The Travelling Surveyor

Are you dreaming of the sun-drenched coasts and ancient secrets of Syracuse but not sure where to start? This guide highlights the most beautiful corners and best things to do in Syracuse that are worth the trip.

We also share our experience and tips as well as local recommendations, from the hidden “mikvah” beneath a Baroque church to the perfect spot for a pistachio granita. We can help you plan a perfect escape and enjoy the very best that this 3,000-year-old city has to offer. Read on and find out!

On this trip to Sicily we had already visited Catania, Taormina, Cefalù, Palermo, Corleone & Agrigento, Punta Secca, Ragusa, Modica and Noto. Check these posts via the links and don’t forget to subscribe to the site, so you will not miss any of the future posts on Sicily or other places by The Travelling Surveyor.

We were travelling independently around the island with a hired car we booked via Discover Cars, as we are confident travellers and speak a bit of the language. However, if you prefer to be part of a tour and to have everything organised for you, I advise you to book a complete tour of the island with Tourradar.

They have different kinds of tours that will fit your time and budget. If you book it via my link you can get a discount by using this code: RoseG50.

Below is a map showing the places we visited in Syracuse on that day:

OUR ARRIVAL IN SYRACUSE

We arrived in Syracuse at the end of the afternoon, and we checked in at the B&B “Dimore delle Zagare Molo”. The main reason I chose this B&B was the parking. They don’t have a private car park, but in front of it, on the street, there is free parking. In case all spaces are taken, there is a private car park very close by.

We were lucky on our arrival, and there was a space in front of the B&B, so we parked our car there for the whole time we stayed in Syracuse.

Most visitors head straight to Ortigia, the small island that forms the historic heart of the city, but with a car, it is very difficult to stay on the island because of parking issues. So, I picked this lovely B&B very close to the bridge that links the mainland to the island, and like we always do, walked everywhere, avoiding the car park stress.

“Dimore delle Zagare Molo” was lovely. It was recently refurbished in an old building with a large terrace at the top where they served breakfast. Lately, I found out that they also have the same B&B in Ortigia (which is highly reviewed), but that one has no parking available.

We stayed there for two nights, and it was a very pleasant stay, particularly the staff who were very attentive and helpful. Below are some photos of our bedroom.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT SIRACUSA

Siracusa wasn’t just a city; at its peak, it was the greatest metropolis of the ancient world, even rivalling Athens in power and beauty. It’s the birthplace of Archimedes (yes, the “Eureka!” guy), and walking through its streets feels like a conversation with the past.

Siracusa sits on Sicily’s southeast coast, and it has layers of history. The ancient Greek city of Syracuse was once one of the most powerful in the Mediterranean. Plato visited, Archimedes lived and died here, and for a while this place rivalled Athens. You feel that weight immediately, but it’s not heavy. It’s calm. Confident. Like Siracusa already knows what it is and doesn’t need to prove anything.

It is a city with a 3,000-year-long history. Historically, the most important city in the entire Mediterranean during the Greek era, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its layers of ancient Greek, Roman, and Baroque architecture.

VISITING SYRACUSA

After our check-in at the B&B, we started our explorations and crossed the bridge to Ortigia.

It was dinner time, and we headed to “A Putia delle Cose Buone”. I read a lot about this restaurant; it looked very nice and authentic, so we wanted to have dinner there.

However, they do not accept reservations, and tables are allocated on a first come, first served basis. When you arrive, you need to give your name to the person at the entrance, and they will tell you what time you should go back to get a table. I gave our names, and he told us to come back in half an hour. There was a queue in front of the restaurant.

With half an hour to kill, we spotted an Irish pub on the road next to the restaurant, and that is where we headed for a drink while we waited. We returned to the restaurant at the time, and soon we were called to sit at a table inside. Tables are shared with other people as the space is very small.

My verdict about this restaurant? It was a nice dinner, but nothing special and could be anywhere, really. I think the hype is a bit over the top. After dinner, we headed back to our B&B for some rest. The real exploration of Syracuse will start the following day.

Syracuse – Day 1

The next day, we had breakfast on the terrace. It was a generous breakfast with plenty of items to choose from. After filling up and satisfied, we left for the day.

Our first visit of the day was to the “Temple of Apollo”, passing through the “Porta Urbica”.

Porta Urbica

Located in Ortigia, the Porta Urbica,  (Urbica Gate) is a significant archaeological site representing the only surviving remnant of the ancient Greek fortifications on the island.

 History and Significance

• Dionysian Origins: The gate was commissioned by the tyrant Dionysius the Great (Dionysius I) in the early 4th century BC. It served as the monumental main entrance to the fortress of Ortigia.
• Strategic Network: It was part of the massive “Dionysian Walls,” a defensive system that stretched from Ortigia across the entire city to the Castello Eurialo.
• Archaeological Discovery: The remains were discovered relatively recently, in 1977, during excavations in the roadway.
• Symbolic Value: While modest in its current state, it marks a path once walked by historical figures such as Archimedes, Plato, and Cicero. 

Practical Information

• Location: The ruins are situated in an open-air excavation pit on Via XX Settembre, near the entrance to Ortigia.
• What to See: Visitors can observe the stone bases of two massive quadrangular towers, each measuring over 8 metres per side. These towers flanked a road that historically branched toward the Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Athena (now the Syracuse Cathedral).
• Access: The site is visible from the street level at all times and does not require a ticket.
• Dining: A highly-rated seafood restaurant, Porta Urbica, is located directly adjacent to the ruins and is known for its fresh local catch and quiet atmosphere.

From there, we went in the direction of the “Mercato di Otigia” (Ortigia Market). The market should be visited in the morning, so you can experience all the vibrance and see all the fresh produce early in the morning. The market closes at 2 pm, so not much use to go later in the morning.  However, we stopped at the Temple of Apollo for a few minutes before entering the market.

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo, (Apollonion) is the oldest Doric stone temple in Sicily and among the earliest monumental Greek temples in the Western world. Located at the entrance to the island of Ortigia, its ruins serve as a primary gateway between the modern city and its ancient Greek past.

History and Architecture

• Archaic Origins: Constructed in the early 6th century BC (circa 580 BC), it represents a pioneering shift from wood to stone architecture. An 8-metre-long inscription on the eastern step attributes its construction to the architect Kleomenes.
• Experimental Design: The temple features 42 massive monolithic columns—6 on the front and 17 on the sides. Because the builders were still learning how to support massive stone weight, the columns are unusually squat and placed very close together.
• Spiritual Timeline: Like many sites in Syracuse, the temple underwent several religious transformations:
  • Byzantine Era: Converted into a Christian church.
  • Islamic Era: Adapted into a mosque (Arabic inscriptions are still visible).
  • Norman Era: Re-consecrated as the Church of the Saviour.
  • 16th Century: Incorporated into a Spanish military barracks.
• Rediscovery: It lay hidden within later buildings until excavations led by Paolo Orsi brought it to light in the early 20th century. 

 Practical Information

• Location: Largo XXV Luglio, at the entrance to Ortigia.
• Admission: The site is an open-air archaeological area surrounded by a railing. It is free to view from the perimeter at any time.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning is ideal to catch the Ortigia Street Market located directly behind the temple ruins. Evening offers a striking view when the columns are illuminated.
• Paolo Orsi Museum: For a deeper look, the Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum on the mainland houses the original polychrome terracotta roof decorations and a reconstruction model of the temple.

After looking at the Temple, we entered the market nearby.

Mercato di Ortigia

The Ortigia Market, (Mercato di Ortigia) is a vibrant, sensory-driven open-air market located on the northern edge of the island of Ortigia. Known for its lively atmosphere, shouting vendors (vanniate), and high-quality Sicilian produce, it remains a cornerstone of daily life for locals while being an essential stop for visitors. 

 Culinary Highlights

The market is divided into sections, offering a deep dive into the Mediterranean’s freshest ingredients: 

• Seafood: The “star” of the market, featuring morning catches like swordfish, sea urchins (ricci), prawns, and oysters served raw with a squeeze of lemon.

• Local Produce: Stalls overflow with Pachino tomatoes, Syracuse lemons, deep purple aubergines, and wild fennel.

• Specialty Goods: Look for pistachios from Bronte, almonds from Avola, sun-dried tomato paste (u strattu), and capers from Pantelleria.

• Cheeses & Meats: High-quality pecorino, caciocavallo, and local salamis are available for tasting and purchase. 

 Street Food & Dining

The market is famous for its “eat-as-you-walk” culture and small, high-quality eateries:

• Caseificio Borderi: World-renowned for its legendary, massive cheese-filled panini made with fresh ricotta and local cured meats. Expect a queue at lunchtime.
• Fratelli Burgio: A bustling deli and wine bar offering meat and cheese boards, fish platters, and marinated vegetables.
• La Carnezzeria: Despite the name (which means “butcher shop”), it is famous for its fish-based appetisers and fresh pasta.
• Market Snacks: You can find fresh arancini, panelle (chickpea fritters), and seasonal granita throughout the area. 

Artisanal Crafts

Beyond food, the market features stalls dedicated to Sicilian craftsmanship: 

• Ceramics: Hand-painted items, including the iconic Moorish head vases.
• Papyrus: Unique prints and stationery, reflecting the city’s ancient papyrus-making history.
• Textiles: Traditional Sicilian aprons, woven baskets, and handmade jewellery. 

Practical Information

• Location: Primarily along Via Emmanuele de Benedictis, just behind the Temple of Apollo.
• Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, typically from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Closed on Sundays.
• Best Time to Visit: Arrive before 10:00 AM to see the full selection of seafood and experience the market before the largest crowds arrive.
• Tips:
  • Bring Cash: While some stalls now accept cards, many vendors still prefer cash for small transactions.
  • Sample Everything: Don’t be shy; many vendors offer free samples of cheeses, nuts, or fruits.
  • Haggling: Gentle haggling is common, especially for seafood and non-food items, toward closing time. 

Below is a reel from the Travelling Surveyor Instagram account showing the market and Caseificio Borderi. Check it out and follow me on Instagram as well.

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The market is great, and a must-visit when you are in Ortigia. It was too early to eat, so we didn’t eat there at that time; we continued through the narrow streets of Ortigia until we arrived at “Fontana di Diana”.

If you enjoy trying local food, you should go on this “Street Food Walking Tour“. It will take you to Ortigia Market to taste some of the food there and to other places as well. On the way the guide will also take you to the Cathedral and to the Aretusa Spring. Seems perfect!

Fontana di Diana

The “Fontana di Diana”, (Fountain of Diana) is a monumental landmark located in the center of Piazza Archimede on the island of Ortigia. Completed in 1907, it is one of the most evocative symbols of Syracuse, masterfully blending mythological storytelling with urban architecture.

History and Creation

• Designer: The fountain was created by the sculptor Giulio Moschetti in collaboration with his son, Mario. Moschetti was chosen for the project after the great success of his Fountain of Proserpina in Catania.
• Construction: It was built between 1906 and 1907 using reinforced concrete, an innovative material for monumental sculpture at the time.
• Purpose: The fountain was commissioned to replace a large lamp in the square and to celebrate the completion of Piazza Archimede. 

Mythological Narrative

The fountain depicts the local Myth of Arethusa, a key legend of Syracuse: 

• Diana (Artemis): Standing at the center with her bow and dog, the goddess of the hunt protects the nymph at her feet.
• Arethusa: Shown in the process of metamorphosis. To save her from the unwanted advances of the river god Alpheus, Diana transforms her into a freshwater spring.
• Alpheus: Positioned to the side, he is depicted in a state of amazement as he witnesses his beloved turning into water.
• Supporting Figures: The basin is populated by four Tritons riding sea monsters (pistrices) and seahorses, representing the sea where the myth concludes. 

Visitor Information

• Location: Piazza Archimede, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy. It is a central hub connecting major streets like Via Roma and Via Maestranza.
• Best Time to View: The fountain is particularly striking in the evening when it is fully illuminated, highlighting the motion of the sculptures.
• Atmosphere: Surrounded by historic Baroque palaces, the square is a popular “people-watching” spot with several nearby cafes like Bar Archimede. The restaurant “Putia delle cose Buone” is nearby on Via Rome.

From the “Fontana di Diana” we took Via Roma, which is full of shops, restaurants and bars until we arrived at “Cattedrale Metropolitana della Nativitá di Maria”. I know, another mouthful name, so let’s call it Cathedral of Syracuse.

Cathedral of Syracuse

The Cathedral of Syracuse, (Duomo di Siracusa), is a unique UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as a place of worship for over 2,500 years. It is world-renowned for its “layered” architecture, having been built directly into the remains of an ancient Greek temple.

Historical Evolution

The cathedral’s structure serves as a timeline of Sicilian history: 

• Greek Temple of Athena (5th Century BC): The foundation is a Doric peripteral temple built by the tyrant Gelo to celebrate a victory over the Carthaginians. Its massive stone columns are still visible today, embedded into the cathedral’s outer and inner walls.

• Byzantine Transformation (7th Century AD): Under Bishop Zosimo, the temple was converted into a Christian church by walling up the spaces between the Greek columns and cutting arches into the inner sanctuary (cella).

• Islamic & Norman Eras: It was used as a mosque during the 9th-century Arab rule before being returned to Christian use by the Normans in 1086, who added the nave’s wooden roof and mosaics.

• Baroque Reconstruction (18th Century): After the 1693 earthquake, architect Andrea Palma designed the current High Sicilian Baroque façade, featuring ornate Corinthian columns and statues by Ignazio Marabitti. 

Interior Highlights

• Ancient Columns: You can walk through the naves and literally touch the 2,500-year-old Greek columns.

• Chapel of Saint Lucy: Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, it houses a silver simulacrum (statue) of St. Lucy by Pietro Rizzo (1599) and several of her relics, including bone fragments and her shoes.

• Baptismal Font: A 13th-century bronze font featuring seven lions, originally an ancient Greek krater (mixing vase).
• Artistic Works: Includes the Madonna of the Snow (1512) by Antonello Gagini and a ciborium designed by Luigi Vanvitelli.

After that, we explored the Jewish Quarter and went to the “Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo”. This church was built on top of a Synagogue and features various underground tunnels that were used as a crypt, WWII shelters and a freshwater spring.

Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo

The “Chiesa di San Felippo Apostolo”, (Church of Saint Philip the Apostle), located in the historic Giudecca (Jewish Quarter) of Ortigia, is widely regarded as one of Syracuse’s “hidden gems”. While the 18th-century Baroque exterior is modest, the church is famous for its three subterranean levels that bridge over 2,000 years of history. 

 History and Architecture

• Jewish Heritage: The church was built in 1742 on the site of a former 15th-century synagogue. Its construction was financed by the “Brotherhood of St. Philip”.
• Baroque Design: The façade features two orders of Corinthian pilasters and a gabled portal. The interior is divided into three aisles decorated with delicate stucco-work and houses several historic statues, including the Cristo Morto used in Good Friday processions.
• The Signature: Look for a small carved lizard near the entrance; this is the secret “signature” of the architect Giovanni Vermexio. 

The Three Underground Levels 

Visitors can take a 20–30 minute guided tour to descend deep beneath the nave floor: 

1 – Level 1: The Crypt: An 18th-century burial vault for the Brotherhood, featuring memento “mori” frescoes and ceramic stars on the floor marking burial places.

2 – Level 2: WWII Air-Raid Shelter: A massive labyrinth of tunnels originally carved by the ancient Greeks as a water system. During World War II, it sheltered over 10,000 citizens from Allied bombings; visitors can still see period graffiti of British planes on the walls.

3 – Level 3: The Mikvah: At 18 metres deep, a spiral staircase leads to a freshwater spring used as a Jewish ritual bath (mikvah). It is one of the oldest and most perfectly preserved examples in Europe, dating back to before the 1492 expulsion of Jews from Sicily.

We took the tour to visit the underground and found it very interesting and worth the time and money. Our next stop was to visit the “Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista” a roofless church in the middle of the Jewish Quarter.

Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista

The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, (Church of Saint John the Baptist), also known as San Giovannello, is one of the most unique and evocative sites in the Giudecca (Jewish Quarter) of Ortigia. It is particularly famous for its roofless, open-air structure that allows for a striking view of the sky from within its ancient stone walls. 

History and Architecture

• Layered Foundations: The current building dates primarily to the 14th century (circa 1380), but it was constructed over an earlier 4th-century Christian basilica.
• Cultural Shifts: Like many buildings in this quarter, it has shifted between faiths. Records suggest it was built on the site of an ancient synagogue and may have been converted back and forth during the 15th century.
• Asymmetrical Façade: A key architectural feature is the lack of alignment between the 15th-century portal and the rose window above it, a result of centuries of modifications.
• Open-Air Interior: The church’s roof collapsed due to the devastating 1693 earthquake and was never replaced. Today, the interior remains a Latin cross with three naves separated by columns and pointed arches, all open to the elements. 

Distinct from “San Giovanni alle Catacombe”

Visitors often confuse this church with the Basilica of San Giovanni Evangelista (Saint John at the Catacombs) located on the mainland. While both are partially ruined and associated with early Christianity: 

• San Giovanni Battista (San Giovannello): Located in Ortigia. Known for its open-air beauty and use for summer weddings and concerts.
• San Giovanni alle Catacombe: Located on the mainland. It provides access to the city’s vast underground catacombs and the Crypt of San Marciano. 

Practical Information

• Location: Piazza del Precursore, 96100 Siracusa. It is tucked away in a quieter part of the Jewish Quarter.
• Opening Hours: Generally open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday–Saturday), though it is closed on Sundays.
• Worship: It remains a consecrated space where Mass is regularly celebrated during the summer months and on the feast day of St. John the Baptist (23–24 June).
• Admission: Usually free to enter, although donations are welcome for the preservation of the site.

We didn’t get in as it was closed at the time we were there, contradicting the opening times they publish. By that time, we were hungry and decided to go back to the market to eat at “Caseificio Borderi”, another very popular eatery which we saw when we passed through the market earlier and read a lot about it. To save time, we took the bus and got off in front of the market.

At that time, the market was not as busy, but the restaurant was still very busy. We just waited a few minutes, and a table was available for us.  We didn’t eat the panini recommended by everybody, but opted for a salad. It was good, and we enjoyed the lunch there, which was simple but wholesome.

After lunch, we walked all the way back down to the tip of the island to see the Ikaria Sculpture and to visit Castello Maniace.

Ikaria Sculpture

The Ikaria Sculpture (also known as the Icarus statue) is a striking contemporary monument located near Castello Maniace. However, at the time of writing, Google is showing it as “permanently closed”. I’m not sure if it has been moved somewhere else, or if they removed it for maintenance during the winter time. Just check when going to the castle.

It is a beautiful statue and worth seeing. It is one of the most photographed modern landmarks in Syracuse, symbolising the eternal human desire for freedom and the risks of over ambition. 

 Artistic Details

• The Artist: Created by the renowned Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj, whose work is famous for blending classical Greek and Roman aesthetics with modern “fragmented” or “damaged” forms.
• The Design: The sculpture depicts a bronze, winged figure that appears broken or incomplete. It portrays the mythical Icarus just as his wings, held together by wax, begin to fail after he flew too close to the sun.

• Placement: Its position overlooking the Great Harbour (Porto Grande) is intentional; the horizon of the Mediterranean serves as a dramatic backdrop, emphasising the vastness of the space Icarus attempted to conquer. 

 Connection to Syracuse

• Cultural Dialogue: The sculpture was originally part of a temporary exhibition of Mitoraj’s works in 2011, held at the Neapolis Archaeological Park. While many pieces were moved, the city of Syracuse acquired Ikaria permanently to bridge the gap between its ancient Greek heritage and modern art.
• Symbolism: In a city where Archimedes famously used science to defy the odds, the fallen Icarus serves as a poetic counterpoint, a reminder of human frailty and the thin line between genius and tragedy.

Castello Maniace

The “Castello Maniace”, (Maniace Castle) is a 13th-century military fortress situated at the far southern tip of the island of Ortigia. Constructed by Emperor Frederick II between 1232 and 1240, it is considered one of the most important examples of Swabian architecture in Sicily.

History and Architecture

• Strategic Origins: The castle is named after George Maniakes, a Byzantine general who recaptured Syracuse from the Arabs in 1038 and built the first fortifications on this site.
• Design: Designed by architect Riccardo da Lentini, the structure follows a precise quadrangular plan with four cylindrical corner towers. The monumental entrance portal features a massive archway decorated with inlaid polychrome marble.

• Historical Roles: Over eight centuries, it has served as a royal residence for Sicilian queens, a state prison, a Napoleonic-era battery, and a Spanish military base.
• The Hypostyle Hall: One of its most stunning features is the “Sala Ipostila”, a magnificent central hall originally supported by 16 free-standing columns and 25 ribbed cross vaults. A massive powder keg explosion in 1704 destroyed much of this interior, but careful restoration has preserved its “forest of columns” effect.

Visitor Tips

• The Ramparts: Walk the outer walls for spectacular, breezy views of the Ionian Sea and the Syracuse coastline.

• Antiquarium: Visit the small on-site museum to see medieval ceramics and bronze rams that once adorned the entrance.
• Sunset: Many visitors recommend visiting shortly before the final entry for the “magical” golden light over the harbour.

We enjoyed our visit to the castle and were very impressed by the Hypostyle Hall with the massive columns holding the roof.

After the visit to the castle, we decided to walk back via “Lungomare Alfeo”. This walkaway following the sea is very attractive, full of bars, restaurants and beautiful buildings. The Lungomare takes you to “Giardino Aretusa” and “Fonte Aretusa”.

Giardino Aretusa

The Aretusa Garden (Giardino di Aretusa) is a lush, public green space located on the western edge of Ortigia, immediately overlooking the famous Fonte Aretusa. It serves as a tranquil balcony over the Great Harbour, offering some of the best sunset views in the city.

 Landscape and Features

• The Ficus Trees: The garden is dominated by magnificent, century-old “Ficus macrophylla” (Morton Bay Figs) with massive aerial roots that create a cathedral-like canopy of shade.
• Botanical Variety: Alongside the giant figs, you’ll find Mediterranean flora, palms, and seasonal flowers, providing a cool microclimate even during the peak Sicilian summer.

• Mythological Connection: It is the primary viewing point for the Fountain of Arethusa below, where you can observe the rare wild papyrus growing in the freshwater pool, the only place it grows naturally in Europe.

• The Promenade: The garden seamlessly connects to the Lungomare Alfeo, the scenic seaside walkway lined with restaurants and bars. 

 Practical Information

• Access: The garden is a public space and is free to enter 24/7.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon is the “magic hour” when locals and visitors gather to watch the sun set over the Ionian Sea and the distant Hyblaean Mountains.
• Activities: It is a popular spot for photography, reading, and enjoying a granita from nearby cafes like Bar Fonte Aretusa. 

 Visitor Tips

The garden can get quite busy during the sunset rush. If you want a quieter experience, visit in the early morning when the light is soft, and the only sound is the water from the fountain below.

If you like walking there is this lovely walking tour covering the highlights of Syracuse that will take you to all attractions mentioned on this post. Book this tour HERE.

If you don’t like to walk or if you have mobility issues, you can get a tuk-tuk tour that will last 2 hours, but it will take you to all the attractions I mentioned here and more. Book this tour HERE.

Boat Ride

We enjoyed walking through the garden and getting some shade from the sun. Right after the garden, you will see some local companies offering you boat rides around the island and visits to see some caves alongside the mainland. We thought it would be a good idea to take a boat and see the island from the sea.

We had to wait about half an hour for the next boat departure, but enjoyed the break with a drink while waiting.

When the boat was ready, we joined the group and the guide, who was very nice and informative. The boat was small, accommodating about 10 people, but it felt very safe. It was a fantastic experience seeing Ortigia from the sea and going around the island. The caves were amazing, especially the heart-shaped one!

If you want to book a boat ride like we did you can buy the tickets directly with them at the point of departure or you can book it in advance (advisable on high-season) HERE.

After the boat trip, we walked back to our B&B for some rest. We were very tired of all the walking; on that day, we walked about 20.000 steps!

Dinner

We had some rest at the B&B, but soon it was time to leave again as we had a reservation at a restaurant called “L’Osteria Seby” at 8 pm. We were so tired that we decided to call an Uber to take us to the restaurant. It was in Ortigia, but cars can only enter up to “Fontana Diana”. From there, we had to walk to the restaurant, but it was not too far.

That was our last nice dinner in Syracuse, as the next day we would be leaving for Catania in the end of the afternoon. It was a good choice of restaurant as the food was very good and we enjoyed it very much. The restaurant had a lovely garden, and that is where we sat for dinner, making it more special.

After dinner, we enjoyed a very pleasant walk through Ortigia and back to our B&B.

We still had another day in Syracuse, when we visited the most popular attraction in town, the Neapolis Archeological Park and I will tell you all about it in my next post. In the meantime, I hope this post helps you to envisage Syracuse and its magic and includes it on your visit to Sicily. If you have any questions I would love to hear from you in the comments! 

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT TO SYRACUSE

Below you will find a list of what to visit, where to stay and where to eat in Syracuse. I classified each place as follows:

BOLD – Visited, tried and recommended

NOT BOLD – Not visited or tried, but planning to visit or try and heard very good reviews

RED – Visited and tried but do not recommend, avoid or be cautious

*** – Excellent

** – Good

* – OK

£££ – Expensive

££ – Fair and affordable

PLEASE NOTE: Every hotel, restaurants and attractions I mention on my blogs are not sponsored reviews and we always paid the full price when visiting. We give our own opinion of the place and detail our experience, good or bad.

THINGS TO DO IN SYRACUSE – DAY 1

ATTRACTIONS

1 – Porta Urbica – ***

2 – Temple of Apollo – ***

3 – Mercato di Ortigia – ***

4 – Fontana di Diana – ***

5 – Cathedral of Syracuse – ***

6 – Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo – ***

7 – Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista – ***

8 – Ikaria Statue – ***

9 – Castello Maniace – ***

10 – Giardino Aretusa – ***

11 – Lungomare Alfeo – ***

12 – Boat Ride – ***

WHERE TO STAY

ACCOMMODATION

1 – Dimore delle Zagare Molo – 4* – ££ – *** – (We stayed here)

2 – Dimore delle Zagare Ortigia – 4* – ££ –

3 – Flower Suite B&B – 4* – ££

4 – Dione Deluxe Rooms – ££

5 – B&B Tre e 14 – 3* – ££

6 – Corte Sicula – 3* – ££

If you prefer to look for your own accommodation, search and book via the below widget:

I use affiliate links such as the links above for Booking.com, Get your Guide, Viator and others. It means that if you use any of my links to make a booking, I will get a small commission from the partners I’m affiliated with without any additional cost to you. Please, use the links provided when making a booking, this is a way of supporting blogs like this so we can continue writing informative and interesting posts. I’m very thankful for that.

BEST PLACES TO EAT

RESTAURANTS

1 – A Putia delle Case Buone – ££ – ** (We ate here)

2 – Caseificio Borderi – £ – ** (We ate here)

3 – L’Osteria Seby – ££ – *** (We ate here)

4 – OZ – Bar Osteria – ££

5 – Cortile Spirito Santo – £££

6 – Anchovies Ortigia – ££

We only tried the ones in bold , the others are the result of my researches and ones that I would like to try. If you tried any of my recommendations above, please send me a message and tell me about your experience good or bad, so I can update the list accordingly. Thanks!

If you enjoyed reading this post you might also like to read:

Noto, Sicily: An insider’s guide to the Baroque gem

Modica – Ultimate Travel Guide for a day

On this trip to Italy:

1 – Catania – Day 1

2 – Catania – Day 2

3 – Taormina

4 – Cefalú

5 – Palermo – Day 1

6 – Palermo – Day 2

7 – Corleone/Agrigento

8 – Punta Secca

9 – Ragusa – Day 1

10 – Ragusa – Day 2

11 – Modica

12 – Noto

13 – Siracusa – Day 1

14 – Siracusa – Day 2 – Coming soon

15 – Catania and Conclusion – Day – 3 – Coming soon