With almost three thousand years of history packed into less than a square kilometre, Ortigia is the beating heart of ancient Syracuse. This fascinating island is full of evidence of past eras, from the Greeks to the splendour of 18th-century Baroque. With its location surrounded by the sea, Ortigia offers visitors a unique experience of art, culture, sea and nature. We have created a detailed itinerary for you to discover what to see in Ortigia in 4 days.
Where to stay in Ortigia to explore the historic centre of Syracuse? The Algilà hotel is the ideal choice to fully immerse yourself in the fascinating and evocative atmosphere of the island, allowing visitors to comfortably and easily explore all the wonders that the historic centre of Syracuse has to offer. Book your room now.
Day 1: Explore Ortigia
Start your first day in Ortigia with a relaxing stroll along Via Cavour. This street is one of the main arteries of the island and is surrounded by beautiful historical buildings. Admire the Baroque architecture and be enchanted by the vibrant atmosphere that permeates its streets.
Head towards Piazza Duomo, the main square of the old town. Here you will find the majestic Cathedral of Syracuse, a masterpiece of Sicilian architecture. Admire its imposing façade and discover the fascinating details inside.
Continue your day by visiting the Temple of Apollo, one of Ortigia's most important archaeological sites. This ancient Greek temple dates back to the 6th century BC and is a tangible testimony to Syracuse's glorious past.
You cannot leave Ortigia without visiting the Arethusa Fountain. This enchanting body of water surrounded by lush vegetation is one of the most iconic places on the island. Admire its beauty and discover the legends surrounding this freshwater spring.
Day 2: A walk between art and culture
Start your second day in Ortigia by visiting the Basilica di Santa Lucia alla Badia. This Baroque church is home to an artistic masterpiece: the painting 'The Burial of Saint Lucy' by Caravaggio.
Continue your tour by heading to Castello Maniace, a medieval fortress overlooking the sea. Explore its imposing walls and enjoy spectacular views of the Ortigia coastline.
Continue your day by visiting the Church of San Giovanni alle Catacombe, a fascinating place of worship located in an underground cave. It offers a unique perspective on Ortigia's religious history. Admire the ancient frescoes and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of this place.
Continue by exploring the Hypogeum of Piazza Duomo. This underground labyrinth of tunnels and cisterns dates back to Greek times and offers an interesting perspective on daily life in ancient Syracuse.
Day 3: Visit to the Vendicari Wildlife Oasis
The third day of your stay in Ortigia is the perfect opportunity for a visit to the Vendicari Wildlife Oasis. This natural reserve stretches along the southern coast of Sicily and is a paradise for nature lovers and migratory birds. Get ready for a day of exploring spectacular landscapes and unique biodiversity.
Inside, you can find beautiful trekking routes along well-marked paths that take you through a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, coastal lakes and sand dunes. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to observe a wide range of bird species, including pink flamingos, herons and many others. Also take advantage of the oasis' beautiful beaches to relax and enjoy the crystal clear sea.
Stop to admire the Swabian Tower, a watchtower built in the 16th century to defend the coast from possible attacks. Nearby, you can also discover the remains of an ancient Roman village and an old tuna fishery, evidence of local history.
Day 4: Visit to the Plemmirio Protected Marine Area
After exploring the Vendicari Oasis, we recommend that you dedicate your fourth day to the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area. Located a few kilometres from Ortigia, this marine reserve is known for its crystal-clear sea.
If you are fond of scuba diving, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore the reserve's seabed. Here you will find a marine ecosystem rich in flora and fauna, with a variety of fish, coral and gorgonian species.
You can also snorkel to admire the colourful seabed and swim alongside fish of various species. Another option is kayaking, perfect for exploring the inlets and rocky shores of the marine protected area.
This protected area also boasts some beautiful beaches and hidden coves where you can relax and sunbathe.
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