Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour

The Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Sicily’s ancient wonders. Led by licensed guides, the tour traverses the Archeological Park, Greek Theater, and Roman Amphitheater, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s storied past. Among the highlights is a captivating visit to the Cathedral of Syracuse, which remarkably incorporates the pagan Temple of Athena. As the tour winds through these iconic sites, guests are privy to expert commentary and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, this guided tour promises to uncover the multifaceted charm of Syracuse.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Walking Tours In Syracuse.

Key Points

• A guided 3-hour walking tour of ancient Syracuse, exploring the Archeological Park, Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, and Cathedral of Syracuse.
• A 30-minute guided tour and photo stop at the well-preserved 6th-century BC Temple of Athena, incorporated into the Cathedral of Syracuse.
• Opportunity to view the Ionian Sea from the Greek Theater.
• Tour inclusions such as licensed guide, headsets, and entrance fees to the key sites.
• Flexible meeting point options, including Tempio di Apollo and the Island of Ortigia.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

The guided walking tour of ancient Syracuse and its Greek history lasts approximately 3 hours.

During this tour, visitors will explore the city’s Archeological Park, Greek Theater, and Roman Amphitheater. They’ll also admire the Cathedral of Syracuse, which incorporates the pagan Temple of Athena.

The highlight of the tour is a 30-minute photo stop and guided tour of the Temple of Athena. Along the way, guests will enjoy views of the Ionian Sea from the Greek Theater.

The tour includes a licensed guide, headsets to better hear the guide, and entrance fees to the monuments. However, pick-up and drop-off services aren’t provided.

Highlights of the Tour

One highlight of the tour is a 30-minute photo stop and guided tour of the Temple of Athena, where visitors can admire the well-preserved ancient structure.

The group will also visit the Cathedral of Syracuse, which incorporates the pagan Temple of Athena, offering a unique blend of architectural styles.

Another highlight is the visit to the Archeological Park, where travelers can explore the Paradise Latomia and the Ear of Dionysos, ancient quarries with fascinating features.

Meeting Point Options

Travelers have two starting location options for the Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour – Tempio di Apollo, Biglietteria Parco Archeologico Neapolis or the Island of Ortigia, Parco Archeologico Neapolis.

Choosing the Tempio di Apollo starting point allows visitors to conveniently purchase tickets and begin their exploration of the ancient Greek theater.

Alternatively, the Island of Ortigia starting location provides a picturesque setting along the Ionian Sea.

Regardless of the starting point, both options grant access to the same comprehensive tour, which covers the highlights of Syracuse’s rich Greek heritage.

The licensed guide and provided headsets ensure travelers can fully enjoy the captivating history of this remarkable destination.

Guided Tour Inclusions

The Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour includes a licensed guide to lead the exploration, as well as headsets for participants to better hear the guide’s commentary. Plus, the tour price covers entrance fees to the key monuments and archaeological sites visited during the excursion.

Inclusions	Details
Licensed Guide	Provides expert commentary and guidance
Headsets	Allow you to clearly hear the guide
Entrance Fees	Access to the Archeological Park, Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, and more

The guided tour ensures you make the most of your visit to ancient Syracuse, exploring its rich Greek history and stunning landmarks without the hassle of navigating on your own.

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Pricing and Booking

Booking the Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour can be done from $134.86 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.

This walking tour offers a flexible booking policy, allowing you to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

When booking, you’ll enjoy the following inclusions:

1. Licensed guide to lead you through the ancient sights of Syracuse.
2. Headsets to better hear the guide’s commentary.
3. Entrance fees to the Cathedral of Syracuse, Archeological Park, and other historic monuments.

With the ability to choose from two convenient meeting points, the Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour provides an immersive and hassle-free way to explore the rich Greek history of this captivating Sicilian city.

Temple of Athena

One of the highlights of the Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour is the photo stop and guided tour of the Temple of Athena, which takes approximately 30 minutes. This ancient Greek temple dates back to the 6th century BC and was later incorporated into the Cathedral of Syracuse. Visitors can admire the temple’s Doric columns and learn about its fascinating history from the licensed guide.

Temple of Athena
Original Construction	6th century BC	Architectural Style	Doric
Conversion	Incorporated into Cathedral of Syracuse	Current Condition	Well-preserved
Tour Details	30-minute photo stop and guided tour	Notable Features	Doric columns

The Temple of Athena offers a glimpse into Syracuse’s rich Greek heritage and is a must-see during the walking tour.

Cathedral of Syracuse

Another highlight of the Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour is the visit to the Cathedral of Syracuse, which incorporates the pagan Temple of Athena within its structure. This impressive cathedral dates back to the 7th century AD and features a unique blend of architectural styles. Tour participants can admire the cathedral’s Greek columns, Roman arches, and Baroque façade.

The interior is equally striking, showcasing Byzantine mosaics and Romanesque elements. Three key features of the Cathedral of Syracuse include:

1. The Temple of Athena, which serves as the cathedral’s nave.
2. The Baroque façade, which was added in the 17th century.
3. The stunning Byzantine mosaics adorning the interior walls.

Archeological Park Attractions

The Archeological Park in Syracuse features several impressive ancient attractions that tour participants can explore. Visitors can marvel at the expansive Greek Theater, which once seated over 15,000 spectators and is considered one of the largest of its kind from the classical Greek period. Plus, the towering Roman Amphitheater stands as a testament to the region’s rich history, providing a glimpse into the past entertainment and spectacles hosted within its grand stone structure.

The park also showcases other noteworthy sites, including:

Attraction	Description
Paradise Latomia	An ancient quarry that was later used as a prison
Ear of Dionysos	A limestone cave with excellent acoustics
Temple of Athena	The remnants of a pagan temple now incorporated into the Cathedral of Syracuse

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes entrance fees to monuments, but does not provide any food or refreshments. Participants should plan to purchase any desired snacks or beverages separately.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Families?

The tour is suitable for children and families. It features historical sites and scenic views, with a licensed guide providing context. The moderate pace and inclusions like headsets make it accessible for families with kids.

What Is the Language of the Guided Tour?

The guided tour is conducted in English. The tour company provides licensed guides who lead the walking tour and use headsets to ensure participants can clearly hear the commentary throughout the 3-hour exploration of Syracuse’s ancient landmarks.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

No, the tour itinerary cannot be customized to personal preferences. It’s a pre-set guided walking tour with a fixed route and timeline. However, travelers can choose from two different starting locations to best suit their needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

Yes, there are typically discounts available for senior citizens and students on guided walking tours. Tour operators often offer reduced rates for these groups to make the experience more accessible.

Recap

The Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city’s rich history and archaeological wonders.

Visitors can expect to discover the well-preserved Temple of Athena, the Cathedral of Syracuse, and the Archeological Park’s highlights, all while enjoying the expert commentary of licensed guides and stunning views of the Ionian Sea.

This 3-hour tour provides an immersive experience in the heart of Syracuse’s historic landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: