Syracuse: Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour

Discover the ancient wonders of Syracuse on this captivating guided tour. Explore the historic Ortygia island and the remarkable Neapolis Archaeological Park. Marvel at iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo, the stunning Cathedral, and the enchanting Fonte Aretusa. Uncover the rich history as knowledgeable guides bring the stories to life. With flexible booking options and free cancellation, it’s the perfect way to learn about the captivating past of this remarkable city. Where will your journey through Syracuse begin?

About Your Stay

• A guided tour of the historic city of Syracuse, including the highlights of Ortygia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, priced at $354.71 per group.
• The 2-hour tour covers the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, Cathedral of Syracuse, and the serene Fonte Aretusa spring, with live guides in multiple languages.
• Explore the Cathedral of Syracuse, a blend of Baroque and Rococo styles built on the ruins of the Temple of Athena.
• Visit the Maniace Castle, a Swabian fortress with stunning harbor views, and the Fonte Aretusa, a peaceful freshwater spring.
• Discover the Neapolis Archaeological Park, featuring the Roman amphitheater, Altar of Hieron, Latomie del Paradiso, and the impressive Greek theater.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The guided tour of Syracuse, including Ortygia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, is priced from $354.71 per group, accommodating up to 30 participants.

The 2-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, maintaining flexibility.

The tour highlights Ortygia’s historic center, including the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, the Cathedral, and the Church of Santa Lucia.

It also covers key sites in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, such as the Roman amphitheater and the Greek theater.

The tour is led by live guides available in multiple languages.

Explore Historic Ortygia

What makes Ortygia, the historic center of Syracuse, so captivating? This ancient island brims with remarkable landmarks.

You’ll explore the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily dating back to 580 BC.

Then, stroll through Piazza Archimede, home to the stunning Diana Fountain.

The grand Cathedral of Syracuse, built on the ruins of a Temple of Athena, showcases a blend of Baroque and Rococo styles.

Don’t miss the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, which houses Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Burial of Saint Lucia".

End at the serene Fonte Aretusa, a freshwater spring surrounded by papyrus plants.

Highlights of the Cathedral of Syracuse

Although initially constructed as a Temple of Athena, the Cathedral of Syracuse has since undergone significant architectural transformations, blending Baroque and Rococo styles to create a truly captivating structure.

Today, visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s ornate façade and interior, adorned with intricate carvings, gilded details, and stunning artworks. The highlight is the impressive dome, a striking feature that dominates the skyline.

Inside, the cathedral’s grand halls and chapels showcase a harmonious fusion of ancient Greek, Roman, and Baroque influences, offering a glimpse into Sicily’s rich cultural heritage.

Maniace Castle and Fonte Aretusa

Maniace Castle, a Swabian fortress, stands as a testament to Sicily’s rich history. This medieval stronghold, built in the 13th century, overlooks the beautiful Fonte Aretusa, a freshwater spring surrounded by papyrus plants.

| Maniace Castle | Fonte Aretusa |

| — | — |

| Swabian fortress built in the 13th century | Freshwater spring surrounded by papyrus plants |

| Offers stunning views of the harbor | Peaceful oasis in the heart of Ortygia |

Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive architecture and learn about its role in the island’s past. The Fonte Aretusa, meanwhile, provides a serene escape amid the bustling city, a true hidden gem in Syracuse’s rich cultural tapestry.

More Great Tours Nearby

Neapolis Archaeological Park

The Neapolis Archaeological Park stands as a captivating window into Syracuse’s ancient roots.

Visitors can explore key sites like the impressive Roman amphitheater, dating back to the era of Augustus. The park also features the Altar of Hieron, dedicated to Zeus, and the Latomie del Paradiso, home to the renowned Ear of Dionysus cave with its exceptional echo.

The crown jewel is the Greek theater, the park’s most significant monument, built by the Greeks and later renovated by the Romans.

This guided tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Syracuse’s remarkable classical heritage.

Key Sites in the Archaeological Park

Within the Neapolis Archaeological Park, visitors can explore several key ancient sites. The Roman amphitheater, dating back to the Augustus era, once hosted epic gladiator battles. The Altar of Hieron, dedicated to Zeus, stands as a testament to the site’s sacred history. Perhaps the most captivating feature is the Latomie del Paradiso, including the Ear of Dionysus – a 23-meter high cave with exceptional acoustics. Lastly, the Greek theater remains the park’s most significant monument, originally built by the Greeks and later renovated by the Romans.

| Site | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Roman Amphitheater | Gladiator fights in the Augustus era |

| Altar of Hieron | Dedicated to Zeus |

| Latomie del Paradiso | Ear of Dionysus cave with exceptional echo |

| Greek Theater | Most significant monument in the park |

Guided Tour Details

A licensed guide identifiable by a badge will meet visitors at the Umbertino Bridge (statue of Archimedes) to lead the guided tour.

The tour is available in English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish, ensuring an engaging experience for all participants.

Tickets to the Cathedral and Archaeological Park are included, providing seamless access to the key landmarks.

The tour covers the historic center of Ortygia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, allowing visitors to explore the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, and the impressive Greek theater.

With a duration of 2 hours, the tour offers a comprehensive and informative experience.

Customer Feedback

Visitors have praised the Syracuse Archaeological Park Guided Tour, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews.

Customers have highlighted the tours as entertaining and informative, appreciated by all age groups. The live guides, available in multiple languages, provide an engaging and educational experience as they lead visitors through the historic center of Ortygia and the renowned Neapolis Archaeological Park.

With access to the Cathedral and Park included, the tour offers exceptional value and a comprehensive introduction to the rich cultural heritage of Syracuse.

Questions About Your Stay

Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?

The tour may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users, as some sites like the Greek theater and Latomie del Paradiso may have uneven terrain. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific accessibility details.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at key sites like the Ortygia historic center, where you’ll find shops selling local crafts, artwork, and other mementos to commemorate your visit.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities at the Tour Sites?

There are public restroom facilities available at the major sites visited during the tour, including the Cathedral of Syracuse and the Neapolis Archaeological Park. Visitors are advised to use these facilities as needed throughout the 2-hour guided experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is up to 30 participants. The pricing for the tour is $354.71 per group, allowing for larger groups to split the cost and enjoy the 2-hour guided experience together.

Can I Join the Tour on My Own or Do I Need to Be Part of a Group?

You can join the tour on your own. The tour price is per group up to 30 participants, so you don’t need to be part of a larger group to book the tour.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Explore the captivating history of Syracuse on this guided tour. Discover iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo and the stunning Cathedral. Enjoy the ancient wonders of Neapolis Archaeological Park. With knowledgeable guides and flexible booking options, this tour offers an unforgettable experience in this remarkable Sicilian city.

You can check availability for your dates here: