Discovering Siracusa: History, Beaches and Cuisine

Experience the beauty and history of Siracusa without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Siracusa on a limited budget is a great way to explore one of Italy’s hidden gems without breaking the bank. Visitors can stroll the ancient streets of Ortigia and marvel at the many historic buildings and ancient ruins on offer, before sampling local cuisine at one of the many affordable restaurants in the area. A day-trip to the nearby Island of Ortigia is also a must for budget travelers, with stunning beaches and awe-inspiring sea views that won’t cost a penny.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Siracusa

  • Check into the Al Palmento Cruillas hotel, housed in a restored 19th-century mill
  • Visit the ancient Greek theater, marvel at the echoes of past performances and soak up the sweeping views of the city
  • Wander through the Baroque beauty of the Ortigia district, admire the Cathedral of Syracuse and the Fountain of Artemis
  • Stroll down the colorful market of Via della Maestranza, breathe in the heady scents of fresh produce and seafood
  • Stop for a heaping plate of traditional pasta alla siracusana at the cozy family-run trattoria Osteria da Seby
  • End the day with a gelato from the renowned Il Gelato di San Crispino, savor the creamy perfection of flavors like almond and Sicilian pistachio
Day 2

Sun, Sea and Sand in Vendicari

  • Take a day trip to the nearby nature reserve of Vendicari, home to pristine beaches, wildlife and some of Sicily's best birdwatching
  • Bask in the sun on the golden sands of Calamosche, a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters and a rustic beach shack
  • Hike along the coastal trails and admire the salt pans, ancient watchtowers, and Greek ruins scattered throughout the reserve
  • Stop for a refreshing swim at the San Lorenzo beach, where shallow waters and a tranquil atmosphere make for a perfect spot to relax
  • Treat yourself to a seafood feast at the popular Ristorante il Brigantino, taste the fresh catch of the day in dishes like grilled octopus and linguine alle vongole
Day 3

Sicilian Culture and Cuisine

  • Start the day with a cappuccino and croissant at the charming Caffè del Duomo, where locals converge for their morning fix
  • Visit the Regional Archaeological Museum Paolo Orsi, one of Italy's leading archaeological institutions with over 11,000 square meters of exhibits
  • Continue to the Catacombs of San Giovanni, an underground labyrinth of early Christian tombs and frescoes
  • Savor the flavors of Sicilian cuisine in the lovely garden of Ristorante Dioniso, with dishes like arancini, caponata, and swordfish cooked to perfection
  • Enjoy a glass of wine and soak up the atmosphere of Piazza del Duomo, admire the impressive architecture of the Palazzo Beneventano and the Church of Santa Lucia
  • Finish the day with a sweet treat from the legendary Gelateria Don Gelato, try their signature flavors like ricotta and fig, or pistachio and white chocolate.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Siracusa by plane is to fly to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and then take a train to Siracusa. The airport is located approximately an hour away from Siracusa by car, and there are regular train connections between the airport and the city. The journey by plane takes approximately 2 hours from Rome, and the airport is serviced by several major airlines such as Alitalia and Ryanair.

Car

The best way to get to Siracusa by car is to drive from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport. The journey takes approximately an hour and passes through scenic Italian countryside. Car rental is available at the airport, and the drive is relatively easy, but parking in Siracusa can be challenging. However, having a car allows for greater flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.

Train

The best way to get to Siracusa by train is to take a train from Naples or Rome to Siracusa train station. There are multiple daily trains from both cities, and the journey takes approximately 8-10 hours. Siracusa train station is located in the center of the city, making it easy to access accommodation and other tourist attractions. The train journey offers scenic views of the Italian countryside, and trains are comfortable and reliable.

Boat

The best way to get to Siracusa by boat is to take a ferry from Malta. Ferries depart from Valetta and the journey takes approximately 3 hours. The ferry arrives at the Port of Siracusa, which is located near the city center. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and is a great way to experience the beauty of the region by sea.

Bus

The best way to get to Siracusa by bus is to take a bus from Catania. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and there are multiple daily departures. The bus terminus in Siracusa is located near the center of the city. Buses are affordable, reliable and comfortable. A bus ride through the Italian countryside is a great way to take in the scenic beauty of the region.

Destination

Siracusa

If you hear Siracusa and immediately think of a type of pasta, you're not alone. But fear not, this charming city has much more to offer than just a tasty name.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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