The 17th-century Lanza Tomasi Palace, facing the seafront, is the home of Duke Gioacchino Lanza Tomasi, the adopted son of Prince Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, author of one of the greatest works of modern Italian literature, The Leopard. The gracious duke and his charming wife, Nicoletta, have converted 12 apartments of their palazzo to short-stay apartments, filling them with family pieces and all the modern conveniences, including full kitchens and, a traveler’s dream come true, washing machines. Apartments have one or two bedrooms; some have sea views and terraces, some are multilevel, and all have beautiful hardwood or tile floors and other detailing. The duchess also offers cooking classes, and she, the duke, and their hospitable assistants are on hand to provide a wealth of advice to help you get the most out of their beloved Palermo.