Syracuse Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Syracuse, located on the southeastern coast of Sicily in Italy, is a city steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. With its stunning architecture, ancient ruins, and beautiful coastline, Syracuse offers a truly unique and enchanting experience for travelers.
One of the must-see attractions in Syracuse is the Archaeological Park of Neapolis. Here, visitors can explore the impressive Greek Theater, which dates back to the 5th century BC. The theater, with its remarkable acoustics and breathtaking views, is still used for performances today. Nearby, the Roman Amphitheater provides a glimpse into the city's Roman past, while the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave known for its extraordinary echo, is a fascinating site to explore.
The historic center of Syracuse, known as Ortigia, is a charming island connected to the mainland by a bridge. This picturesque neighborhood is a maze of narrow streets, lined with beautiful baroque buildings, quaint shops, and lively outdoor cafes. The Piazza del Duomo, with its stunning Cathedral and Fountain of Arethusa, is the heart of Ortigia and a great place to soak in the city's ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation and natural beauty, Syracuse's coastline offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nearby nature reserve of Vendicari is a haven for birdwatching and features stunning sandy beaches, while the coastal town of Fontane Bianche is known for its picturesque coves and turquoise waters.
Food enthusiasts will be delighted by Syracuse's culinary scene. The city is renowned for its seafood, and visitors can savor fresh catch-of-the-day dishes at the local trattorias and seafood restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Sicilian cannoli or indulge in a refreshing granita, a traditional icy dessert made with fresh fruit.
Syracuse's vibrant cultural scene also provides plenty of opportunities for art lovers. The Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Syracuse's ancient past, while the Galleria Regionale di Palazzo Bellomo showcases a range of artwork, including pieces from the Byzantine and Baroque periods.
Syracuse Attractions - What to See and Explore
Syracuse offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Ear of Dionysius, Tempio di Apollo, Roman amphitheater, Grotta del Ninfeo. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Syracuse – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Syracuse, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Catania Cathedral (Catania), Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso (Noto), Noto Cathedral (Noto).
Best Time To Visit Syracuse
Learn when is the best time to travel to Syracuse weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience Syracuse
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Pizza
Pizza, a cherished Italian delicacy, consists of a round, flattened dough base topped with tomatoes, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients. Traditionally, it's baked at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven. The term "pizza" was first documented in Italy in the...
Dish
Pasta
Pasta, a cherished dish originating from Italy, is primarily made from grain flour—usually wheat—combined with water or eggs. It comes in a multitude of shapes and can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, baking, or frying.
Food
Ravioli
Ravioli are a delectable type of pasta that feature a savory filling encased in thin pasta dough. Originating from Italian cuisine, these delightful pockets are typically served in broth or with a rich sauce. They come in various shapes such as square, circular, or...
Pasta
Ricotta
Ricotta is a delightful Italian cheese crafted from the whey of sheep, cow, goat, or Italian water buffalo milk left over from the cheese-making process. To produce ricotta, the remaining proteins in the whey are coagulated by acidifying and heating it.
Cheese
Carpaccio
Carpaccio is a delightful dish featuring thinly sliced or pounded meat or fish served raw as an appetizer. This culinary creation traces back to 1950 when Giuseppe Cipriani introduced it at Harry's Bar in Venice. Originally, it was a beef dish garnished with lemon...
Dish
Sicily