Palazzo Artemide

Palazzo Artemide places the historic fabric of Ortigia at the centre of a stay. Within a beautifully restored palazzo, antique grandeur meets a refined contemporary sensibility: an apt pairing for the island heart of Syracuse, where ancient columns, Baroque art and centuries-old lanes sit within the same urban landscape. The appeal is distinctly rooted in place, making this a compelling address for travellers who prefer their hotel to belong to the destination rather than feel separate from it.

Part of VRetreats and a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the hotel combines its historic setting with a terrace and a strong Sicilian thread at the table. Amunì Restaurant draws on local ingredients for dishes from land and sea, giving traditional cooking a contemporary presentation. It offers a natural continuation of a day spent exploring Ortigia: the island’s cultural layers encountered first in its streets, then through the flavours of Sicily.

For a particularly well-placed pause, choose Amunì Cocktail Bar in Piazza Minerva. Its views of the Temple of Athena make a drink or light lunch an opportunity to linger over the setting, rather than simply move on to the next sight. Build time into the day for wandering Ortigia’s alleys and squares; the hotel’s central position lends itself to a stay shaped around the island itself.

The published experiences also offer ways to look beyond the immediate neighbourhood. Consider the boat outing departing from Porto Grande for a different perspective on Ortigia, or explore the listed walks in Noto and guided Etna outing with wine tasting. Closer to home, ask about the artistic journey devoted to Sicilian puppets at Palazzo Artemide. Check current arrangements on the official website before planning around a particular experience.