AL 124 - House in the heart of Palermo

This is a very large space, very well located close to a major pedestrian area and the Piazza Bellini, but just far enough away to be significantly quieter at night. We never felt unsafe, although the streets between the apartment and the train station might be considered a little dodgy at night. It's just a 10 minute walk from the train station, so access to airport and side trips to places such as Cefalù is convenient. Access is through an interior courtyard shared with a small restaurant; the courtyard is therefore open to the public when the restaurant is operating (there are interior locked gates and security cameras). Apartment is two flights up from ground level and marble stairs are worn and in need of repair; installation of an elevator is in progress but doesn't look to be available in the near future as no work was done during our 5 day stay.The apartment is large with very high ceilings; furnishings are very basic but adequate. Air conditioning is available in all rooms. The kitchen is functional but could use a few more cooking utensils. Beds are firm but comfortable. Communication with hosts (who lived here formerly) was excellent, and they checked us in personally.We'd be happy to stay here again.

Overall, this apartment is quite spacious and well appointed. The host was very informative and provided us with a list of restaurants and other merchants in the area.Location was good as well, except that the apartment backs up to a parking area and what looked to be a church(?) of some kind. As a result, it was very noisy every morning beginning at around 6:30 am. We were aware from other reviews that due to it's location in the city, it could be a bit loud. We assumed that meant in the evening/at night, when we would be away from the apartment. However, that was not the case. If you are an early riser, the morning noise won't be an issue for you - we are not early risers ;-)As the building itself is older and has large windows, it is not well insulated from the noise.

The place was immaculate. Very close walking distance to where we wanted to go and what we wanted to see. Check in and check out, very easy. Greeted by the owners, who showe see us the apartment and gave suggestions for the neighborhood.

The host was very nice, however, while the apartment itself was lovely, the building and the courtyard were under extreme renovations. Quite frankly it was very dangerous with scaffolding and cement all over and it was very noise and loud. In addition, there was a restaurant/night club at the ground level which was very disturbing for sleep. I think the host should have made us aware that the apartment was undergoing construction.