Syracuse, Sicily serves up authentic local lunches worth traveling for. The best experiences combine food with cultural insights. Walking tours pair traditional Sicilian dishes with historical context, while waterfront boat excursions offer fresh seafood lunches with stunning Mediterranean views.
We especially recommend the private cooking classes – they’re intimate, hands-on, and teach you to make classic Sicilian recipes you can recreate at home. The full-day sailing trips with lunch are another favorite, combining great food with unforgettable coastal scenery.
Browse our carefully selected lunch experiences below:
Key Points
- Opt for a comprehensive food and wine tour in Ortigia that includes a hands-on cooking class and a lunch featuring local specialties and traditional Sicilian dishes.
- Choose a scenic boat trip around Ortigia Island that offers a 4-hour option with a freshly cooked lunch and live tour guides to enhance the experience.
- Book a full-day cruise that provides a 5/5 rated experience, with a visit to Ortigia Island, a freshly cooked lunch, and full beverage service.
- Combine a private walking tour of Ortigia’s historical sites with a food tasting and wine options to enhance the culture.
- Explore the culinary heritage of Sicily through a snorkeling tour that includes a typical Sicilian lunch experience.
Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Traditional Lunch and Wine
This private walking tour in Syracuse offers an intimate and immersive experience exploring the historical city of Ortygia.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour covers key sites like the Temple of Apollo, Arethusa Fountain, and the Jewish Quarter, delving into the rich history and mythology of ancient Syracuse.
The tour is exclusive to your group, ensuring a personalized experience. Pickup is available from your hotel or the port, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
For added enjoyment, food tasting and wine options are available.
With a 5.0 overall rating, this tour is a great way to connect with the local culture and cuisine at the start of your stay in Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Traditional Lunch and Wine Review
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Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Trip With Lunch
A scenic boat trip around Ortigia Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the historical and architectural wonders of Syracuse from the water.
This 1.5-hour experience provides a chance to marvel at Ortigia’s monuments and sea caves while tasting typical homemade products.
With a live tour guide enhancing the experience, guests can admire the north side of Syracuse while sipping prosecco and exploring the beauty of the crystal-clear sea caves.
The trip is wheelchair accessible, and customers can take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Based on one 5-star review, this boat tour is a must-do activity in Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Trip With Lunch Review
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Boat Tour With Lunch on Board
Visitors seeking a comprehensive Syracuse experience can embark on a captivating 4-hour boat tour that combines sightseeing and a delightful lunch.
The tour takes guests along the northern Syracuse coast, exploring sea caves and unique rock formations. Highlights include the Plemmirio nature reserve, the Gulf of Pillirina, and a circumnavigation of Ortigia Island, showcasing landmarks like Maniace Castle and the Aretusa spring.
Aboard the boat, guests can savor a lunch of mixed appetizers and a choice of first or second course, accompanied by water, Prosecco, white wine, or red wine.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Syracuse’s natural and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Boat Tour With Lunch on Board Review
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Syracuse Full Day Cruise With Lunch and Aperitif
Situated along the northern coast of Syracuse, this captivating 8-hour cruise invites guests to enjoy the region’s natural splendor and rich maritime heritage.
Priced at $2,526.62 for up to 10 participants, the tour offers a full-day experience with a live guide and opportunities to explore protected marine areas, cliffs, and pristine beaches.
The itinerary includes a visit to Grotta della Pillirina and a circumnavigation of Ortigia Island, showcasing historical sites.
Onboard, guests will enjoy a freshly cooked lunch with appetizers and a choice of first or second course, accompanied by a full beverage service and a sunset aperitif.
With a 5/5 customer rating, this private cruise delivers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, culture, and culinary delight.
Read our full review: Syracuse Full Day Cruise With Lunch and Aperitif Review
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Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Tour With Lunch and Wine
Departing from Syracuse, this four-hour boat tour transports guests on a scenic journey along the coastline to the picturesque island of Ortigia.
Along the way, the tour explores the Plemmirio Nature Reserve and its sea caves, known for their rich biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters at three different stops.
Onboard, guests are treated to a delightful lunch featuring local specialties, including spaghetti with mussels, accompanied by water, wine, and prosecco.
With breathtaking views of Maniace Castle and Ortigia’s coastline, this tour offers a memorable experience.
Priced at Kč 2,258 per person, the tour can be booked in advance with no upfront payment required, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Tour With Lunch and Wine Review
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Semi-Private Journey Catania, Siracusa & Ortigia With Lunch
This semi-private journey takes guests from Catania to discover the historic cities of Siracusa (Syracuse) and Ortigia.
Travelers will explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park, showcasing ancient Greek and Roman ruins. They’ll visit the impressive Cathedral of Syracuse and the Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo.
Lunch is included, allowing guests to savor local cuisine. The 8-hour tour includes pickup and covers top sights like the Temple of Apollo.
Priced at Kč 2,509 per person, it’s a small group experience, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention from the guide.
With 4.9 out of 5 stars from 324 reviews, this is a highly-rated option for discovering the highlights of this historic region.
Read our full review: Semi-Private Journey Catania, Siracusa & Ortigia With Lunch Review
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Boat Tour With Typical Lunch and Snorkelling in Siracusa
For a unique and immersive experience in Siracusa, visitors can embark on a 4-hour boat tour that includes a typical Sicilian lunch and opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Priced from $115.80 per person, the tour departs from the Island of Ortigia and allows guests to explore sights like the Spiaggia della Pillirina, Castello Maniace, and Arethusa Spring.
Onboard, they’ll savor a delicious appetizer and meal, sip cold drinks, and take in stunning coastal views.
With a 4.9/5 rating, this tour is a top pick for those seeking an authentic taste of Sicilian culture and natural beauty during their visit to Syracuse.
Read our full review: Boat Tour With Typical Lunch and Snorkelling in Siracusa Review
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Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking Plus Lunch
Visitors seeking a more comprehensive culinary experience in Siracusa can embark on an Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking Plus Lunch.
This 3-hour tour takes participants on a walking exploration of the Ortigia market and historic center, sampling local delicacies and learning about Sicilian cuisine.
The highlight is a hands-on cooking class where guests prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of a local chef.
The class concludes with a lunch highlighting the dishes prepared.
This immersive food and wine tour provides an opportunity to not only taste the flavors of Sicily but also gain insight into the region’s culinary traditions and culture.
Read our full review: Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking Plus Lunch Review
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From Syracuse: Etna Tour With Light Lunch and Wine Tasting
Travelers seeking to explore the natural wonders of Mount Etna can embark on a comprehensive tour from Syracuse.
This 8-hour excursion includes a visit to the volcanic mountain, a light lunch, and a wine tasting. Guests can marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and learn about the region’s rich history and geology.
The tour is priced from $104.22 per person, with pickup available. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 205 reviews, this experience offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and culinary delights, making it an ideal choice for those looking to discover the highlights of the Syracuse region.
Read our full review: From Syracuse: Etna Tour With Light Lunch and Wine Tasting Review
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Private Boat Tour of the Island of Ortigia With Lunch
Although it may come at a premium, the Private Boat Tour of the Island of Ortigia With Lunch offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the historical wonders of Syracuse from the water.
The 4-hour private boat tour costs $1,136.98 for up to 12 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes a guided exploration of northern Syracuse’s sea caves and rock formations, the Plemmirio nature reserve, and Ortigia’s key sites like the former Bourbon prison and Maniace Castle.
Lunch features mixed appetizers, a first or second course, and full beverage service.
With a live English and Italian guide, this private tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private Boat Tour of the Island of Ortigia With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?
Vegetarian and vegan meal options are widely available at many restaurants. Many eateries now cater to a range of dietary preferences, offering plant-based dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
Can Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?
Many local restaurants in the area can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions, whether they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other specialized options. Diners should inquire about the availability of their needs when making reservations or ordering.
How Long Are the Walking Tours and Boat Trips?
Walking tours generally last 1-2 hours, while boat trips can range from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Many local tour operators are happy to accommodate guests’ needs, including those with food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Are There Discounts for Children or Seniors?
Many tour operators offer discounted tickets for children and seniors. Prices typically range from 10-20% off regular adult admission. Inquiring about these discounted rates when booking can help families and older adults save on their walking tour or boat trip expenses.
Can I Bring My Own Drinks or Snacks on the Tours?
Most tour operators allow visitors to bring their own drinks and snacks. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand, as policies may vary. Some tours may restrict outside food and beverages for safety or logistical reasons.
The Sum Up
Syracuse offers a range of exceptional lunch experiences, from boat tours with traditional Sicilian cuisine to private walking tours with local wine tastings. Visitors can explore the historic Ortigia Island, cruise the harbor, or even venture to Mount Etna for a scenic lunch and wine tasting. These diverse options provide ample opportunity to savor the flavors of the region while enjoying unique sightseeing experiences.