My family of five had the perfect week at Michelangelo’s Palermo home. Communication was excellent from our first chat. We exchanged WhatsApp numbers before our arrival, and Michelangelo gave us very detailed instructions on how to get to his apartment. We took the train from the airport to the last stop and walked a few blocks on Via Roma. Michelangelo was there patiently waiting for us with smile and a warm greeting—even though our flight was an hour late. He also kindly helped carry our bags up a short flight of stairs The apartment is a one-floor walk-up in a very secure building with a keypad to get in. The neighborhood is very safe and people are out and about until the wee hours of the morning.
The apartment is lovely, with wonderful AC throughout. We had two double beds and a bunk bed, which made my boys very happy!The place was spotless and had everything you could possibly need: a fully stocked kitchen with a stove, dish washer, microwave, electric juicer, large fridge—and a washing machine. We ended up eating out every day but it was nice to have the option to cook if we wanted. We were so pleased to see a Lidl supermarket right at the corner so we could buy breakfast and stock up on water (a must in the sweltering August heat). Michelangelo gave us a detailed list of places to see, things to do, and restaurant and gelato recommendations. The apartment is stocked with guide books and maps as well. The location was perfect, within walking distance to all the sites, including Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emmanuelle, and lots of shopping, restaurants and bars. We didn’t have a car and used public transportation to get everywhere. The 101 or 102 bus is a block away and takes you to Piazza Croce, where you transfer to the 806 bus to Mondello Beach. It’s really lovely there, especially for kids because the water is shallow and calm. There are lots of restaurants/cafes on the beach. We especially liked the modern one at the beginning of the strip, which had sweet and savory treats, amazing granita and even sushi—all super reasonably priced!! They also had great AC and WiFi. We took a 2.5 hour (one way) bus trip to Catania one day. But we really enjoyed spending time in Palermo eating and seeing the sites. The people are so warm and helpful and we had a wonderful time. Michelangelo kindly stored our bags for us because we had a later flight and then he kindly suggested that we take the tram to the nearby Forum Shopping mall to stay cool during what was possibly the hottest day! We took his advice and when we returned to pick up our bags, Michelangelo kindly offered to take all five of us and our luggage to the train station! He told us that all of his guests are like family—and he meant it. Thank you for a wonderful stay Michelangelo and for your warm and generous hospitality! We will definitely return!!