Visiting Syracuse
Syracuse is one of the most remarkable cities in Sicily and serves as a essential stop on any trip to the island. Often described as an open-air museum, the city is packed with archaeological treasures.
A storied past
The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which tells you everything you need to know about its cultural importance. Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, it was once among the most prosperous cities in the Mediterranean. As the birthplace of Archimedes and a place praised by Cicero, Syracuse has been a prize target for conquerors throughout history. It fell successively to the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Aragonese before eventually becoming part of Italy. While the city has been rattled by several earthquakes, much of its original architecture remains intact.
Archaeological ruins
Ortygia Island serves as the historic heart of Syracuse, where you will find the best-preserved ruins. The Piazza del Duomo, the Temple of Apollo, and the Arethusa Fountain are all well-maintained and draw plenty of visitors. This small island, measuring about a kilometer long by 500 meters wide, is a perfect spot for walking, sitting at a cafe, or browsing local shops. Further out, the Neapolis Archaeological Park is famous for its Roman amphitheater, its temple dedicated to Zeus, and the curious Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave where the tyrant allegedly eavesdropped on his prisoners. Nearby, do not miss the Catacombs of San Giovanni, a vast underground necropolis of Greek origin. Round out your trip with a visit to the Paolo Orsi Museum, which houses one of the largest archaeological collections in Europe.
Swimming and coastal life
Syracuse offers beautiful white-sand beaches perfect for swimming and lounging. Some of the most pleasant spots are located south of the city, such as Fontane Bianche, Calamosche, and Ognina. If you have a rental car, you can also head to the gorges of the Cassibile River, about an hour drive from Syracuse. This nature reserve is known for its stunning natural swimming holes, which are great for picnics and cooling off. Keep in mind that these spots get very crowded in the summer, so you may need some patience to find a place to set up your towel.
When to go
You can visit Syracuse year-round, though spring, summer, and early autumn are the most popular times. Sicily is at its best when the sun is out, providing ideal conditions for swimming and hiking. Be aware that the heat can be intense during the peak of summer.
Getting there
Most travelers arrive in Sicily by plane, flying into Catania Airport. From there, you can rent a car for the one-hour drive to Syracuse. It is also possible to arrive by ferry, though travel times vary. While you can take the train, expect your travel time to be at least double that of driving.
Syracuse, famous because of the song, is truly magnificent. There is exceptional light all year round. The city is lively but without the tourist crowds. You can really breathe and take your time exploring it. There are some beautiful walks to take that offer a superb panorama.