I selected this hotel because of its proximity to transport, and I would happily return there.
The quality for the price is great.
The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful; Marianne was of constant assistance during my first days and all of the stall, reception and domestic, ensured a most enjoyable week.
The hotel retains the graciousness and spaciousness of an earlier age, and does so without pretension. My room was large and comfortable; the bathroom had been tastefully modernized. The breakfast room and common social areas were colourful and inviting. The buffet breakfast offered a selection which would cope with most tastes.
The location-the positives: My program was to explore the east coast from Messina to Syracuse by train and bus; the hotel is a 10 min walk from the stations. The Duomo and other highlights of Catania are a 15-20 walk.
The location-the negatives: The neighbourhood is very run down, even shabby; there are signs that development is planned but I saw no evidence of it happening. Hotel La Ville seems very out of place in the midst of its surroundings. There is almost no commerce in the area, although there is a fine seafood restaurant 5 min from the hotel. For the young and adventuresome and even for the old and adventuresome (- I include myself) the location could be seen as a positive, an opportunity to experience an off-the-tourist-sites Catania.