Syracuse and Ortigia: Ancient Meets Modern
Once the most powerful city in the Western world, Syracuse offers 2,700 years of history on an island you can walk in 30 minutes.
Syracuse was founded by Corinthian colonists in 734 BC. Within two centuries, it rivalled Athens in power and surpassed it in wealth. Cicero called it the greatest and most beautiful of all Greek cities. Today, the island of Ortigia -- the historic heart -- delivers on that reputation.
Ortigia
The island is connected to the mainland by two short bridges. Its grid of limestone streets holds the Cathedral (built into a Greek temple), the Fountain of Arethusa (a freshwater spring metres from the sea), and enough baroque architecture to fill a university course. The evening passeggiata along the Lungomare is Syracuse at its finest.
The Archaeological Park
On the mainland, the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis contains the Greek Theatre (still hosting performances every summer), the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Ear of Dionysius -- a limestone cave with remarkable acoustics. Allow two hours; bring water.
The Market
Ortigia's daily market on Via Emmanuele de Benedictis is one of Sicily's best. Fresh fish, street food (arancini, panelle, sfincione), local cheeses, and vendors who treat every transaction as a conversation. Open mornings, closed Sundays.
Getting There
Syracuse is 55 minutes from Catania Airport and 90 minutes from Taormina. The approach from Catania follows the coast, passing through Augusta and the industrial zone before the landscape opens into the Val di Noto.
Where to Stay
Ortea Palace on Ortigia's waterfront is the leading luxury option. Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel offers boutique intimacy. Both coordinate transfers with GIORIZZ.
Resta informato
Ricevi guide alle destinazioni, approfondimenti di viaggio e storie curate dal mondo della mobilità premium.
