Syracuse is on the Southeast coast of Sicily, a small hidden getaway compared to Taormina and Catania. Syracuse has a more pleasing amount of tourists. And best of all an easy travel from Catania Airport (54 min) either with bus or taxi transfer.
If having a short time, decide do one part of the Sicilian coast and then go exploring. Syracuse and the South East Coast of Sicily have pristine beaches, dazzling baroque architecture. Staying in Ortygia Island, the old town of Syracuse is a must-do.
1. Walk Around in Ortygia, Old Town of Syracuse
Why go to Rome, when you can get sun terrace and ancient Greek ruins in Syracuse? I love Rome, as well. Syracuse is not overwhelming; it has the perfect amount of ruins; sun-dried tomatoes, spectacular baroque piazzas, and cozy corner cafes and lush citrus trees. And best of all, crystal clear blue sea surrounding the island of Ortigia, which is the old town of Syracuse.
Syracuse has been one of the largest city in the ancient world, even more, significant than Athens. In one of the squares, you can see the ruin of the famous temple of Apollo. Syracuse is the perfect getaway if you don’t want to get swamped by tourists. Syracuse will mesmerize you by the beautiful corners of architecture, Sicilian atmosphere, food, wine, culture, and people.
2. Explore the Food Market in Syracuse
In the heart of old town Ortygia in Syracuse, you have the vibrant food market booming over with sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, olives, fresh vegetables, and fresh fish. Attack the market and sample different fruits, olives, and most of all, sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Eat Sandwich at the Famous Caseifico Borderi in Syracuse
If being in the Market in Syracuse at the old town of Ortygia, you must stop at Caseifico
4. Eat Antipasti at La Salumeria at Ortygia in Syracuse
Who wants a big platter with Sicily served right in front of you? Well then go to La Salumeria!
La Salumeria prepares the most fabulous sharing platter with a piece of everything, ricotta, burrata, amazing hams, and different marmalades for 12 EURO. La Salumeria has many great wine on the glass. Splurge and enjoy this atmospheric place, and remember being on a diet in Sicily is a crime.
5. Beach Day with Sparkling Blue Ocen at Lido Cala Zaffiro
A small getaway for the day from Syracuse is Cala Zaffiro. After 30 minutes drive, you will be arriving at one of the most dazzling places outside of Syracuse.
The Marine Protected area of Plemmirio is a paradise for ocean lovers. We decided to explore Lido Cala Zaffiro. Also recommend Lido Varco 23.
Lido Cala Zaffiro is all Mermaid’s wet drive, with seven colors of Blue Ocean and saltwater kissing your lips. Did I mention that the water is vibrating with its blue color and it’s crystal clear to dive around and snorkeling?
Maybe you find the Mermaid? Placed as a memory of Rosanna Maiorca, a competitive free-diver with many established world records from 1979 to 1996. The statue is a symbol of
We stayed Lido Cala Zaffiro beach club area, due to visiting the entire day; we decided to splurge and got ourselves some nifty sun-beds and an umbrella for the day. It was 30 EUR, and we felt I was worth it, due to having toilets, shower, bar, and a tasty lunch menu. The budget option is staying on the rocks for free.
6. Shop Handmade Shoes
How often do you get to customize your shoe right in the store and get it ready in 30 minutes? Well, in Ortygia, you can! Get yourself some dandy Capri handmade sandals to walk around in Syracuse and the rest of Sicily. Embrace the life of La Dolce Vita and wear the same shoes as Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot and Julia Roberts. I highly believe in traditional artisanship, and the passion people put into their work. I loved seeing how he customized my shoe after my ankle and foot size.
7. Terrace for Sunbathing & Swimming in the Heart of Ortygia in Syracuse
If you walk towards Forte Viglena, you will find a public sun terrace for swimming and sunbathing on the rocks of Ortygia. A perfect stop in the old town if you want to hang out with locals and get refreshed by the clear ocean water. If you fancy sun-chairs and a more private setting, there is also a private area right before Forte Vigliena that delivers full service.
Places to Eat in Ortygia Island, the Old Town of Syracuse
Anywhere is a tasty place to eat in Ortygia Island, the old town of Syracuse. We never had bad food being there, and our only trouble was deciding which one was the best place to eat. Pizza Sicilia was one favorite, La Salumeria for sharing platter, Sicilian Tavola for fish, Trattoria Kalliope for pasta.
Accommodation in Ortygia Island, the Old Town of Syracuse
When planing your accommodation in Syracuse, you must stay in the old town, Ortygia. If not, you will regret it. Syracuse itself is not very charming. If you want to wake up in tiny small streets covered in charming architecture and no cars driving around then stay in Ortygia. We decided to stay at Ortigia Boutique Palace, which had an excellent location, comfy beds, and a well-equipped kitchen.
Have You Been to Syracuse or Sicly?
2 Comments
Matmarked er jo alltid gøy! Spesielt å se hva som er i de ulike landene!! 🙂
Jeg elsker å rusle rundt på matmarkeder, det er så mange farger, lukter og spennende matvarer! Unntaket var nok et kjøttmarked jeg var innom i Accra (Ghana), der var stanken helt forferdelig!