Syracuse: Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour

Exploring the ancient sites of Syracuse is a captivating experience. The Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour offers visitors an in-depth look at the island’s storied past. Led by knowledgeable guides, this two-hour excursion uncovers iconic landmarks like the Temple of Apollo and the stunning Fountain of Diana. Participants will marvel at the impressive Greek theater and the unique acoustics of the Ear of Dionysus, leaving them eager to discover more about this remarkable destination.

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About Your Stay

A 2-hour guided tour that covers the historical highlights of Syracuse, including the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, and the Cathedral of Syracuse.
Exploration of the Ortygia island, featuring landmarks like the Umbertino Bridge, Fountain of Diana, and the Maniace Castle.
Visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which houses the ancient Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, and the renowned Ear of Dionysus cave.
Highly rated tour guide, Elia, praised for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and reserve now, pay later option available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Syracuse Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic city, covering the iconic Ortygia and the renowned Neapolis Archaeological Park.

A comprehensive exploration of historic Syracuse, covering the iconic Ortygia and renowned Neapolis Archaeological Park.

Priced at £243.97 per group (up to 30 participants), the 2-hour tour provides a guided experience of the city’s rich heritage.

Visitors can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.

The tour includes licensed guides, entrance tickets, and transportation arrangements between the two sites, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for all participants.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Syracuse might interest you

Key Highlights of the Tour

This guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore Syracuse’s historic sites, starting at the iconic Temple of Apollo, dating back to 580 BC.

The itinerary then leads to the picturesque Piazza Archimede, home to the beautiful Fountain of Diana.

The tour then delves into the grandeur of the Cathedral of Syracuse, built upon the remains of an ancient Temple of Athena.

Other highlights include the serene Fonte Aretusa, the impressive Maniace Castle, and the renowned Neapolis Archaeological Park, featuring the Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, and the captivating Ear of Dionysus cave.

Exploring Ortygia

After crossing the Umbertino Bridge, visitors embark on a captivating exploration of the historic Ortygia island. They visit the iconic Temple of Apollo, dating back to 580 BC, and the striking Fountain of Diana, a Baroque-style landmark. The tour then leads them to the Cathedral of Syracuse, built atop the remains of an ancient Temple of Athena. Nearby, the serene Fonte Aretusa and the Alfeo seafront offer breathtaking views of the Maniace Castle. This immersive experience provides a glimpse into Syracuse’s rich history and architectural wonders.

| Site | Historical Significance |

| — | — |

| Temple of Apollo | One of the oldest Greek temples in Sicily |

| Fountain of Diana | Baroque-style landmark |

| Cathedral of Syracuse | Built on ancient Temple of Athena remains |

| Fonte Aretusa | Serene natural spring on the Alfeo seafront |

| Maniace Castle | Majestic fortification overlooking the Alfeo seafront |

Visiting the Cathedral of Syracuse

As visitors make their way through the historic Ortygia island, one of the must-see attractions is the Cathedral of Syracuse. This Baroque-style cathedral is built upon the remains of an ancient Greek temple dedicated to Athena.

Visitors can:

Admire the cathedral’s impressive façade and bell tower.
Step inside to marvel at the intricate interior, including ornate altars and ancient Greek columns.
Discover the cathedral’s unique history as a place of worship that has endured for over 2,500 years.

The Cathedral of Syracuse stands as a testament to the city’s rich past, blending ancient Greek and Baroque architectural elements in a captivating display.

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Discovering Neapolis Archaeological Park

The Neapolis Archaeological Park is a must-visit destination for those exploring Syracuse’s rich history. Within this expansive site, visitors can discover a Greek theater, a Roman amphitheater, and the Altar of Hieron. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into Syracuse’s ancient past.

| Site | Description | Significance |

| — | — | — |

| Greek Theater | Constructed in the 5th century BC, this impressive structure could seat up to 15,000 people. | A testament to the city’s cultural and artistic heritage. |

| Roman Amphitheater | Built in the 2nd century AD, this arena hosted gladiatorial contests and other spectacles. | Showcases the city’s transition from Greek to Roman rule. |

| Altar of Hieron | A massive sacrificial altar built in the 3rd century BC, dedicated to the Tyrant Hieron II. | Highlights the political power and religious practices of ancient Syracuse. |

There's plenty more to explore in Syracuse

Highlights of the Neapolis Tour

While exploring the Neapolis Archaeological Park, visitors are treated to a captivating array of ancient wonders.

The highlights include:

The magnificent Greek theater, a testament to the city’s cultural prowess.
The well-preserved Roman amphitheater, where spectators once witnessed thrilling gladiatorial contests.
The Altar of Hieron, a colossal structure that once hosted sacred rituals and ceremonies.

Beyond these iconic landmarks, the park also features the Church of San Nicolò ai Cordari, the Roman Pool, the Latomie del Paradiso, and the Ear of Dionysus cave, each offering a unique glimpse into Syracuse’s rich history.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Syracuse Guided Tour includes a licensed tour guide to lead visitors through the historic sites of Ortygia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park.

The tour provides admission tickets to the Cathedral of Syracuse and the Archaeological Park of Neapolis. Transport arrangements are also included, with transfer from Ortygia to Neapolis and back, either by private vehicle or public transport.

The tour includes admission tickets to the Cathedral of Syracuse and the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, with transportation between Ortygia and Neapolis.

Highlights of the tour include exploring the Temple of Apollo, Fountain of Diana, Baroque Cathedral, and the Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, and other ancient ruins at the Neapolis site.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on the available customer reviews, the Syracuse Guided Tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, indicating a high level of satisfaction among participants.

Reviewers praised the performance of the tour guide, Elia, highlighting the following:

Elia’s extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling that brought the history and landmarks to life.
The smooth organization and efficient management of the tour, ensuring a seamless experience.
Elia’s ability to cater to the diverse interests and needs of the group, making the tour enjoyable for all participants.

Questions About Your Stay

Are Children’s Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour pricing information does not mention any children’s discounts. The price listed is a flat £243.97 per group, regardless of the number or ages of participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

The tour can be customized to include additional sites, though this may incur an extra fee. Customers should discuss their preferences with the tour operator to see if a tailored itinerary can be arranged to meet their needs.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed during the tour. The guide will provide guidance on appropriate times and locations for taking photos to avoid disrupting the group or damaging historical sites.

Do You Offer Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Services?

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off services. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the starting point at Umbertino Bridge. The tour focuses on walking through the historic sites of Syracuse.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Limitations?

The tour provides some accessibility options. The guide can offer assistance, and the Cathedral and Archaeological Park have wheelchair-accessible areas. However, the walking tour may be challenging for those with significant mobility limitations.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Syracuse Guided Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes participants through the picturesque Ortygia Island and the remarkable Neapolis Archaeological Park, showcasing iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo and the ancient Greek theater. With its engaging storytelling and unique features, the tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the ancient wonders of Syracuse.

You can check availability for your dates here: