I cannot sing Maria Pia's praises enough.She was marvellous and deserves ten stars, not just five. She and her husband did everything they could to help us make the most of our escape from our horrid winter. When we arrived, we were shown where everything was, with cakes, juice, milk etc. ready for us. They were on hand to give advice, make bookings, give us lifts - nothing was too much trouble.
The apartment is even more spacious than it looks from the photos. It was spotlessly clean and full of pictures and ornaments that made it feel like a home, not just a bland rented apartment. And it was such a joy to have such a large selection of good-quality saucepans - AND a sharp cooking knife!
Everything in Marsala is within walking distance, with bakery, greengrocer, butcher, supermarkets all close by. The fish market is on the edge of the attractive old town, and there's a brilliant deli, La Vecchia Salumeria, just round the corner from there. If you're looking for a bar near the apartment, I recommend Voga; contemporary (but used by all ages) with good wine and delicious nibbles - and desserts to die for. And there's a good farmers' market on Sunday mornings in the car park by the sea.
The archaeology museum is superb; well presented and with information in English. The tapestry museum and Florio winery are also worth visiting. The salt pans with their windmills, and the island of Mozia should definitely not be missed. We had no car, but visits to Agrigento, Mazara del Vallo and Trapani on public transport are straightforward.
If you want to visit Marsala, you'd be mad not to stay here!!