This is a classic flat, beautiful, expansive - one flight up from the street, in the old quarter facing the canal. Grand entrance to the building through a huge wooden door into a courtyard and up a gentle flight of wide marble stairs. The apartment sports lots of lovely wood trim - this was space was upscale in its day, and still is very impressive. High ceilings, plenty of light from many shuttered windows and balcony doors that may be thrown open wide. Comfortable beds, plenty of privacy, quiet. Clean and well furnished with all comforts. Gas stove and large fridge, plenty of cookware and dishes (even condiments in the pantry) and a washing machine. 1 ½ baths were clean, well kept, and great hot water. Complete with cable TV . A single negative was lack of wireless internet (but we solved that by purchasing wireless cards – 10 gigs for 50E - and well worth it).

Giorgio is very kind and more than accommodating. He greeted us warmly and seemed to think of everything we might need and more. (He knew we’d had a long day travel to Siracusa and had a warm welcoming snack for us in the kitchen.) He provided us with an array of maps, hints, and tips of where the key areas were of Ortigia (i.e. market, bank, restaurants, etc.). He even left a couple of ipods with walking tours in English for us.

If you are looking for an airy, well-kept living space smack in the midst of Siracusa’s old city, but not cheek by jowl next to another building, this apartment is it. It has beautiful views overlooking the canal where the fishermen’s boats dock. It’s minutes from a huge open air market that’s open daily and nearby excellent restaurants.

In historic Ortigia everything is within walking distance; a car is a handicap, not an advantage. One can walk the perimeter of old city in forty minutes. Buses connect with all other areas - (uptown the ruins are awesome). Train transport in and out of Siracusa is easy. That said, we rented a car – which allowed us access to the hinterlands.
This space has it all, a friendly, very accommodating host, an excellent location, comfortable accommodation, quiet, and convenience. It can easily accommodate six persons; (we were four adults.)

This was our first trip to Siracusa. When I come back, I hope Giorgio will still be letting this flat. It will be my first choice. Thank you Giorgio for setting us up for a wonderful experience in Siracusa.

Bob and Barbara