dei Normanni (Capella Palatina), the Quattro Canti crossing; the lively Ballarò market with many restaurants (open only at noon) is just round the corner and even the main railway station, from where the buses to the airport or to other cities (Catania airport can be reached in 2,5 h for just 14 €) is just a 15 min walk.
The area is mixed, some houses and streets are run-down, but I never had any bad experience, people were friendly and helpful.
Definitely a ***** recommendation!