Everything about our stay in this apartment was superb. Elena is a delightful host, providing practical information, offering suggestions tailored to our interests, and responding quickly to our questions. The apartment itself is charming, with tall French windows opening to balconies, elegant period furniture in some of the rooms, and a pretty terrace where the only sound is birds singing. The kitchen is furnished with everything one can need for cooking, including pantry staples like olive oil, balsamic vinegar, seasonings, tea, coffee, bottled water, and many other items. There was nothing more we needed for washing dishes, doing laundry, and cleaning up after ourselves.
The location could not be better. The building is on a picturesque pedestrian street leading to other pedestrian streets. It's within easy walking distance of every part of Ortigia, which is the oldest part of Syracuse and has fascinating historical sites such as a cathedral that incorporates 2500-year-old columns from the Temple of Athena that preceded it. Structures on Ortigia retain elements of its long history, from the ruins of the ancient Greek Temple of Apollo to the underground tunnels used as a bomb shelter during World War II.
A stroll around the perimeter of the island is pleasantly refreshing. You will find a multitude of restaurants and cafes where you can sit and enjoy a stunning view of the blue, blue Mediterranean. And it's an easy walk to the Syracuse mainland over the short bridges.
Ortigia is vibrant at night. Outdoor tables at the many eating establishments are full, and groups of people stroll through the streets and piazzas. One of the pleasures of staying in this apartment is being close to evening activity in a beautiful setting.
Our six days on Ortigia were like a short trip to paradise for us. Elena's warmth and good humor and the care she took of us (even driving us to the train station) made it all the better. We highly recommend this apartment to anybody interested in Syracuse.