Tours & tickets

Arethusa Spring

During this guided tour you will see the following monuments and historical buildings: Venetian Palace, Umberto I bridge, small harbour, Bourbons prison, old spanish walls and Eastern seafront, Viliena Fortress, Jewish Quarter, Maniace Castle, Aretusa Source, Cathedral, St. Lucy alla Badia Church, Alfeo seafront and Porta Marina. Then we will continue our tour by the coast to the sea caves visit and you can live a unique experience: the boat will go into the sea caves wich is the best place to admire stalactites, stalagmites and corals. Some of these caves have peculiar shapes that you will recognize by approaching them, as Dionisio's ear cave, Lovers cave wich has a heart shape and the Doves cave. Last but not least, if you wish, you can also have the chance to enjoy a stop for swimming in our crystal waters.

Experience an unforgettable adventure on the Syracuse Boat Tour with Captain Mirko. Departing from and returning to Riva della Posta, you’ll embark on a journey to explore the enchanting Ortigia Island. Captain Mirko, with his vast local knowledge, will guide you through the island’s rich history and breathtaking sights. Your tour begins with a scenic cruise around Ortigia, where you’ll marvel at iconic landmarks such as the majestic Maniace Castle and the beautiful Aretusa Fountain. As we navigate the crystal-clear waters, you’ll have the opportunity to explore hidden marine caves, revealing the mesmerizing natural beauty of Syracuse's coastline. The tour includes a historical exploration of Ortigia Island, where you'll see the small port, Bourbon prison, Forte San Giovannello, Forte Vigliena, Santo Spirito Church, Alfeo promenade, the Jesuit College, the Grand Harbor of Syracuse, and the famous passage under the Umbertino Bridge. The adventure continues with a naturalistic excursion along the northern coast of Syracuse, where you will enter marine caves to admire stalactites, coral flowers, and crystal-clear water. Highlights include the heart-shaped cave, dolphin-shaped rock, and the monument to the fallen of World War II. We will also pass under the Umbertino Bridge. Along the way, you’ll witness the vibrant marine life and stunning rock formations that make this area unique. We’ll make a special stop at one of the secluded coves, perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing break. Snorkeling masks are provided, allowing you to immerse yourself in the underwater wonders. On board, you'll enjoy complimentary fresh water. Captain Mirko ensures a comfortable and pleasant experience, with a friendly atmosphere and plenty of anecdotes and insights into local life. This 90-minute tour operates daily with multiple departure times to suit your schedule. Please arrive at Riva della Posta 20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour offers an intimate and personalized way to experience the magic of Syracuse. Book your spot today and create lasting memories on this extraordinary boat tour.

Immerse yourself in Ortigia, the historical heart of Syracuse as on this guided boat tour. Enjoy listening as your skipper tells you about geological formations and step back in time with stories and information regarding the area's rich history. Board a comfortable boat and embark on your water adventure. Glide from the bridges of Ortigia and will enter the "big port" of Syracuse where you can gaze out of the the stunning Alfeo Promenade of Ortigia. Sail outside the port to circumnavigate the entire island. Follow the coast north of Syracuse to see some naturally-formed sea caves. Cruise into the "small port" and navigate inside the Ortigia canal that divides the island from the city. Have the chance to stop and take a dip in the turquoise waters with views of the shore. Pass under the bridges to return to the starting point of the tour. Meetpoint: via senatore Giuseppe maielli 4 (infopoint Syracuse excursion)

Get ready to create memories as clear as Syracuse's water. In 90 minutes, just steps from the new pedestrian bridge, you will embark in front of “A Surgiva” restaurant. Climb aboard a comfortable boat with a sun shade awning, padded seats and a sundeck in the bow. Experience the thrill of passing under the historic Umbertino Bridge, a must-see place for photos. As you skirt Ortigia, admire the 16th-century ramparts, Maniace Castle, and the freshwater spring of Fonte Aretusa gushing from the sea as the skipper tells you local stories and secrets. Along the limestone cliffs you'll discover hidden coves and caves sculpted by the elements: the Grotta degli Innamorati excellent for a couple's shot, the Grotta delle Stalattiti where the rock drips into the blue, as well as the Scoglio del Gorilla and the tranquil Ru Frati Bay. The skipper will drop anchor in the clearest stretch of water. Put on the masks provided, dive in and snorkel the posidonia and sand prairies. Refresh yourself with seasonal fruit, chilled prosecco or soft drinks and enjoy music that suits your mood. Return to the starting point with salt on your skin, sun on your face, and the feeling of an authentic Sea Experience in Syracuse.

An unique and relaxing tour, rich in history, monuments, sea caves and nature. A beautiful and fantastic experience, advisable to photograph the beautiful landscapes and sunsets. Starting from the "Umbertino" bridge, continuing from the small port of "S. Lucia" we head towards the sea caves and the heart-shaped cave (Syracuse side). After that you go on along the "Alfeo" seafront on the island of Ortigia, where you will admire the Maniace Castle and the "Fonte Aretusa" , where you can take a short stop to get a bath and photograph the beautiful panorama it offers us. At the end of the tour you will see "Porta Marina". - The tour includes a toast with a glass of prosecco -

Embark on a fascinating 2-hour shared group tour, led by our expert guides, to uncover the captivating history and cultural treasures nestled within Ortigia, the old town center of Siracusa. The journey commences at the ancient Apollo Temple. This impressive doric style building was the first large stone temple built by ancient Greeks in the western colonies. From there, we traverse through the lively Archimedes Square, alive with the echoes of past civilizations. Immerse yourself in the charm of Diana Fountain, a beautiful centerpiece, before arriving at the illustrious Piazza Duomo, the cathedral square. Here, a splendid ensemble of palazzi and ornate churches stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage. You will learn about the town hall (Palazzo Vermexio), Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, St. Lucy's church and the cathedrale. The cathedral is frequently chosen as a wedding venue. When accessible to visitors, we provide the opportunity to explore the church's interior with our guide (entrance ticket of €2 not included), or alternatively, to enjoy a brief coffee break. Our journey progresses to the legendary Aretusa Spring, a place steeped in mythical lore and famous for its papyrus plants, followed by a leisurely stroll along the picturesque seafront promenade. The tour continues with a walk through the historic Giudecca, offering glimpses into the former Jewish district and its past. Throughout the tour, our guide will offer insights into the town's rich history, both ancient and recent, delving into local traditions and religious celebrations such as the revered St. Lucy's feast and its grand procession, providing a comprehensive understanding of Siracusa's cultural heritage and the daily life in Sicily. This tour starts at the Apollo temple at the entrance of Ortigia and ends at Piazza Archimede. Feel free to ask your guide for suggestions about other monuments to visit, nearby towns, restaurants or activities. Our tours are designed for an intimate experience, ensuring a maximum group size of 25 participants, though typically our groups consist of around 10 enthusiastic explorers, allowing for a more personalized and engaging journey through Siracusa's wonders.

Embark on a boat tour of Ortigia with this tour from Siracusa. View the historic center of Siracusa from the water. Travel along the coast to admire Maniace castle and several sea caves. Push off from Siracusa and pass under the Umbertino bridge. Take in sweeping views of the entire port. Go by the luxurious yachts at Foro Italico, and catch a glimpse of a cathedral dome. Observe the legendary Arethusa fountain. Exit the port and see the immense Maniace castle. Head out to the northern coast of Syracuse. Have some fresh fruit and juice as you travel to a spot where you can get out and have a 10 minute swim. Enter Capuchin cave, Coral cave, a stalactite cave, and the heart-shaped Cave of Love. Snap souvenir photos with the heart behind you.

Start your journey as you depart from the embarkation point at the entrance to the island of Ortigia. Once you arrive you will be greeted by the hospitable local partner. Board your boat and feel free to move around during the tour. Opt for a warm place in the sun or take advantage of the shade provided by the awning. Whilst on board you will always find fresh water and safety systems for all participants. Be the one to choose what kind of experience you have as your captain explains the history of the places you will visit. Enjoy the trip by listening to music and letting the scenery do the talking. Admire the island of Ortigia in its entirety as you get the opportunity to see the Maniace Castle, the Arethusa spring, and the city from the sea. Along the Syracuse coast you can have fun unearthing the hidden shapes behind the most famous rocks, go inside sea caves, and observe the color variations within them. Visit the marine protected area of Plemmirio and experience the unspoiled open sea full of picturesque coves including the most famous, the Pillirina. Stop for a swim and snorkel and marvel at the abundance of colorful fish.

Join a food tour to discover the secrets of Syracuse's culinary tradition. Explore the nuances that the street food of the former ancient Greek colony has to offer, including arancini (fried rice balls), impanate (breaded snacks), the fried cone of freshly caught fish (only during summertime), and granita or cannoli. Follow your guide to the ancient market in Syracuse for a tasting of paninetti with locally produced cheeses and cured meats. Enjoy a typical local liqueur. Relax and cool down on a hot afternoon with a Sicilian granita – made from fresh fruit and sugar – served in a glass with ice. Become a true expert on Syracuse cuisine as you relish Arancini fried rice balls stuffed with meat, cooked ham, spinach, pistachios, aubergines, and more. Then, during summertime, it’s time to munch on a fried fish cone filled with various kinds of fried fish, caught that day. Savor an impanate, a delicacy with strong flavors. Relish this artisanal bakery product typical of Sicily, an oval-shaped, golden-colored calzone that can be stuffed with tomato sauce, vegetables, meat, cheese, potatoes and sausage, shrimp, and black olives. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a cannoli wafer, traditionally molded around a hot metal bar, filled with a sweet and creamy preparation made with ricotta cheese, candied fruit, crunchy pistachios, or dark chocolate chips.

The tour takes place on board a typical tuk tuk called in Italy "APE CALESSINO", it can carry a maximum of 4 people. The 2-hour tour includes: During the Ape Calessino Tour in Ortigia, you will have the opportunity to admire the majestic Cathedral of Syracuse (20-minute stop), the Aretusa fountain (5-minute stop), the terrace of the Maniace castle (15-minute stop) the Temple of Apollo (5-minute stop) the fountain of Diana (5-minute stop) in Piazza Archimede, the JEWISH quarter and the picturesque Porto Grande. Along the way, the driver will share fascinating anecdotes about Sicilian culture, giving you an authentic perspective of this fascinating island. An unforgettable experience to discover the hidden treasures of Ortigia, the visit of the city of Syracuse includes a visit to the SANCTUARY of the Madonna delle Lacrime (stop 15 minutes), a visit to the Basilica of Santa Lucia where you can admire the painting of "CARAVAGGIO", we will also pass by the church of SAN GIOVANNI ALLE CATACOMBE, when booking, please indicate what time you prefer to start the tour.