Syracuse

Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Pantalica, was a major center of the ancient Greek world and the birthplace of Archimedes. Today its S-shaped Isle of Ortigia (Città Vecchia) remains the city’s beating heart, filled with layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Norman and Baroque influence.

Top Things to Do

Ortigia Island & Piazza Duomo

Wander through charming alleyways, visit the stunning Baroque Duomo, built over a Greek temple with remaining Doric columns visible, and admire the elegant square contrasting classical and Baroque architecture. Nearby, the Fonte Arethusa spring hosts papyrus plants—one of only two spots in Europe where they thrive naturally.

Neapolis Archaeological Park

A vast complex housing the well-preserved Greek Theatre, massive Roman Amphitheatre, the mysterious Ear of Dionysius, and Latomiae (ancient stone quarries)—all testaments to Syracuse’s classical heritage.

Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

Housed in a beautiful Palladian villa, this is one of Europe’s foremost archaeological museums showcasing artifacts from prehistoric to Byzantine times. 

Catacombs of San Giovanni & Hypogeum

Descend into the underground passages of the early Christian Catacombe di San Giovanni, and explore the Ipogeotunnels beneath Piazza Duomo that once sheltered residents during WWII. 

Maniace Castle & Temple of Apollo

Visit the dramatic seaside Castello Maniace on Ortigia and see the Temple of Apollo, Sicily’s oldest Doric temple, located at the water’s edge.

Eat & Drink

• Signature dishes:

  • Spaghetti alla siracusana — spaghetti with anchovies and fried breadcrumbs, a local specialty. 

  • Sicilian classics: pasta alla Norma, caponata, pasta bottarga e nocciole, and fresh seafood like zuppa di pesce.

• Where to eat:

  • Osteria Bazan: local favorites like pasta alla Siracusana in a family-run spot.

  • Paninoteca da Antonio e Daniele: street food-style panini and snacks.

  • Bar Gelateria Bianca: perfect for gelato or pre-dinner drinks. 

  • Area M (seaside terrace), Cortile Verga (charming courtyard), and Mercato street stalls for arancini, fried pasta snacks, and glimpses of daily life. 

 Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Late spring through early October is ideal. Attend the ancient Greek theatre festival in May–July. Summers are warm but tempered by coastal breezes. 

• Getting there & around: Accessible via train or bus from Catania (~70 km) or direct intercity services. Park on the mainland as the ZTL restricts driving on Ortigia. Use public garages or hotel parking. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly. 

• Local vibe: Relaxed and sociable—locals gather in squares and nightlife in Ortigia is vibrant. Markets and cafés reflect the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Where to Stay & Recommended Areas

• Ortigia Island: Best for atmosphere and walking access to Duomo, waterfront dining, and nightlife.

• Mainland Siracusa: More budget-friendly with easy walking access to Ortigia via bridges.

• Countryside or Nature Retreats: Ideal for exploring Fontane Bianche beach, Cavagrande Nature Reserve, or nearby Val di Noto towns like Noto, Ragusa, and Modica.