Introduction to Syracuse Tour with the Neapolis and…

Walking Tour

3 hrs

Sicily

English

Explore Ortigia and the Archaeological Park of the Neapolis on our 3-hour introductory tour with a local expert. Tailored to provide an ideal introduction for those visiting Syracuse for the first time or travelers returning, discover the local history and cultural depth of this fascinating region of Italy during the walk.

Sites Visited

The Neapolis
Duomo
Apollo Temple

Included

3 hours with a Ph.D. or MA-level guide
Entrance fees

Itinerary Detail

We'll begin by discovering the Archaeological Park of the Neapolis, one of the most significant Greek and Roman archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. The ruins are a testament to the crucial role this city played in ancient antiquity, as the imposing remains of the Greek theatre demonstrate. With our local expert, we will learn about Neapolis' monumental fountain, the Roman amphitheater where gladiators once fought, and the Ear of Dionysius, a huge cavern with surprising acoustic properties due to its shape. Many legends are associated with this cave and its assumed builder, the infamous tyrant Dionysius.

Following the visit to the archaeological park, we will head off to nearby Ortigia for a pleasant stroll through its quaint streets and alleyways. We'll explore around two hundred and fifty thousand years of history as well as Ortigia's architectural stratifications and decorations, which reflect its complex and rich past. We will finish the tour by discussing Ortigia’s splendid architectural history and the remains of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Gothic-Catalan, Norman, and Renaissance styles that decorate this island, just under a square kilometer in size.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Syracuse to Ortigia?
We provide a quick, 12-minute private transfer to bridge the 4 km distance between the two sites. This ensures you can transition between the ancient ruins and the historic island of Ortigia comfortably and efficiently. While your guide may occasionally ride with you if they don't have their own vehicle that day, they typically drive separately. This allows them to have their own transport ready at the end of the tour in Ortigia. If they are not in the vehicle with you, your guide will be waiting to greet you immediately upon your arrival in Ortigia to continue your tour.

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

We meet at the main entrance of the archaeological park of the Neapolis. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.

The tour ends in Ortigia.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your expert will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to be prepared; we encourage keeping an eye on the weather and bringing along an umbrella, sunscreen, water, or a hat as needed.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, we can adjust this tour to be more appropriate for younger learners.

Is this tour walking-intensive, and/or wheelchair accessible?

We do cover quite a bit of ground on this tour, and therefore we recommend contacting us with any mobility questions; we will be happy to advise if the itinerary will be appropriate for you or propose modifications where necessary.

It is not our first time in Sicily and in Syracuse, we would like a more in-depth tour instead of an Introduction. Is that possible?
Yes, we will inform our exper,t and they will be happy to plan an itinerary appropriate for you.

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

Neapolis
Ancient Greek city site in Siracusa with theatre, Roman ruins, and archaeological remains.
Apollo Temple
Ruins of an ancient Sicilian temple dedicated to Apollo, featuring Doric columns.
Piazza Duomo

Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.

Included

English-speaking expert guide
Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
Intentionally sized groups
A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
Tickets and entrance fees
All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
Headsets
Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.

Not Included

Gratuities

Tips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
Food and drink

Unless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
Transportation to and from the meeting point

Unless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Hotel pickup or drop-off

Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.

Map of Sites & Insights: Syracuse City Tour general meeting point area

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:

Wear comfortable footwear
Check the weather and dress appropriately
Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
Feel free to ask your Expert anything

Don'ts:

Bring firearms or weapons
Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments

Any questions? You can always contact us.

54 Reviews

We loved our tour of Syracuse and Ortigia with Annalise. She is a marvelous guide with remarkable insights into the history of these important historical sights. Her doctorate in archaeology, as well as her knowledge of Sicily, helped her to bring to life these ancient wonders. During our visit to the archaeological site, we experienced thunder and lightning and heavy rain. However, due to her knowledge of the place, we were able to find shelter and enjoy the experience. We had very much wanted to see the Caravaggio painting in Syracuse, and she was able to arrange a short stop for us to do so, which we really appreciated. We also enjoyed visiting the first church outside of Antioch in the historic center of Ortigia. To experience her excitement as she talked with us about the way in which this building was placed upon Greek and Roman foundations was inspiring! We would highly recommend this tour, and the wonderful guidance of Annalisa.

Photo Shared by Randal with their review

Randal Oct 11, 2026

Milena was such an outstanding guide for our visit to Neapolis Archaeological Park & Ortigia! Her details in the rich history of both the Archaeological park to the depth of knowledge of the layers of Ortigia was fascinating! We loved every minute with her and would highly recommend anyone to do the same!

Robert Oct 9, 2026

Alessandra was so knowledgeable, articulate, entertaining and flexible. Our tour was excellent. Almost from the beginning of the tour there was thunder, lightening, and torrential rain, and Alessandra figured out the best way to make the tour perfect.

Alison Sep 19, 2026

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