Excursion Classical siracusa tour at Syracuse

Sicily's ancient treasures and picturesque beauty are yours to discover during this memorable visit to Siracusa, and a walking tour through Ortygia's Old Town. Once one of ancient Greece's most important cities, today Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian) is a lively town on Sicily's southeast coast overflowing with amazing remnants from its long history.

Depart the pier for the scenic drive to Siracusa.

Siracusa Archaeological Site

Upon arrival, proceed to the archaeological site and commence your walking tour though this historic venue. Along the way, a visit is made at the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts, followed by the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the 'Eleutherian Feast'.

Next, see the Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with an extraordinary echo, and the Greek Theatre. One of the largest theatres in the Hellenic World, the Greek Theatre was constructed in the 5th century B.C., and subsequently enlarged to its present size. Leaving Siracusa, re-board your coach for the brief drive to Ortygia.

Ortygia

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the Old Town, whose narrow streets are lined by old, Baroque-style houses with charming balconies. A visit is made to the Baroque-style Cathedral, which was erected over the remains of the Doric Temple of Minerva. Inside the cathedral, see 12 undamaged Doric columns and a splendid painting of Antonello da Messina.

Next, proceed for a visit to the picturesque Arethusa Fountain, celebrated by Pindar and Virgilio as the mythical spring of the nymph Arethusa. From here, your walking tour continues past several 15th- and 16th-century nobility palaces. Additional sites to be seen include Piazza Pancali, the Church of San Francesco, Archimedes' Square with the Fountain of Diana, Via della Giudecca, Via della Maestranza, and Corso Matteotti, Ortygia's main and most elegant shopping area.

Following your walking tour, some free time is made available for you to browse the shops at your leisure before walking back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Siracusa, Roman Amphitheatre, Ear of Dionysius, Greek Theatre, Ortygia, Cathedral, Fountains, Palazzos, Piazzas, Churches, Corso Matteotti

Note

Please note: The visit to the Siracusa archaeological site and Ortygia are entirely on-foot for approximately 2.05 miles (about 3.3 km), and includes paved and unpaved surfaces and uneven ground inside the archaeological site. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. The tour sequence may vary. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.