Siracusa - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Siracusa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Siracusa, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Siracusa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Siracusa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Siracusa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Siracusa

Siracusa is a historic city located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is known for its rich history and culture, including the ancient Greek ruins, particularly the famous Greek theatre, as well as its charming Old Town and stunning beaches. The city was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world, and over the centuries, it has been ruled by many different civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. Today, Siracusa is a popular tourist destination, with visitors from around the world coming to explore its many historic landmarks and natural beauty.

What to visit in Siracusa

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Siracusa, Italy, along with some brief information about each: 1. Ortigia: This charming island is the historic center of Siracusa and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It is home to numerous historic buildings, beautiful squares, and charming narrow streets.
2. Cathedral of Syracuse: This stunning baroque church located in the heart of Ortigia is a must-see for architecture lovers. Its grand façade and intricate interior decoration are truly impressive.
3. Archaeological Park of Neapolis: This ancient Greek and Roman archaeological site boasts an impressive array of well-preserved ancient ruins. The most iconic structure at the park is the Greek Theater, which is still used today for various cultural events.
4. Ear of Dionysius: This fascinating cave is located within the Archaeological Park of Neapolis and is known for its incredible acoustics. Legend says that Dionysius used the cave as a secret prison and eavesdropping chamber.
5. Fonte Aretusa: This natural freshwater spring is located near Ortigia and is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the scenery. Legend has it that the spring was created by the tears of Artemis, the goddess of hunting.
6. Castello Maniace: This impressive 13th-century castle was built by the Normans and has served as a fortress, a prison, and a military barracks over the years. Today, it is home to a small museum and is open to visitors.
7. Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum: This museum located just outside of the city center contains a wealth of ancient artifacts from throughout Sicily, including pieces from the prehistoric, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Siracusa!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Siracusa.

When to go on holiday to Siracusa

The best time to visit Siracusa is from April to June or from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. July and August are the peak tourist season in Siracusa and can be very hot and crowded. However, if you enjoy the beach and nightlife, these months are perfect to visit. December to March can be rainy and cold, so it's not the best time to visit if you're looking for warm weather.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Siracusa

There are several ways to get to Siracusa, Italy: By Plane: The closest airport to Siracusa is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, which is located about 70 kilometers north of Siracusa. From there, you can take a bus or train to Siracusa.
By Train: There are regular trains from Catania to Siracusa, with the journey taking around an hour. You can also take a train from other cities in Italy, including Rome and Naples.
By Bus: There are regular buses from Catania to Siracusa, with the journey taking around an hour. There are also buses from other cities in Italy, including Rome, Florence, and Milan.
By Car: Siracusa is well-connected by road, with several major highways running through the city. It takes around an hour to drive from Catania to Siracusa. However, parking in the city can be quite difficult, especially in the historic center.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Siracusa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Siracusa

Sure, here are some typical foods of Siracusa with a brief description for each of them: 1. Arancini - Arancini are balls of rice that are stuffed with cheese, meat, and tomato sauce. They are breaded and fried until crispy, and are typically served as a street food or appetizer. 2. Pasta alla Siracusana - This is a traditional pasta dish from Siracusa that is made with tomato sauce, bacon, and pecorino cheese. 3. Sarde a beccafico - Sarde a beccafico is a Sicilian dish that consists of sardines stuffed with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, raisins, and herbs. It is typically browned in the oven and served as a main course. 4. Granita - Granita is a semi-frozen dessert that is made with ice, sugar, and fruit flavors such as lemon, almond, or coffee. 5. Cassata - Cassata is a traditional Sicilian dessert that is made with sponge cake, ricotta cheese, marzipan, and candied fruit. It is typically served on special occasions like weddings and birthdays.
6. Pesce Spada alla ghiotta - This is a traditional Sicilian swordfish stew made with tomatoes, capers, and olives.
7. Cannoli Siciliani - Cannoli Siciliani are a well-known dessert originating from Sicily. It consists of a crispy, fried pastry shell filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and decorated with candied fruits and chocolate chips.
I hope this helps and gives you ideas of what to try when visiting Siracusa!
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Siracusa an expensive destination for tourists?

Siracusa can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak tourist seasons and in popular areas like Ortigia. However, there are also many affordable options for travelers, such as budget hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants away from the most touristy areas. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) can also be more affordable than during peak summer months. It ultimately depends on your budget and travel preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Siracusa

For visiting Siracusa, it is best to find accommodations in the historic center (Ortigia) or in the neighborhoods of Fonte Ciane and Arenella. Ortigia is the most popular area as it is a small island connected to the mainland by bridges, and it offers a charming atmosphere with narrow alleys and ancient buildings. Fonte Ciane and Arenella are located on the mainland and are close to some of the beautiful beaches near Siracusa. Both areas are well serviced by public transport and offer a wide range of accommodations, including budget-friendly options, luxury hotels, apartments, and bed and breakfasts.
You can check hotel prices at Siracusa here:
Booking.com

Is Siracusa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Siracusa is considered a safe place for tourists, generally. As with any destination, it is important to take normal safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. However, the crime rate in Siracusa is relatively low compared to other cities in Italy, and the local authorities take the safety of tourists seriously. Overall, Siracusa is a beautiful and welcoming place to explore and enjoy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Siracusa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Siracusa the most?

Siracusa, Italy is a destination that caters to travelers of all types. Here are some specific groups of travelers who may enjoy Siracusa the most: 1. Couples: Siracusa is a romantic and historically rich city that offers couples the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, stroll through charming streets and enjoy delicious Sicilian cuisine.
2. History and Culture Enthusiasts: Siracusa is steeped in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the city's rich past. Highlights include the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, the Ortigia Island historic center, and the Cathedral of Syracuse.
3. Families: Siracusa has plenty of kid-friendly attractions, such as the Puppet Theatre Museum, the Castello Maniace, and the sandy beaches. Families can also enjoy Sicilian gelato and pizza.
4. Young People: The vibrant nightlife of Siracusa will satisfy young people who are looking for fun, with plenty of bars, clubs and outdoor venues where they can unwind and socialize.
Overall, Siracusa is a city that caters to a wide range of travelers, offering something for everyone, regardless of age or interests.

How to get around Siracusa

In Siracusa, you can move around by using different means of transportation, including buses, taxis, rental cars, and bicycles. The local buses are an affordable means of transportation that operates on different routes within the city, and taxi services are also available. You can rent a car from various car rental companies located in the city if you want more flexibility and independence when moving around. Bicycles are also a popular means of transportation, with several rental shops situated within the city.

What to see around Siracusa

Sure, here are some of the nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Siracusa, Italy: 1. Noto - a beautiful town known for its Sicilian Baroque architecture and churches.
2. Ragusa - a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Baroque architecture.
3. Modica - famous for its Aztec chocolate recipe and Baroque palaces.
4. Taormina - a beautiful coastal town with stunning views of the majestic Mount Etna.
5. Catania - a vibrant city with beautiful Baroque buildings and a lively street market.
6. Marzamemi - a charming fishing village with a beautiful seaside promenade.
7. Pantalica Nature Reserve - known for its ancient necropolis and beautiful nature trails.
8. Syracuse Archaeological Park - a must-visit place to explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins.
9. Vendicari Nature Reserve - known for its stunning sandy beaches and beautiful wildlife.
10. Cava Grande del Cassibile - a beautiful canyon with stunning waterfalls and natural pools.
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