Hotel Ipanema

Great location, very old-fashioned decor and a bit drab. Breakfast wasn’t the best but all in all the rooms are okay and it’s very easy walk to the cable cart

The private beach club was closed because is not the season, but the location is superb and every room is with the little balcony. Didn’t get the best one but is worth the price.

During my stay, I had a very unpleasant and disturbing experience at breakfast. Mr. Santo, who was working there, repeatedly threatened me not to eat too much. He raised his voice at me aggressively and demanded extra money in a rude and intimidating manner. His behavior was completely unprofessional and unacceptable, and it made me feel extremely uncomfortable and unsafe. Instead of enjoying my vacation, I was stressed and upset every morning, and this incident completely ruined my holiday experience. I hope appropriate action will be taken so that no other guest has to go through a similar situation.

If you’re looking for a true taste of Sicily, this hotel delivers. The atmosphere is warm and authentic, offering a genuine local experience that feels both welcoming and culturally rich. The staff were exceptional—friendly, attentive, and went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. While the service was truly top-notch, the hotel itself could use a bit of updating. Some areas are starting to show their age, and a refresh would elevate the experience to match the high level of hospitality. That said, the charm and character more than made up for it. All in all, a memorable stay that captures the spirit of Sicily—just be prepared for a little vintage charm!

The hotel was clean and comfortable and most of the staff were lovely, however it is quite outdated and could do with a revamp tbh. I went half board and the food was fine first couple of days but became quite repetitive. Would have been nice to have some other options instead of pasta, fish and roast potatoes every night and the breakfast was same every morning. Had a lovely room with a sea view though, so that was a plus!

Hotel in need of updating. Very 'rustic' feel. Staff helpful & nice. The hotel was clean. The bedroom also. Bedsheets/ towels changed every other day. Change of towels available every day if you want. Bathroom small. To have a shower or bath means having to squeeze past the loo or the basin to climb into the bath cubicle, which has worn-out sliding doors. Tiny to shower in, I kept banging my elbows. There is plenty of hot water, though. The air conditioning system is great. Hotel situated in a busy area just off a main road. No pavements to walk down to the few bars & shops & it's dangerous in places - in my opinion. The fridge in the room broke down & wasn't replaced til I insisted 2 days later. Staff said the remaining fridges are being removed altogether. * This is not ideal for travellers who need to keep medicines cool* The area of Ipanema Hotel is in Mazzero - not in Taormina. Ok, for reaching the pebbly beach, but to actually visit Taormina, you'll need the cable car at €10 for a minute return trip or a walk up to Taormina via a steep staircase of 300 steps. We felt a bit trapped there. There are bus stops by the cable car that open directly onto the busy road. The hotel food was very basic. Silver service in the evening, which seemed totally unnecessary. No fresh fruit at breakfast or dinner. Breakfast fruit was usually prunes or sliced pineapple from tins! Dinner dessert was 'fruit salad' ( if you count 2 types of hard melon & sliced kiwi as a 'fruit salad') on offer every evening, along with creme caramel. There was a different cake on offer each evening. The starters weren't too bad, with a choice. We usually had the pasta. All in all, it is not good value for money in an outdated hotel. We won't return.