Syracuse, Sicily

The island of Ortygia is the ancient heart of Syracuse and is immediately accessible on foot from the port. Its narrow lanes are home to the stunning Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral of Syracuse stands, uniquely incorporating the columns of an ancient Greek temple.

Another must-see is the Neapolis Archaeological Park, a short taxi ride from the port. This vast site contains the immense Greek Theatre, a Roman amphitheater, and the famous Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave with remarkable acoustics.

At the far end of Ortygia, visitors can explore the formidable Castello Maniace, a 13th-century citadel that offers commanding views of the sea. Also on the island is the mythical Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater spring just feet from the salt water of the harbor.

The town of Noto, approximately 40 kilometers south of Syracuse, is a popular excursion. Reachable in about 45 minutes by car, it is renowned for its magnificent Sicilian Baroque architecture and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Another frequent day trip is to the town of Modica, located about 50 kilometers away. Modica is another gem of the Baroque valley and is famous worldwide for its unique, Aztec-inspired chocolate production. The journey by road typically takes about one hour.

The cruise port of Syracuse is ideally situated at the edge of the historic island of Ortygia, the city's main tourist center. Ships typically dock at the Molo Zanagora or a nearby pier, placing passengers within immediate walking distance of Ortygia's attractions, cafes, and shops.

No shuttles are needed to explore the historic core. Some larger ships may anchor in the bay and tender passengers ashore, usually to the same convenient location at the entrance to Ortygia. The port area itself is relatively basic, but the full amenities of the city are just a few steps away.

The official currency in Syracuse is the Euro (€). US Dollars are not accepted for transactions.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, though it is wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes or market stalls. ATMs, known locally as 'Bancomat', are readily available throughout the city, especially on the island of Ortygia, and typically offer the best exchange rates.

Syracuse is considered a very safe destination for tourists. The main areas, particularly the well-trodden paths of Ortygia and the archaeological park, are safe for independent exploration during the day.

As in any popular tourist area, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the daily market or public transport. Standard precautions, such as securing valuables and not leaving bags unattended, are recommended. Exploring the well-lit main streets of Ortygia in the evening is generally safe and enjoyable.

Syracuse enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, with the main cruise season from spring through autumn offering excellent weather. Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October) are pleasantly warm, with average temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (60-77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing.

Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F) and abundant sunshine. Visitors during this time should pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round.

The historic island of Ortygia, where the port is located, is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets. For destinations further afield, such as the archaeological park, taxis are available near the port terminal.

A small electric shuttle bus service, the 'Siracusa d'Amare', often circulates around Ortygia and connects to other parts of the city. Tourist-oriented hop-on-hop-off buses are also a popular option, providing a circuit that includes the major sights. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available, so visitors should rely on licensed taxis or public transport.

The best shopping can be found along the streets of Ortygia, with Corso Matteotti offering more mainstream brands and the smaller side streets featuring artisan boutiques and souvenir shops. A highlight is the bustling morning market, the Mercato di Ortigia, where you can find local produce, cheeses, seafood, and spices.

Look for local specialties such as handcrafted ceramics, products made from local papyrus, and gourmet food items like Sicilian olive oil, pistachios, and wine, including the famous Nero d'Avola. Prices in shops are typically fixed, but polite bargaining may be acceptable at market stalls.