Syracuse

Siracusa

Syracuse was one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world, rivaling Athens in its heyday. Its island center, Ortigia, is a beautifully preserved baroque gem surrounded by sea.

Things to do

• Explore Ortigia Island — Wander the narrow medieval streets and baroque piazzas of this enchanting island district.
• Visit the Greek Theater — One of the largest ancient Greek theaters; attend a live classical performance in summer.
• See the Ear of Dionysius — Explore this remarkable limestone cave within the Neapolis Archaeological Park.
• Tour the Archaeological Museum — The Paolo Orsi Museum houses one of the finest collections of ancient Greek artifacts in Europe.
• Swim at Ciane River Reserve — Paddle through ancient papyrus groves on a boat tour of this nature reserve.

Food to try

• Scacce Ragusane — A thin flatbread rolled and stuffed with tomato, cheese, or onions, typical of southeast Sicily.
• Pasta alla Norma — Classic Sicilian pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, basil, and salted ricotta.
• Impanata di Pesce — A savory pastry pie filled with fresh local fish and olives, a traditional Syracuse specialty.
• Gelato al Limone — Syracuse's lemon trees are legendary; the local lemon gelato is intensely fresh and fragrant.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit Ortigia in the Evening — The island is at its most atmospheric and photogenic in the golden hour before sunset.
• Check Festival Dates — The Classical Greek Theater Festival runs in May and June; plan around it or book shows.
• Papyrus Traditions — Syracuse is the only place in Europe where papyrus grows wild; local craftspeople still make paper from it.