We offer the only 100% vegan tour in Siracusa/Ortigia. The tours are small and will never include more than six people. The tour guide has been vegan for 15 years and is a native English speaker. And did I mention that it will be a lot of fun?!
Our meet-up location is in the Piazza Pancali just as you arrive on the island from the Corso Umberto bridge. Tonia will be waiting for you underneath the shade tree, in front of the large white map/sign of Ortigia Island.
Tonia is also your "not quite professional but better than average" photographer for the duration of the tour.
Tonia will escort you through the island's popular food market to enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of this interesting piece of Sicilian history. We will also discuss the 8,000-year-old history of Sicily's terracotta ceramics and the stories behind them.
Za Bar is our first savory food stop. We will enjoy a combination of two of Sicily's popular and "accidentally" vegan meals. You will delight in the delicious pairing of flavors of the pizzolo and caponata while learning about the fascinating food history.
Learn a bit of history about the oldest ancient Greek Doric monument in Sicily, about Apollo, the Greek God of Sunshine, and the many rulers who have colonized Sicily over the centuries. We can also spend a few minutes taking Instagram-worthy photos.
Enjoy a short stroll up Corso Matteotti which is one of the island's popular streets and is lined with shops and boutiques. This will give you the opportunity to decide which shops to return to after the tour is completed.
We will view the beautiful Fountain of Diana (Artemis), learn about her history, enjoy the lovely Piazza di Archimede, and have another opportunity to take Instagram-worthy photos.
Our second food stop includes your first sweet treat. We will savor Sicily's famous and delicious vegan cannoli at MOON - Ortigia's 100% vegan restaurant. Choose between a traditional almond ricotta or delightful pistachio paired with a tasting of sweet Sicilian dessert wine.
MOON is closed on Tuesdays so we will have the opportunity to experience the popular Italian crostata instead at Viola Bakery. Whether it's breakfast, a snack, or dessert, anytime is a good time for crostata!
Tonia will share the interesting and amusing history of both sweet treats.
The grand Piazza Duomo is the highest point on the island of Ortigia and introduces you to the island's gorgeous Baroque architecture. You can admire the exteriors of the stunning Siracusa Cathedral, the Palazzo Senatario (Town Hall), and the Santa Lucia Church. This is another wonderful opportunity for photos. Admission to the monuments is not included.
This lovely artisan Sicilian chocolate shop features handcrafted, cold-pressed delights. All chocolate tastings are free and unlimited. It also makes excellent gifts.
The beautiful Fountain offers a bit of mystery and mythology to the tour. You will learn about the tragic love story that brought this unique freshwater spring to the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. What adds to the wonder of this lovely spot are the papyruses, grasslike aquatic plants that are very rare in this part of the world. We also take in the incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea from the recently completed overlook. Plan to come back in the evening for the island's beautiful sunset.
Next, we'll wander through the lush, shady garden, along the sunny marina, before heading back to the center of Ortigia.
Next is our third food stop that includes a savory Sicilian favorite - the arancina. This stop will give you the chance to sit, rest, and enjoy your meal while you learn more about the Arab-influenced street food staple.
We will visit the Statue of Archimedes for a bit of history and our final photo opportunity!
This is our last sweet food stop and the tour's grand finale! Whether you are craving sorbet, vegan gelato, or Sicilian granita, you will find many delicious options to devour! Tonia will share more Sicilian food history and give her heartfelt goodbyes while you enjoy the refreshing treat.
**This stop may change depending upon the gelateria's hours of operation.
Meeting place: We will meet in front of the large white Map of Ortigia in Piazza Pancali. It is located on Ortigia Island just after you cross the Corso Umberto bridge. I will be wearing a blue cross-body bag.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.
Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.
Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.
A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.
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.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
220VV, 50HzHz
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.
Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale
Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal
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.
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Car, Bike, Scooter
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.
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.
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.
Price varies by option