This is an absolutely ideal place to stay in Ortigia. Part of the beauty of this listing is that it’s a mere 2 minute walk from the bustling restaurant-filled streets of Ortigia but tucked away on a quiet, historic piazza that will make you feel like a local. If you are traveling with an infant or small children, you’ll find that Maria Teresa has thought of everything you might need—from a high chair and plastic cutlery to a baby bed, toys and even some water wings to use in the ocean. Because the apartment is only a 5-10 minute walk to all of the major attractions of Ortigia (market, cathedral, museums, marionette show, solariums, etc.) we were able to come and go throughout the day very easily and return for kid naps between sights, etc. Two flights up and you are in a lovely and spotless oasis where the beds are comfortable, the AC and internet work great, and the kitchen is well equipped to prepare delicious items from the historic Ortigia market. You can sit on the small balcony overlooking the piazza and watch the neighborhood wake up or people go about their evening plans. And if there happen to be people talking in the piazza below (which happened only once during our stay, on a Saturday night in July) then relax, you are in Italy and having the experience of being in a real city. Maria Teresa has recently added sound blocking windows which are very effective and a very thoughtful addition to the apartment. She is a wonderful and thoughtful host, and goes above and beyond to make sure you have an amazing stay in Ortigia, providing not just great recommendations of places to eat and things to do but also help with travel essentials such as booking a taxi to the airport. (And she absolutely saved me when I dropped my phone in a taxi!). Some particular favorites among Maria Teresa’s recommendations were Viola Espresso Bar for coffee, Fratelli Burgio at the market for paninis and Fratelli Burgio Porto for drinks and aperitivo at sunset. Do not hesitate to book this listing for your visit to Ortigia!