Ortigia: Syracuse's Ancient Town Center Private Walking Tour

4.9 (53 reviews) Sicily, Italy
Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesGerman, English, Italian
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Discover the captivating allure of Ortygia, the old town center of Syracuse, on an exclusive private walking tour. Situated on a picturesque island very near to the mainland, Ortygia is a treasure trove of history spanning 3000 years. Your tour begins at the Apollo Temple, the oldest Greek temple in Sicily. As you walk through the enchanting narrow streets, you'll arrive in Piazza Duomo, where you will have the chance to explore a Catholic church that was constructed above an ancient temple, blending two cultures (the interior visit is only possible when there are no religious services taking place in the church).
Admire the legendary Aretusa Spring, famous also for its papyrus plants. We will also enter into the lesser-known paths of the former Jewish district. Uncover the secrets of Ortygia with a personalized private walking tour, offering a unique perspective on the island. Explore the layers of history, embrace the beauty of the surroundings.

What's included

  • Professional guide
  • Private walking tour
  • Cathedral entrance fee (optional, 2 € p.p.)

What to expect

  1. Temple of Apollo (Tempio di Apollo)
    10m
    You will meet our guide near the Apollo temple and learn about this ancient Greek building, the oldest stone temple built by Greeks in Sicily.
  2. Piazza Archimede
    10m
    Here you will see the beautiful neoclassical Diana fountain and the buildings in various styles, around the square.
  3. Chiesa del Collegio dei Gesuiti
    Pass by
    A walk through the picturesque via Cavor, passing near the Collegio dei Gesuiti.
  4. Piazza Duomo
    15m
    Learn about Syracuse's beautful cathedral square and its main builidings: the cathedral, palazzo Vermexio, arcivescovado and palazzo Beneventano del Bosco.
  5. Syracuse Cathedral
    25m · Admission ticket not included
    Visit to the interiors of the cathedral, a baroque church built on an ancient Greek temple. Admission fee not included (€ 2 p.p.). The visit to the interiors is not possible during the holy mass or marriages. In this case the guide will explain the church from outside.
  6. Chiesa di Santa Lucia alla Badia
    20m
    Visit of the interiors of the church of St. Lucy. The church is closed on Mondays so it's not possible to visit the interiors booking this day,
  7. Fonte Aretusa
    10m
    Visit to Syracuse's legendary spring, also famous for its papyrus plants. Our guide will tell you about Alpheus and Arethusa
  8. 20m
    Walk throught the picturesque narrow streets or Ortygia, the old town center of Syracuse and the Giudecca district the ancient Jewish district of Syracuse.
  9. 10m
    Our tour ends with a walk through the picturesque former Jewish district

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Departure Point: Apollo temple, Ortygia (Syracuse)
Address: Largo XXV Luglio - Siracusa
Directions: The guide will wait at the Apollo temple, on the right side, near the small fountain. The guide will wear a red id-badge.
Return point: Tour ends at the fish market near the Apollo temple.

End point

Departure Point: Apollo temple, Ortygia (Syracuse)
Address: Largo XXV Luglio - Siracusa
Directions: The guide will wait at the Apollo temple, on the right side, near the small fountain. The guide will wear a red id-badge.
Return point: Tour ends at the fish market near the Apollo temple.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • A dress code is required to enter the cathedral. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed, shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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4.9 (53)
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