Walking tours in Syracuse, Sicily cut straight to the heart of this magnificent ancient city. The best tours focus on two key areas: the island of Ortigia, with its stunning Baroque churches and vibrant morning market, and the archaeological park featuring Greek and Roman ruins.
Small-group tours around Ortigia are particularly worthwhile, especially those combining history with food tastings at local markets. We love the morning market tours that include sampling traditional Sicilian specialties – they’re intimate and give you a real taste of daily life.
The archaeological park tours stand out for their expert commentary on the Greek Theater and the famous “Ear of Dionysus” cave.
Check our recommended tours below to find your perfect Syracuse adventure.
Good To Know
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The Syracuse Private Walking Tour offers a personalized experience exploring the historic city’s rich cultural heritage, ancient landmarks, and authentic local flavors.
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The Syracuse: Ortigia Guided Walking Tour & Cannolo Tasting combines a 2-hour guided tour of Ortigia’s medieval, Baroque, and Rococo architecture with a traditional Sicilian cannolo tasting.
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The Syracuse: Ortigia Classic Walking Tour provides a comprehensive guided tour of the captivating sights of Ortigia island, including the Apollo Temple, Archimedes Square, and Piazza Duomo.
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The Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour With Tastings allows visitors to explore Ortigia’s local food hotspots and sample a variety of Sicilian specialties like arancini, impanate, and cannoli.
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The Noto Walking Tour offers a 2-hour guided tour of the picturesque Baroque town, showcasing its rich traditions, culture, and Baroque architecture along the main street.
Ortigia: History and Architecture Walking Tour
On Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse, visitors can embark on a captivating walking tour that unveils the island’s rich history and architectural gems. The tour highlights the Cathedral of Syracuse, a striking blend of Baroque and Norman styles.
Nearby, the Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest Doric temples in Sicily, stands as a testament to the city’s ancient Greek roots. The walking tour also explores the Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo, a beautiful church known for its intricate façade. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy the charming atmosphere of Ortigia’s winding streets and charming piazzas, gaining a deeper appreciation for Syracuse’s remarkable past.
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Noto Walking Tour
Visitors can embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour of Noto, a picturesque Baroque town in Sicily. Led by a professional local guide, the tour explores the town’s rich traditions and culture.
Travelers will admire the exquisite Baroque architecture as they stroll along the charming main street, browsing the shops at their own pace. The tour is recommended by 94% of visitors and can accommodate up to 12 travelers. Confirmation is available within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The tour meeting point is at the Porta Reale (Royal gate), and it’s accessible by public transportation. With a 4.5-star rating from 16 reviews, this walking tour offers an immersive glimpse into the beauty and history of Noto.
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Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Option of Food and Wine Tasting
Explore the historic city of Syracuse, Sicily, on a private walking tour that delves into its rich cultural heritage. This 3-hour tour includes a professional local guide, traditional food and wine tastings, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Stroll through the charming streets of Ortigia, Syracuse’s picturesque old town, and discover ancient landmarks, vibrant markets, and authentic local flavors. With a minimum of 2 persons per booking, this private tour ensures a personalized experience. Guests will be provided with safety essentials like masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Rated 100% recommended by travelers, this walking tour offers an immersive and memorable way to explore the best of Syracuse.
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Syracuse: Ortigia Guided Walking Tour & Cannolo Tasting
Travelers looking to discover the historic charm of Syracuse can embark on a guided walking tour of the ancient island of Ortigia. The 2-hour tour highlights the island’s medieval, baroque, art nouveau, and rococo architecture, including a visit to the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Greek temple in Sicily.
Participants will also explore Piazza Archimede and see the Fountain of Diana, visit the Cathedral in Piazza Duomo, and end at the Fountain Arethusa. The tour includes a certified local guide, a tasting of a traditional Sicilian cannolo, and an entrance ticket to the Cathedral of Syracuse.
Travelers should specify any allergies or intolerances when booking, as visits to monuments may be subject to change based on holidays and/or opening hours.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Ortigia Guided Walking Tour & Cannolo Tasting Review
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Syracuse: Ortigia Classic Walking Tour
Although Syracuse’s Ortigia island is the historic heart of the city, visitors can explore its captivating sights on this 2-hour guided walking tour. Led by expert guides, the tour takes you through the ancient Apollo Temple, Archimedes Square, and the stunning Piazza Duomo.
You’ll discover the incredible cathedral built on an ancient Greek temple and have the chance to explore its interior for an additional fee. The tour also includes visits to the legendary Aretusa Spring and the historic Giudecca district, formerly home to Syracuse’s Jewish community. With a maximum group size of 25, this tour offers a personalized experience to uncover the rich history and cultural treasures of Ortigia.
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Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour With Tastings
For those looking to enjoy the vibrant culinary scene of Syracuse, the Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia is a must-try experience. During this 3-hour tour, guests can explore the island’s local food hotspots and sample Sicilian specialties like arancini, impanate, fried fish cones, cannoli, and granita.
The tour also includes a visit to the ancient seafood market and nearby areas. Participants can enjoy a variety of food tastings, one alcoholic drink, and gelato or granita, all for a price of $72.73 per person. With limited availability, this tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance.
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Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine
This private tour offers travelers an immersive experience to explore Syracuse’s top sights by both land and sea. The 3-hour experience begins with a 2-hour walking tour of the charming island district of Ortigia. Guests will navigate the maze-like streets as a guide shares insights into the city’s rich history and highlights.
Then, they’ll embark on a 1-hour private boat tour, cruising along the coastline for stunning views of Syracuse. The boat tour includes a spread of Sicilian delicacies and wine. Transportation from Syracuse hotels is provided, and the tour accommodates most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. With 4-star reviews, this is an excellent way to discover Syracuse’s top attractions.
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Greek Theater – Ortigia Walking Tour
Travelers can step back in time and explore the grand Greek Theater, one of Syracuse’s most iconic archaeological sites, during this 2-hour walking tour through the charming district of Ortigia. Led by a professional art historian guide, the tour includes private transportation and hotel pick-up/drop-off. Participants will learn about the history and significance of the Greek Theater while walking through the picturesque Ortigia.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. Additional costs include a €10 per person fee for the Greek Theater (free for under 18) and a €2 per person fee for the Athena Temple in Ortigia (free for under 10).
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Noto – Villa Del Tellaro (Roman Mosaics) – Marzamemi Walking Tour
Leaving behind the grandeur of the Greek Theater, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the southeast corner of Sicily. The private half-day tour showcases the Baroque splendor of Noto, the ancient Roman mosaics of the Villa del Tellaro, and the picturesque fishing village of Marzamemi.
Accompanied by an art historian, guests explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, learning about the architectural wonders that grace this enchanting landscape. With a driver and local guide in tow, the tour offers a seamless experience, complete with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Whether seeking to explore Sicilian Baroque or uncover the region’s Roman past, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
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Syracuse Food & Wine Walking Tour: Small Group
Foodies and oenophiles flock to this small-group tour that grants exclusive access to Syracuse’s culinary treasures. Over 2.5 hours, guests embark on a delectable journey through Ortigia’s bustling markets and hidden alleyways.
They’ll savor authentic Sicilian street food, from flaky pastries to sizzling arancini, all paired with local wines. The expert guide shares insights into the region’s rich gastronomic heritage and introduces guests to passionate producers.
Indulge in a traditional cannoli tasting, then stroll past historic landmarks as you digest the flavors of Syracuse. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.
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Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Syracuse’s rich history and cultural heritage, the Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour provides an immersive experience. Spanning 3 hours, this guided walking tour takes visitors through the Temple of Athena, the Cathedral of Syracuse, the Archeological Park, and the Greek Theater.
Led by licensed and passionate guides, the tour includes headsets to ensure clear audio. Entrance fees to all monuments are covered, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility for travelers. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall value of the tour.
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Walking Tour Vendicari Nature Reserve, Tonnara and Noto Barocco
Embarking on a captivating walking tour, visitors can explore the Vendicari Nature Reserve, the historic Tonnara, and the stunning Baroque architecture of Noto. The private tour, available from May to September, includes entrance to the attractions and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Pickup from your accommodation is provided, and infant seats, service animals, strollers, and wheelchair accessibility are available. With a 5-star rating and a lowest price guarantee, this walking tour offers a comprehensive experience at a competitive price, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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Syracuse: Ortigia Private Walking Tour
What better way to explore the historic heart of Syracuse than with a private walking tour of Ortigia? This 2-hour tour takes visitors through Ortigia’s archaeological and architectural gems, including the Temple of Apollo, Cathedral of Syracuse, Arethusa Spring, and Piazza Archimede.
The tour is available in Italian, English, and German, and can be booked as a private or shared group experience. Priced from $205.54 per group up to 9 participants, the tour offers excellent value for money, with highly knowledgeable and accommodating guides.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though visitors should note the dress code requires covered shoulders. This Ortigia walking tour promises a flexible and immersive exploration of Syracuse’s rich history and culture.
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Syracuse: Ortigia Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour
Commencing with a thrilling scavenger hunt, this Ortigia highlights tour provides an engaging and interactive way to explore the historic heart of Syracuse. Participants will search for clues and solve puzzles that reveal the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour then transitions to a guided walk, showcasing Ortigia’s top sights, including the Piazza del Duomo, the Fountain of Arethusa, and the bustling market. Along the way, the guide shares captivating tales of the island’s Greek, Roman, and Baroque influences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour offers a unique and memorable way to discover the gems of Ortigia.
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Ortigia: Private Walking Tour and Boat Trip
For those looking to enjoy the rich history and culture of Ortigia, the private walking tour and boat trip offers a comprehensive experience. The 3.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the island’s most captivating landmarks, from the ancient Greek Apollo Temple to the picturesque Arethusa Fountain.
The walking portion explores Ortigia’s highlights, while the boat trip along the coastline provides a unique perspective and opportunity to swim in the crystalline Ionian waters. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes a traditional lunch of locally sourced foods and wine, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of this enchanting Sicilian destination.
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Syracuse: Highlights of Ortigia Guided Walking Tour
The Syracuse: Highlights of Ortigia Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the historical island of Ortigia. Lasting 1.5 to 2 hours, the tour highlights the island’s ancient Greek and Roman landmarks, including the Temple of Apollo and the Fountain of Diana.
Guests will marvel at the intricate marble work in Piazza Duomo and the Syracuse Cathedral. The tour is available as a private or small group experience, with an English-speaking guide leading the way. Visitors should come prepared, as the tour may be conducted simultaneously in Italian and English, and proper attire is required to access places of worship.
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The Sum Up
Syracuse offers a range of captivating walking tours that explore the city’s rich history and architecture. From the charming Ortigia island to the stunning Noto, visitors can explore the city’s highlights, sample local cuisine, and uncover its cultural gems. Whether you’re interested in a private tour or a group experience, Syracuse provides an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty and character of this remarkable destination.