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SICILY - ORTIGIA
Our Packages and Reccomendations
Eastern Sicily is rich with history, culture, and architectural beauty. Perfect for curated cultural excursions.
We offer daily plans with full assistance to make it stress free or simple recommendations for the best spots Sicily has to offer. Immerse yourself into the art of Sicily without wasting time on Google or TikTok and jump straight into the fun.
DISCOVER ORTIGIA
Discover the timeless streets of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, a small island connected to the mainland where ancient Greek foundations meet baroque architecture. Visit iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo, and the lively market in Piazza Duomo.
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Exploring Ortigia’s winding lanes offers a taste of Sicily’s layered past and vibrant local life.
Historic Landmarks
Fontana di Diana
Built by Giulio Moschetti in 1907, this classic fountain features a statue of the goddess Diana.
Piazza Duomo
One of Italy’s most beautiful piazzas — elegant, open, sunlit. Perfect for: Aperitivo, photography, romantic evening strolls.
Duomo di Siracusa
A breathtaking baroque cathedral built over an ancient Greek temple dedicated to Athena. Visible Doric columns, golden façade, nighttime atmosphere.
Fonte Aretusa
A freshwater spring overlooking the sea, home to papyrus plants unique to this region.
Linked to the nymph Arethusa.
Tempio d'Apollo
The oldest Greek temple in Sicily, standing at Ortigia’s entrance. Located at the very start of the island past the bridges connecting Ortigia to the mainland.
Castello Maniace
A 13th-century fortress overlooking the sea. Stunning views, dramatic architecture, wind-swept courtyard.
Giudecca
Jewish quarter. A maze of narrow alleys rich in history. Explore the Mikveh (Jewish ritual bath) discovered under a palazzo.
La Marina
Perfect setting for a stroll or to enjoy an aperitivo by the water. Local port to many yachts in the summer and some casual nightlife.
TASTE ORTIGIA
Ortigia is known for excellent food. From seafood, market cuisine, and romantic dining. Be ware of the tourist traps that give you cheap supermarket ingredients that rob you of the authentic Sicilian flavors.
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Our recommendations are personally and periodically tested and supported by hundreds of enthusiastic reviews.
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Finding the perfect spot to eat can be a great way to bookmark your exploration of the island as most spots we chose are scattered in key areas of the island that are sure to make your post meal digestive walk truly mesmerizing.
Restaurants
A Putia delle Cose Buone
Homemade Sicilian dishes, relaxed atmosphere, excellent pasta.
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Guest favorites: Pasta alla norma, seafood options.
Locanda Maniace
A refined yet cozy restaurant near the castle.
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Best for: Romantic dinners, beautifully presented dishes.
Osteria da Seby
Traditional Sicilian food with a modern touch.
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Known for: Swordfish, grilled octopus, ricotta ravioli.
MOON – Move Ortigia Out of Normality
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly with a creative menu.
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Atmosphere: Artsy and lively.
Le Vin de L’Assassin
A beloved French-Sicilian fusion bistro.
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Highlights: Duck dishes, tartare, wine selection.
Fratelli Burgio (Market Snack / Light Lunch)
Located inside the Ortigia market.
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Ideal for: Platters of meats, cheeses, olives, and local specialties.
Trattoria La Foglia
A beloved local spot serving authentic Sicilian comfort dishes with a home-style touch. Excellent seafood pasta, warm atmosphere, and consistent quality.
Cortile di Bacco
A charming garden restaurant tucked away in Ortigia’s narrow streets, perfect for a relaxed evening. Romantic setting, great wine list, and fresh Sicilian flavors with modern touches.
EXPERIENCE ORTIGIA
Ortigia offers a rich blend of history, culture, and seaside beauty, making it one of the most captivating places to explore. Begin your visit at the ancient Temple of Apollo, then wander through the lively Ortigia Market, where the colors and aromas of Sicily come to life. Stroll toward Piazza Duomo, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, and don’t miss the underground Hypogeum, a hidden network of ancient passages beneath the city.
Continue to the waterfront to see the legendary Fonte Aretusa, then walk along the Maniace Promenade for sweeping views of the sea. Culture lovers can enjoy a traditional puppet show at the Museo dei Pupi, while those seeking a different perspective can take a boat tour around the island to admire Ortigia from the water.
With its mix of history, architecture, and coastal charm, Ortigia offers something unforgettable at every turn.
Things to do
Explore the Ortigia Market (Morning Only)
A sensory experience of Sicilian life — fishmongers, spices, fruit stands, and street food.
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Don’t miss: Almond granita, fresh cannoli, sun-dried tomatoes.
Sunset Walk Along the Lungomare
Walk the western seafront for unforgettable sunsets over Syracuse.
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Tip: Perfect photography spot.
Boat Tour Around Ortigia
A 1-hour tour to see sea caves, limestone cliffs, and the island from the water.
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Private tours available for couples.
Independent Shopping
Small boutiques line the back streets.
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What to look for: Ceramics, linen clothing, artisan jewelry, local perfumes.
Visit the Museo dei Pupi (Puppet Theater)
Learn about traditional Sicilian puppetry and catch an evening show.
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Great for families or culture lovers.
Evening Aperitivo
Enjoy a spritz or Sicilian wine in Piazza Duomo or by the waterfront.
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Recommended spots:
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Bar Melli (Duomo)
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Sicily Fish Bar (sea view)
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Visit the Hypogeum of Piazza Duomo
A fascinating underground network of ancient tunnels and cisterns beneath the city’s most iconic square. It reveals a hidden layer of Ortigia’s history rarely seen by most visitors.
Explore the Maniace Promenade
Walk along the southern coastal path near Castello Maniace for fresh sea breeze and uninterrupted ocean views.
We offer shuttle service to all our itineraries as well as Airport pick up and drop off.
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If a driver is not needed and you would like to rent your own car, we offer competitive deals on car rentals with 3 tiers and options to find the best car suited for your trip.
