Classical Ortigia Guided Group Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse with this group tour that crosses places and history of the island. Starting from the temple of Apollo, the oldest Greek temple in Sicily, we will cross picturesque streets to reach Piazza del Duomo, where it will be possible to visit the interior of the Cathedral (optional visit, possible only when there are no religious services in progress).
Leaving Piazza Duomo and the church of Santa Lucia we will reach the enchanting Fonte Aretusa, one of the legendary places of Ortigia. Finally we will walk the less traveled paths of the Giudecca, the ancient Jewish quarter. During this group tour, you will have the opportunity to explore Ortigia together with other passionate travellers, sharing the wonders of this Sicilian pearl.
Join us on this group tour which offers a unique experience to discover the secrets of Ortigia.
Available options
Ortygia, tour in English
English language tour: This tour takes place in English language or in rare cases in English and Italian language
Ortigia, tour in Italian
Italian language tour: This tour takes place in Italian
What's included
Radio guide receivers in the case of a large group
Detailed itinerary
1
After meeting our guide you will discover the origins of the Greek city and the characteristics of this temple dedicated to the god of light.
2
We will walk through the alleys of Ortigia and the ancient Spirduta district, discovering its urban legends and the medieval Palazzo Montalto.
3
We will reach Piazza Archimede and discover the neoclassical fountain of Diana and the suggestive buildings that surround the square.
4
We will walk through the suggestive alleys that lead to the heart of the historic center.
5
We will admire the sumptuous Piazza Duomo and the buildings that surround the beating heart of Syracuse.
6
Stop 6
The guide will show you the peculiarities of the Cathedral of Syracuse, a unique church in the world as it is a Baroque-style cathedral built on an ancient Greek temple. In the event that there are no religious functions, it will optionally be possible to visit the interior as well (entrance ticket not included). Those who prefer not to visit the inside of the building will have a short break for a coffee break.
7
We will discover the church of Santa Lucia and the guide will tell you about this important religious holiday and the most important painting of Syracuse, the work of Caravaggio.
8
Leaving Piazza Duomo we will reach the sea and the legendary Aretusa spring where it will be possible to admire the papyrus plants and where you will discover the romantic myth linked to this place.
9
We will cross the island reaching the suggestive eastern promenade and the small beach of Cala Rossa
10
We will end the tour by crossing the picturesque Giudecca district, the ancient Jewish quarter of Syracuse.
What's not included
Entrance ticket to the cathedral (optional internal visit) 2 Euros per person
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
23 reviews
5★
21
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is in the clearing in front of the temple of Apollo, on the right side, in the area between the pedestrian crossing towards Corso Matteotti and the benches. Depending on the season, the exact spot may vary slightly. The guide will have a Hermes Sicily Tours logo.
About Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.
Top Attractions
Valley of the Temples
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10
Mount Etna
Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nature
Half day to full day
€30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)
Palermo Cathedral
A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.
Architectural
1-2 hours
€7
Taormina
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre
Cefalù
A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca
Must-Try Local Dishes
Arancini
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Cannoli
Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Granita
A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.
Dessert
Vegan and gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park
Volcano trekking on Mount Etna
Beach lounging in Cefalù
Spa treatments in Taormina
Visiting the Valley of the Temples
Exploring the historic center of Palermo
Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands
Boat tours along the coast
Best Time to Visit
May to June, September to October
The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.
Getting there
By air
- Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center
By train
Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale
By bus
Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Palermo Centro Storico
Taormina
Catania Centro
Agrigento
Day trips
Aeolian Islands
25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight
A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.
Erice
100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day
A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.
Noto
90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day
A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.
Festivals
Infiorata di Noto • May
Taormina Film Fest • June
Sagra del Miele • September
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
- Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
- Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
