Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.
Why we love it
This historic hotel in one of Sicily’s most enchanting cities is fresh off a redesign and looks better than ever.
What to expect
Though it’s technically a four-star hotel, Palazzo Artemide is quite upscale; with rooms starting at €180, it’s a great value. If you’re looking for a seafront resort with all the bells and whistles, this isn’t the place for you, but it’s a very chic and comfortable city hotel that puts all of Ortigia’s attractions at your fingertips.
Background
Formerly called Hotel Roma, the property combines two buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century. It was recently taken over by V Retreats, which runs a handful of four- and five-star hotels in Italy, including Ca’ di Dio in Venice. A top-to-bottom renovation gave the hotel an elegant, modern design that respects the building’s character and preserves original elements like Doric columns and limestone walls.
Location, location, location
Palazzo Artemide is on Via Roma, one of the main pedestrian streets in Ortigia, the historic center of Siracusa that’s connected to the rest of the city by a couple of bridges. Right around the corner from Piazza Duomo and the Fonte Aretusa, it’s surrounded by lively restaurants, cafés and shops. You can walk everywhere on the island and can be on the beach in 20-30 minutes.
Where you'll sleep
The hotel’s 40 rooms are elegantly designed with a neutral color scheme, parquet floors, comfortable beds and navy blue velvet headboards. Mod-cons include flat-screen TVs, espresso machines, minibars and robes. My room had French doors that opened onto a small balcony overlooking Piazza Minerva as well as a desk and chair. For guests who want more space, there are suites and junior suites.
Dining and drinks
The breakfast buffet at the hotel’s sleek new Amunì restaurant has a good selection of sweet and savory items as well as eggs and pancakes available à la carte. In the evening, Amunì takes on a more elegant vibe, with low lighting and gourmet dishes inspired by Sicilian recipes and local ingredients. Ask for a table outside on Piazza Minerva. Part of the terrace is reserved for bar service.
Service notes
All the staff members I encountered were friendly and helpful. They genuinely welcomed feedback and seemed eager to know what we liked or thought could be improved.
Family perks
Kids are welcomed with teddy bears and cribs are available upon request.
You should know...
The hotel offers a variety of experiences in and around Ortigia, including a cooking class, wine tasting on Mount Etna and a ceramics workshop in Caltagirone. My husband and I loved the walking tour we did with a local guide, who regaled us with tales of Sicilian myths and legends as well as the city’s contemporary characters.
Features & amenities
- City setting
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Parking (paid)
- Spa
- Pets allowed
- Family-friendly
Contacts
Palazzo Artemide
Via Roma 66, Ortigia
Tel. +39 09311871326
Website
