Syracuse’s wine scene shines through several well-organized tours. The best options start with the practical Siracusa Food and Wine Tour – perfect for getting your bearings while sampling wines at three intimate, family-run spots in historic Ortygia. I especially love the Seneca Lake Wine Tasting experience, which showcases four excellent wineries and their standout Rieslings.
For history buffs who enjoy their wine, the Private Syracuse Tour smartly combines ancient ruins with local wine tasting. The Private Walking Tour offers an intimate look at the city, capped off with a cozy wine bar visit. And for stunning views with your vino, the Mount Etna Private Tour pairs volcanic landscapes with regional wine sampling.
Let’s explore the top wine tours Syracuse has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour offers a small group experience focusing on renowned Rieslings, with a 4.7 overall rating from 194 reviews.
- The Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia includes a visit to Greek and Roman monuments, with optional wine tasting during lunch.
- The Syracuse Private Walking Tour with an Option of Food and Wine Tasting culminates in a tasting of local fare and regional wines at a wine bar.
- The Private Tour of Mount Etna and Etna Winery Visit provides a full-day experience with a guided tour of the volcanic site and a wine and lunch pairing at an Etna winery.
- The Siracusa Food and Wine Tour offers a 2.5-hour walking tour in Ortygia, with visits to three family-owned restaurants and a focus on appetizers, fresh fish, pastries, and wines.
Siracusa Food and Wine Tour (Small Group)
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Syracuse, the Siracusa Food and Wine Tour (Small Group) offers a delightful 2.5-hour walking adventure through the historic Ortygia neighborhood.
Travelers will visit three family-owned eateries, sampling authentic local dishes and wines. The tour includes appetizers, fresh fish, pastries, and a variety of prosecco, white, and red wines, plus liquors.
Along the way, you will pass by landmarks like Piazza San Rocco, Piazza del Duomo, and the Fountain of Diana. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
A local licensed guide provides expert commentary on the region’s history and culture. Vegetarian options are available with prior notice.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the high-quality food and wine tastings, which constitute a full meal. The tour concludes at the iconic Piazza Duomo, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Sicilian culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Siracusa Food and Wine Tour (Small Group) Review
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Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour
Nestled along the shores of Seneca Lake in upstate New York, the Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour invites visitors to explore the rich winemaking heritage of this renowned American Viticultural Area.
This intimate, small-group experience takes guests to four local wineries, where they’ll sample a variety of wines, including the region’s renowned Rieslings. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides a personalized touch, allowing travelers to explore the winemaking process and learn from knowledgeable guides.
The tour includes hassle-free round-trip transfers from select area hotels, and options for lunch at scenic vineyards are available on the Small & Mighty plus Lunch tour.
Boasting an impressive 4.7 overall rating from 194 reviews, the Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour is a must-do for oenophiles and wine enthusiasts visiting the Syracuse region.
Read our full review: Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour Review
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Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting
Travelers visiting Syracuse, Italy, can embark on a private tour that showcases the city’s rich archaeological heritage and the charming island of Ortigia. This 4-5 hour tour takes visitors to significant Greek and Roman monuments, with a private guide and driver providing expert commentary.
Recommended by 95% of travelers, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a traditional lunch with an option for wine and local food tasting.
Entrance fees to the Archaeological Park are included, with discounts available for children. The tour is accessible for strollers, and service animals are welcome. While not wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Travelers can enjoy the tour’s historical insights and culinary experiences, with positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides. However, some report a lack of detailed information from certain guides.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting Review
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Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Option of Food and Wine Tasting
Enjoy the ancient wonders of Syracuse, Italy, on this private walking tour.
Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the city’s storied past, visiting the Temple of Apollo, Arethusa Fountain, and the Jewish Quarter. Along the way, you’ll gain rich historical insights into this captivating destination.
The tour culminates with a tasting of traditional local fare and regional wines at a charming wine bar. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your own departure time and the exclusivity of a private experience, without the crowds or waiting.
With a rating of 5.0 stars from 19 reviews, this tour is a must-do for wine and history enthusiasts.
Accessibility is a priority, with the tour being stroller-friendly, though not wheelchair-accessible. For your safety, the tour provider offers masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer.
Priced from $230.98 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a memorable and customizable experience in the heart of Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Option of Food and Wine Tasting Review
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Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine
Visitors exploring Syracuse can embark on a captivating private walking tour of Ortigia, followed by a private boat tour offering enchanting coastal vistas and a tasting of local specialties.
The 2-hour walking tour and 1-hour boat tour provide a rundown of the city’s top sights and flavors, with a rating of 4.0 based on 3 reviews. At nearly $350 per person, the experience may be considered pricey, with one traveler finding it overpriced and lacking promised inclusions during the boat tour.
However, another traveler praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, expressing a desire to return. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Customers should note that weather-related rescheduling and shortened boat tours have occurred, leading to a partial refund deemed insufficient by one traveler. Booking similar tours separately may offer better value.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine Review
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Private Tour of Mount Etna and Etna Winery Visit With Tasting From Syracuse
Although based in Syracuse, travelers can embark on a captivating private tour that explores the majestic Mount Etna and offers a visit to a renowned Etna winery.
This full-day excursion includes a stop at a local honey shop for tastings and a guided tour of the volcanic site, reaching an elevation of 6,500 feet. Guests can opt for a cable car and Jeep ascent to 9,800 feet, though the standard tour maintains a comfortable pace.
The experience concludes with a wine and lunch pairing at an Etna winery. The tour provides hassle-free round-trip transportation from Syracuse and features a private, licensed guide.
With a 5-star rating, this tour offers an immersive Etna experience complemented by the rich culinary and wine offerings of the region. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for travelers of varying abilities.
Pricing starts at $388.47 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Mount Etna and Etna Winery Visit With Tasting From Syracuse Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take a Wine Tour in Syracuse?
The best time to take a wine tour in Syracuse is typically during the summer and fall months when the weather is mild and the grapes are ripe for the harvest. Many wineries offer their best tours and tastings during this peak season.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Wine Tours?
Most wine tours in the area have no age restrictions, though some may require participants to be 21 or older to sample the wines. It’s best to check with individual tour companies for their specific policies.
Can I Customize the Wine Tour to Fit My Preferences?
Most wine tour providers allow customers to customize their experiences to fit their preferences. Some may offer specialized tours or the ability to prioritize certain wineries based on the group’s interests and schedule.
Are There Any Additional Fees for the Wine Tastings?
Many wine tour companies offer customizable experiences, but there may be additional fees for wine tastings. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to understand any additional costs associated with the wine tasting portion of the tour.
What Should I Bring With Me on a Wine Tour in Syracuse?
When going on a wine tour, it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. This will help you stay hydrated, energized, and able to capture the scenic vineyards during your tasting experience.
The Sum Up
Syracuse offers a variety of wine tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s rich culinary and viniculture heritage. From small group food and wine tours to private excursions, there are options to suit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re interested in tasting local wines, visiting historic sites, or taking a boat tour, Syracuse has plenty to offer oenophiles and gastronomes alike.