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Ortigia: Syracuse's Ancient Town Center Private Walking Tour

35 Reviews 4.83 out of 5 stars Based on 35 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 97% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Sicily, Italy

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On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.

2 hours (approx.)
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Instant confirmation
Offered in: English
and 2 more
German, Italian

Overview

Discover the captivating allure of Ortygia, the old town center of Syracuse, on an exclusive private walking tour. Situated on a picturesque island very near to the mainland, Ortygia is a treasure trove of history spanning 3000 years. Your tour begins at the Apollo Temple, the oldest Greek temple in Sicily. As you walk through the enchanting narrow streets, you'll arrive in Piazza Duomo, where you will have the chance to explore a Catholic church that was constructed above an ancient temple, blending two cultures (the interior visit is only possible when there are no religious services taking place in the church).
Admire the legendary Aretusa Spring, famous also for its papyrus plants. We will also enter into the lesser-known paths of the former Jewish district. Uncover the secrets of Ortygia with a personalized private walking tour, offering a unique perspective on the island. Explore the layers of history, embrace the beauty of the surroundings.

What's Included

  • Private walking tour
  • Professional guide
  • Cathedral entrance fee (optional, 2 € p.p.)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Via dell'Apollonion
96100 Siracusa SR, Italy

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Temple of Apollo (Tempio di Apollo)

You will meet our guide near the Apollo temple and learn about this ancient Greek building, the oldest stone temple built by Greeks in Sicily.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Piazza Archimede

Here you will see the beautiful neoclassical Diana fountain and the buildings in various styles, around the square.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Chiesa del Collegio dei Gesuiti (pass by)

A walk through the picturesque via Cavor, passing near the Collegio dei Gesuiti.
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Piazza Duomo

Learn about Syracuse's beautful cathedral square and its main builidings: the cathedral, palazzo Vermexio, arcivescovado and palazzo Beneventano del Bosco.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Syracuse Cathedral

Visit to the interiors of the cathedral, a baroque church built on an ancient Greek temple. Admission fee not included (€ 2 p.p.). The visit to the interiors is not possible during the holy mass or marriages. In this case the guide will explain the church from outside.
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25 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Chiesa di Santa Lucia alla Badia

Visit of the interiors of the church of St. Lucy. The church is closed on Mondays so it's not possible to visit the interiors booking this day,
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Fonte Aretusa

Visit to Syracuse's legendary spring, also famous for its papyrus plants. Our guide will tell you about Alpheus and Arethusa
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Island of Ortigia

Walk throught the picturesque narrow streets or Ortygia, the old town center of Syracuse and the Giudecca district the ancient Jewish district of Syracuse.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Via della Giudecca

Our tour ends with a walk through the picturesque former Jewish district
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • A dress code is required to enter the cathedral. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed, shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Ortigia: Syracuse’s Ancient Town Center Private Walking Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-14188P4

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.83
35 reviews

Average 4.83 out of 5 stars based on 35 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
30
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3 stars
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1 star
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What's Included

Activity name

  • Private walking tour
  • Professional guide
  • Cathedral entrance fee (optional, 2 € p.p.)

Additional Info

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  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • A dress code is required to enter the cathedral. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed, shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
  • Operated by a business

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Free Cancellation

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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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