Province of Syracuse

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Top 10 attractions in Province of Syracuse

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Syracuse

Syracuse

4.9
5.0/5
35 reviews

Syracuse faces the Ionian Sea. It is an ancient coastal city founded by the Greeks and is also the hometown of Archimedes. The heart of the city, the old town of Ortigia, is located on a small island connected to the mainland by bridges, with limestone streets and Baroque squares spreading along the coast. Beneath the Baroque facade of the Cathedral, the Doric columns of the ancient Greek Temple of Athena are still embedded, with the temple and the church layered within the same building. The Fountain of Arethusa by the sea is named after the Greek myth of the nymph who turned into a spring. Fresh water still gushes from the spring, and patches of papyrus grow in the pool just a few steps from the sea. The Castello Maniace at the tip of the island is a coastal fortress built by Frederick II, with its crenellated battlements facing the entrance to the natural harbor. Outside the old town, The Greek Theatre of Syracuse in the Archaeological Park, carved into the hillside, is magnificent. The Roman Amphitheatre and the "Ear of Dionysius" cave, known for its peculiar echoes, in the same park are also worth seeing. In the wetlands along the Ciane River south of the city, patches of wild papyrus grow, which is quite rare in Europe. Taking a small boat through the reeds often startles water birds. The Catacombs of Saint Lucia preserve early Christian tombs and Byzantine-era frescoes. If you have time, you can also head northwest to the Pantalica Canyon—thousands of Bronze Age tombs are carved into the cliffs along the Anapo River. It is now designated as a nature reserve, where you can enjoy the canyon scenery while hiking along the river.

Siracusa · 15m from downtown
Island of Ortigia
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Province of Syracuse

Island of Ortigia

4.9
4.8/5
26 reviews

The Island of Ortigia is the hometown of Archimedes and is located in the southeast of Syracuse. The Island of Ortigia has a long history, having experienced the ancient Greek, ancient Roman, Byzantine, and Arab periods, among others. The island has many attractions worth visiting, including the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the Greek temple that has been converted into a Baroque-style cathedral, the magnificent and expansive Greek theater ruins, the quarry where Greek prisoners of war were once exiled, and the cave known as the "Ear of Dionysius," as well as the Piazza del Duomo Siracusa, which frequently appears in the movie "Malèna." It is one of the most popular places for visitors in Syracuse.

Siracusa · 1.8 km from downtown
Syracuse Cathedral
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Province of Syracuse

Syracuse Cathedral

4.4
4.5/5
42 reviews

Syracuse Cathedral is located on the Island of Ortigia. Originally the Temple of Athena, it was converted into a church in the 7th century after the Christianization of Sicily, becoming a typical Byzantine building. Later, it was damaged by an earthquake and, during 18th-century repairs, was transformed into a magnificent Baroque-style structure. Today, various architectural styles blend within the building, and the massive Doric columns, built in the 5th century BC, remain clearly visible. Syracuse Cathedral and the square opposite it were filming locations for the movie "Malèna," where the film's glamorous protagonist, Malèna, walked many times. Every weekend, the constant stream of worshippers and tourists adds a touch of vitality to this ancient building.

Siracusa · 1.9 km from downtown
Neapolis Archaeological Park
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Province of Syracuse

Neapolis Archaeological Park

4.4

Parco Archeologico Neapolis is an archaeological park in Syracuse preserving remains from the ancient Greek and Roman periods. The site includes the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, Altar of Hieron II, Street of Tombs, and ancient stone quarries. Visitors can also explore the Ear of Dionysius and other archaeological remains while learning about the history of ancient Syracuse.

Siracusa · 711m from downtown
Temple of Apollo (Apollonion)

Temple of Apollo (Apollonion)

4.3

The Temple of Apollo (Apollonion) ruins in Syracuse, one of the world's earliest Doric column temples, are now reduced to ruins. From the remaining columns and fragments, one can still faintly see the temple's former grandeur. Despite its age, it still stands, a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the ancient Greeks.

Siracusa · 1.4 km from downtown
The Greek Theatre of Syracuse

The Greek Theatre of Syracuse

4.3
2.7/5
15 reviews

The Greek Theatre of Syracuse is one of the larger theatres in Sicily, located within the Archaeological Park ofSyracuse. The area around the theatre features quarries and the Ear of Dionysius, and spring water sometimes flows from the top of the theatre. The theatre is very old and weathered by time, but its steps remain clearly visible. Situated near a cliff, the theatre offers expansive views and overlooks the sea. It is worth mentioning that the great ancient Greek polymath Archimedes is also buried here.

Siracusa · 1 km from downtown
Arethusa Spring

Arethusa Spring

4.1
4.0/5
16 reviews

Arethusa Spring is a beautiful and tranquil freshwater spring. Greek mythology explains its origin: legend has it that Arethusa, a nymph and handmaiden of Artemis, was pursued by a river god. Unable to escape, she begged Artemis to turn her into a spring, which became Arethusa Spring. The papyrus plants in the spring are said to be the only natural growth of papyrus in Europe outside of Greece.

Siracusa · 2.1 km from downtown
Riserva naturale orientata Oasi Faunistica di Vendicari

Riserva naturale orientata Oasi Faunistica di Vendicari

4.1

Riserva naturale orientata Oasi Faunistica di Vendicari is located in the Province of Syracuse, Sicily, Italy. It is a nature reserve full of pristine charm, boasting rich ecological resources and diverse wildlife. The beauty of this reserve attracts not only nature enthusiasts but also many visitors who come to experience the unique charm of Sicily's nature. It consists of vast wetlands, beaches, and salt marshes, making it an important habitat for birds, especially during migration season when it attracts flocks of migratory birds to stop over. It is an ideal place for birdwatching, particularly for photographing various birds and natural views. In addition, the wetland area is also a habitat for numerous plants and insects, showcasing the diversity of Sicily's natural ecology. Historical sites related to the salt industry within the reserve show visitors the cultural and economic activities of this region in ancient times. It was once an important salt pan and fishing area, and today the salt pans remain part of the nature reserve.

Noto · 10.7 km from downtown
Ear of Dionysius

Ear of Dionysius

4
4.0/5
2 reviews

Ear of Dionysius is so named because its caveopening resembles a cat's ear, hence it is also called the Cat's Ear Cave. The shape here is quite unique, with a wide entrance and a winding, deep interior that looks as if it were intentionally carved. Speaking inside amplifies the sound significantly, acting as an amplifier.

Siracusa · 981m from downtown
Noto Cathedral

Noto Cathedral

3.9
5.0/5
6 reviews

Noto Cathedral was constructed starting in 1694 and completed in 1703. It is a Baroque-style church building. Unfortunately, it was damaged in an earthquake, but in the 18th century, locals rebuilt the cathedral using the same materials and techniques.

Noto · 499m from downtown

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Experiences you can't miss in Province of Syracuse

Featured Food & drink in Province of Syracuse

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Siracusa: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Local's Home
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Free cancellation
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Syracuse: Cook family recipes with Teresa
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Free cancellation
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From Syracuse: Private Tour Mount Etna with Lunch at Etna Winery
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5.0/5
· 4 reviews
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Syracuse: Boat Trip with Lunch, Wine, and Swimming Stops
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4.4/5
· 24 reviews
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From Syracuse: Mount Etna Guided Morning Hike & Food Tasting
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4.8/5
· 139 reviews
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Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia with Tastings
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4.9/5
· 210 reviews
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Sicilian Cooking Class with Greek Theatre View
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4.8/5
· 86 reviews
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Noto: Farm-to-Fork Cooking Experience
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Featured Day tours in Province of Syracuse

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Syracuse: Neapolis and Greek Theater guided tour
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· 25 reviews
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Syracuse + Ortigia + Noto 1-day tour · Departing from Catania · Minimum 2 people
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Syracuse: Ortigia & Sea Caves Boat Tour with Local Skipper
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Syracuse: Ortigia Island and Sea Caves Boat Tour
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Syracuse: Picnic boat tour of Pillirina, Ortigia & sea caves
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Syracuse: Boat tour of Ortigia Island & Sea Caves
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Featured Culture & history in Province of Syracuse

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Syracuse Island of Ortigia self-guided audio walking tour (10 stops, approx. 2 hrs)
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Syracuse: Tour of Ortigia Island by tuk-tuk (pedicab) with a local guide
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From Syracuse: Car/Van Tour to Noto, Ragusa and Modica
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4.8/5
· 66 reviews
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Ortygia: Boat Cruise in Syracuse, Ortygia and Caves (swim stop)
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Ortigia: A Walk through Local Flavors, Secrets & Highlights
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Syracuse: Pillirina, Ortigia, Sea Caves and snorkeling
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· 1 review
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Province of Syracuse Today's weatherPartly clear 14-25℃
Province of Syracuse weather for the next 2 days11/11: 16-26℃, 11/12: 18-24℃

Free things to do in Province of Syracuse

Syracuse

Syracuse

4.9
5.0/5
35 reviews
Siracusa · 15m from downtown
Island of Ortigia

Island of Ortigia

4.9
4.8/5
26 reviews
Siracusa · 1.8 km from downtown
Tonnara di Marzamemi

Tonnara di Marzamemi

3.1
Marzamemi · 502m from downtown
Piazza del Duomo Siracusa

Piazza del Duomo Siracusa

3.1
4.6/5
23 reviews
Siracusa · 1.9 km from downtown

What travelers say about Province of Syracuse

user-avatar
泰宁根吴承恩December 4, 2019
5.0
Those who have seen the movie "Sicily's Beautiful Story" should be very familiar with Syracuse. I think it is more beautiful than what is shown in the movie. Although the buildings are old, they are still very attractive. The sea view of Syracuse, located in the south of Sicily, is also invincible.

Syracuse

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lytqinmingApril 18, 2022
5.0
[Scenery] Nice [Fun] Interesting [Value for money] Recommended

Island of Ortigia

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心向远方jingOctober 7, 2019
5.0
Syracuse, founded in 743 BC, is the filming location of The Beautiful Legend of Sicily. The Byzantine-style Syracuse Cathedral is a place where movie stars have walked calmly countless times. The square is crowded with people, and the melodious melody of the accordion seems to tell the rich and glorious history of Syracuse. I like the bright sunshine and humanistic feelings of Sicily.

Syracuse Cathedral

user-avatar
hao.kingJune 13, 2023
3.0
Good for people who like history or ancient buildings

The Greek Theatre of Syracuse

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迪斯卡沃January 15, 2018
3.0
It is a cave with an entrance shaped like a cat's ear, commonly known as the "Cat's Ear Cave". The Syracuse people dug it according to the acoustic principle. Anyone speaking in the center of the cave will become a soprano or a soprano, and the sound will be amplified dozens of times. Dionysius was a tyrant in Syracuse. It is said that the tyrant used this acoustic effect to eavesdrop on the prisoners' conversations.

Ear of Dionysius

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Donovan_lJuly 10, 2023
5.0
In the middle of May, Noto celebrates the marvels of spring and the coming summer with a colourful festa known as the Infiorata. Via Nicolaci becomes home to flower artists from all over the world who create a carpet of beautiful petal mosaics inspired by the year's theme.Part of a UNESCO Heritage Site, Noto is not to be missed, even if Baroque architecture is not your cup of tea. More than just a baroque town, it is a subliminal expression of originality, fantasy, obsession, and man’s resilience in the face of the overwhelming force of nature.The cathedral of Noto is the principal baroque monuments in the town of Noto, in south-east Sicily. The town is known as the capital of Sicilian baroque architecture, and the cathedral facade is the principal example of the style in the town.

Noto Cathedral

Trip Moments in Province of Syracuse

A Day on Ortigia Island: The Cathedral, Temple of Apollo, and Fonte Aretusa

A Day on Ortigia Island: The Cathedral, Temple of Apollo, and Fonte Aretusa

“Syracuse: The cathedral's columns, left from over 2,000 years ago On Ortigia Island in the evening, the wind blows straight from the sea into the Cathedral Square.”

@Thompson_6~Hazel · 6 days ago
Sicily 7-day, 6-night ultimate DIY travel guide

Sicily 7-day, 6-night ultimate DIY travel guide

“The largest island in the Mediterranean | A one-stop guide to historic sites, volcanoes, and blue seas 🌋 If you are looking for a destination that has azure coastlines, active volcanoes, and thousand-year-old ancient Greek temples, you must come to Sicily, Italy!”

@Cook Harper75Harper · 3 days ago
A Walk on the Wild Side

A Walk on the Wild Side

“#planitorwingit My walk along the boardwalk through the papyrus grove of Fonte Ciane was a "plan it" decision.”

@yyhg7 · planitorwingit · 20 days ago
A personal road trip guide to three cities in Eastern Sicily

A personal road trip guide to three cities in Eastern Sicily

“Tested: A road trip to three cities in Eastern Sicily.”

@AarniRinne · 26 days ago

Popular cities near Province of Syracuse

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Province of Syracuse?

Don't miss these attractions in Province of Syracuse: Syracuse, Island of Ortigia, and Syracuse Cathedral. If you like Food & drink, try Siracusa: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Local's Home. If you enjoy Day tours, try Syracuse: Neapolis and Greek Theater guided tour.

You can give Siracusa: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Local's Home and Syracuse: Cook family recipes with Teresa a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Syracuse: Neapolis and Greek Theater guided tour, Syracuse + Ortigia + Noto 1-day tour · Departing from Catania · Minimum 2 people, and Syracuse: Ortigia & Sea Caves Boat Tour with Local Skipper. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 10, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Province of Syracuse is around USD 22.41 – USD 164.49. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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