Things To Do
in Siracusa
Siracusa is a historic port city on Sicily’s southeastern coast where ancient Greek ruins sit alongside a charming insular old town. Ortigia, the small island at the heart of the city, hums with markets, cafes, and sea breezes, all set within a tapestry of white-washed streets. The Archaeological Park of Neapolis preserves grand theaters and tombs from antiquity, offering a striking contrast to the baroque touches found in nearby towns.
With millennia of history, Siracusa blends monumental landmarks with a lively seaside atmosphere and delicious Sicilian fare.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the ancient streets of Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa. Visit the stunning Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the Baroque architecture and the magnificent Cathedral of Siracusa. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Sicilian breakfast of cannoli and coffee at a local café.
After your morning exploration, head to the Fonte Aretusa, a picturesque freshwater spring, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the sea. For lunch, savor some fresh seafood at a nearby trattoria, where the catch of the day is always a delight. Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow streets, discovering artisan shops and historic sites like the Temple of Apollo.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a seaside restaurant to enjoy dinner with a view of the Mediterranean. Try local specialties such as pasta alla Norma or fresh fish grilled to perfection. After dinner, take a romantic walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Ortigia's illuminated buildings.
Begin your day with a visit to the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, home to some of the most significant ancient ruins in Siracusa. Marvel at the grandeur of the Greek Theatre, which still hosts performances today, and the impressive Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave famous for its acoustics. Take your time to explore the vast archaeological site and its rich history.
After a morning filled with history, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local cheeses and cured meats. Post-lunch, visit the Roman Amphitheatre and the beautiful Latomia del Paradiso, a former stone quarry that offers a tranquil escape. Don’t miss the chance to appreciate the stunning flora and fauna in the park.
Return to Ortigia for dinner at a vibrant restaurant that captures the essence of Sicilian cuisine. Try a traditional dish paired with a local wine as you dine under the stars. End your evening with a gelato from one of the artisanal gelaterias nearby, perfect for a warm Sicilian night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍝Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕️Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (local transport) | $1.5-2.5 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, 1 night) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and monumental Greek ruins set beside a charming island atmosphere
- Excellent seafood and citrus-driven Sicilian cuisine
- Compact, walkable city center with scenic viewpoints
- Two distinct hubs: Ortigia’s atmospheric old town and the nearby archaeological wonders
- Can get very crowded in peak summer and during markets
- Some stretches of pavement are uneven and cobbled, which may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities; a more relaxed pace may feel slow for some travelers
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dove si trova…?" - Where is…?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I would like a table for two
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Posso pagare con carta?" - Can I pay with a card?
- "Posso avere il menu in inglese?" - Could I have the menu in English?
Places to Visit in Siracusa
Visit one of these nice places.
Cathedral façade and the surrounding arcades provide classic Sicily-in-Italy shots, especially at dawn or dusk.
Iconic spring with a backdrop of blue water and stonework; ideal for morning light by the quay.
Ancient temple columns along Via Roma offer a sense of Syracuse’s ancient skyline.
Fortress perched at the tip of Ortigia with sea views and dramatic angles for landscape photography.
Cavernous stone quarry with superb acoustics and dramatic interior shots.
Roman and Greek theatres, amphitheatres, and ancient ruins provide grand, historical photography.
Coastal promenade with views over the Ionian Sea and the city skyline, especially at sunset.
Food in Siracusa
Siracusa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tomato-based pasta tossed with fried eggplant, basil, and ricotta salata—an iconic Sicilian classic.
Must-Try!
Pasta with sardines, fennel, raisins, pine nuts, and saffron—an essential Syracuse dish.
Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, or other fillings; a staple of street food and casual dining.
A sweet-sour eggplant stew with capers and olives; a versatile antipasto or side dish.
Classic Sicilian pastries featuring Ricotta or marzipan fillings—perfect dessert or a treat with cappuccino.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning market on Ortigia where you can buy fresh seafood, citrus, olives, and local produce.
Street vendors selling panelle (chickpea fritters) and arancine—great for a quick, tasty bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; many locals appreciate some Italian basics. English is common in tourist areas but learning a few phrases helps.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites; remove hats and speak softly inside sacred spaces.
Meals are social events; wait to be seated, don’t rush, and savor courses. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
Safety
Tipping in Siracusa
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service at restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller cafes and markets. Contactless payments are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, with temperatures often in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius. Beach days and outdoor dining dominate; hydrate and plan early walks before the heat peaks.
Milder and more comfortable; sea breezes, fewer crowds, and harvest-time flavors highlight markets and eateries.
Mild and wetter at times; regional festivals and fewer tourists mean quiet streets and cozy cafes.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming citrus and almond trees; ideal for outdoor photography and hiking nearby.
Siracusa at Night
Hiking in Siracusa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged canyons and a UNESCO-listed necropolis; several hiking routes range from easy strolls to moderate climbs.
Spectacular canyon with turquoise pools and challenging trails; best for experienced hikers with proper footwear.
Volcanic landscapes and higher-altitude hikes; a longer day trip from Siracusa but feasible for adventurous travelers.
Airports
How to reach Siracusa by plane.
Major international gateway about 100–120 km (roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or rail) from Siracusa; frequent connections to European cities and domestic flights.
Smaller regional airport closer to Ragusa, with seasonal and some international flights; convenient for shorter trips to southeastern Sicily.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and older generations, with a growing presence of students and seasonal workers tied to tourism and agriculture.
Tourists from across Italy and Europe, many drawn to ancient ruins, seafood-centric cuisine, and seaside charm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region is passionate about football; local clubs and matches draw crowds in and around Siracusa.
Sailing, swimming, windsurfing, and snorkeling are popular along the Ionian coast and near Plemmirio Marine Reserve.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Siracusa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared without meat; look for pasta with tomato, vegetables, and cheese. When in doubt, ask for extra vegetables or a pane lead with fresh cheese; seafood-based options are plentiful but you can skip fish if desired.