Syracuse (province) Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful Syracuse Province of Sicily, Italy. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Syracuse (province)

Syracuse province is a beautiful destination in Sicily, Italy. This province has something for everyone, from splendid historic places, magical natural scenery, adventurous hiking trails, and much more. This travel guide of Syracuse Province will take you on a journey exploring the picturesque places, exciting activities, and rich food culture.

List of Places to Visit in Syracuse (province)

Here are some of the must-visit places to add to your Syracuse Province itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Archaeological Park of Neapolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest archeological site in Syracuse. The park features the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave formation.

  • The Syracuse Cathedral, also referred to as the “Temple of Athena,” is a remarkable shrine of ancient architecture. It is a symbol of Syracuse’s tumultuous history and a must-visit attraction.

  • The Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum is home to an extensive collection of archaeological finds, including coins, weapons, pottery, and Roman mosaics.

Natural Attractions of Syracuse (province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Plemmirio Marine Park covers a large area of coast surrounding the city of Syracuse. Snorkeling and diving in the clear waters give visitors a chance to see underwater delights including the ancient ruins of the Roman port.

  • The Cavagrande Nature Reserve is a picturesque canyon with waterfalls, natural pools, and trails. A perfect place for swimming, hiking, and horse riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Syracuse (province)

Syracuse province offers a variety of outdoor activities, from walks along the coast to mountain biking. The following are some of the popular hiking and biking trails:

  • The Sentiero Europa, a well-known hiking trail that crosses the entire island of Sicily, passes through Syracuse province and the city of Avola on its way from Palermo to Syracuse. The trek is sealed with scenic views and hidden jewels of Sicily.

  • Cava Carosello is well known with bikers, with trails that are great for beginners and experts alike, sloping hills, and scenic views of lemon and olive groves.

Best Things to Do in Syracuse (province): Activities and Tours

We summarized the top things to do in Syracuse province, based on the satisfaction rating of tourists:

  • Take a trip to the Noto vineyards and sample some of the best wines in Sicily.

  • Explore the vibrant Siracusa street markets, Piazza del Duomo, and walk through the alleys of Ortigia island to experience the local-style life of Sicily.

Week-Long Itinerary for Syracuse (province)

Here is an overview of what you can do on after spending a week of travel in Syracuse province:

Day Itinerary
1 Explore Ortigia Island
2 Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis
3 Indulge in wine tasting at Noto Wineries
4 Admire the marine life at Plemmirio Marine Park
5 Hike the scenic trails at Cavagrande Nature Reserve
6 Discover the Paolo Orsi Archeological Museum
7 Relax on the beaches of Pachino

Food and Drink Scene of Syracuse (province)

Sicilian cuisine is one of the best in Italy, and Syracuse is a foodie’s paradise, offering a mix of traditional and modern tastes.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arancini are Sicilian deep-fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, served as a quick eat.

  • Caponata, a distinctive Sicilian dish consisting of eggplant and other vegetables, seasoned with a sweet and tangy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Nero d’Avola, a full-bodied red wine, originating from Noto, Sicily.

  • Limoncello, a regional lemon liqueur, made from the finest local lemons.

Where to Stay in Syracuse (province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Syracuse offers a wide-range of accommodation options to fit most travelers’ needs and budget. Here are the top recommended places to stay for their prime locations:

  • Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel, situated in the center of Ortigia Island, with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.

  • Hotel Cavalieri, located on Avola’s beach, offers breathtaking views of the picturesque seaside and is one of the most luxurious hotels in Syracuse.

What to Buy in Syracuse (province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Syracuse, make sure you get your hands on some of the amazing souvenirs and local products, some of which include:

  • Sicilian almonds, in endless variations of flavors and recipes.

  • Handmade ceramics from Caltagirone, a town renowned for its ancient ceramic shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Syracuse (province)

The people of Syracuse are friendly and welcoming, with rich culture and traditions, influenced by Arab, Greek, and Roman associations.

Best Time to Visit Syracuse (province)

The best time to explore Syracuse Province is between March-May and September-November. During these months the weather is mild and pleasant, providing the perfect conditions to indulge in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Syracuse (province)

Here are the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling to Syracuse province:

Do:

  • Do enjoy the authentic Astronomical Clock in the Syracuse Cathedral, with the most extensive mechanism in Italy.

  • Do be adventurous and try out the different varieties of arancini.

Don’t:

  • Don’t refuse an invitation to an Italian’s house for supper as a guest of honor; it is the country’s most courteous social gesture.

  • Don’t forget to carry cash, as some establishments do not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Syracuse (province)

Syracuse is a safe place to visit; however, it’s always essential to take the regular precautions to keep your safety and belongings secure.

Health in Syracuse (province)

Travelers to Syracuse can protect themselves from illnesses by taking precautionary measures like drinking bottled water and carrying prescribed medicines for existing health conditions.

Getting to Syracuse (province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Syracuse (province)

The nearest airport to Syracuse is the Catania Fontanarossa Airport, which serves several international airlines and domestic connections.

Bus Stations Near Syracuse (province)

The primary bus station is located in Syracuse’s city center and provides regular intercity and intra-city bus services.

Other Options

Taking a train is an excellent option for those traveling from other regions in Italy to Syracuse.

How to Get Around in Syracuse (province)

The most convenient mode of transportation around Syracuse Province is renting a car, as it allows you to explore the region at your own pace and comfort. Taxis and buses are also available, but renting is a better option.

Where to Go Next from Syracuse (province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Syracuse Province, some of the nearby destinations that you can visit include Catania, Ragusa, and Noto.

Conclusion

Syracuse Province is a perfect reflection of the beautiful island of Sicily, with splendid experiences of art, history, stunning natural beauty, and delectable cuisine. This guide covers the top must-visit places, outdoor activities, foodie spots, and travel tips to help you plan your trip. We hope that you enjoy your stay in Syracuse Province.

Province of Syracuse Province of Syracuse


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