Exploring Historical and Culinary Gems in Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

Not too large, but incredibly charming, Syracuse (and the connected Ortigia island) squeezed me after a 20-km walk. I have to admit though, it was very rewarding. But also, if you follow the post, you can considerably minimize your walk (still seeing all of it) and learn from my mistakes to truly get the perfect daytrip to Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily.

Travel to Syracuse and Ortigia! The small, but splendid island of Ortigia was love at first sight. It is a pleasure to walk along its cobbly narrow streets, see the Cathedral, the archeological parks and swim in the sea!

Taste Sicily! Get a bite of Sicilian food by trying the delicious “fruits” of the Etna region and fresh produce of the sea! Pasta con le sarde, caponata, pasta alla norma, arancini, cannoli or granita just taste better here!

Feel Syracuse and Ortigia! The best way to catch a glimpse of an authentic vibe is to visit the market in the morning, talk to the inhabitants or use local means of transportation. Stroll along the tiny alleys to peek into locals’ lifestyle!

Content:

Are Syracuse and Ortigia the same?
How to reach Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily?
The perfect daytrip to Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily
Further exploration of Ortigia  & Syracuse, Sicily
What to eat in Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily
Best restaurants and budget bistros in Ortigia
Interactive map of Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

Are Syracuse and Ortigia the same?

In a nutshell: these are two names for the modern and historical parts of the same.

The ancient city was founded in Ortigia (also Ortygia) to develop and extend into what we know today as Syracuse. The two parts are actually intertwined by a bridge, and you barely notice when moving from one to the other. The island of Ortigia is the most popular area for visitors, therefore you might look for accommodation on the pretty island.

How to reach Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily?

Sicily has many amazing spots, that is why a trip to Sicily involves moving around on the island. If you opt to spend one or more nights in Syracuse, it might be better to accommodate in Ortygia and wander its tiny streets. I chose a shelter in Syracuse not far from the train station as my goal was to take the train and save time every morning and evening. B&B Siracusa Holidays was great value for money and Marco a kind host ready to help.

Coming from Catania, you can take the train, bus or rent a car. The distance is slightly over 60 km. If you opt for the bus, choose Interbus (interregional line), which has many stops both in Catania and Syracuse. Buying the ticket directly on the bus saves you some money compared to an app, like Omio (in full season I wouldn’t be scrooge). There is generally one bus/hour.

Insider tip!: I used Interbus a few times while in Sicily. Buses had delays of 20-40 minutes.

Insider tip!: If you have the possibility, ask a local about Interbus bus stops! After using Omio and walking 2.5 km to the bus stop, I found out from the host there was a bus stop right across the street.

There aren’t many differences between the train and the bus. However, the train is slightly more expensive and is a bit more comfortable.

The perfect day trip to Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

Explore the market and grab a bite!

Start off early in the morning! Loiter around Ortigia market to smell the catch of the day and plunge in the flavored world of spices and colorful veggies! Fill up your pantry with pistachios, almonds, sun-dried tomatoes and capers from the area! Even better if you come on empty stomach; try the renowned Caseificio Borderi sandwiches or Fratelli Burgio’s authentic salumeria products!

Insider tip!: Take a 5-minute walk to Apollo Café and buy a ricotta granita! It is a yummy and unusual combo!

The second (also best) version of starting your day is to book one of the free tours of Guruwalk. Thus, you’ll get a bit of history, nice stories and restaurant suggestions from locals!

Walk around and watch the remains of the Apollo temple, the first historical landmark that greets you in Ortigia! Not much of it is left; it is one of the first temples built by the Greeks in Syracuse and the oldest Doric temple in Sicily.

Insider tip!: Next to the Apollo Temple there’s a public water fountain! Good to know, especially for the summer months!

Learn about goddess Diana at her fountain!

Small and compact, walking is the most appropriate way of exploration, not to mention how hard it is to find a parking spot on the island. So, getting into Ortigia, you’ll inevitably see Diana’s Fountain, the centerpiece of Piazza Archimede.

The sculpture depicts Diana armed with a bow and quiver. At her feet is the nymph Arethusa (there is also an Arethusa fountain elsewhere on the island), recalling the myth when the goddess is about to transform Arethusa into a spring to escape the amorous pursuits of Tritons. The square has beautiful buildings and some bistros!

Explore Giudecca, the old Jewish quarter!

Walk along the old Jewish quarter named Giudecca! It is a labyrinth of narrow stone-paved alleys crowned by tiny balconies with wrought-iron railings and pots of flowers. It is the typical Southern Italy movie atmosphere, a complex tapestry that intertwines family and community in sun-drenched landscapes with traditions and passion. Not surprising that I recognized images of Ortigia in the Leopard, the new series on Netflix!

Here you can read about Palazzo Biscari in Catania, used for the ballroom in the Leopard (Il Gattopardo) series.

I fell in love with the eateries that display two tiny tables on the alleys! Besides the indelible charm of the tiny streets, Ortigia features unique gift shops, tasting shops with chocolate, artisanal products and many quaint boutiques.

Insider tip!: In the Giudecca area you can find cheap and exquisite Sicilian food in some no-frill places! More on it later, at the food section!

Piazza Duomo and Syracuse Cathedral

Inevitably, the narrow vicoli (alleys) take you to Piazza Duomo. This square is an architectural masterpiece and a baroque triumph. It was another moment I felt like in a movie while in Sicily. (Obviously I am in love with Italian cinematography!!!). The place seemed of an ethereal beauty probably because it was quite empty. I loved the glassy pavement perfectly aligned with the palazzi in the vicinity.

Here lies of course the Syracuse Cathedral. The Duomo is a first-rate architectural masterpiece as well as a fundamental place of worship. Former Greek temple and mosque, today Catholic cathedral, it has some surprises on the inside.

Insider tip!: Visiting the Cathedral is 2 euros, but you can rent an audio guide for 3 euros if you are interested in a thorough explanation of the many transformations this spectacular Dome underwent!

Arethusa Spring

Soon your steps will take you to the Arethusa fountain, in the vicinity of an opening over the sea, a great place to admire the infinite blue and take great pics.

In Greek mythology, Arethusa was a nymph of incomparable beauty. One hot day, when she decided to bathe in the river, Alpheus found her so irresistible that he wanted to be with her. But Arethusa did not share his desire and ran hurriedly invoking Diana’s help who transformed her into the spring of sweet water that today flows in Ortigia.

The fountain also goes by the name the papyrus fountain because of the vegetation that grows around it.

Maniace Castle

From here, stroll along lungomare (the seashore) to Maniace Castle. Placed at the very tip of the island, the fortress built in the 13^th century for Emperor Frederick II is a combination of Swabian (German) and military architecture. Even if only one room is intact, with ribbed cross vaults, the fortress is a good imagination exercise for life as a knight. The downside would be the few explanations about the history of the castle except the few at the entrance.

Next to the Castle is a majestic Icarus statue of Polish sculptor Mitoraj in a female version (until 31 Oct 2025). I felt the statue perfectly completed the austere square next to the castle, all the details adding to the symbolistic of the place.

Insider tip!: Because of its positioning, the Castle’s area can get very windy, so take care with the pictures, as you have lots of photo opportunities!

Further exploration of Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

Besides the above-mentioned must-see places, here are some further visiting tips to consider.

Neapolis Archeological Park

If you are a history buff, go to Neapolis Archeological Park, situated in the heart of Syracuse. The site is big, but at the entrance you have three suggested paths to follow according to your time (from 45 to 90 minutes). Today Unesco world heritage, the Park hosts the most important remains of the ancient Greek and Roman town. Some highlights are: The Greek theatre, the Roman amphitheatre, the ancient stone quarries or the ear of Dionysus.

Insider tip!: If I were to visit again, I would not take anymore the longest path. It contains many quarries and found it not so interesting.

I personally loved the site for two extra reasons: the large number of impressive Mitoraj statues (until 31 Oct 2025) embodying fallen mythological creatures are a plus. The other asset is permanent. It is the lush and colorful vegetation that gives a controlled wilderness and accompanies you throughout the park: orange, lemon and olive trees, cactuses and other green plants.

Insider tip!: Parco Archeologico della Neapolis is situated in Syracuse, approximately 35-40 minutes’ walk from Ortigia. You can also take the bus from Corso Umberto I in Syracuse. If your accommodation is in Syracuse, start the day with the site.

Beaches of Ortigia

The beaches of Ortigia could not be left out. If you plan a daytrip to Syracuse and combine sunbathing with sightseeing, you have two beaches in Ortigia. Cala Rossa Beach is right under Ortigia’s walls, while Forte Vigilena is not far, but a bit more equipped. In summer there is a wooden deck served to accommodate more sun worshippers. Watch out, there are some big rocks!

If real beaches are your thing, take a bus ride or rent a car to drive in the vicinity of Syracuse. Arenella Beach is just 10 km away and is a good sandy beach. Other options include Fontane Bianchi (an excellent beach also accessible by public transport) or Marchesa del Cassible (wilder beach with no sunbeds).

Take a boat tour around Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

Visiting in warm season? A boat excursion seems the right thing to do. Tours usually last around one hour and allow you to explore the historical sights and beautiful sea caves. You can book a tour here. For more customized tours, check the website and find the most suitable one.

Attend a puppet show at Teatro dei Pupi

Teatro dei Pupi highlights the contribution Syracuse had back in ancient times to the birth of puppets. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it, but you can attend a puppet show or visit the puppet museum to see the old puppets with strings. I reckon it is not the usual type of museum, so if you have time and a curiosity for old crafts, this museum is worth a visit.

Try Archimedes Museum if visiting with kids

Are you travelling with kids? Then maybe you should try Archimedes Museum. It has lots of educational objects and small-scale machinery, creating quality time for families. The only drawback of the place is that you are not allowed to take pictures.

What to eat in Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

In Italy you cannot go wrong with the food; Mediterranean cuisine is one of the top cuisines in the world.
The situation changes if you go to Sicily.
It gets even better.

Why is that?
The eruption of Etna volcano comes with a lot of benefits for agriculture. The essential nutrients spread during an eruption improve soil fertility and create an optimal environment for crop growth without additives. Pistachio, honey, cherries, red oranges, apples, strawberries or cheeses are just some of the Etna’s slow eruption outcomes.
On the other hand, the positioning of the island translates in a rich sea fruit repertoire.
One thing is for sure. Sicily is not for diet!

Some of the most common dishes of Sicily are the arancini (rice-balls with various filling deep fried) that you can find everywhere. Make sure to buy the arancini freshly made and hot! While in Sicily you should try pane cunzato, a sort of cucina povera dish which is a sandwich embellished with herbs and ingredients such as anchovies or cheese.

The typical pasta dishes are the spaghetti con le sarde (contain sardines and breadcrumbs) and pasta alla norma (named after Bellini’s opera, they contain eggplant and marinara sauce). The Caponata is a vegetarian dish also based on eggplant, tomato and olives.

Great food aside, it is deserts where Sicilians exceed themselves even more. The choice is big, but I’ll stick to granita (typical here and made of the most unexpected associations), cannoli (the pastry filled in front of you with ricotta cheese; plural for one cannolo) or cassata/cassatina (sponge cake, ricotta and marzipan).

Best restaurants and budget bistros in Ortigia

In the Jewish quarter (Giudecca) there are some very decent budget friendly options that cast the light on Sicilian ingredients and style. Antica Giudecca and U’Sicilianu sell simple no frill bites, caring for the authenticity and freshness of products. At the latter I had a pistachio pizza carta (like a pizza slice) and the lady gifted me with half a portion of pepper with breadcrumbs because I did not know what they tasted like.

While in Sicily I found out that the word putia means bottega in Sicilian dialect, hence the presence of some in Ortigia. Not surprisingly, I tested two of them and they were both great! La Putia (delle cose buone) was love at first bite. This restaurant does not take reservations, so head there in time, as it is one of the best budget bistros in Ortigia.

I lived my Sicilian foodgasm at A Putia di Giugiò. I didn’t know that the house tasting dish would involve sooo much food, but for 18 euros I not only got a lot, but amazing typical bites. My favorite was the ibleo rosso cheese.

Unfortunately, I didn’t make it to Tavernetta da Piero although I booked a table, but my host highly recommended it to me as a must-eat place in Ortigia. He told me that Sicilians are very connected to this bistro. So, in case you get there, let me know what I missed.

Agape restaurant is at the entrance of Ortigia. The host is very kind, the prices average but the quality of the dishes is great.

Try Voglia Matta or Pasticceria Artale for cannoli, cassata or granita! Head to CCÀ e DDÀ, specialized in granita! In Italy there’s plenty of possibilities to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Interactive map of Ortigia & Syracuse, Sicily

The tourist attractions are colored in red, the beaches come in yellow, while the restaurants and bistros are blue and sweet suggestions purple.

Enjoy!

Have you been to Ortigia before? How did you like it? Do you have any further visiting tips or suggestions? I look forward to reading your experiences!