Palazzo Artemide - VRetreats, an SLH Hotel

My family of seven only spent 2 days at this magnificent hotel and they made us feel like we were at home. Everyone was superb! The atmosphere was friendly and clean, and always smelled incredible! The rooms were beautiful and very well kept. Such a luxurious hotel in a beautiful quaint city. We felt like we were part of the town. Even at 11pm the town was vibrant, safe and family friendly! The hotel even helped us book our boat tour with the company Siraku! Another wonderful experience with our skipper DARIO! My only complaint is that we didn’t stay longer! If we are ever fortunate enough to come back to Ortigia this will definitely be our stay of choice.

We had a wonderful stay at VRetreats Palazzo Artemide. The location is perfect right in the center of Ortigia and within walking distance of the Duomo restaurants the waterfront and all the main sights. The building is beautiful and full of historic character while still feeling comfortable and well maintained.

The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Our room was clean quiet and comfortable with a great bed and excellent air conditioning which was especially appreciated during the Sicilian summer heat. The breakfast had a good selection and was a great way to start the day.

We would happily stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Syracuse and Ortigia.

WOW. Every member of staff we met were so helpful., but special mention for the two on reception who were fantastic and Giuseppe and Laura in the restaurant. The housekeeper was also helpful and room serviced beautifully. The hotel is lovely and in fabulous position, outdoor terrace fab. and quite romantic in the evenings. Please try the lobster linguine, delicious. Breakfast was amazing but the most pleasing memory for me the are the staff, the setting and the room. Only there for 3 nights but already looking to rebook - can’t wait!!!

Had the most amazing stay in this beautiful hotel. Perfect location and the staff were second to none, friendly ,polite and an absolute credit . The rooms were spotless and cleaned daily.
Thank you all , we will definitely be returning 🤍🤍

The property and location are great - really needs a pool for the hot summer time. The staff are very helpful and attentive. Overall great place!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Ortigia

From the moment I arrived, the experience was exceptional. The valet parking service was fantastic, and the entire team went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. Every staff member I met was genuinely warm, professional, and eager to help.

The only small challenge was finding the hotel by car. I didn’t realise that Via Roma is a pedestrian street that guests are permitted to drive down to access the hotel, so I spent a little time navigating before arriving. Once I knew that, everything was easy.

The location is absolutely perfect—right in the heart of beautiful Ortigia, with everything within walking distance. The hotel itself is elegant, comfortable, and a wonderful base for exploring Syracuse.

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing staff for making my stay so memorable.

I will definitely be back. Highly recommended! 🇮🇹✨

Fantastic hotel, so clean and welcoming.
Situated perfectly. Would recommend and definitely will be returning.
Stayed in superior room and the most beautiful view.

The hotel was very nice and in a great location.
Staff were welcoming and friendly.
Gorgeous hotel.

I missed one day due to the Etna volcano, wish I had had more time to see around. The hotel was very cleaned and neat!
The historical center is a masterpiece!
I want to thank Andres. He helped me to get to the hotel even when my flight was cancelled. I did not get to see him, but I must highlight his professionalism for being interested in us.
Go and check by yourselves. The island is a beauty.

Tutto

Good location, cleanness, comfortable.

Experienced traveler and hotel/restaurant critic.

Staying at Palazzo Artemide felt like being in a season of "The White Lotus" (for a fraction of the cost).

Palazzo Artemide (a historic hotel, recently updated by VRetreats and featured in the Michelin Guide) easily lives up to its title of "a Member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World" (SLH). The attention to detail and elegance of this hotel truly blew me away.

Feel free to read all the way through (for an in-depth review) or scroll to the bottom for my main points.

Atmosphere:
Palazzo Artemide fully understands and executes the vibe of "understated luxury," offering an elegant, tranquil, and authentic Sicilian experience. Historic details were preserved throughout the property, while modern design elements were thoughtfully incorporated to create a stay that felt both timeless and luxurious. Stepping into Palazzo Artemide felt like stepping into Sicilian history, with its beautiful stonework, historic arches, and timeless architectural details.

Rooms:
Rooms were very spacious, elegant (in accordance with the rest of the hotel), and SPOTLESS, which matters most to me (as a bit of a germaphobe). The beds were incredibly comfortable, with quality linens and even a pillow menu offered. Premium toiletries were offered, including facial cleansing milk and beard cream.

Location:
Palazzo Artemide sits in the heart of Ortigia, right along Via Roma, a charming stone street filled with authentic Sicilian shops, bakeries, and art galleries. It is merely steps away from the Ionian Sea and the island's most treasured historical landmarks, including the Duomo di Siracusa and the Temple of Athena. And once inside the hotel, no noise from the outside could be heard, allowing for a peaceful slumber. The location couldn't be better.

Service:
Our luxurious experience began prior to walking through the doors (thanks to the staff). Fabrizio warmly greeted us outside and immediately helped us with our bags. At check-in, fruit-infused water was waiting for us, and we received a complimentary room upgrade. Throughout our stay, every staff member went above and beyond (with enthusiasm) to make us feel welcome at all times. We were treated with genuine kindness and respect.

Food:
Palazzo Artemide offers a premium dining experience in its restaurant, Amunì. There is no better way to start the day than breakfast at Amunì, which offers a serene, resort-like experience, overlooking the peaceful, sun-kissed Piazza Minerva. As I sipped my espresso and watched the shop owners on Via Rome prepare for the day, I was reminded of the tranquility that a slow morning brings. I had the opportunity to try both the à la carte breakfast menu and the breakfast buffet. Both are an excellent option. If you choose to go with an à la carte breakfast, I recommend the "Uovo alla Benedict" (Benedict Fried Egg) and the nocciola-filled crepe. And the breakfast buffet offered a DELICIOUS nocciola-filled croissant (which tends to run out quickly, due to its popularity). The only thing I wish to note is that the savory items offered at the buffet were a bit lackluster. I'd love to see some more variety in the future.

Main Points:
- Historic Sicilian Charm Meets Understated Luxury
- Ideally Located in the Heart of Ortigia
- Spacious, Spotless, Elegant Rooms with Premium Toiletries and Thoughtful Details
- Warm Hospitality from an Exceptional Team

I always say, "it's in the details." And DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS. Palazzo Artemide excels at the details. From the pillow menu in the room to the "Buon Giorno" written on our cappuccinos at breakfast, every element felt intentional.

Palazzo Artemide clearly understands what it means to give guests a "five-star experience," which is amplified by the hotel's ideal location. If you're staying in Ortigia, definitely check it out. This is the hotel to beat.

Ubicación

The standard of hotel really good and could not be in a better position in Ortagia.

Beautiful hotel right in the center town. Everything within walking distance. Fantastic breakfast staff . Great restaurant choices.A little treaty if you’re driving there but staff was right there to help.
Would definitely stay there again.

Ralph and Maria

Very big room and bed. Super gentle staff

Location

Great place. Loved it. Best place to stay!