Holiday Apartments in Syracuse

What to do in Siracusa?

Syracuse is a city rich in history and culture. Stroll through the streets of the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, where you can admire ancient Greek temples, the beautiful Cathedral of Syracuse and the picturesque Porto Grande. Visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where you can explore the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Ear of Dionysius, an artificial cave famous for its extraordinary acoustics.

The beaches of Syracuse are among the most beautiful in Sicily. Sunbathe and swim in the crystal clear waters of Spiaggia di Fontane Bianche or the Vendicari Nature Reserve. If you love nature, do not miss a visit to the Saline di Priolo, a protected area where you can observe numerous species of migratory birds.A boat trip will allow you to see Syracuse from a different perspective. Sail along the coast, explore the sea caves and admire the breathtaking view of the crystal clear sea.

To better explore Syracuse and its surroundings, rent a car. This will allow you to easily visit the attractions outside the city and discover the hidden gems of the region.

What to eat in Siracusa?

Syracuse is a gastronomic destination that offers an unforgettable dining experience. Sicilian cuisine is known for its wealth of flavors, the freshness of the ingredients and the influences of the many cultures that have dominated the island over the centuries. Here is a list of typical dishes that you should definitely try during your visit to Syracuse:

• Arancini/e: These delicious fried rice balls are stuffed with meat sauce, peas, mozzarella and sometimes saffron. They are a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the city.
• Pasta alla Norma: A classic of Syracuse cuisine, this pasta is topped with a rich tomato sauce, fried eggplant, salted ricotta and fresh basil.
• Pesce fresco: Being a coastal town, Syracuse offers a wide selection of fresh fish. Try grilled swordfish, beccafico sardines or Mazara prawns.
• Caponata: This cold side dish of eggplant, tomatoes, capers, olives and vinegar is an explosion of sweet and sour flavors.
• Granita: For a refreshing dessert, taste the Sicilian granita. Available in various flavors such as almond, lemon and mulberry, it is perfect for hot summer days.
• Cannoli: These sweet ricotta filled cakes are a must for those visiting Sicily. Crispy outside and creamy inside, they are a real treat.
• Cassata: Another typical dessert, cassata is a cake made with ricotta, candied fruit and marzipan, covered with colored icing.

To complete your gastronomic journey, you can not miss the opportunity to taste local wines. Sicily is famous for its vineyards and Syracuse is no exception. White wines like Inzolia and Grillo are perfect to pair with fish dishes, while reds like Nero d'Avola and Cerasuolo di Vittoria go well with meats and richer dishes. Don’t forget to try Moscato di Siracusa, a sweet and aromatic wine perfect to accompany desserts.

What to see in Syracuse in a day?

If you only have one day to visit Syracuse, you can still live an unforgettable experience exploring its main points of interest.

1. Breakfast in Ortigia
   Start your day with a traditional Sicilian breakfast in Ortigia, enjoying a granita with croissants or a cannolo accompanied by an espresso.
2. Archaeological Park of the Neapolis
   Visit the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Ear of Dionysius in the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, one of the most important archaeological sites in Sicily.
3. Island of Ortigia
   Explore Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Cathedral of Syracuse and the beautiful Piazza Duomo.
4. Lunch in a local restaurant
   Enjoy a lunch with typical dishes such as pasta alla Norma or grilled swordfish in a local restaurant.
5. Castello Maniace
   Admire the panoramic view from the Maniace Castle, a medieval fortress located on the southern tip of Ortigia.
6. Fonte Aretusa and Lungomare Alfeo
   Walk along the Lungomare Alfeo to the Fonte Aretusa, a spring of fresh water surrounded by papyri.
7. Boat trip
   Finish the afternoon with a boat ride around Ortigia to admire the city and the sea caves from a different perspective.
8. Aperitif in Piazza Duomo
   Relax with an aperitif in Piazza Duomo, enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail with local appetizers.
9. Dinner in Ortigia
   Enjoy a dinner of fresh fish, arancini and typical sweets in a restaurant in Ortigia.
10. Evening walk
    End the day with an evening walk along the illuminated streets of Ortigia, enjoying the magical atmosphere of the city at night.