Syracuse Ortigia - Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better
5.0714 reviews3h
from €52
Check availabilityDaily budget (mid-range)
€167
Hotel per night (mid-range)
€110
Best months
April to June
Language · Currency
Italian · Euro
Discover Syracuse
Syracuse isn't just another Italian city; it's a living palimpsest where 2,700 years of history are etched into every stone. Walk the same limestone streets where Archimedes pondered mathematics and where Greek tragedies premiered in a theatre that still hosts performances today. The heart of the city is Ortigia, a tiny island connected by bridges, where Baroque palazzi rise above a labyrinth of alleys leading to the sea, and the Duomo is spectacularly built within the shell of a 5th-century BC Temple of Athena.
Beyond the postcard-perfect Ortigia, the Neapolis Archaeological Park sprawls across the mainland, offering an unparalleled journey into antiquity. Here, you can stand in the vast Greek Theatre, whisper into the acoustically perfect Ear of Dionysius cave, and trace the outlines of ancient Roman amphitheaters. This unique fusion of a vibrant, lived-in island community with some of the Mediterranean's most significant ruins creates an atmosphere found nowhere else, where the past is not behind glass but woven into the fabric of daily Sicilian life.
Why Visit Syracuse?
1
Step into the heart of Magna Graecia at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to one of the world's largest and best-preserved Greek Theatres, the eerie acoustics of the Ear of Dionysius cave, and the sprawling Roman Amphitheatre.
2
Get lost in the atmospheric maze of Ortigia Island, where every turn reveals a Baroque fountain, a hidden courtyard, a sun-drenched piazza like Piazza Duomo, and the mythical freshwater spring of Arethusa with its papyrus plants.
3
Experience a unique architectural marvel at the Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo), where the Doric columns of a 5th-century BC Greek temple were incorporated into the structure of a stunning Baroque church facade.
4
Follow in the footsteps of genius by visiting sites associated with Archimedes, including the alleged location of his tomb in the Grotticelli Necropolis and the fountain named in his honor on Ortigia.
5
Indulge in exceptional seafood straight from the Ionian Sea, from fresh swordfish rolls (involtini di pesce spada) and pasta with sea urchin (pasta ai ricci) to savoring a sunset aperitivo with views of the Porto Grande.
6
Discover the rare craft of papyrus production, a legacy of Syracuse's ancient Egyptian connections, at the Museo del Papiro and see the plants growing wild at the Fonte Aretusa.
Syracuse is Known For
Greek ruins
Ortigia
Archimedes
papyrus
seafood
Ready to explore Syracuse?
Syracuse Neighborhoods
Ortigia (Isola di Ortigia)
The historic and beating heart of Syracuse, this compact island is a dense tapestry of Baroque architecture, ancient ruins, and vibrant maritime life. Its labyrinthine alleyways open onto stunning piazzas and panoramic seafront promenades.
Highlights:
Piazza Duomo & Syracuse Cathedral
Fonte Aretusa (Spring of Arethusa)
Castello Maniace
Tempio di Apollo
Mercato di Ortigia (morning fish market)
Foro Italico seafront walk
Best for:
First-time visitors
Photographers
Foodies
Romantic getaways
History buffs
Neapolis (Archaeological Zone)
This area is dominated by the vast Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, an open-air museum of ancient wonders. The surrounding neighborhood is more modern and residential, offering easy access to the ruins.
Highlights:
Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco)
Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio)
Roman Amphitheatre (Anfiteatro Romano)
Latomia del Paradiso (stone quarries)
Altar of Hieron II
Best for:
Archaeology enthusiasts
History lovers
Families with older children
Guided tour takers
Acradina
A bustling, authentic residential and commercial district connecting Ortigia to the mainland and the train station. It's less touristy, full of local shops, cafes, and provides a glimpse of everyday Syracusan life.
Highlights:
San Giovanni Catacombs
Santuario della Madonna delle Lacrime
Via Malta shopping street
Local bakeries and pasticcerie
Viale Paolo Orsi
Best for:
Travelers on a budget
Local culture seekers
Shoppers looking for non-touristy goods
Travelers using public transport
Tyche
A northern district known for its archaeological museum and university vibe. It's greener and more spacious, home to important museums and parks, offering a quieter alternative to the city center.
Highlights:
Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum
Museo del Papiro
Villa Landolina park
Catacombs of Vigna Cassia
University of Catania (Syracuse campus)
Best for:
Museum goers
Students
Travelers seeking quiet
Those with extra time to delve deeper
Top Attractions
1
Ortigia Island2
Greek Theatre3
Ear of Dionysius4
Duomo5
Fountain of Arethusa6
Archaeological ParkTop tours and experiences in Syracuse
The tours and tickets travellers book most, with ratings and reviews from Viator.
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Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Buy a combined ticket for the Archaeological Park, Paolo Orsi Museum, and other sites to save money. It's valid for two consecutive days.
- •Visit the Ortigia fish market (Mercato di Ortigia) in the morning for the freshest catch and an authentic, bustling sensory experience.
- •For the best photos of the Duomo and Piazza Duomo, go early in the morning before the tour buses arrive or late in the afternoon for golden hour.
- •Attend a classical drama performance at the Greek Theatre if visiting in May/June during the annual cycle of classical plays – book tickets well in advance.
- •Swim at the rocky platforms near the Fontana Aretusa or at the small, popular 'Spiaggia di Cala Rossa' on Ortigia's southern tip for a quick dip.
- •Take the small, free shuttle bus (navetta) that loops around Ortigia if your feet get tired from exploring the island's cobblestones.
- •Try 'scaccia', a Sicilian stuffed flatbread, from a local bakery (pane e pizze) like Panificio Morello for a cheap and delicious lunch.
- •For a stunning sunset, head to the western tip of Ortigia near the Castello Maniace or grab a drink at a bar along the Foro Italico.
- •If driving, park in one of the large, inexpensive lots just outside Ortigia (like the Talete lot) and walk onto the island to avoid ZTL fines and impossible parking.
- •Learn a few basic Sicilian greetings. Saying 'Salutamu' instead of 'Ciao' will often earn you a smile and warmer service from locals.
Syracuse Food Scene
Syracuse's cuisine is a direct reflection of its Ionian Sea location and ancient Greek roots, centered on incredibly fresh seafood, sun-ripened vegetables, and robust flavors. From bustling street markets to elegant seafront restaurants, the focus is on simple, high-quality ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
Pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, fennel, pine nuts)
Involtini di pesce spada (swordfish rolls with breadcrumbs, capers)
Sarde a beccafico (stuffed sardines)
Pasta ai ricci (pasta with sea urchin roe)
Arancini (rice balls) – try the 'al ragù' or 'al burro' (with ham and cheese)
Granita con brioche (almond or coffee granita with a sweet brioche bun for breakfast)
Traditional Seafood
- • Don Camillo (Ortigia) for refined seafood pasta
- • Trattoria La Foglia (Ortigia) for homestyle fish dishes
- • Ristorante Jonico-a Rutta 'e Ciauli (on the coast) for panoramic views and grilled fish
Look for 'pesce del giorno' (fish of the day) – it's the freshest and often simply grilled with lemon and olive oil.
Street Food & Markets
- • Caseificio Borderi (Ortigia Market) for epic sandwiches
- • Fratelli Burgio (Ortigia Market) for cheeses and salumi
- • Any 'friggitoria' for fried seafood like calamari and panelle (chickpea fritters)
Eat your arancini standing at the counter of a bar like Bar Condorelli for the authentic, local experience.
Sicilian Pastries & Sweets
- • Pasticceria Artale (Ortigia) for cannoli and cassata
- • Caffè dell' Arte (Ortigia) for granite and brioche
- • Pasticceria Bianca for 'testa di turco' and other local specialties
Granita is a breakfast item, not a dessert. Join locals from 7-10am for this sweet, icy treat.
Wine & Aperitivo
- • Monkey Pub (Ortigia) for craft beer and cocktails
- • Barcollo (Ortigia) for wine by the glass
- • Baroque (Ortigia) for a chic aperitivo with a view
Order an 'Aperol Spritz' or a glass of local Nero d'Avola wine during the 'aperitivo' hour (6-8pm) when many bars include snacks.
Popular With
history lovers
archaeology enthusiasts
culture seekers
photographers
Best Time to Visit Syracuse
Spring
Spring is arguably the perfect time to visit. Days are warm and sunny, wildflowers bloom in the archaeological park, and the tourist crowds are manageable before the peak summer rush.
Pros:
- + Ideal temperatures (18-25°C) for walking and sightseeing
- + Landscape is green and blooming
- + Cultural season begins, including possible Greek theatre performances in May/June
Cons:
- - Occasional spring rain showers
- - Sea is still quite cool for swimming
Summer
Summer is hot, dry, and bustling. The city is alive with energy, the sea is warm for swimming, and long evenings are perfect for passeggiate (evening strolls) and late dinners outdoors.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed hot, sunny weather
- + Warm sea perfect for swimming and boat trips
- + Vibrant atmosphere with many festivals and events
Cons:
- - Intense heat (often above 30°C) can be exhausting for sightseeing
- - Peak tourist crowds and higher prices
- - Some archaeological sites have limited midday hours
Autumn
Autumn brings a return of pleasant weather and a more relaxed pace. The sea retains summer warmth well into October, making it great for combining culture with beach time.
Pros:
- + Warm, comfortable temperatures
- + Sea is still swimmable, especially in September
- + Harvest season means excellent food and wine
- + Fewer tourists after mid-September
Cons:
- - Increasing chance of rain as November approaches
- - Some seasonal restaurants and tours may begin to close in late October
Winter
Winter is mild, quiet, and local. While some attractions have shorter hours, you'll have ancient sites largely to yourself and can experience authentic Syracusan life without the tourist veneer.
Pros:
- + Very few tourists and lower accommodation prices
- + Mild climate (rarely below 10°C) compared to northern Europe
- + Perfect for unhurried exploration and museum visits
Cons:
- - Some hotels and restaurants, especially on Ortigia, may be closed for holiday
- - Weather can be unpredictable with wind and rain
- - Sea is too cold for swimming for most
Find cheap transport to Syracuse
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Day Trips from Syracuse
Noto
40 min by car or bus
The epicenter of Sicilian Baroque, Noto is a UNESCO World Heritage site rebuilt in golden limestone after an earthquake. Its perfectly planned streets are a symphony of ornate churches and palazzi.
Noto Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Nicolò)
Via Nicolaci with its iconic balconies
Palazzo Ducezio
Caffè Sicilia for legendary pastries
Spring Infiorata flower festival (May)
Riserva Naturale di Vendicari
50 min by car
A pristine coastal nature reserve and birdwatcher's paradise with beautiful, undeveloped sandy beaches, salt pans, and ancient tuna fishery ruins (tonnara).
Spiaggia di Calamosche (often voted Sicily's best beach)
Birdwatching towers for flamingos and herons
The ruins of the Tonnara di Vendicari
Hiking trails through marshes and along the coast
Palazzolo Acreide
1 hour 15 min by car
A charming hilltop town with two UNESCO-listed Baroque churches and, just outside town, the fascinating ancient Greek site of Akrai, a colony of Syracuse itself.
Greek site of Akrai with its small theatre and stone quarries (Latomie)
Basilica di San Sebastiano
Church of San Paolo with its magnificent facade
The town's traditional Carnival celebrations
Syracuse Budget Guide
Syracuse is moderately priced for Italy. Ortigia is the most expensive area, while staying in Acradina or Tyche offers better value. Costs are highest in summer.
Budget
€50-80 per person for hostels, street food, free sights, and public transport.
per day
Mid-Range
€100-180 per person for a comfortable B&B, sit-down meals, paid attractions, and occasional taxis.
per day
Luxury
€250+ per person for boutique hotels on Ortigia, fine dining, private guides, and car rentals.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The combined archaeological ticket (€13.50) is excellent value for multiple major sites.
- •Eat a large lunch (pranzo) at a trattoria and have a lighter, cheaper dinner (cena) like pizza or street food.
- •Stay in a B&B or apartment in Acradina, a short walk from Ortigia, for better rates.
- •Drink tap water – it's safe and saves money on bottled water.
- •Travel in the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) for significantly lower accommodation prices.
Syracuse Hidden Gems
Galleria Regionale di Palazzo Bellomo
A superb art museum housed in a 13th-century palace on Ortigia, showcasing medieval to Baroque art, including Antonello da Messina's 'Annunciation'.
It's often overlooked for the archaeological sites, but offers a stunning collection in a beautiful, quiet palace setting away from the main tourist flow.
Mikveh (Jewish Ritual Baths)
A recently rediscovered and restored medieval Jewish ritual bath located beneath a hotel in the Giudecca (old Jewish quarter) of Ortigia.
It's a poignant and lesser-known layer of Syracuse's multicultural history, accessible via guided tour, revealing the city's once-thriving Jewish community.
Latomia dei Cappuccini
An ancient Greek stone quarry turned into a lush, serene public garden, filled with citrus trees and Mediterranean plants, located near the Capuchin monastery.
It offers a peaceful, green escape from the city bustle and a different perspective on the 'latomie' (quarries) that are usually seen as stark archaeological sites.
Bagno Ebraico (Jewish Baths) / 'Bagno della Regina'
A series of picturesque, natural seawater pools carved into the limestone cliffs on Ortigia's southern coast, near the Fontana Aretusa.
Locals come here to swim and sunbathe. It's a beautiful, free spot for a dip with a view of the fortress, often missed by tourists heading to the main beaches.
Museo dei Pupi (Puppet Museum)
A small museum dedicated to the traditional Sicilian Opera dei Pupi (puppet theatre) located in a backstreet of Ortigia.
It provides a fascinating insight into this unique UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage, with beautiful handcrafted puppets and occasional live performances.
Syracuse Culture & Customs
Syracusan culture is deeply proud, layered, and maritime. It's a blend of ancient Greek gravitas, Baroque theatricality, and the warm, direct, and family-oriented spirit of southern Sicily. Life moves at a relaxed pace, centered around food, family, and the piazza.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers when entering and leaving with a 'buongiorno' or 'arrivederci'.
- •Dress modestly when entering churches (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Dinner is late, often starting after 8:30pm. Don't expect restaurants to be busy at 7pm.
- •It's polite to let older people go first in lines and to offer your seat on a bus.
- •A small 'coperto' (cover charge) per person on restaurant bills is standard and legal.
Useful Phrases
Salutamu - Hello (Sicilian)(sah-loo-TAH-moo)
Grazzi - Thank you (Sicilian)(GRAHT-tsee)
Comu si senti? - How are you? (Sicilian)(KOH-moo see SEN-tee)
Beddru/Bedda - Beautiful (said to a man/woman, Sicilian)(BED-droo / BED-da)
Ammuccia - Hide and seek (also used to describe a very narrow alley in Ortigia)(ahm-MOOTCH-ah)
Paciu - Enough/Okay (Sicilian)(PAH-choo)
Frequently Asked Questions about Syracuse
How many days do I need in Syracuse?
A minimum of two full days is recommended: one for exploring Ortigia Island and its sights, and one for the Neapolis Archaeological Park and the Paolo Orsi Museum. With three days, you can add a day trip to Noto or the Vendicari reserve.
Is Syracuse safe for tourists?
Yes, Syracuse is generally very safe. Standard precautions apply: be aware of pickpockets in crowded markets or on buses, and be cautious on the dark, narrow alleyways of Ortigia at night, though they are usually well-populated.
Can I drink the tap water in Syracuse?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink. In fact, the Fonte Aretusa is a natural freshwater spring. Many locals and restaurants will serve it, helping you save money and reduce plastic waste.
Do I need to rent a car in Syracuse?
Not for staying in the city itself. Ortigia and the main sights are walkable or accessible by bus. A car is only necessary if you plan extensive day trips to hill towns or remote beaches where public transport is infrequent.
What is the best way to get from Catania Airport to Syracuse?
The Interbus shuttle service is the most straightforward and cost-effective option, taking about 75 minutes directly to Syracuse's bus terminal. Trains require a transfer to Catania's central station, and taxis are expensive.
Is the Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo) free to enter?
No, there is an entrance fee (around €2-3) to access the main nave and archaeological area inside, which includes the visible Greek temple columns. The exterior and piazza, however, are free to admire.
What is a 'latomia'?
A latomia is an ancient stone quarry. Syracuse's Greeks used them to extract limestone for building the city. Some, like the Latomia del Paradiso in the Archaeological Park, were later used as prisons or gardens. The Ear of Dionysius is part of one.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Ortigia. However, it's wise to carry some cash (Euros) for smaller establishments, markets, street food vendors, bus tickets, and tips.
Syracuse Itineraries
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How much does a trip to Syracuse cost?
Typical daily costs for one traveller, based on average prices in Italy.
| Budget | Mid-range | Comfort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | €45 | €110 | €190 |
| Food and drinks (per day) | €17 | €35 | €70 |
| Sightseeing and activities (per day) | €8 | €22 | €50 |
| Total per day | €70 | €167 | €310 |
Estimates exclude flights and long-distance transport. Compare daily costs across cities
Where to stay in Syracuse
Hotels close to the centre of Syracuse, from budget to luxury. Prices are typical nightly rates at our last check.
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