Syracuse is a beautiful and historic city on Sicily’s southeast coast, just south of the larger city of Catania.
Because of its proximity to the second-largest Sicilian city, spending one day in Syracuse is ideal for travellers eager to explore this town, including the ancient Greek Theatre and the fascinating Temple of Apollo.
Syracuse seamlessly blends ancient Greek and Roman heritage with lively modern culture, allowing visitors to stroll through picturesque streets, enjoy delicious Sicilian cuisine, and soak in breathtaking coastal views.
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How Many Days in Syracuse?
While Syracuse is an excellent choice for a day trip from Catania (along with the ever-popular Taormina), to fully appreciate its rich history and charm without rushing around – especially in the summer heat – spending a weekend is ideal.
In one day, you can visit the key highlights, but it can be a long, packed day under the Sicilian sun. Walking between sites and fully exploring them takes time, and even though there’s plenty of shade in Ortigia’s narrow streets, the archaeological parks are more exposed.
Spending only one day is certainly manageable, thanks to regular transport from Catania, however, after visiting the archaeological park and wandering through Ortigia, you may feel rushed to see it all, so you may be better off prioritising certain parts of the city before heading off.
For a more relaxed experience, consider staying for the weekend. With two days, you’ll have time to visit the highlights without the pressure of cramming everything into a single day.
Getting To & Around Syracuse
Getting to Syracuse from Palermo or Catania is relatively straightforward, thanks to Sicily’s well-established transportation links, but if you’re planning a day trip, you’ll find it better to base yourself in Catania to cut down your journey time to the city.
Syracuse is only about 65 kilometres from Catania, making it very easy to reach by bus or train, taking about 1 hour from Catania’s main bus or train station. You can view schedules here.
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive for around 50 minutes on the E45 highway, however, you should be wary of the very carefree Italian drivers. You can browse rental options here.
From Catania, you can also join an organised group tour or book a private tour for the day.
From Palermo, you can reach Syracuse in 3 to 5 hours, depending on whether you drive, take the bus or take the train.
The easiest option is to take a train, which usually takes between 3.5 and 5 hours depending on connections in Messina.
Bus services, like those run by SAIS Autolinee, are another option, with travel times of around 4 hours, with more direct routes across the middle of Sicily. You can view schedules here.
For a more flexible option, you can rent a car, which will take about 3 hours and give you wonderful scenic views, but it does involve tolls. You can book a private transfer with the flexibility to make stops along the way
Within Syracuse, you’re best off exploring on foot. The main district, the island of Ortigia has beautiful streets, perfect for wandering around and ducking out of the sun. Beyond Ortigia, most major attractions are within walking distance.
However, for longer distances or to explore the archaeological park or nearby beaches, public buses operated by AST or taxis are available.
Parking in Ortigia can also be tricky, so if you drive, it’s best to park in a car park closer to the train and bus station and walk in.
1-Day Syracuse Itinerary
Syracuse is a beautiful and diverse city with history scattered amongst the stunning streets, making it perfect to wander around, uncovering gems as each street corner provides an incredible photo opportunity.
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Sicily, making it a must-see for anyone on a day trip to Syracuse.
Located at the entrance to the island of Ortigia, the ancient heart of Syracuse, the temple offers a glimpse into the city’s rich Greek heritage, and is a perfect starting point for your day.
Built in the 6th century BCE, this temple is the oldest Doric temple in Sicily and one of the earliest examples of Greek architecture in the Mediterranean.
Although time and successive occupations by the Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs have left much of the structure in ruins, its surviving columns, steps, and foundations remain incredibly impressive.
The temple was originally dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light and the arts, and its ruins still evoke a sense of ancient reverence and power.
For history enthusiasts, the Temple of Apollo provides a tangible connection to the city’s ancient past, as Syracuse was one of the most important and powerful Greek cities during antiquity.
The temple is a reminder of Syracuse’s prominent role in the ancient world, particularly as a centre of learning, culture, and trade.
Beyond its historical significance, the temple is also visually stunning, standing as an open-air monument right in the middle of the city, surrounded by a modern urban landscape, with a small market to one side and the wide city streets on the other.
Touring Ortigia
Syracuse is divided into two main areas: the modern part of the town where the train station is located and the island of Ortigia, the historic core where most of the attractions are located, so the Temple of Apollo makes for a great starting point for a leisurely stroll among the narrow, winding streets and stunning sea views.
From the Temple, you can head deeper into Ortigia, strolling through the lively Piazza Archimede, where a beautiful fountain dedicated to the nymph Artemis sits at its centre in front of the striking Bank of Sicily. You can join a short walking tour if you prefer to explore this area with a guide.
Wander onto the Piazza Duomo, arguably one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. The centrepiece here is the Syracuse Cathedral, a stunning Baroque structure that incorporates limestone columns from the ancient Greek Temple of Athena within its walls.
For something to eat, Via Cavour is a great spot to find excellent sandwiches, with cosy delis and cafes lining the street as well as a variety of street food on offer from market stalls. There are also short food tours that you can join.
Caseificio Borderi at the Ortigia market is a local favourite, serving up delicious sandwiches bursting with Sicilian flavours, like fresh mozzarella, cured meats, and sun-dried tomatoes. There is usually quite a queue so ask for a menu when you stand in line so you’re prepared for your order when you get to the till!
You can take your lunch to the Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater spring surrounded by papyrus plants and tied to Greek mythology. From there, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along Ortigia’s waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
Conclude your exploration by visiting the Castello Maniace, a fortress that offers panoramic views over the coast and the city.
If you’re spending two days in this city, you can make this stroll last most of your day before finding a beach for the afternoon or lounging on one of the bizarre man-made ‘beaches’ (platforms on scaffolding that extend into the sea with steps down to go swimming).
Otherwise, you’ve still got the rest of your afternoon to fill with major historic places of interest a short walk away.
Roman Amphitheatre
This is one of the city’s most impressive archaeological sites and even one of the most impressive on the island of Sicily (after the Valley of the Temples, of course) and a must-see for visitors interested in ancient history.
To get there from Ortigia, you can take a pleasant 30-minute walk over the Ponte Umbertino bridge and along Corso Gelone, or take a bus to Neapolis. Once you arrive, you can join a group tour or a private tour if you want to learn more about the sites you’re seeing!
Built in the 3rd century CE, it is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Italy, reflecting the importance of Syracuse during the Roman period. The amphitheatre was used for gladiator games, public events, and spectacles, capable of holding thousands of spectators.
Its elliptical shape, partially carved into the rock, is well-preserved, allowing visitors to imagine how the space was used centuries ago.
The amphitheatre is located within the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which is also home to the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, making it a key stop for anyone exploring Syracuse’s ancient past.
Seeing the Amphitheatre is essential when visiting Syracuse because it offers a fascinating contrast to the city’s earlier Greek heritage. While the nearby Greek Theatre represents the city’s cultural zenith during the Greek period, the Roman Amphitheatre highlights its transition into an important Roman hub.
Walking through its large, open arena, surrounded by centuries-old stone, transports visitors to an era of gladiators and grand public spectacles. To complement your historical visit, head over to the Greek Theatre.
Greek Theatre
The Greek Theatre is just a 5-minute walk from the Roman Amphitheatre; you can easily follow signs or the marked paths leading from one to the other.
The Greek Theatre in Syracuse is one of the most iconic and well-preserved ancient theatres in the world, so you shouldn’t miss it when visiting the city.
Constructed in the 5th century BCE, it was originally built under the rule of the Greek tyrant Hiero I. This majestic theatre is carved directly into the hillside, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It played a central role in the cultural life of ancient Syracuse, hosting not only dramatic performances but also political meetings and public events.
The theatre is particularly famous for its impressive size, accommodating up to 15,000 spectators in its prime, and its exceptional acoustics, which are still admired today. Each summer, it comes alive again with classical Greek plays, a tradition that continues to honour its ancient past.
The semi-circular seating, expansive stage, and backdrop of olive trees make it an atmospheric location that feels like stepping back in time, so try to time your trip with an event if you can.
Just next to the theatre is the Ear of Dionysus, a cave with equally remarkable acoustics, and worth a look in.
Archimedes Tomb
Archimedes is one of the great minds of Ancient Greece, so with Syracuse being his birthplace, you shouldn’t miss out on a trip to the intriguing Tomb of Archimedes, another short walk further away from the city centre.
The renowned mathematician, physicist, and engineer, was born in Syracuse around 287 BCE and, though there is some uncertainty about whether the tomb is actually his, the site traditionally attributed to him holds deep symbolic value for the city, honouring his immense contributions to science and his close connection to Syracuse.
Located within the Necropolis of Grotticelli, just outside the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, the tomb is carved into the rock in a manner typical of ancient Greek and Roman burials.
Its striking feature is the large circular stone base, which was believed to have once supported a monumental column or statue, fitting for someone of Archimedes’ statue. The tomb is a modest yet poignant tribute, making it a reflective stop on any historical tour of Syracuse.
Archimedes’ legacy as a genius who revolutionised mathematics, physics, and engineering still resonates today, and his tomb provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the life of a man whose innovations profoundly shaped human knowledge.
It’s a great stop for any history enthusiast exploring the ancient wonders of Syracuse, though as the walk can be relatively long, those on a short summer day trip may wish to miss this off to avoid spending too long out under the sun.
An Evening in Ortigia
To finish off your day, head back down to Ortigia to enjoy the vibrant hustle and bustle of the restaurants and bars.
In the evening, Ortigia comes alive with its fun atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The island is filled with narrow, charming streets lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes, many of which offer outdoor seating where you can soak in the beauty of the ancient surroundings while enjoying local cuisine.
The illuminated Syracuse Cathedral and the nearby Temple of Apollo create a magical backdrop as you stroll through the streets, adding to the charm of an evening in Ortigia. As you explore, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a drink, from traditional wine bars to more modern cocktail lounges.
When it comes to dining, Syracuse offers a wealth of traditional Sicilian cuisine. Start with some arancini, fried rice balls stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables, or a pani câ meusa (spleen sandwich) if you’re feeling adventurous.
For seafood lovers, pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines), or spaghetti ai ricci di mare (spaghetti with sea urchin) are must-try dishes. Syracuse is also known for its fresh swordfish and tuna, typically served grilled with lemon and olive oil. To end your meal, indulge in a cannolo or cassata, traditional Sicilian desserts.
Ortigia is the ideal place to end your day because of its relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Whether you’re dining by the water or sipping a glass of local wine in a cosy bar, the district provides the perfect blend of culture, food, and scenery. Its historic charm and vibrant nightlife offer a memorable Sicilian experience to end your day.
Have More Time?
The Archimedes and Da Vinci Museum in Syracuse is a fun stop, especially for families with children. While smaller and not nearly as impressive as Da Vinci’s house in Amboise with its huge to-scale models, the Archimedes and Da Vinci Museum in Syracuse offers interactive exhibits showcasing the inventions of both geniuses.
The museum visit is relatively short but engaging, allowing hands-on exploration of their works. So while not a priority, it can be a fun addition to a weekend in the city, or a great place for the family to learn and play.
Bags are not allowed inside, so it’s best to leave valuables at your accommodation if possible. However, there is a locker space near reception which is always manned, if you need to leave some personal belongings during your visit.
Sicily is known for its stunning coastline and crystal clear waters, so if you’ve got a couple of days around Syracuse, consider heading off along the coastline on a boat tour or to find a beach or cove to relax for an afternoon.
Many beaches on the island are, unfortunately, private, so you can search for a “spiaggia libera” on online maps to find a public beach before jumping in a taxi or your rented car, or walk along the coast, past the harbour to the rocky but endearing ‘Discesa libera a mare’ to join the locals for a shady afternoon by the sea.
Where to Stay in Syracuse
Domus Mariae Albergo – A bright, comfortable hotel overlooking the sea, this is an excellent mid-range choice in Syracuse. Each room has a small balcony and there is also a great buffet breakfast available in the mornings.
Caportigia Boutique Hotel – This gorgeous 5-star hotel is perfect for those after a luxe escape in eastern Sicily. There are countless incredible rooms available, a sun terrace with panoramic views and a wonderful breakfast to enjoy each morning.
Palazzo Alfeo Aparthotel – This centrally-located aparthotel is great for those after their own flat while in Syracuse. There are several studios and one-bedroom apartments on offer and some even boast beautiful sea views!
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Syracuse!
Syracuse is a remarkable city with charming winding streets and impressive archaeological sites, not to mention incredible food and friendly locals, so there’s something for everyone on a Syracuse day trip.
Are you planning to visit Syracuse? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let me know in the comments!