Excursion Ancient siracusa tour at Catania

Discover Siracusa's ancient treasures and picturesque beauty during this memorable visit to the city, with a walking tour through Ortygia.

Depart the pier for the scenic, one-hour drive to Siracusa. Founded in the 8th century B.C., this is the ancient city where Archimedes lived, Plato taught and Aeschylus wrote his plays.

Siracusa Archaeological Site

Upon arrival, proceed to the archaeological site and commence your walking tour though this historic venue. Along the way, a visit is made to the Altar of Hieron II, which was erected in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the 'Eleutherian Feast' and used for human sacrifices.

Greek Theatre

Next, continue on to the Greek Theatre. One of the largest theatres in the Hellenic World, the Greek Theatre was carved from a rocky hillside in the 5th century B.C., and subsequently enlarged to its present size. Other highlights of your visit include the Paradiso Quarry and the famous Ear of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with an extraordinary echo. The acoustics of this cave enabled the tyrant Dionysius to eavesdrop on his prisoners. Leaving the archaeological site, re-board your coach for the brief drive to Ortygia.

Ortygia

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the grand Piazza Archimede, which is adorned with 14th- and 15th-century palaces, and the Fountain of Artemis, or 'Fontana di Artemide', in its centre. The 15th-century Palazzo dell'Orologio stands on the west side of the Piazza Archimede, and the 18th-century Palazzo Gargallo on the south.

Arethusa Fountain

Next, proceed for a visit to the picturesque Arethusa Fountain, celebrated by Pindar and Virgilio as the mythical spring of the nymph Arethusa.

Following your walking tour, some free time is made available for you to browse the shops at your leisure before re-boarding your coach for the approximate 1.5-hour return drive to the pier.

Please note: The visits to Siracusa and Ortygia are entirely on-foot, and include cobblestone streets and uneven ground inside the archaeological site. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Siracusa, Archaeological Site, Greek Theatre, Ortygia, Piazza Archimede, Fountain of Artemis, Palazzo dell'Orologio, Palazzo Gargallo, Arethusa Fountain