Exploring the enchanting Ortigia at sunset is a must-do for any visitor to Sicily. This 2.5-hour tour takes you on a leisurely cruise along the coastline, offering stunning views of historical landmarks and the natural beauty of the Plemmirio nature reserve. With complimentary drinks in hand, you’ll learn about the rich culture and history of this captivating island. The tour’s English and Italian-speaking guides provide fascinating insights, making it an experience not to be missed.

Key Points

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Key Points

  • A 2.5-hour sunset excursion along the Sicilian sea, starting from Escursioni in barca Siracusa.
  • Visit the Plemmirio nature reserve, Gulf of Pillirina, and historical sites of Ortigia.
  • Circumnavigate Maniace Castle for photo opportunities and explore its 13th-century fortress.
  • Complimentary drinks, including water, white wine, red wine, and soft drinks, are provided.
  • Opportunity to admire Ortigia’s rich history, architecture, and scenic seascapes during the sunset.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ortigia Sunset Tour is a 2.5-hour excursion along the Sicilian sea, starting from Escursioni in barca Siracusa.

This tour takes visitors to the Plemmirio nature reserve, the Gulf of Pillirina, and the historical sites of Ortigia, including the former Bourbon prison, Fort Vigliena, and the Maniace Castle.

Guests can circumnavigate the castle and stop for photos at various scenic locations.

The tour includes live English and Italian guides, the opportunity to dive and explore the sea, and complimentary drinks such as water, white wine, red wine, and soft drinks.

Guests are advised to bring hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen.

Itinerary Highlights

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Itinerary Highlights

During the Ortigia Sunset Tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore several historical sites and natural landmarks.

Visitors on the Ortigia Sunset Tour can explore historical sites and natural wonders during their journey.

The tour includes:

  1. Visiting the Plemmirio nature reserve and the Gulf of Pillirina, where guests can admire the stunning coastal scenery.

  2. Exploring historical sites on Ortigia, such as the former Bourbon prison, Fort Vigliena, the Spanish walls, Maniace Castle, and the Levante and Alfeo seafronts.

  3. Circumnavigating the Maniace Castle, a significant historical monument, and stopping at various scenic locations for photo opportunities.

Exploring Ortigia

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Exploring Ortigia

What makes Ortigia such a captivating destination during the Ortigia Sunset Tour? The tour allows visitors to explore the island’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Guests can wander through the former Bourbon prison, marvel at the imposing Fort Vigliena, and stroll along the Spanish walls. The Maniace Castle, a significant monument, is circumnavigated, offering breathtaking views.

Other highlights include the Levante and Alfeo seafronts, as well as the iconic Arethusa spring. Throughout the tour, participants have the opportunity to capture the picturesque seascapes at various scenic locations bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

Maniace Castle

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Maniace Castle

Among the captivating historical sites explored during the Ortigia Sunset Tour is the impressive Maniace Castle. This 13th-century fortress, built by Frederick II, sits prominently on the island’s southeastern tip.

Visitors can:

  1. Circumnavigate the castle, admiring its distinctive architecture and strategic location.

  2. Capture stunning photos of the castle framed against the picturesque Sicilian sea.

  3. Explore the castle’s interior, where they’ll discover well-preserved remnants of its past as a military stronghold and prison.

The Maniace Castle stands as a testament to Ortigia’s rich history, offering guests a glimpse into Sicily’s captivating past.

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Scenic Photo Opportunities

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Scenic Photo Opportunities

The Ortigia Sunset Tour offers numerous scenic photo opportunities for visitors.

From the Plemmirio nature reserve to the iconic Maniace Castle, the tour route is dotted with picturesque vistas. Guests can capture the stunning Gulf of Pillirina, the historical Spanish walls, and the serene Levante and Alfeo seafronts.

The highlight is a photo stop at the Maniace Castle, where the tour circumnavigates this significant Sicilian monument.

With the golden sunset as a backdrop, these photo stops allow travelers to immortalize the beauty of Ortigia’s coastline and landmarks.

Sicilian Sea Exploration

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Sicilian Sea Exploration

Travelers on the Ortigia Sunset Tour have the opportunity to dive and explore the captivating Sicilian sea.

The tour includes:

  1. Chances to jump into the sparkling waters and discover the vibrant marine life below the surface.

  2. Glimpses of the beautiful shoreline and natural scenery from a different perspective while swimming or snorkeling.

  3. Guidance from the knowledgeable tour guide to ensure a safe and enriching underwater experience.

This hands-on sea exploration adds an adventurous element to the already picturesque sunset cruise around Ortigia’s historical landmarks.

Refreshments Included

Ortigia: Sunset Tour With Drinks Included - Refreshments Included

Complementing the scenic journey, the Ortigia Sunset Tour includes a selection of refreshing beverages.

Guests can enjoy cool water, crisp white wine, bold red wine, and soft drinks throughout the 2.5-hour excursion. These complimentary drinks help travelers stay hydrated and enhance the relaxing ambiance as they admire the picturesque seascapes.

Whether sipping a glass of wine while circling Maniace Castle or quenching their thirst after a dip in the Sicilian sea, participants can savor the flavors that complete this unforgettable sunset experience.

Important Considerations

Although the Ortigia Sunset Tour itinerary is subject to change due to adverse weather conditions, the meeting point remains consistent. Guests will gather in front of the Villetta Aretusa beach, identifiable by the Dolci Escursioni info point.

The meeting point for the Ortigia Sunset Tour remains consistent, with guests gathering at the Villetta Aretusa beach in front of the Dolci Escursioni info point.

The tour overall has received a 5/5 rating from customer reviews, offering a memorable experience:

  1. Guests can expect a live tour guide available in both English and Italian.

  2. Participants are encouraged to bring essential items like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen.

  3. The tour includes complimentary refreshments, such as water, white wine, red wine, and soft drinks.

Ask Away

Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The tour’s availability for guests with mobility issues is unclear from the information provided. It would be best to inquire with the tour operator about any accessibility accommodations or restrictions before booking.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as the tour includes fresh drinks like water, white wine, red wine, and soft drinks. The tour provides all the necessary refreshments for passengers.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, guests can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The standard tour lasts 2.5 hours, but customers may choose to extend it up to 4 hours to enjoy more time on the water and explore further scenic locations along the Sicilian coast.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour has no age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, parents or guardians are responsible for supervising their children throughout the tour.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Landmarks?

The tour itinerary can be customized to visit specific landmarks, but it’s subject to the guide’s discretion and may incur additional costs. Travelers should inquire about personalization options when booking the tour.

Final Words

The Ortigia Sunset Tour offers a captivating exploration of Ortigia’s coastline, showcasing historical landmarks and breathtaking scenery. With live guides, complimentary drinks, and a perfect blend of leisure and culture, this 2.5-hour excursion provides an enchanting opportunity to take in the rich history and natural beauty of Sicily’s stunning Ortigia. It’s an experience not to be missed by those seeking a memorable sunset adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: