Things to Do in Siracusa

A glimpse into the temples and empires of Ancient Greece

• Revel in the sights and sounds of the sea as you discover the charming island of Ortigia with an expert guide.
• Get the chance to see historical landmarks like the natural Fountain of Arethusa and the 13th-century citadel, Maniace Castle.
• Explore the enigmatic sea grottos and get a close look at coral formation, stalactites, and stalagmites.
• Enjoy a short stop for an invigorating swim in the azure waters, provided the weather conditions are favorable.
• Fun Fact: It is believed that the Goddess Diana transformed the Greek nymph Arethusa into the fountain of sweet water that is so well-known today, as she fled from the advances of the river god Alpheus.

Explore one of the world's most beautiful theaters

• Circle the entire island of Ortigia on a 1.5-hour coastal cruise, tracing its fortified shoreline and seeing the historic core exactly as it was meant to be viewed — from the sea.
• Sail past landmarks including Castello Maniace, Fonte Aretusa, the Umbertino Bridge, and Porto Grande, with live bilingual commentary throughout.
• Enter natural sea caves for close-up views of rock formations before pausing for a refreshing swim in clear Ionian waters.
• Enjoy a semi-private experience capped at 12 guests, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and better access to views, photos, and guided insights.

Discover the Ancient Theatre of Taormina with an expert guide leading the way

• Discover Ortigia from the water on a classic 1-hour cruise that circles the island’s historic perimeter with live commentary from a local guide.
• Take in the skyline of Syracuse, including the Cathedral overlooking Ortigia, as baroque facades and sea walls reflect off the Ionian Sea.
• Enter a natural sea grotto for an up-close look at rock formations before continuing along the island’s rugged coastline.
• Enjoy a refreshing swim stop in clear waters when sea conditions allow, making this an easy and scenic escape from the city.

Traverse the largest archaeological site in the world and its gardens

• Venture beyond Syracuse’s harbor into the protected Plemmirio Marine Reserve, where clearer waters and open coves make this a swim- and snorkel-focused coastal escape.
• Cruise past Ortigia’s seafront landmarks including Castello Maniace, Fonte Aretusa, and the Umbertino Bridge, seeing the historic skyline from the water.
• Enter sea caves with coral formations and dramatic rock shapes, then stop at Pillirina cove for swimming and snorkeling in a marine protected area.
• Enjoy a 2-hour guided cruise with a professional skipper, bilingual commentary, and provided snorkeling masks for a relaxed yet active experience.

See how the ancient Sicilians lived with a visit to a once-impenetrable fortress

• Hop on to a boat and go on a joyous excursion to the island of Ortigia and admire the landscapes the region has to offer, from the natural Fountain of Arethusa to the 13th-century citadel, Maniace Castle.
• Look out for monuments and other structures on the excursion and listen to stories about their legacy. Have your photo taken in front of the cave of love.
• Take a short stop for an invigorating swim in the azure waters, provided the weather conditions are favorable.
• Choose between a 1-hour shared tour and a 2-hour private one!
• Fun Fact: It is believed that the Goddess Diana transformed the Greek nymph Arethusa into the fountain of sweet water that is so well-known today, as she fled from the advances of the river god Alpheus.

Soak up the stunning views of Sicily

Explore the awesome natural history of Sicily's Pearl of the Ionian Sea

Trace ramparts and swim in a sheltered bay

Cruise the coast and swim in clear water

Discover the first Greek settlement in Sicily