Syracuse (province) Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Syracuse is a former province in southeastern Sicily, Italy. Syracuse includes two UNESCO world heritage sites: the city of Syracuse and the rock necropolis of Pantalica and the baroque cities of the Val di Noto. The attractions in the Syracuse area are numerous: the beaches, for seaside tourism; the churches, for religious tourism; the rural houses for agritourism, the cuisine and its flavours for food and wine tourism.

The Syracuse area has an arid Mediterranean climate with a heat that is often difficult to bear in the height of summer (bathing can be enjoyed to the fullest, while city tours and shopping should be postponed to the early hours of the morning or towards sunset. In spring and autumn temperatures are often pleasant, in winter they rarely reach zero degrees (Sicilian houses are usually not well heated in winter), however in mountain towns temperatures can drop further and snow is not excluded.

• 37.06030615.2945241 Ufficio Turistico, Via Roma 31, toll-free: 800 055 500, [email protected]. M-Sa 08:00-20:00, Su 09:30-18:30. (updated Feb 2017)

• 37.08333315.2833331 Syracuse (Siracusa) – attractive old town and Greek ruins ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• 37.2515.2166672 Augusta – a port town north of Syracuse, with the archaeological site of Megara Hyblaea, a city founded by colonists fromMegarain 728 BC
• 37.283333153 Lentini – Greek colony of Leontini, today the town of Lentini
• 36.88333315.0833334 Noto – centre of Val di Noto, famous for baroque architecture (World Heritage)
• 37.06666714.95 Palazzolo Acreide – another world heritage listed Baroque town
• 36.91666715.1333336 Avola – a seaside resort on the sea between Siracusa and Noto
• 36.71666715.17 Pachino – the land of tomatoes
• 36.68333315.1333338 Portopalo di Capopassero – the most southern town in Sicily
• 36.81666714.959 Rosolini – an agriculture centre between Siracusa and Ragusa

• 37.11611114.8202781 Hyblaean Mountains (Monti Iblei) – the highest peak is Monte Lauro (986 m), Parco degli Iblei
• 36.79055615.0908332 Vendicari – natural reserve with a great beach
• Eloro District – the district south of Syracuse

The province of Syracuse was replaced in 2015 by the "free municipal consortium" of Syracuse.

The nearest airports are the airports of Catania and Comiso.

Syracuse is easily reached from the Messina - Catania - Syracuse motorway. The southern coast of Sicily can also be reached via the South Western Sicula road, which begins in Syracuse and passes through Noto and moves away from the coast reaching Modica, Ragusa, Comiso, Vittoria and finally Gela.

North of Augusta the branch road that passes through Lentini, Francofonte and Vizzini leads towards Ragusa.

The Port of Pozzallo has daily connections from Malta via Virtu Ferries. Fares are subject to seasonal variations and car transport is also provided.

There are rail connections via the electrified Catania-Syracuse line or via the non-electrified Syracuse-Ragusa-Gela- Canicattì line, which connects the baroque cities of the Val di Noto.

All cities are served by bus services via AST and Interbus. For details see individual cities. There are also connections via Flixbus and other companies to Italy and other parts of Sicily.

SS124 connects Siracusa to Palazzolo Acreide passing through Canicattini Bagni and continuing further. From Noto, on SP19 you can reach Pachino passing through the Vendicari Reserve.

Syracuse province holds some of the most important archaeological sites in Sicily, ranging from ancient Greek and Roman cities to prehistoric necropolises.

• Neapolis Archaeological Park (Syracuse) — Includes the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, the Ear of Dionysius cave, and extensive ruins from the ancient city of Syracuse.
• Ortygia Island (Syracuse) — The historical heart of the city. Sites include the Doric Temple of Athena (now Syracuse Cathedral), the Hohenstaufen-era Castello Maniace, and ancient city walls.
• Pantalica Necropolis (Sortino/Ferla) — A UNESCO World Heritage Site containing thousands of rock-cut tombs set in a dramatic canyon. Trails run through the Anapo Valley.
• Akrai (Palazzolo Acreide) — Ancient Greek city with a theatre, bouleuterion, and sanctuaries amid hillside views.
• Eloro (Noto) — Greek ruins near the coast, with city gates, mosaics, and city walls along sandy dunes.
• Lentinoi (Lentini) — One of the oldest cities in Sicily with Greek and Roman-era remains.

Syracuse province is one of the best places to experience Sicilian Baroque architecture, rebuilt in flamboyant style after the 1693 earthquake. Towns in the Val di Noto such as Noto and Palazzolo Acreide are UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their artistry and urban harmony.

• Noto — Perhaps the most iconic Baroque town in Sicily, rebuilt with honey-coloured stone and theatrical facades. Highlights include the Cathedral of San Nicolò and Palazzo Ducezio.
• Palazzolo Acreide — Set in the Hyblaean Hills, this elegant town combines Baroque palaces, churches, and an ancient Greek heritage.
• Syracuse — Layers of history and architecture, from ancient temples to Baroque churches and palazzi.
• Avola — Known for its hexagonal town plan, wide piazzas, and harmonious late Baroque architecture.
• Buscemi — A rural town with preserved agricultural buildings and churches forming an open-air ethnographic museum.

Borghi are small historic towns rich in character. Several in Syracuse province are both scenically located and culturally significant.

• Palazzolo Acreide — A recognised "Borgo più bello d’Italia," with archaeological ruins, Baroque churches, and mountain views.
• Buscemi — Known for its intact pre-industrial buildings and ethnographic heritage.
• Ferla — Set near the Pantalica site, with tidy streets and historic architecture.
• Sortino — Entry point for Pantalica, known for its honey, churches, and cliffside setting.
• Cassaro — One of the smallest and oldest towns in the province, full of character.

• Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi (Syracuse) — One of Italy's top archaeological museums, covering prehistory to late antiquity.
• Museo del Papiro Corrado Basile (Syracuse) — Dedicated to papyrus cultivation and history, located on Ortygia.
• Museo Civico di Palazzolo Acreide (Palazzolo Acreide) — Holds local archaeological finds and artifacts from Akrai.
• Museo della Mandorla (Avola) — A small museum dedicated to almond cultivation and traditional foodways.

Syracuse province blends ancient grandeur with graceful green spaces. From historic gardens overlooking the sea to leafy public parks in Baroque towns, these cultivated areas offer peaceful breaks from sightseeing and lively piazzas.

• Parco Villa Reimann (Syracuse) — A peaceful garden with Mediterranean and exotic plants, classical ruins, and a view over the Porto Grande. Once a private residence, it’s now a quiet public retreat near the archaeological zone.
• Giardino Aretusa (Ortygia, Syracuse) — A small but iconic green space surrounding the legendary Fonte Aretusa, with papyrus plants, ducks, and benches overlooking the harbour. An atmospheric stop along Ortygia’s seafront.
• Parco Robinson (Syracuse) — A larger community park with tall trees, walking paths, and playgrounds in the modern part of the city. A favourite with local families.
• Villa Comunale (Noto) — A graceful garden near the centre of Noto, with shade trees, wrought-iron gazebos, and views over the Baroque façades. A pleasant place to cool down during a walk through the UNESCO-listed town.
• Giardino Pubblico (Palazzolo Acreide) — A tidy municipal park with sculptures, lawns, and quiet seating areas near the historic centre. Often used for community events or afternoon strolls.

Syracuse province offers some of Sicily’s most varied and rewarding hiking — from deep river canyons and bird-filled wetlands to archaeological trails near the sea. Most hikes are moderate and accessible year-round, especially in spring and autumn.

• Riserva Naturale Orientata Cavagrande del Cassibile – A dramatic limestone canyon carved by the Cassibile River, known for its clear natural pools and cascading waterfalls. The main trail, a steep stone stairway from Avola, descends about 300 m to the river and is challenging on the way back up. Other less demanding trails offer views from the canyon rim. This is one of Sicily’s most iconic hikes.
• Riserva Naturale di Pantalica (Valle dell’Anapo) – A UNESCO-listed site with thousands of prehistoric cave tombs set along the Anapo River valley. Trails wind through tunnels, forests, and old railway tracks. Access points include Sortino and Ferla. The gorge is shaded and good for hot days. A perfect mix of nature, history, and geology.
• Riserva Naturale di Vendicari – This coastal wetland reserve near Noto offers easy walking trails through lagoons, dunes, and salt flats. Ideal for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. Paths connect multiple beaches, a historic tuna processing plant (tonnara), and a watchtower.
• Riserva Naturale Plemmirio – South of Syracuse city, this marine reserve also features low coastal hiking paths along limestone cliffs and coves. Informal trails lead to snorkeling spots and sea caves. Great for sunset hikes and off-season walks.
• Cava Carosello (Noto Antica) – A lesser-known canyon hike near the ruins of ancient Noto. Trails lead down to a gorge with old water mills and pools, surrounded by fig trees and steep rock faces. Quiet and atmospheric, best accessed by car via Testa dell’Acqua.
• Coastal paths south of Marzamemi – Informal walks follow the rocky coastline past Capo Passero and Isola delle Correnti — the southernmost point of Sicily. Wild and windswept, these trails offer solitude and dramatic views.
• Lago di Lentini — Sicily's largest lake, surrounded by trails and marshland. Popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers, with over 150 bird species and peaceful walking paths through its natural surroundings

Trail difficulty varies from flat nature walks to steep canyon descents. Many paths are unpaved and can be slippery when wet. Always bring water, especially in summer.

Syracuse province offers a rich fishing culture along its Ionian and southeastern coastline, especially in small villages where traditional practices still thrive.

• Marzamemi – This picturesque fishing village south of Noto has a strong maritime identity and a historic tuna processing plant (tonnara). Today, it's a popular place for visitors to join local boat tours that include recreational line fishing or net casting, often followed by fresh seafood tastings in the harbour. Small-scale experiences can be booked through guesthouses or boat operators in the port.
• Portopalo di Capo Passero – Sicily’s southernmost point is home to an active fishing fleet. Boat excursions may include trolling, bottom fishing, or helping to haul in nets. Some tours combine fishing with snorkelling or island visits (Isola delle Correnti or Capo Passero).
• Arenella & Ognina – These quieter beach areas south of Syracuse are popular for casual shore fishing and spearfishing. You’ll often see locals casting lines off the rocks at dawn or dusk.
• Syracuse city – While primarily urban, small harbours and marinas in the city host occasional half-day fishing charters. The Ortigia market also offers insight into the local catch, and some tours pair early-morning market visits with boat excursions.

Fishing is typically relaxed and low-pressure, with a focus on enjoying the sea rather than sport. Casual shore and boat fishing do not require a licence, but spearfishing has legal restrictions and may be limited in marine reserves.

Syracuse province offers scenic coastal rides, peaceful inland loops, and cycling access to some of Sicily’s most beautiful nature reserves. With mostly gentle terrain and light traffic, the area is well-suited to casual cyclists and touring riders.

• Vendicari Nature Reserve – A flat, scenic area perfect for casual cycling, especially in spring and autumn. While bikes are not allowed inside the protected bird nesting zones, the roads and tracks surrounding the reserve link beaches, old tuna fisheries, and viewpoints near Marzamemi and San Lorenzo.
• Marzamemi to Portopalo – A quiet coastal route between two of Sicily’s southernmost towns. The ride passes beaches, small farms, and open sea views, with light elevation gain and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Syracuse to Fontane Bianche – A seaside ride heading south from the city along the SP104 coastal road. Though not a dedicated bike path, it offers sea views and access to beaches. Early mornings are best to avoid traffic.
• Noto to Ispica (Val di Noto) – A longer inland ride connecting two baroque towns. The route follows rolling hills, citrus groves, and sections of the ancient Via Elorina. Ideal for road bikes or e-bikes, with moderate climbs.
• Sortino to Pantalica – For gravel or mountain bikers, this inland route skirts the rim of the Pantalica gorge, part of a UNESCO-listed necropolis. Surfaces vary from paved to dirt, and the setting is wild and atmospheric.

Bike rental is available in Syracuse city, Noto, and Marzamemi, including e-bikes. Summer heat can be intense, so early morning or off-season rides are best.

Syracuse province offers some of Sicily’s most varied beach experiences — from golden sands and calm coves to wild coastal reserves and rocky swimming spots. The clear Ionian waters and nearby towns like Noto, Marzamemi, and Ortigia make it easy to combine beach time with culture and food.

• Fontane Bianche – A long sandy beach south of Syracuse, popular for its soft sand, shallow water, and family-friendly atmosphere. Lidos, rentals, and restaurants make it one of the province’s most convenient beach destinations.
• Arenella & Ognina – Two smaller resort areas south of Syracuse with sandy and rocky sections. Good for snorkeling, with clear water and a more relaxed vibe than Fontane Bianche.
• Vendicari Nature Reserve – A protected coastal area near Noto, offering wild beaches, sand dunes, and birdwatching. Access involves short walks through the reserve; popular beaches include Calamosche (a sheltered cove), Eloro (near Greek ruins), and Marianelli (a quieter, clothing-optional beach).
• Marzamemi – A charming fishing village with nearby sandy beaches and small coves. Ideal for combining beach time with seafood lunches and sunset walks in the old town.
• San Lorenzo – A popular beach near the Vendicari reserve, with turquoise water and a Caribbean feel. It offers a mix of free and serviced areas, and is known for its scenic beauty.
• Plemmirio Marine Protected Area – South of Syracuse, this rocky coastal zone is excellent for snorkeling and diving. No sandy beaches, but deep, clear water and dramatic coastline. Access is via footpaths or platforms from the cliffs.
• Portopalo di Capo Passero & Isola delle Correnti – Sicily’s southernmost tip offers wild beaches, stronger waves, and a meeting of seas (Ionian and Mediterranean). Ideal for those seeking solitude or kite/windsurfing conditions.

Some beaches in the province require short hikes or car access. Water shoes are useful for rocky areas, and spring or early autumn offers the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

Syracuse province offers a rich variety of watersports, from snorkeling and diving along protected marine areas to windsurfing and SUP on the calm Ionian coast. With clear waters, rocky headlands, and accessible beaches, it's a prime location for aquatic adventures.

• Plemmirio Marine Protected Area – South of Syracuse city, this reserve offers some of Sicily’s best snorkeling and scuba diving, with sea caves, dramatic cliffs, and underwater archaeological features. Several dive schools operate from the city or nearby Lido di Punta Asparano.
• Vendicari Nature Reserve & Calamosche – While motorised watersports are restricted here, the area is ideal for snorkeling and sea kayaking. Calamosche Beach in particular offers calm, clear water and rich marine life.
• San Lorenzo & Marzamemi – These popular summer spots offer calm seas ideal for paddleboarding and casual kayaking. SUP rentals are available in Marzamemi, and the coastline includes sandy beaches and small rocky coves.
• Portopalo di Capo Passero & Isola delle Correnti – Sicily’s southernmost tip is exposed to stronger winds and waves, making it a top choice for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Conditions vary by season but are most reliable from spring through early autumn.
• Ortigia Island (Syracuse) – The historic centre of Syracuse also offers access to the sea via stone platforms and small coves. Some local operators run kayak tours around the island’s coast, ideal for sunset paddling or snorkeling stops.

Diving centres and SUP/kayak rentals can be found in Syracuse, Marzamemi, and along the southern coast. Summer is high season, but calmer seas in spring and autumn also suit most activities.

Syracuse province also offers several high-adrenaline experiences for adventurous travellers:

• Body‑rafting (Torrentismo) in Pantalica – Navigate the rocky stream courses of the Pantalica reserve on a half-day guided body‑rafting adventure. Participants ages 8+ traverse natural slides and pools through narrow gorges.
• Zip‑line park in the Monti Iblei – Near Buccheri, a high ropes and zip‑line setup at Parcallario Adventure Park lets you soar over valleys up to 150 m below. The course winds through trees and cliffs in the Iblei hills.
• Tandem skydiving (Siracusa) – For fall‑fans: tandem jumps from 4,000 m offer an unforgettable free fall with views of the Ionian Gulf. Operated near Syracuse city by certified instructors.

Adventure providers typically run activities from spring through autumn, and bookings are essential. Some require a minimum number of participants or depend on water and weather conditions.

Syracuse province blends wellness with its stunning coastline, ancient sites, and peaceful inland landscapes. From sea-view spas to yoga by the ruins, it’s a place to restore body and mind.

• Coastal resorts & spas – In Ortigia and along the southern coast near Fontane Bianche, many boutique hotels and beach resorts offer wellness facilities like sea-view pools, saunas, massage rooms, and holistic treatments.
• Nature walks in reserves – The nature reserves of Vendicari and Plemmirio offer peaceful trails ideal for walking meditation, birdwatching, and low-impact exercise along wild beaches and dunes.
• Yoga retreats & workshops – Seasonal retreats are offered in the countryside around Noto and Palazzolo Acreide, often hosted at masserie or eco-lodges. Sessions may include yoga, sound baths, and mindful eating.
• Wellness by the ruins – Some luxury hotels in or near Ortigia offer spa experiences with views over ancient ruins and the sea — a memorable setting for sunset soaks or rooftop treatments.
• Public spaces & fitness – The seafront promenades of Syracuse city are popular for walking, running, and stretching. Occasional open-air fitness and wellness events take place in the Foro Siracusano or Parco Robinson.

Wellness options in the province are available year-round, but coastal and nature-based experiences are most rewarding from spring to early autumn.

The most typical food of the Syracuse area, especially in Sortino , is the pizzolo . A sort of calzone, but it would be better to define it as a double layer of pizza with crispy dough and various toppings inside.

One of the most famous wines is Nero d'Avola which only takes its name but whose vines can be found in every part of Sicily.

Except for Syracuse, where you need to be more careful due to the risk of theft and muggings, the remaining locations are quite safe.

There are reports of thefts from cars parked in unattended car parks in nature reserves. In some cases, thieves break the side window to steal the objects. But there have also been reports of thefts by opening the car with a remote control. Thieves leave a hidden device that allows them to record the opening code. For this reason, it is advisable not to leave valuables and to lock the car with the key and not with the remote control.