Central Palace Hotel FedericoII

The thing that sells this hotel is location, location, location. It is literally a block away (although you wouldn’t know it) from the Main Street that opens up to lots of shopping, pedestrian traffic, restaurants, a few small grocery shops. There are miles and miles to explore footsteps away from this hotel. What doesn’t sell this hotel is 1) dark, drab rooms - there simply aren’t enough lights 2) super stiff beds 3) even sadder flatter pillows 4) small small elevators 5) no ability for airflow in room unless you open the windows - very stuffy rooms 6) awkwardly positioned bathroom (if you sit on the toilet, your knees could easily bump into the glass shower door if you’re a tall person. Tip for western travelers visiting in December - it’s considered Sicily’s “cold” season so hotels shut off all A/C, only heat is available. However, temperatures are quite mild and pleasant but an open window is your only refuge for getting any air movement. Many of us complained how stuffy it got at night. I even asked the front desk if a fan was available but that was met with an empty stare. Breakfast is served on the 5th floor. Offerings are plenty - leaning heavy on the carbs and sweet offerings. But hot entrees can include scrambled eggs and ham. There is fresh cut up fruit available. Seating area is spacious, though the main space for breakfast can be cramped as guests and staff are sharing a narrower hall. Be patient, let the staff do their work, and step aside. Would I stay here again? Probably not, unless there was a really good discount. The location can’t be beat but that’s about it.