There is a few places that I can say openly I know them very well, every town and almost every street. One of them is Sicily.
Unlike Palermo, the capital of Sicily, Ortygia is smal and considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Sicily. It’s also old, about 2500 years. Throughout its history, Syracuse and the adjacent Ortygia was part of several cultures; Arabs, Roman, Normans Byzantines, Spaniards, and others. The waves of different conquerors, settlers, visitors and invaders of the city are reflected in the island’s architecture.
But lets go to the fun part, what to do around Ortigia.
What to do
Mercato di Ortigia
Filled with colorful fruit and vegetable stands, fish vendors and stalls selling spices of all types. NOTE ( Be sure to pick up a few local specialties like pistachios from Bronte, almonds from Avola, sun-dried tomatoes from Pachino and capers from Pantelleria.) Cathedral of Syracuse
Palace Borgia
The Puppet Museum
Where to eat
Fratelli Burgio
A buzzing deli and wine bar that assembles mouthwatering meat and cheese boards. ( Do not miss this one )
Regina lucia
Moon
Pasticceria Artale
Where to stay
www.ilsalottodimariapia.it A converted family home. Three bedrooms with very lovely furniture and en-suite bathrooms. Note . Ask the room who look out onto Piazza Roma.
The Hotel Gutkowski
A charming boutique hotel that has parking and they do your laundy. www.guthotel.it