Syracuse Ortigia Private Tour
About this activity
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Experience Highlights
A private tour is perfect to discover the history and monuments of Ortigia, a small island that was the original nucleus of Syracuse. The activity lasts about 4 hours and includes pick up and return to the hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. It is also possible to complete the tour with a local food and wine tasting at an extra cost.
- Admire the Maniace Castle, the Cathedral, the Arethusa Fountain and other points of interest of the island.
- Enjoy a private tour with an experienced tour guide.
- Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle
What’s included
- Private tour
- Expert guide
- Pick up and return to the hotel
- Conditioned vehicle
Select participants and date
Step by Step
This private tour allows you to discover Ortigia accompanied by a local guide. It lasts approximately 4 hours and includes pick-up and drop-off at the hotel. The activity gives you the opportunity to see the most iconic monuments, such as the Maniace Castle, which had an important defensive function. The rest of the route touches on the following points:
- Greek Theatre - Its construction dates back to the 5th century BC. One of its distinctive features is its extraordinary acoustics. Thanks to its careful design and the use of suitable materials, the actors' voices could be heard clearly from all corners, without the need for amplifiers. It could hold up to 15,000 spectators.
- Syracuse Cathedral - Characterised by a fascinating mix of architectural styles spanning several eras, from Greek domination to Baroque architecture.
- Arethusa Spring - A freshwater spring near the sea. The surrounding lush vegetation attracts birds.
- Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia - Best known for the "Burial of Saint Lucy", one of the most important works of the Italian painter Caravaggio. The painting depicts the moment when the body of Saint Lucy, patron saint of Syracuse, is placed in the tomb.
- Giudecca - The old Jewish quarter of the city. Its narrow cobbled streets are now home to a number of restaurants specialising in local cuisine.
- Temple of Apollo - Situated by the sea, near the Porto Grande. Today its Doric columns, which surround the perimeter of the temple, survive.
If you wish, you can complete the experience with an enogastronomic tasting that will introduce you to local wines and recipes.
