• Countries
• Italy
• Siracusa

5 Days in Siracusa: History, Beaches & Gelato

Discover ancient charm and modern elegance in Siracusa, Italy.

22 April 2023

A trip to Siracusa, Italy as a tourist offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this ancient city. Visitors can explore fascinating archaeological sites such as the Greek Theater and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, as well as admire beautiful Baroque architecture in the heart of the city. The stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters of Ortigia Island also provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing Mediterranean vacation.

Travel plan

• Check into Hotel Algila Ortigia Charme in Ortygia, the heart of Siracusa, and take a stroll through its narrow alleys.
• Visit the Temple of Apollo, an impressive ruin dating back to the 6th century BC.
• Head to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave with excellent acoustics.
• Admire the Baroque architecture of the Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the Cathedral and the Fountain of Arethusa.
• Have dinner at Oinos, a cozy wine bar, and try some local specialties like arancini and swordfish.

• Take a bus or a train to Fontane Bianche, a popular beach 15 km south of Siracusa, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
• Visit the Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum, with a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Sicily.
• Discover the traditional market of Ortygia, with its colorful stalls selling fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables.
• Attend a performance at the Teatro Greco, a semi-circular ancient theater that hosts concerts and plays in the summer.
• Taste some gelato at Gelateria Old Bridge, one of the best in Sicily.

• Rent a car or take a bus to Noto, a charming Baroque town 30 km south of Siracusa, and wander around its palaces and churches.
• Visit the Cathedral of San Nicolò, the Palazzo Ducezio, and the Church of Santa Chiara.
• Taste some pastries at Caffè Sicilia, a legendary patisserie that reinvents traditional recipes.
• Drive to the nearby Vendicari Natural Reserve, a paradise for birdwatchers and beach lovers, and have a picnic.
• Return to Siracusa and enjoy a seafood dinner at Il Consiglio di Sicilia, overlooking the harbor.

• Start the day with a cappuccino at Caffè del Duomo, a historic café with a view of the Cathedral.
• Walk along the Lungomare di Levante, a scenic promenade that encircles Ortygia, and have a swim off the rocks.
• Visit the Jewish Baths, the Bellomo Palace, and the Maniace Castle, all within walking distance.
• Watch the sunset from the terrace of Antico Mercato, a trendy bar that serves cocktails and aperitifs.
• Have dinner at Don Camillo, a small restaurant with a seasonal menu that includes fish from the nearby fish market.

• Join a wine tour to the countryside around Siracusa, where some of the best wines in Italy are produced.
• Visit a local olive mill and taste some olive oil, a staple of Sicilian cuisine.
• Have lunch at Caseificio Borderi, a deli that serves gourmet sandwiches with cheese and cold cuts.
• Visit the Catacombs of San Giovanni, an underground cemetery dating back to the early Christian era.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at Dioniso Wine Bar, a cozy spot that offers a wide selection of wines from all over Italy.