SYRACUSE, ORTIGIA & THE SOUTHWEST
This corner of Sicily is a UNESCO-listed masterpiece, blending Greek and Roman history with Baroque splendor. It encompasses the ancient island of Ortigia and the glorious valleys of the southeast.
A land of dramatic contrasts, it offers sublime beaches, archaeological wonders, and the culinary delights of the sun-drenched Sicilian Ionian coast.
Most Popular Attractions
Syracuse & Ortigia Core:
Duomo di Siracusa (Cathedral): A unique cathedral built around an ancient Greek temple dedicated to Athena, showcasing layers of history.
Piazza Duomo: The stunning, curved Baroque main square of Ortigia, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful.
Fonte Aretusa (Arethusa Spring): A natural freshwater spring on Ortigia, steeped in Greek mythology and a picturesque landmark.
Castello Maniace: An impressive coastal fortress at the tip of Ortigia, offering panoramic sea views.
Tempio di Apollo (Temple of Apollo): The oldest Doric temple in Sicily, its remains are a powerful sight at the entrance to Ortigia.
Mercato di Ortigia: A vibrant and atmospheric daily market perfect for tasting local seafood, produce, and Sicilian street food.
La Latomia dei Cappuccini: The oldest and largest ancient stone quarry in Syracuse, now a tranquil, dramatic garden space.
Lungomare Alfeo: Ortigia’s seaside promenade, perfect for an evening stroll with views of the sunset and the sea.
Neapolis Archaeological Park (Syracuse):
Teatro Greco (Greek Theatre): One of the largest and best-preserved ancient Greek theatres in the world, still used for performances.
Orecchio di Dionisio (Ear of Dionysius): A limestone cave known for its incredible acoustics and dramatic shape.
Anfiteatro Romano (Roman Amphitheater): A massive arena dating back to the 3rd century AD, with a deep central pit.
Ara di Ierone II (Altar of Hiero II): The ruins of a colossal altar dedicated to Zeus, once the largest in the ancient world.
Grotta dei Cordari (Rope Makers’ Cave): A spectacular quarry cave, historically used by rope makers, next to the Ear of Dionysius.
Val di Noto Baroque Towns & Countryside:
Noto: The ‘Stone Garden’ town, a perfect example of Sicilian Baroque, famous for its golden-hued cathedral and palaces.
Ragusa Ibla: The stunning historic center of Ragusa, a labyrinth of Baroque lanes and churches dramatically rebuilt after an earthquake.
Modica: Famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and its Aztec-influenced, cold-processed chocolate.
Scicli: A charming Baroque town nestled in a gorge, featured as a filming location for the Inspector Montalbano series.
Val di Noto: The collective area of eight towns, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its distinctive late Baroque architecture.
Villa Romana del Casale (Piazza Armerina): Though slightly further afield, its spectacular, vast Roman mosaics make it a vital regional site.
Necropoli di Pantalica: A UNESCO site featuring thousands of ancient rock-cut tombs nestled in a dramatic canyon landscape.
Coastline & Nature:
Riserva Naturale Orientata Cavagrande del Cassibile: A stunning natural reserve with deep canyons and natural pools ideal for hiking and swimming.
Marzamemi: A picturesque, historic fishing village known for its beautiful square and ancient tonnara (tuna processing factory).
Vendicari Nature Reserve: A protected coastal area with pristine beaches (like Calamosche) and important wetlands for birdwatching.
Isola delle Correnti (Portopalo): The southernmost tip of Sicily, where the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas meet.
Beaches of Fontane Bianche: A popular coastal resort area known for its white sands and clear blue waters.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Ortigia’s Hidden Alleys: Get lost in the maze of narrow medieval streets on the island of Ortigia. Discover baroque palazzi, charming courtyards, and hidden sea views.
Wander the Neapolis Archaeological Park: Spend a half-day exploring the vast ruins of ancient Syracuse, including the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the dramatic limestone cave known as the Ear of Dionysius.
Take a Boat Trip Around Ortigia: Hop on a small boat for a tour that circles the island, taking you into the sea caves and offering unique views of the city walls and the Castello Maniace.
Visit a Baroque Masterpiece in Noto: Drive to the UNESCO-listed town of Noto and stroll its main street to admire the golden limestone façades of its stunning Baroque churches and palazzi, especially the rebuilt Noto Cathedral.
Savor Street Food at the Ortigia Market: Start your day with a visit to the bustling daily market (Mercato di Ortigia) for a taste of local life, sampling fresh seafood, cheeses, fruit, and classic Sicilian street food like arancini.
Take a Cooking Class with a Local Nonna: Learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian pasta, seafood, or pastry (like cannoli or cassata) from an expert local home cook.
Laze on a Beach in the Vendicari Nature Reserve: Drive south to the beautiful nature reserve for a day of swimming, birdwatching, and relaxing on pristine sandy beaches like Calamosche or Marianelli.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Explore the crystal-clear Ionian Sea waters. The marine area near Plemmirio or the coastal reserve south of Syracuse are excellent spots to see diverse underwater life.
Discover the Sicilian-Baroque of Ragusa Ibla: Journey to the hilltop town of Ragusa and explore its dramatic lower section (Ibla), famous for its winding streets, stunning cathedral, and as a filming location for the Inspector Montalbano TV series.
Trek in the Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve: Hike down into a deep canyon to swim in the Laghetti (small lakes) and natural pools fed by a rushing river—a perfect escape on a hot day.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting Experience: Visit a local vineyard in the southeast, particularly those producing the esteemed Nero d’Avola wine, to learn about the grape and sample a variety of regional vintages.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Highly Recommended: While Ortigia and the city of Syracuse are walkable, a rental car is the best way to explore the wider Southeast region, which includes the Baroque Valley towns (Noto, Ragusa, Modica) and the beautiful beaches and nature reserves. Driving allows you to set your own pace and access the most remote locations.
Parking in Ortigia: Driving onto Ortigia island is severely restricted by the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone). Visitors should park in designated areas just off the island, such as the Talete parking garage, and walk in. Pay close attention to ZTL signs to avoid steep fines.
Intercity Rail: The regional rail service (Trenitalia) connects Syracuse to other major cities like Catania and Messina. However, for the smaller Baroque towns (Noto, Modica), bus service is often more direct and reliable than the train.
Buses: Local and regional bus services (companies like Interbus and AST) are available and connect the main towns. They are a good option for stress-free day trips, but be aware that schedules, especially on weekends and holidays, can be infrequent.
From Catania Airport (CTA): Interbus operates direct and regular bus services from Catania’s airport to Syracuse and Ortigia. This is the most efficient transfer option if you do not have a rental car. A taxi will be expensive.
Embrace the Passeggiata: The passeggiata (evening stroll) is a vital part of Sicilian culture. Around 6 PM to 8 PM, the main streets and squares of Ortigia, Noto, and other towns come alive as locals walk, socialize, and grab a pre-dinner aperitivo. Join the crowd for a fantastic cultural experience.
Dining Times & Aperitivo: Sicilians eat late. Lunch is typically between 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM. Dinner starts after 8:30 PM, often closer to 9:30 PM. From about 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, participate in the aperitivo—a light snack or small buffet served with a cocktail or glass of wine. It’s a great way to bridge the gap between sightseeing and dinner.
The Sicilian Heat & Siesta: Similar to Spain, the midday heat in summer (July and August) can be intense. Many small shops close for an extended lunch/rest break (siesta) from about 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Plan to do your indoor activities or relax during this time.
Seafood is Paramount: Given the coastal location, the seafood here is incredibly fresh and a cornerstone of the local cuisine. Don’t miss raw seafood offerings at the Ortigia market and try local specialties like spaghetti ai ricci di mare (sea urchin pasta) or pesce spada (swordfish).
Respecting Ancient Sites: The ancient sites, particularly the Greek Theatre in Syracuse, are sometimes used for summer performances. Check the schedule, as attending a classical Greek play in the original theatre is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, be aware that temporary staging might sometimes obstruct views of the ruins.
Hidden Gems
Fonte Aretusa (Arethusa Spring), Ortigia: A freshwater spring with a legendary connection to Greek mythology, unique because it’s only a few meters from the sea. It’s home to a small colony of papyrus plants, a rare sight in Europe.
Hypogeum (Hidden Tunnels), Ortigia: Enter the subterranean world beneath Piazza Duomo and the adjacent streets. These tunnels were used as air-raid shelters in WWII and offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s hidden history.
The Balcony of Modica: While exploring the stunning Baroque town of Modica, find one of the high vantage points for a breathtaking view of the houses cascading down the valley. Then, seek out its famous chocolate, made with a unique Aztec-style cold process.
The Duomo’s Interior in Syracuse: While the facade of the Duomo di Siracusa (Cathedral) is pure Baroque, step inside to see the remarkably preserved columns of the original Greek Temple of Athena that form the structural walls of the church.
Top Restaurants
Trattoria O’Scina [$20-$35] – A highly-regarded spot in Ortigia, celebrated by locals for its excellent, unpretentious seafood and pasta dishes, including exceptional Pasta alla Norma.
Sicilia in Tavola [$25-$40] – Located in Ortigia, this cozy spot is a favorite for its authentic Sicilian home cooking, with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Reservations are strongly recommended.
La Tavernetta da Piero [$25-$40] – Situated near the Temple of Apollo, this locals’ favorite in Ortigia offers fresh, traditional Sicilian cuisine with an emphasis on seafood.
Latteria Mamma Iabica [$30-$50] – Just outside Ortigia in the new town, this restaurant offers a lovely atmosphere and a menu focused on well-being and seasonal ingredients, beloved by those seeking a non-touristy experience.
Apollonion Osteria da Carlo [$35-$50] – An old-fashioned, highly-rated fish restaurant in Ortigia where you can simply ask for the multi-course antipasti feast, a true local’s choice for raw and cooked seafood.
A Putia [$20-$35] – A tiny, authentic restaurant in Ortigia, frequently packed and famous for delicious handmade pasta and a warm, home-like atmosphere.
Trattoria Spizzuliamu [$20-$35] – A classic, simple trattoria offering Sicilian staples like caponata and various seafood pastas, great for an authentic, no-frills meal.
Trattoria La Foglia [$25-$45] – A quirky, established restaurant in Ortigia known for its eclectic decor and a very personal menu that offers traditional Sicilian dishes with high-quality ingredients.
Casa Trimarchi [$25-$40] – A charming Sicilian restaurant in Ortigia with a focus on regional specialties and a welcoming atmosphere.
La Locanda di Vicolo IV [$25-$45] – A highly-rated Sicilian eatery in the new town of Syracuse offering a strong local experience and traditional dishes.
L’Ancora [$30-$50] – A traditional seafood restaurant in Ortigia that locals love, known for its classic busiate with shrimp and pistachios.
Trattoria La Pigna [$25-$40] – A well-loved trattoria in Ortigia serving a strong selection of traditional Sicilian dishes with a very local feel.
Caseificio Borderi [$10-$20] – An institution at the Ortigia Market, famous for massive, made-to-order rustic sandwiches overflowing with fresh Sicilian cheeses, cured meats, and other high-quality ingredients.
Fratelli Burgio [$15-$30] – Located near the Ortigia Market, this delicatessen and salumeria offers magnificent platters of high-quality Sicilian cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties, perfect for a casual lunch.
Cappuccio-Pesce Fresco [$15-$25] – A simple street food spot directly in the Ortigia Market, specializing in ultra-fresh fried fish and seafood served during lunchtime.
Paninoteca da Antonio e Daniele [$10-$15] – A very informal and popular dinner spot outside Ortigia, known for hearty, rustic panini served from a roadside food truck with a lively local vibe.
Antica Giudecca [$10-$20] – A great spot for a quick bite of excellent arancini (fried rice balls) and other Sicilian street food in Ortigia.
Farì, Pasta e Cucina [$15-$25] – A simple, charming eatery specializing in freshly made pasta crafted daily on-site, offering affordable and authentic pasta dishes in Ortigia.
Piano B [$15-$30] – Located just outside Ortigia, this pizzeria is highly-regarded as one of the best in Sicily, known for its award-winning, long-rising dough and high-quality toppings.
Schiticchio Pizzeria [$15-$30] – A very popular pizzeria with a great range of toppings and consistently excellent, simple pizza.
Le Vin de L’Assasin [$30-$50] – A stylish, slightly more trendy bistro in Ortigia that offers Italian cuisine with a subtle French twist and a unique, curated experience.
Macallè [$40-$60] – A sophisticated spot in Ortigia that offers modern and creative spins on traditional Sicilian dishes, with incredibly fresh fish.
Davé Ortigia [$35-$55] – A modern eatery in Ortigia offering a creative take on Sicilian flavors, specializing in refined seafood and pasta dishes.
Gutkowskino [$35-$55] – The small, modern bistro at Hotel Gutkowski in Ortigia, offering a changing, market-driven menu with a focus on fresh fish and local ingredients.
Chiodo [$30-$50] – Located in a charming courtyard off Via Roma, this restaurant offers high-quality food (their cotoletta is often mentioned) and a stylish, relaxed ambiance in Ortigia.
Jū – Sushi & Cocktail Bar [$30-$50] – An unexpected and highly-rated spot in Ortigia offering a blend of international flavors (specifically Japanese-Peruvian) with local Sicilian ingredients.
Clandestino ad Ortigia [$30-$50] – A popular Mediterranean restaurant in Ortigia with a creative approach to its menu.
Retroscena [$35-$55] – A Mediterranean restaurant in Ortigia, known for its high-quality ingredients and modern presentation of traditional flavors.
I Banchi [$40-$70] – The brasserie of the Michelin-starred Duomo in Ragusa Ibla, offering sophisticated, high-quality Sicilian cuisine in a lively, elegant setting.
Radici L’Osteria di Accursio [$40-$60] – Located in Modica, this is the more casual but excellent sister restaurant to the Michelin-starred Accursio, focusing on refined, traditional Hyblean cuisine.
Trattoria La Rosa [$25-$45] – A respected traditional trattoria in Ragusa Ibla that offers authentic local dishes at reasonable prices, popular with locals.
Majore Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in Chiaramonte Gulfi, this historic restaurant (since 1896) is internationally famous for its typical pork dishes, offering a truly local and non-coastal specialty.
Osteria U Locale [$30-$50] – Located in Buccheri in the Hyblean Mountains, this highly-regarded tavern offers mountain cuisine with all the traditional flavors of the region.
La Locanda del Colonnello [$45-$70] – Located in Modica Alta, this beautiful restaurant offers a carefully studied, simple cuisine using typical ingredients, with a charming atmosphere.
La Sirenetta [$30-$50] – A Modica favorite for fresh fish and seafood caught near Portopalo, serving traditional Sicilian recipes with a creative touch.
Osteria dei Sapori Perduti [$20-$35] – A well-known spot in Modica that focuses on retrieving and reviving traditional, lost flavors of the Modican culinary tradition.
Osteria Da Seby [$30-$50] – A reliable restaurant near Ortigia that specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Sicilian dishes.
Osteria Da Antonio [$25-$40] – A simple, authentic osteria in Noto offering traditional Sicilian cuisine in a warm setting, popular with locals.
Accursio Ristorante [$90-$150] – The only Michelin-starred restaurant in Modica Bassa, offering an incredible gourmet journey into Sicilian traditions and memories with a refined, artistic presentation.
Locanda Don Serafino [$100-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Ragusa Ibla, situated in a cave and offering a superb fine-dining experience with creative, refined Sicilian dishes.
Caffè Sicilia [$5-$20] – Though primarily a pastry shop, this Noto institution is internationally famous for its sublime granita, cannoli, and other pastries, offering a world-class dessert experience.
Trattoria del Cavaliere [$25-$40] – Located in Noto, this traditional trattoria is known for its hearty portions and authentic, home-style Sicilian cooking.
Don Camillo [$70-$120] – A high-end, elegant dining experience in Ortigia, known for its refined Sicilian cuisine, superb wine cellar, and reputation as a favorite for VIPs.
Cortile Spirito Santo [$60-$100] – Located in a beautiful courtyard in Ortigia, this restaurant is highly recommended for a refined dinner with excellent wines and an elegant ambiance.
Duomo [$150-$250] – A world-renowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Ragusa Ibla under Chef Ciccio Sultano, offering an avant-garde and deeply rooted Sicilian culinary experience.
Fattoria delle Torri [$50-$80] – A beautiful and highly-rated restaurant in Modica that focuses on high-quality, seasonal ingredients and refined Sicilian cooking.
Cortile Verga [$25-$45] – While primarily a cocktail bar in a romantic 16th-century palace courtyard in Ortigia, it offers superb, well-crafted cocktails and excellent small plates that can easily be a light dinner.
I Rizzari [$50-$90] – Located near the sea in Brucoli, this restaurant is praised for its fresh fish and quiet view of the sea and Mount Etna.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Barcollo: A true landmark in the heart of Ortigia, near Piazza Duomo. This famous venue features a beautiful courtyard with tall trees, offering a stylish setting for great cocktails and occasional DJ sets.
Boats (B.O.A.T.S. – Based On A True Story): Located on a narrow side street in Ortigia, right by the magnificent Temple of Apollo, this bar offers amazing and creative cocktails in an atmosphere that embraces the island’s soul.
Cortile Verga: A sophisticated cocktail bar located inside an elegant 18th-century palace in the heart of Ortigia, featuring an intimate courtyard setting perfect for refined mixology and relaxation.
Tinkitè: A small, intimate cocktail bar in Ortigia’s Via della Giudecca, known for its soft lighting and excellent cocktails, ranging from classics to more elaborate options.
La Barca: Offers a unique experience in Ortigia, where you can sip perfectly crafted cocktails aboard a beautifully restored boat docked at Foro V. Emanuele II, perfect for sunset views.
La Terrazza del Grand Hotel Ortigia: A must-visit rooftop bar on Viale Mazzini, offering a spectacular, perfect setting for a sundowner with panoramic views of the marina and the Ionian Sea.
La Maison: Located on Ortigia’s main street, Via Roma, this bar, part of a hotel, is set in a very narrow, picturesque courtyard, providing a beautiful and intimate backdrop for a drink.
Zefiro Solarium & Lounge Bar: A popular summer spot on the marina side of Ortigia (Largo Aretusa), offering an enviable cocktail bar with unforgettable sunset views over the sea.
Il Club: Found on Via Roma in Ortigia, this venue looks and feels like a classic jazz club, with moody lighting, a piano, and a bar specializing in wines, champagne, and sophisticated cocktails.
Q92 Noto Lounge Bar: Located in the charming baroque town of Noto, this lounge bar, often found on a stunning hotel terrace, offers exquisite drinks and cocktails as the sunset paints the sky.
Gagliardi Boutique Hotel Rooftop Bar: Situated in Noto, this rooftop bar offers a unique panorama of the baroque city, providing a stylish setting to enjoy fine cocktails and local wines after a day of exploring.
Pool Bar at Il San Corrado di Noto: An exquisite spot at a luxury resort near Noto, where you can sip expertly mixed international and house cocktails in a calm, restful ambiance beside the swimming pool.
Officina 31 spirits and food: Located in the stunning Baroque heart of Ragusa Ibla, in Piazza Duomo, this spot is a popular bar and pub offering spirits and food in a central location.
Al Gradino 284 Coffee and Wine Bar: Nestled among the stair-stepped streets of Ragusa Ibla, this bar offers coffee drinks, wine, and cocktails in the unique setting of the old town.
Marco Polo Rooftop Bar: Found in Modica, this hostel’s rooftop bar is a lively location for social parties and themed nights, offering a fun place to enjoy drinks with a view.
DADA Bistròt: A charming bistro in Syracuse’s Piazza Francesco Corpaci, offering great cocktails and outdoor tables for a relaxed aperitivo experience.
Kukua Beach Club: Located on Viale dei Lidi in the Syracuse area, this beach club is a popular spot for summer nightlife, offering a lively atmosphere with music and cocktails near the coast.
Samoa Club Beach Club: Found on Via Samoa near Syracuse, this beach club is known for its summer events and is a great option for dancing and cocktails right by the sea.
Punta Milocca Sun&Sound Beach Bar: Located in the Punta Milocca area, this beach bar transforms into a lively venue at night, perfect for sunset aperitifs and cocktails with music, often with your feet in the sand.
Marama Siracusa: Just a few steps from the Fontane Bianche beach, this venue provides a very relaxed atmosphere with lights and loungers, turning into a social spot in the evening.
Zen & Jonico: A beach lido in Syracuse (Riviera Dionisio Il Grande) that is ideal for daytime relaxation but also offers a lounge area with great cocktails and music for evening fun.
Madness: A popular pub in Ortigia (Via XX Settembre) that often organizes aperitifs with live music and DJ sets, providing a lively evening environment in the historic center.
Torre Palazzelle: A known club venue in the Modica area, often hosting nightlife events and parties, especially popular during the high season.
Valata Minusa: Another popular club/event venue near Modica, contributing to the area’s summer nightlife scene.
Lido Fly Beach Club: Located outside Ortigia, this is a major beach club near Syracuse known for its amenities and lively summer vibe, offering a great spot for food, drinks, and music by the Ionian Sea.
Scirocco lido: A popular beach spot located in Marina di Modica (Piazza Mediterraneo), often featuring music and a beach-party atmosphere during the summer.
Uva beach club: Situated in Marina di Modica (Via Cristoforo Colombo), this is another lively beach club option in the southeast that provides music, cocktails, and a vibrant night scene by the coast.
Shuluq: Located on the seafront of Marina di Modica (Lungomare Marina di Modica), this venue offers a cool setting for drinks and music late into the night.