Syracuse
Once the most powerful city in the ancient world—Greek temples, a baroque island, and timeless beauty.
About Syracuse
Syracuse was once described by Cicero as 'the greatest and most beautiful of all Greek cities.' Founded in 734 BC, it grew to rival Athens in power and culture—Archimedes was born here, and its Greek theatre is still used for performances today. The ancient archaeological park contains the stunning Teatro Greco, the Ear of Dionysius cave, and a vast Roman amphitheatre. But Syracuse's other face is equally compelling: the island of Ortigia, connected to the mainland by a bridge, is a baroque jewel of honey-coloured palaces, the spectacular Piazza del Duomo (built around a Greek temple), and waterfront restaurants where the sea almost laps your table. Few cities anywhere offer this combination of ancient grandeur and living beauty.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to October. May-June brings the Greek theatre season with classical performances in the ancient setting. Summer is hot but the sea is perfect. Spring wildflowers in the archaeological park are lovely.
Local Tips
- See a play in the Greek theatre.
The May-June season of Greek tragedies performed in a 2,500-year-old theatre is unforgettable. A local will book the best seats and explain the play's significance in the theatre where it may have premiered.
- Explore Ortigia at night.
The baroque island quarter is magical after dark—piazzas glow with lamplight and the Duomo facade is dramatically lit. A local will plan an evening walk ending at the Fonte Aretusa spring and a seafood dinner by the harbour.
- Taste raw red prawns.
Syracuse's gambero rosso (red prawns) are eaten raw and are sweet, delicate, and addictive. A local knows the market stalls and restaurants where they're served minutes from the sea.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Eleonora
Palermo, Syracuse +10
Hello, I’m Eleonora. I was born in Tuscany, just outside Florence, where growing up surrounded by history, shaped my curiosity and love for art. I studied Art History at the University of Florence, specializing in the Renaissance. I began guiding students early on, and it was there that I developed a passion for storytelling — because there is nothing more challenging than engaging teenagers and young adults. I later expanded my focus to the broader history of Italy, leading groups throughout the country, from Venice to Sicily. Eventually, I moved to Rome, where I now work as an expert tour guide, leading visits to the city’s most iconic sites, including the Vatican and the Colosseum, as well as off the beaten path, to some of its hidden gems. In my free time I love to drive around Italy to its myriad hilltop medieval towns, where each one is a new discovery, both architectural and natural and also, of course, culinary! Over the years, many travelers have asked me for advice and suggestions to help plan the rest of their itineraries. That is why I’m happy to connect with you even before your trip begins, sharing my insights and helping you make the most of your time in Italy.
Tommaso
Palermo, Taormina +3
I’m a licensed local guide based in Sicily, and I love helping travelers experience this island beyond the postcard version. For me, Sicily is not just a place of famous monuments and beautiful coastlines, but a living culture shaped by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and generations of proud locals. I enjoy introducing visitors to the Sicily I know and love: lively markets, layered history, unforgettable food, and the small everyday details that make a place feel real. I have guided travelers from around the world and always try to combine solid historical insight with a relaxed, personal approach. My goal is to help people slow down, connect with the local culture, and feel at home while discovering one of Europe’s richest and most fascinating islands.
Stefania
Syracuse, Taormina +4
Hi! I’m Stefania—but you can call me Ste 🌻 I’m a travel advisor born and raised in Noto, Sicily 🇮🇹 which basically means I grew up surrounded by baroque beauty, incredible food, and a very strong sense of what’s actually worth your time (and what’s not). I know the places that don’t show up on Google, the beaches you almost want to gatekeep, and the kind of local spots where you’ll still be thinking about the food months later. I also lived in Perugia for three years, which gave me a whole new perspective on Italy beyond the South. Add to that my travels, especially across the north of Spain and many Italian cities and you get someone who understands both sides: the traveller’s expectations and the local reality. So no, I won’t send you to the most “famous” place… I’ll send you to the right one!
Maurizio
Palermo, Catania +3
Ciao from Sicily! I am Maurizio, Superhost and Customer Experience enthusiast. I am passionate about sharing my island's hidden gems and the craftsmanship of local traditions: from local wineries and historic markets to natural reserves, secret beaches and heritage spots. I also offer unique, intimate experiences, such as private dinners in my family's garden or hands-on pizza masterclasses led by a professional pizza chef. Looking for a local's perspective on your Sicilian itinerary? Here I am!