Short break in Syracuse

Great to see Syracuse included as one of 20 recommended destinations in the Telegraph’s recent round-up of perfect places for a long weekend. With more flexible working available for many, and the welcome arrival of summer bank holidays, it’s easier than ever to add an extra day to make that weekend away last even longer.

Significantly less crowded than some of Italy’s other hotspots such as Florence, Venice and Rome, and crammed with impressive sights, Syracuse ticks plenty of boxes for a weekend away. You’ll easily find enough to do to fill a couple of days, but this is also a city for simply wandering and watching. Stroll through the narrow lanes and alleyways in the historic centre of Ortigia, visit the city’s Mercato di Ortigia and sneak a lazy afternoon in the sun on one of the city’s seafront sunbathing platforms or at a local beach. And as an extra bonus, the city is just a one-hour transfer from Catania airport.

Wish Sicily offers several accommodation options in the city, including Stella in Ortigia and Casa a Ortigia, both located in the heart of the ancient city centre. For a beachfront stay with easy access to Syracuse, Villa Renata is a 5-bedroom villa overlooking the beach at Fontane Bianche.