It is the mix of modern lifestyle and millennia-old culture that makes a stroll through Syracuse and its Old Town a very special experience.
For days at the beach we recommend the coastal resorts Ognina and Fontane Bianche.
It is the mix of modern lifestyle and millennia-old culture that makes a stroll through Syracuse and its Old Town a very special experience.
For days at the beach we recommend the coastal resorts Ognina and Fontane Bianche.
Syracuse is located in the southeast of Sicily. It includes the historic town center (Ortigia) and the new town district. Ortigia, picturesquely situated on a small island called Isola di Ortigia, is a tourist draw and the part of the city you may have heard or read more about.
In the course of the city’s millennia-old history, rulers from the Orient and the Occident have left their traces, which are still visible today. The fascinating mix of two worlds and the impressive Baroque townscape make a visit to UNESCO World Heritage listed Ortigia/Syracuse so interesting.
In ancient times, Syracuse had, for centuries, been the most significant town of the world then known. Even Cicero called it the "the greatest and most beautiful of all Greek towns".
The face of and atmosphere at Ortigia, the beautiful Old Town, are shaped by Baroque palazzi of white limestone, spacious squares and narrow alleys with bars, restaurants and cafes.
Cathedral Santa Maria delle Colonne dates from the 7th century AD and rises majestically in the center of Ortigia. Inside you get to admire remains of the Greek Athena temple. The semicircular cathedral square is framed by grand 17th and 18th century palazzi and the 'tourist' heart of Ortigia.
Fonte Aretusa is a fresh water spring and was a source of drinking water for the ancient Greeks. It is steeped in legend, according to which goddess Artemis transformed nymph Arethusa into a spring to protect her from lecherous god Alpheios.
The papyrus plants growing from the fountain were the raw material for the manufacture of paper.
Teatro Greco: Somewhat outside of Syracuse lies the Greek theater, where classical tragedies are staged every year.
A symphony of aromas, colors and bustling activity awaits you at the market of Ortigia (every morning, except on Sundays). What you get to see and purchase there ranges from grilled peppers and artichokes, Indian figs and tomatoes of varied shapes and colors to fresh-caught fish, mussels and seafood and, of course, different kinds of cheese made from goat’s, sheep’s and cow’s milk. It is simply a delight for your senses!
"Le Vin de l'Assassin" – Mediterranean specialties and French cuisine combined. Culinary delights you might try are, for example, the excellent onion soup, the delicious starter puff pastry with aubergines and swordfish, the freshly prepared gilt-head bream.
Address: Via Roma 115, Ortigia Siracusa (closed on Mondays)
Ognina south of Syracuse is known for its idyllic location and the diversity of its underwater world. Snorkeling and diving in the crystal clear sea are a delight and you are sure to get your fill of colorful fish and coral formations.
A small section of sandy beach at Ognina offers easier access into the sea at the mostly rocky coast.
At Ognina's small harbor you can watch the fishermen as they start on or return from their daily tours. There is a bar which is open in summer.
Fontane Bianche, also located south of Syracuse, is a beautiful seaside resort with restaurants, grocery stores and bars.
The coast there is made up of rocky sections and light golden sandy beaches, the sea is crystal clear.
Combine your beach holidays in the southeast of Sicily with visits to cultural highlights. The UNESCO World Heritage listed Baroque town of Noto, for example, is one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns and not far from Fontane Bianche.
Contact us by email or phone (Mon - Fri 09:30 h - 17:00 h):
0049 941 / 56 76 46-0
