Thanks for the input on my potential Sicily itinerary I posted recently, so helpful!
The other question I have is about accommodation locations in Taormina and Ortigia. Looking for ‘pros and cons’, not what is best, as I know that is subjective. Starting with Taormina, I’ve noticed that many of the hotels seem to be up in town. I want to mention that we love water (not lie on the beach people, but just love water, looking at water, and will hopefully be at least taking a swim in both locations). I’ve got a set of apartments on my radar, Residence Schuler, that is a little northwest of the Duomo di Taormina, but as with other hotels, is high above the water, but does have nice terrace views. I’ve also got a couple apartments I’ve found, that are near the cable car, closer to the water, with a view of Mazzaro Bay, with terraces. So pros and cons of staying up in/around town or closer to the water near the cable car?
In Ortigia, the east side seems to be calling me, right on the water. Found an apartment that is .2 miles from the Cathedral, at Serafino Pritera 15 (looks like it’s near where the ‘tail’ of Ortigia starts). Another is further north on the island, seems to be just south of Largo Bastione Santa Croce. Both have nice terraces/balconies overlooking the water. Wanted to know if any might be too far away from seeing the rest of the island and Syracusa (would want to see the Greek Theatre, Ear of Dionysius, etc)? Plan is to already have stayed in Ragusa and seen a couple other Baroque towns, maybe take a day trip to Noto from here but otherwise probably staying around Syracusa during this part of the trip.
Thanks for your input!