Ortigia Island – Hotel Review, Palazzo Blanco

I would not call myself a “luxury traveller,” nevertheless, I know that treating oneself is good for the mind, soul, and heart, so occasionally I like to “take the edge off.” My first experience with a luxury holiday was at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and from then on I promised to treat myself more often. This is why when I came across this particular boutique Hotel in Ortigia, I didn’t turn the chance down. Yes, we had the privilege of spending one night at the Palazzo Blanco Boutique Hotel in the city centre of Ortigia, located next to the Maniace Castello, and I wish it would have been longer.

• 

Palazzo Blanco’s main entrance is on via Maniace and just two minutes away from the historical main square of the town. It was a 17th-century palace with a wonderful courtyard, most probably designed by the famous architect Giovanni Vermexio.

Max, the front desk agent who checked us in, was very pleasant. He greeted us with a warm smile and took us to our room.

I couldn’t believe my eyes when Max opened the door for us! You know how when something incredible happens and in an instant you are amazed, shocked, and filled with disbelief? Exactly that happened to me! Such tasteful décor!!! It felt fresh and modern mixed together with classic, and slightly artsy-chic. It had a homey feel but at the same time, it had all the class and standards of a high-quality hotel. It was a kind of open space where hall, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom areas were gracefully designed with fine artisan furnishings.

• 

Everything we needed was provided for, including the Nespresso coffee machine! The accommodation was spacious, perfectly located, and extremely beautiful. We couldn’t stop admiring and it was impossible to not appreciate the love used to realise every single corner of the house. At the top of our house was a magic doorway which opened towards the beach at Via Lungomare Alfeo. It was a sea view accommodation in Ortigia. A cup of tea in the morning or a glass of wine at sunset with the sea so close really had another value.

I came to know through Max that the compound has two accommodations: Palazzo Blanco and Palazzo Blanco Suite. He also said that the second one doesn’t have a door straight to the Lungomare Alfeo, since it had a small garden in between. Upon request to the owner, guests could even use the wonderful terrace.

• 

Alessandro and I were curious to meet the man behind the stunning interiors and designs. We met him the day after. His name is Cesare and he is from Milan. Unfortunately, the time spent with him was really short. To be honest, I haven’t been able to capture his personality but I can say that he has a big talent in creating art without spoiling the original environment. He has several other vacation rentals in Sicily and we also stayed in the Casa Antica Grotta in Modica.

• 

Now, there are two points that you should consider before reserving the Palazzo Blanco sea view accommodation in Ortigia. Due to Ortigia´s traffic restrictions, you will have to park your vehicle some distance away from the hotel. We left ours in Talete Garage and from there we took a cab. Yes, it costs a little, but an average fareshouldn’t exceed € 10.00. This is a perfect option, especially if you are travelling with kids or luggage.

My second piece of advice is mosquito repellent; take it with you as a precaution. It was in October that we were in Ortigia but still, the weather was warm and humid. We had to buy some to avoid being eaten alive.

• 

I hope I have given you enough details to fully appreciate how special it is to stay in this hotel in Syracuse. Palazzo Blanco is romantic for couples and ideal for solo travelers but at the same time it is also family friendly. The environment of elegant and subtle luxury together with extremely friendly service will ensure your stay is exceptional and unforgettable.

Let me also say that it couldn’t have been better positioned for beachfront views, restaurants, and city centre access. I wish you could spend at least a day in Palazzo Blanco with your loved ones. As for us, returning would really be a dream.