Syracuse

Built in the early 1800s in liberty style, the Grand Hotel Ortigia, located on the island of Ortigia, overlooks the picturesque and historic Syracuse harbor. — Star Service

On Ortygia's eastern shore, this hotel, in an unusual twist, is owned by Ursuline nuns, who help to make the mood placid and peaceful—but the elegant accommodations are far from monastic. — Fodor's

In summer, meals at this attractive restaurant are served outdoors in front of the large ramparts that protect the island from the sea. — Michelin Guide

This historic luxury hotel in central Ortygia faces a sandy beach. The hotel has two restaurants, one with a view of the coast and the other with a roof garden for alfresco dining. — DK Eyewitness

The classic four-pearl Grand Hotel Villa Politi is a striking property that's aging gracefully, set along the edge of one of Syracuse’s famed archaeological sites. — Oyster

Full of the charm its name promises, the Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel is a welcoming boutique hotel on an historic seafront square in the heart of Syracuse's Citta Vecchia. — Oyster

The tranquil retreat of lemon groves and orchards lies 9km (5 1/2 miles) from the center of Syracuse along SP14 Mare-Monti. — Frommer's

Bedrooms are well furnished and exceedingly spacious, with antique reproductions and in some cases 19th-century beautifully frescoed ceilings. — Frommer's

Charme Hotel Henry's House is a lovingly restored 17th-century palazzo that's near the waterfront on ancient Ortigia Island. — Oyster

This converted old palazzo lies right in the historic center of Ortygia. It's the best B&B in the area, drawing young people, often backpackers, from all over the world. — Frommer's

This former school for nuns has been transformed into an elegant, comfortable hotel. It has huge rooms with sea views and balconies, and the toffee-coloured bathrooms are sizable too. — Lonely Planet

The larger apartment is utterly decadent, with luxurious sofas, king-size bed, dining table, precious artworks...smaller apartment features floor-to-ceiling artwork and a romantic four-poster bed. — Lonely Planet

This Mediterranean-style hotel lies 2km (1 1/4 miles) from the center in a rather tranquil residential area, so if you want to get around, you definitely need a car. — Frommer's

Previously the Bellavista, this modern design hotel lies in the commercial center, close to the archaeological zone. — Frommer's

Belonging to the same owners as Palazzo del Sale, Giuggiulena is a chic, but friendly and relaxed B&B in a clifftop villa, along the eastern seafront of Siracusa, and ideal for families. — Rough Guide

This small hotel, not far from the historic core, is one of the city's best bargains. — Frommer's

This elegant historic two-storey building on the harbour channel has a roof terrace fragrant with jasmine and bougainvillea... Some rooms have balconies overlooking the harbour. — DK Eyewitness

A magnificent Mussolini-era post office transformed into an opulent light-flooded palace commanding the bridge that crosses from the town of Syracuse to the island of Ortigia. — The Telegraph