Alverio really is a super host! Very attentive to our needs. Check in/check out was perfect. Brilliant communication. Excellent apartment. The jacuzzi, bed and view are sensational! The area looks very down at heel but it seemed very safe. Across the bridge Ortigia island is a historian's and a gourmet's paradise. So very beautiful and picturesque. The little beach is just 2 minutes' walk. It is sandy but it's in the harbour so jet skis come onto the beach right near to children playing in the water which is not great. The spiral staircase in the apartment is cannot safe by UK standards in our opinion. Do not book this if you are very large or unfit. Great care is needed as the hand rails are wobbly and there is no solid central column to the staircase. Health and safety does not seem to be a thing per se in Syracuse. Buildings could crumble onto your head, the pavements are non existent or lethal, and some cars and motorcycles have no regard at all for pedestrians. Having said all this though, Ortigia, especially the far point which is only just over 1km away, is heavenly. Do go!