Things to do in

Piazza Archimede

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.

The guided tour of Ortigia, with our local guide, begins at the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Greek temple in the entire Western world. You will continue your visit in the direction of Piazza Archimede, where you can admire the splendor of the Fountain of Diana, linked to the myth of the nymph Arethusa, who is depicted here with the Greek goddess Artemis at the most important moment when she transforms her into a fountain. You will then arrive in Piazza Duomo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, the place where the founders of the city from Corinth settled. Here you will be able to visit the majestic Cathedral. You will conclude the Tour by arriving at the enchanting Fountain Arethusa, a freshwater spring a few meters from the sea and linked to the love story between Arethusa and Alphaeus.

Embark on a walking tour crossing the picturesque streets of Ortigia, the old part of Syracuse and discovering the traces left by all the different people who governed Sicily. You will meet your guide at the ancient Greek Apollo Temple where you will be given a short introduction to the history of the town. This is a private walking tour with a professional guide so you will enjoy the relaxed walk and flexible itinerary. After a short walk, you will reach Cathedral Square and be surprised by the magnificent bright limestone buildings: the town hall, Palazzo Beneventano, the bishop's palace, and St. Lucy's Church, but most of all the Cathedral itself. It is the only church still in use today which many years ago was a pagan temple, and you should not miss the opportunity to visit its interiors (optional visit, admission fee not included). The tour through Ortigia then continues to Aretusa Fountain near the sea. The myth of Aretusa was told by Ovidius and in its clear fresh water grows papyrus which was probably brought here when Archimedes lived in town. The way back leads through the Jewish Quarter to Via Maestranza, the street where the nobility of the town had their pompous homes. On Archimedes Square, the neoclassical Fountain of Diana remembers once more the glorious past of Syracuse. The tour will end at at Piazza Archimede in the heart of Ortigia but you can also ask your guide to end at the local fish and fruit market where you can take a breath of local life, colors, and scents.

Discover the beauty that hides in the alleyways of Ortigia on a walking tour accompanied by a local guide. Stroll through Piazza Duomo, marvel at the Syracuse Cathedral, and see the stunning Fountain of Arethusa. Meet your guide and head to Piazza Duomo, strolling through the streets of the historic center and discovering marvelous details carved into the stone of a mantelpiece or an entrance portal. Get introduced to local tradition as well as the myths and legends that have made Ortigia famous. Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Syracuse, a 2500-year-old home of the divine, which incorporates the ancient Doric temple dedicated to Athena. Marvel at the baroque facade and then step inside to see its Roman-style interior in all its glory. Admire fascinating dwellings set between period furnishings and frescoed vaults, resulting in a little-known jewel that represents the city's identity. See gorgeous marble statues of Santa Caterina, the Virgin Mary with baby Jesus, and Santa Lucia. Next, go to the Arethusa Fountain, and listen to the famous myth of Arethusa and Alphaeus, as your gaze travels further until you catch sight of the tip of Ortigia, dominated by the massive Maniace Castle reflected in the waters of the Porto Piccolo.

Explore ancient Syracuse on a 3-hour guided tour and learn about early Greek history through architecture and religious practices. The evidence of Syracuse as capital of the Mediterranean is ever-present, and seen in the glory of its Cathedral, the ancient Temple of Athena, the Greek Theater and the Roman Amphitheater. Admire the beauty of the Cathedral of Syracuse, which incorporates the pagan Temple of Athena. Learn about its various architectural styles from your guide. Continue to the Archeological Park to see the Paradise Latomia and the Ear of Dionysos. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Ionian Sea from the Greek Theater.

After being picked up from your accommodation in Ortigia, your Velo Bike tour around the ancient city (Syracuse) will begin. You will be taken to various parts of the island. Syracuse has a unique ecological system, both inside and outside Ortigia On board your electric velobike (rickshaw), your driver will introduce you inside the magnificent labyrinth of Ortigia, giving you the chance to find and photograph the history left by different populations at each stop. The tour also includes the explanation of historical places and the sight of impressive panoramas. At the end of your experience, you have the option to be dropped off at any location of your choice within Ortigia

The Walking Tour of Ortigia will begin at the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Greek temple in all of Sicily. You will then continue in the direction of Piazza Archimede, where you can admire the Fountain of Diana, linked to the myth of the Nymph Arethusa, who is represented here with the Greek Goddess Artemis, the most important moment in which she transforms her into a fountain. You will arrive in Piazza Duomo, where you can visit the majestic Cathedral. Before concluding the Tour by arriving at the enchanting Fountain Arethusa, linked to the love story between Arethusa and Alphaeus, you will have the opportunity to taste the cannolo, after witnessing its preparation, a symbol of Sicilian confectionery art.

Discover Ortigia and Syracuse on a fascinating e-bike tour to experience the centuries-old charm of Ortigia and Syracuse. We will begin our adventure in the heart of Ortigia, from the new Sea Museum of Syracuse. A place to immerse yourself in the ancient maritime traditions of the city, full of magnificent churches and baroque palaces that enrich a magical island. Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Ortigia, admiring monuments such as the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, Piazza Duomo, Fonte Aretusa, the formidable Maniace Castle and the picturesque seafront which offers wonderful views. We will leave Ortigia, crossing the bridges arriving in Syracuse, pedaling along dedicated cycle paths to access the Rossana Maiorca path, renowned for being the most fascinating cycle route in Sicily. It will be enchanting to cycle in a breathtaking setting between the Syracuse countryside and the rugged beauty of the Du Frati cliffs and the historic Tonnara of Syracuse. Conclude your adventure by returning to the starting point, enriched by the treasures discovered along the way.

Durante il Tour in Ape Calessino a Ortigia, avrai l'opportunità di ammirare la maestosa Cattedrale di Siracusa (stop di 15 minuti ),la fonte Aretusa (stop di 5 minuti), la terrazza del castello Maniace (stop 10 minuti) il Tempio di Apollol la fontana di Diana a piazza archimede e il pittoresco Porto Grande. Lungo il percorso, il conducente condividerà aneddoti affascinanti sulla cultura siciliana, offrendoti una prospettiva autentica di questa affascinante isola. Un'esperienza indimenticabile per scoprire i tesori nascosti di Ortigia. Inoltre i tour possono essere personalizzati a discrezione del cliente poichè la nostra tariffa è oraria..

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.