<![CDATA[]]> https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/ EN Fri, 08 May 2026 12:49:00 +0200 Incomedia WebSite X5 Evo <![CDATA[The Ultimate Day Trip from Ortigia: Noto and Marzamemi Guide]]> imblog
Day Trips from Ortigia: A Day Between Noto’s Baroque and Marzamemi’s Charm

Staying in Ortigia is a magical experience, but the beauty of Southeastern Sicily is that world-class treasures are just a short drive away. If you want to combine culture, golden architecture, and a taste of authentic seaside life, the Noto + Marzamemi tour is the ultimate "must-do" during your holiday.

Here is our guide for an unforgettable day trip, starting comfortably from your holiday home in the heart of Syracuse.

Morning: Noto, the "Stone Garden" Just a 30-minute drive from Ortigia lies Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque. Rebuilt entirely after the 1693 earthquake, the city looks like a honey-colored movie set.
Top Things to See:
  • San Nicolò Cathedral: Majestic and iconic, its monumental staircase is the perfect spot for a souvenir photo.
  • Palazzo Nicolaci: Famous for its balconies adorned with lions, centaurs, and grotesque figures.
  • The Infiorata (May): If you visit in mid-May, Via Nicolaci transforms into a stunning carpet of flower petals.
Host's Tip: Before leaving, stop at Caffè Sicilia. Try the almond granita or the famous "Cappuccino Ghiacciato" by Corrado Assenza. It’s a true sensory experience.

Lunch & Afternoon: Marzamemi, the Enchanting Fishing Village Heading south for another 20 minutes, you’ll reach Marzamemi, an ancient fishing village where time seems to have stood still.
What to Do in Marzamemi:
  1. Piazza Regina Margherita: The heart of the village. The colorful chairs and old fishermen's houses make it one of the most photographed squares in Italy.
  2. The Tonnara: One of Sicily's oldest tuna processing plants, telling the thousand-year-old story of the island’s bond with the sea.
  3. Gourmet Shopping: Don’t return to Ortigia without buying red tuna bottarga or local pistachio pesto.
Where to Eat: For a sea-view lunch, look for the small restaurants overlooking the "Balata" harbor. A plate of busiate with tuna ragu and a glass of chilled Grillo wine is the best way to honor the local cuisine.

Trip Planner: Times and Distances
  • Ortigia to Noto: 30-35 mins
  • Noto to Marzamemi: 20-25 mins
  • Marzamemi to Ortigia: 45-50 mins

Why Choose Ortigia as Your Home Base? Choosing one of our holiday rentals in Ortigia means living in the beating heart of history, with the advantage of exploring the entire Val di Noto with short, easy drives.
When you return from your trip, you can leave the car behind and enjoy the evening on foot. A sunset aperitivo on Lungomare Alfeo or a gourmet dinner among the medieval alleys is the perfect end to your day. Our central location ensures you are always just steps away from the best Syracuse has to offer.
]]> Fri, 08 May 2026 10:49:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?the-ultimate-day-trip-from-ortigia--noto-and-marzamemi-guide https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/00000000B <![CDATA[Where to Stay in Ortigia: Best Areas for Your Holiday in Syracuse, Sicily]]> imblog
Where to Stay in Ortigia: A Guide to the Best Areas for Your Holiday in Syracuse

Choosing where to stay in Ortigia is one of the most important decisions to make in order to fully enjoy your holiday in Sicily. This small gem in the heart of Siracusa is a maze of historic alleys, crystal-clear sea, and baroque squares: each area has its own unique character and can completely shape your travel experience. In this guide, we’ll help you understand which area to choose and why staying in a central apartment can make all the difference.

1. Ortigia Old Town: the authentic heart
Staying in the historic center means being fully immersed in the island’s atmosphere.
Here you’ll wake up surrounded by:
  • White stone alleys
  • Flower-filled balconies
  • Small cafés and artisan shops
Just a few steps away you’ll find some of the most iconic landmarks:
  • Duomo of Syracuse
  • Fonte Aretusa
👉 Ideal for travelers who want to explore Ortigia on foot, without a car, and feel part of its history.

2. Seafront area: sunsets and relaxation
If you love sea views and sunset walks, the seafront is the perfect choice. The atmosphere here is more relaxed: the sea is always nearby, you can enjoy waterfront aperitifs, and take scenic evening strolls. It’s an ideal area for couples or travelers seeking tranquility while staying close to the center.

3. Market area: local flavors and vibrant life
Staying near the Ortigia Market means experiencing the most authentic and lively side of the island. Every morning you’ll find fresh fish, fruits, spices, and traditional Sicilian products. Perfect for guests who love cooking in their apartment and living like locals.

Hotel vs apartment in Ortigia
More and more travelers choose an apartment instead of a hotel because it offers more space and privacy, the ability to cook local ingredients, a more authentic experience, and complete freedom with schedules. Waking up with coffee prepared at home and returning in the evening to a cozy, private space makes your stay more personal and comfortable.
Why choose a holiday home in the heart of Ortigia
An apartment is not just accommodation: it is your base to experience the city. It allows you to live the island’s slow rhythm, explore without rush, and feel part of the place. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family, Ortigia becomes even more special when you have your own space to return to.
Final thoughts: the right choice for your holiday
Every area of Ortigia has something unique to offer, but the real difference lies in the type of experience you want to have. If you’re looking for freedom, authenticity, and comfort, a holiday apartment in the heart of the island is the perfect solution.

]]> Sun, 12 Apr 2026 05:30:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?where-to-stay-in-ortigia--best-areas-for-your-holiday-in-syracuse,-sicily https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/00000000A <![CDATA[The Charm of Feeling at Home in Ortigia: Why Choose a Holiday Apartment]]> imblog
The charm of feeling at home in Ortigia: why choose an apartment for your vacation

Ortigia is an island meant to be experienced slowly, wandering through its white stone alleys and the shimmering reflections of the sea. If for your next vacation you’re looking for an experience that combines independence, space, and a touch of local life, renting a holiday apartment could be the perfect choice.
Here’s why this option makes your stay in Syracuse even more special:



1. You set the pace of your vacation
Choosing a home means having no schedules. You can wake up to the aroma of coffee made in your own kitchen, enjoy a slow breakfast on the balcony, or return for an afternoon nap in the coolness of a historic building—completely on your own terms. It’s the ultimate expression of freedom while traveling.

2. Experience the flavors of the market
One of the island’s treasures is the Ortigia Street Market. Having a fully equipped kitchen allows you to turn a stroll among stalls of fresh fish, spices, and cheeses into a shared culinary experience. You can try your hand at Sicilian recipes “at home,” perhaps preparing a gourmet aperitivo with local products to enjoy at sunset.

3. Space to share and privacy
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, a home offers shared spaces where you can relax together. Having a living room to plan your day or a private terrace adds a sense of comfort and intimacy that enhances every moment spent with your loved ones.

4. Immerse yourself in local architecture
Renting an apartment in Ortigia often means staying in historic residences, with high ceilings, original flooring, or hidden courtyards. It’s a unique way to appreciate the city’s architectural details up close and feel, even for a few days, like part of its timeless beauty.
Choosing a holiday home is a different way of traveling: an experience made of small daily rituals, generous spaces, and the comforting feeling of having a welcoming “base” in the heart of one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.

Discover our availability and book your next escape to Sicily directly on our website:
]]> Sat, 11 Apr 2026 14:43:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?the-charm-of-feeling-at-home-in-ortigia--why-choose-a-holiday-apartment https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000009 <![CDATA[What to Eat in Ortigia: Best Typical Dishes & Places to Eat]]> imblog
🍝 What to Eat in Ortigia: Must-Try Typical Dishes
If you’re planning a holiday in Ortigia and wondering what to eat in Syracuse, you’ve come to the right place. Ortigia is one of the best spots in Sicily to discover true local cuisine: simple, authentic, and bursting with flavor. From fresh granita to soft brioche, this guide will show you the typical dishes of Ortigia, what to order in restaurants, and the specialties you absolutely cannot miss.


🔑 Why Eating in Ortigia is a Unique Experience
Dining in Ortigia isn't just about a list of dishes; it’s an experience:
Fresh local ingredients
  • Authentic Sicilian traditions
  • Restaurants with sea views
  • Iconic street food
    👉 Here, food is culture

🥘 1. Pasta alla Norma (The Symbol of Sicily)
One of the most famous dishes you’ll find in Ortigia is Pasta alla Norma.
Ingredients: Fried eggplant (aubergine), tomato sauce, and salted ricotta cheese.
  • A classic Sicilian tradition—simple yet incredibly flavorful.




🐟 2. Fresh Catch of the Day
Being right on the sea, Ortigia is the perfect place to enjoy ultra-fresh fish.
Among the most requested dishes:
Grilled fish
  • Fried calamari
  • Raw seafood platters (Crudo di mare)

🍊 3. Sicilian Arancini
Arancini (or arancine) are an absolute must.
Common fillings include:
Ragù (meat sauce)
  • Butter and ham
  • Spinach
  • Pistachio
    👉 The perfect snack while strolling through the alleys of Ortigia.



🍨 4. Granita and Brioche
The quintessential Sicilian breakfast.
Flavors to try:
Pistachio
  • Almond
  • Lemon
  • Coffee
    👉 One of the most beloved experiences for anyone visiting Ortigia.



🍰 5. Typical Sicilian Desserts
In Ortigia, you simply must try:
Sicilian Cannoli
  • Cassata
  • Pistachio sweets



🍷 6. Wine and Local Products
Pair your meal with:
Local Sicilian wines
  • Traditional cheeses
  • Regional produce
    👉 The best way to end a perfect day.

📍 Where to Eat in Ortigia
The best areas are:
Near Piazza Duomo
  • Along the seafront (Lungomare)
  • Hidden in the historic center's alleys

🏡 Experience Ortigia at Its Best
After a day of authentic flavors, sea, and walks through the historic center, your choice of accommodation makes all the difference.

👉 Staying in a vacation home in Ortigia allows you to:
Live in the heart of the historic center
  • Reach restaurants and attractions on foot
  • Enjoy more space and comfort than a hotel
  • Completely immerse yourself in the local atmosphere
    ✨ Waking up just steps from the sea and Ortigia’s best restaurants is part of the experience.
Discover our vacation home in Ortigia and enjoy an authentic stay in the heart of Syracuse.

]]> Sun, 29 Mar 2026 15:42:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?what-to-eat-in-ortigia--best-typical-dishes---places-to-eat https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000008 <![CDATA[Ortigia Market Guide: Flavors and Stay at holiday houses Syracuse]]> imblog
ORTIGIA MARKET: WHERE SICILY CAPTURES YOUR HEART
If there is a place in Syracuse where time is not measured by clocks, but by the rhythmic cries of the vendors, it is the Ortigia Market. A theater of flavors just steps from the Temple of Apollo, where the true soul of the island comes to life every morning.

A WAKE-UP CALL FOR THE SENSES
Strolling through the stalls is more than just shopping; it is a total immersion. You will find the bright red of sun-dried cherry tomatoes, the pungent scent of wild oregano, and the silver of swordfish just unloaded from the boats. And then there is the sound: "u vanniu." The rhythmic chants of the merchants praising their goods are an ancient music that draws you into the heart of Sicilian tradition.

[image:image-0]

STOP FOR A BITE
You cannot say you have been to the market without a tactical food stop. Whether it is the legendary "show" sandwich from Caseificio Borderi, or a fresh oyster opened on the spot with a glass of chilled white wine, street food here is an art form.

THE REAL LUXURY? BRINGING THE MARKET HOME
This is where the difference between being a simple tourist and living Ortigia like a local begins. In a hotel, the market is just a beautiful postcard to look at. By choosing the hospitality of holidahy houses, the market becomes your personal pantry.
Whether your base is the "Piazzetta" apartment (a favorite among our online guests), the romantic "Nuvole," or the historic "Rosone," you will enjoy the privilege of:
Total freedom: Prepare an aperitif on your own table with local delicacies, with no schedules.
  • Authentic flavors: Having a real kitchen to cook fresh fish following the fisherman’s advice.
  • Living like a local: You are no longer just a spectator, but an inhabitant of the island

[image:image-1]

QUICK TIPS FOR THE EXPLORER
Ideal time: 11:00 AM, when the market is at its peak.
  • What to look for: Avola almonds, Pantelleria capers, and the legendary pistachio cheese.
  • Sunday: Remember, the market rests. Take the opportunity for a refreshing stroll along the seafront!

Experience Ortigia. Taste it. Feel at home in our residences.
]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:58:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?ortigia-market-guide--flavors-and-stay-at-holiday-houses-syracuse https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000007 <![CDATA[5 things you need to know before visiting Ortigia]]> imblog
🏝️ 5 things you need to know before visiting Ortigia (complete guide)
If you’re planning a trip to Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse, this guide will help you make the most of your experience.
Ortigia is one of the most fascinating destinations in Sicily: crystal-clear sea, baroque architecture, charming alleys, and unforgettable sunsets.
Before you go, however, there are a few important things to know.

📍 1. Ortigia is an island (and the best place to stay)
Many travelers don’t know that Ortigia is a small island connected to the mainland by two bridges.
Here you’ll find:
  • the historic center
  • the main attractions
  • restaurants and local spots
    👉 Staying in Ortigia means truly experiencing the authentic atmosphere of your vacation.
[image:image-0]

🚶‍♀️ 2. The historic center is best explored on foot
Most of the island is a ZTL (limited traffic zone), which makes the experience:
✅ more relaxing
✅ more romantic
✅ safer

For this reason, choosing a vacation home in the center of Ortigia is the ideal solution:
you can reach everything on foot without stress.
Guests staying in our vacation homes are provided with a ZTL access pass.

[image:image-1]


☀️ 3. The best time to visit Ortigia
The climate is typically Mediterranean:
🌸 spring → perfect for sightseeing
☀️ summer → ideal for the sea
🍂 autumn → less crowded and very charming
🌤️ winter → mild and quiet
The best months for a balanced vacation are May, June, September, and October.

🍽️ 4. Food in Ortigia is amazing
The area is famous for:
  • very fresh fish
  • traditional Sicilian cuisine
  • local markets
  • street food
In high season, it’s always advisable to book restaurants in advance.

[image:image-2]


🌅 5. Staying in Ortigia makes your vacation unique
Those who visit Ortigia only for a day miss out on its true magic.
In the evening, in fact:
✨ the island becomes quieter
✨ the squares light up
✨ the sea offers spectacular sunsets
Choosing a vacation home in the heart of Ortigia allows you to enjoy:
  • breakfasts among historic alleys
  • evening walks along the waterfront
  • an authentic and relaxing experience
👉 It’s the ideal choice for couples, families, and travelers who want to discover the real Sicily.
⭐ Where to stay in Ortigia
If you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in a strategic location,
a vacation home in the historic center is the perfect solution to explore the island without a car and enjoy every moment of your stay.
]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:32:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?5-things-you-need-to-know-before-visiting-ortigia https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000006 <![CDATA[Ortigia in One Day: Walking Itinerary Starting from Our Apartments]]> imblog
Ortigia in One Day: Walking Itinerary Starting from Our Apartments 🚶‍♀️✨
Only 24 hours to discover the magic of Syracuse? Don’t worry! If you stay in our apartments at Il Rosone, you are already in the heart of the island. Forget about your car (which you’ve already left at the Talete car park, just 100 metres away!) and get ready to explore Ortigia on foot with this carefully tested itinerary.

09:00 – Awakening Your Senses at Ortigia Market
Step out of our holiday homes and within 2 minutes you’ll be immersed in the colours and scents of the Mercato Antico. This is where the heart of the city beats.
Our tip: Stop for a quick breakfast with a Sicilian granita and brioche while admiring the fresh fish stalls. It’s the perfect spot for your first photos!



10:30 – Temple of Apollo and Corso Matteotti
Just a few steps from the market, you’ll find the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the oldest in Sicily. From here, walk along Corso Matteotti, the shopping street, which will lead you to the centre of the island.

11:30 – Piazza Duomo: The White-Stone Lounge
Continue until you reach Piazza Duomo. The view will take your breath away: the white stone reflects sunlight, creating a magical atmosphere. Visit the Duomo and the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia to admire the Caravaggio masterpiece.


13:00 – Picnic at Cala Rossa: Lunch and a Quick Dip 🏖️
For lunch, we suggest a truly local experience.
Pick up a sandwich or a takeaway platter from the market stalls (such as the famous Borderi).
Where to go? Head to Cala Rossa beach, just a 10-minute walk from our apartments. Descend the steps to this charming pebble cove nestled between ancient walls.
Total relaxation: Enjoy your picnic while gazing at the turquoise sea and, if the season allows, take a refreshing swim. It’s the most authentic way to recharge before continuing your tour!



15:30 – Fountain of Arethusa and Lungomare Alfeo
After relaxing at Cala Rossa, walk to the Fountain of Arethusa, where the myth of Arethusa and Alpheus was born, and see the wild papyrus growing along the water.



17:00 – Castello Maniace
Reach the tip of the island to visit the imposing Castello Maniace. From here, the view of the open sea is endless.

19:00 – Sunset at the Marina
Stop to admire the sunset at Marina di Ortigia. It’s the most magical moment to see the sky turn orange as you head back home.



20:30 – Dinner and Return to the Apartment
After a dinner of fresh seafood in the alleys of Ortigia, it’s just a few steps back to the warmth of your apartment, surrounded by wooden beams and exposed stone.

Want to experience Ortigia exactly like this itinerary?
Stay in our apartments and have all the beauty of Syracuse (and Cala Rossa beach!) right at your doorstep.
👉 [Check availability at www.ilrosone.com]

24 Hours Aren’t Enough? Here’s Why You Should Stay at Least 3 Nights
If you think Ortigia is “just a stroll,” think again. Staying a few more days at our apartments allows you to enjoy experiences that the rushed tourist misses:
Day 2: The Breath of History and the Wild Sea
  • Morning: Spend half a day at the Neapolis Archaeological Park. The Ear of Dionysius and the Greek Theatre are just 20 minutes on foot (or 5 by shuttle) from our apartments.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat from the pier (near Talete) for a tour of the sea caves. Seeing Ortigia from the water at sunset, with a glass of Sicilian white wine in hand, will transform your holiday.
Day 3: Total Relaxation and Baroque Nearby
  • Morning: Enjoy Fontane Bianche beach or the Plemmirio marine area. With your car parked near Il Rosone, paradise is just 15 minutes away.
  • Afternoon: Take a trip to Noto, the Baroque capital, only 30 minutes by car. Return in the evening to enjoy the peaceful alleys of “Graziella” once the day-trippers are gone.

The Advantage of “Living Ortigia” at Our Holiday Homes
Staying longer allows you to:
  • Cook like a local: Buy fresh swordfish at the market and cook it in your fully equipped kitchen under original wooden beams.
  • Experience the night: Ortigia after 11:00 pm transforms. It becomes magical, lit by ancient street lamps. A nighttime stroll before returning to your apartment is an unforgettable experience.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:22:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?ortigia-in-one-day--walking-itinerary-starting-from-our-apartments https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000005 <![CDATA[Where to park in Ortigia without stress]]> imblog
Are you dreaming of your stay in Ortigia? 🌊✨
Imagine the sound of the sea, the scent of the market and the timeless charm of the Cathedral. There’s just one small obstacle that worries every traveller: parking.

You will be able to drive through the electronic gates with your car, unload your luggage comfortably in front of the apartment, and then go and park without the risk of receiving fines.
During the week, it is usually active from 8:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Contact us and we will suggest the closest options to our apartments.



Once you leave your car, forget about it! Ortigia is best experienced by getting lost in its charming alleys. Everything you need — restaurants, the sea and monuments — is just a few steps from your door.
Book your stay now at www.ilrosone.com and we will send you the exact directions for a stress-free arrival! ✨
On the island, traffic is restricted and fines can ruin the start of your holiday. But don’t worry! In this guide, we explain exactly where to leave your car so you can reach our holiday homes in total relaxation.

1. Arrive without worries 🚗
The first thing to know is that you don’t need to fear the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone). In fact, we provide an authorised access pass for all our guests.
What does this mean?
Most of the island of Ortigia is a restricted traffic area. At the entrance to the bridge, you will see electronic displays:
  • 🔴 RED (ZTL Active): Access is reserved for residents and authorised pass holders.
  • 🟢 GREEN (ZTL Not Active): Free access.
Timetables change frequently. Generally, the ZTL is active on weekends and public holidays from the morning, while on weekdays it starts in the late afternoon.

2. The best parking solutions 🅿️
Talete Car Park (The closest option)
This is the largest public car park, located right at the entrance to the island (east side).
  • Unbeatable proximity: Only 100 metres from our apartments. You can forget about your car for the entire holiday and pick it up only when you decide to explore the surroundings of Syracuse.
  • Rates: About €1.50 per hour or €15.00 for the whole day.
  • Advantage: You are already in Ortigia.
  • Payment: You can use parking meters or the convenient EasyPark app.
Outdoor Blue-Line Parking (Next to Talete)
If you prefer outdoor parking, right next to the Talete car park you will find a large paid parking area with blue lines.
  • Rates: Municipal rates allow safe parking just a few steps from the heart of “Graziella”, the neighbourhood where our holiday homes are located.
  • How to pay: Very easy. You will find automatic ticket machines in the parking area. Simply display the ticket on your dashboard.
Molo Sant’Antonio Car Park
Located on the mainland, just before the bridge.
  • Rates: Similar to Talete (€1.50 per hour or €15.00 per 24 hours).
  • Advantage: You avoid driving into the island’s traffic and are only a 5-minute walk from Umbertino Bridge.

Private Car Parks and Garages
If you prefer a covered and monitored parking space, several private garages (such as Garage Ortigia or La Mesa garage) allow advance booking.

3. How to find free parking 💡
White-line parking spaces are rare but not impossible to find and are located outside the island.
Try along Viale Montedoro or in the streets near Corso Umberto.
Remember:
  • White lines = Free
  • Blue lines = Paid
  • Yellow lines = Residents only (Absolutely to be avoided!)


4. Once parked: Welcome to our holiday homes! 🏡
If you have heavy luggage or prefer not to walk, you can use the electric shuttle service (Sais). It circles the island every 10–20 minutes and stops at the main points.
Our insider tip:
Would you like to receive our personalised map via WhatsApp? 📲
]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:03:00 GMT https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/?prova https://www.ilrosone.com/ENG/blog/rss/000000004