Walking tour of Syracuse and the Archaeological area

General Information

The name Syracuse suggests a warm climate, blue skies, a beautiful bay and the ancient ruins of a Greek city that was a rival to Athens.
Syracuse was colonised in 734 BC by Greeks from Corinth who populated the island of Ortigia. It soon fell under the yoke of tyrants. At the time of its splendour (5th-4th century BC), the city had a population of 300,000 and dominated the whole of Sicily. It was converted to Christianity by St Paul, who preached in the quarries, and was destroyed by the Arabs in the 9th century AD. The archaeological area – The Neapolis Archaeological Park was created in 1952-55 and contains most of the classical monuments of Greek and Roman Syracuse. For security reasons, tourists today only have access to the Greek Theatre and part of the Latomia del Paradiso, one of the ancient stone quarries; the other monuments are visible from afar. This does not detract from the powerful charm of this unique place, where the work of man and nature has such a strong impact.
The 5th century BC Greek theatre is one of the largest and best-preserved theatres in the ancient world. The Roman amphitheatre, carved into the rock, dates back to the 2nd century AD. The entrance and walkways for animals and gladiators are still visible.
You will then continue on to Ortigia where the walking tour of the historic centre (Ortigia) will begin. It will be a pleasure to stroll through the cool, narrow streets of this beautiful island, on which the historic centre is located. The streets are full of medieval and Baroque palaces, oratories, wrought-iron balconies with flowers and linen fluttering in the wind, and small, secluded squares open to the Ionian Sea.
Our tour begins with a visit to the Arethusa Fountain, the legendary cradle of the city. From the nearby platform there is a view of the beautiful Bay of Syracuse, then on to the Cathedral built in the 7th century on the foundations of the former Temple of Minerva – Before returning to your destination, enjoy your granita after some free time for shopping.

Additional Information

Comfortable shoes

Sportswear

*If you need to reserve a car seat, please contact us at the time of booking.

Meeting point

The tour departs from the port of Syracuse or your hotel, according to your requirements. To be specified at checkout in the 'Notes' section.