Host: 12/10
Marco was absolutely amazing. He was incredibly responsive when I had any questions about Siracusa or Ortigia, I'm talking a 3-minute wait time max. He provided wonderful recommendations for restaurants, supermarkets, swimming spots, etc. and even sent us a video on how to get into the building and the flat because we were unable to meet him in person for check-in. Now, more on why he's so amazing. During our trip, my boyfriend and I were unable to pack beach towels from home (we're backpacking for 2.5 weeks so we are definitely limited on space). On a whim, I asked Marco if there were any in the flat to which he regretfully informed me that he doesn't normally provide them for guests. Obviously this was no biggie as the market on Ortigia sells them for pretty cheap and the market is on the way to most of the main swimming spots. However, when he came to register us (take pictures of our passports), he brought us beach towels from his home, which I thought was so kind of him. He made sure we knew that if we needed anything, he would be able to help!
TLDR: Marco is one of the most hospitable hosts I've encountered on AirBnb and I will recommend that any and all friends/friends looking to stay in Siracusa/Ortigia stay at his flat.
Airbnb: 10/10 --> Disclaimer: This does NOT mean the airbnb wasn't great, Marco was just that wonderful :)
The flat was super clean and situated ~10 minute walk from the bridge connecting Siracusa and Ortigia. It was a 2-3 minute walk from a well-stocked grocery store (Conad). The only negative thing I can say about the apartment is that the shower is pretty tiny, although most showers in Europe are super small so I wasn't shocked by its size. Marco provided pretty good quality shampoo and body wash for our stay as well. MOST importantly, the free bikes Marco provided were a GAME CHANGER. It was pretty hot during our visit so being able to bike to the archaeological park and the beaches instead of walking made our stay so much more enjoyable.
We had such an amazing stay at Marco's flat so if you're thinking of staying in Siracusa, book this Airbnb NOW!