Syracuse is home to vibrant cultures, lakes, and the highest snowfall rates, known to be having some of the best appeals that you’ll be mindblown to see! Listed below are the best things to do in Syracuse that you shouldn’t miss out on.
The city has one of the largest theaters in the entire ancient Greece, far bigger catacombs than in Rome, and amphitheaters that are larger than life!
Did you know that Syracuse has World’s only upside-down traffic light? Set in the Finger Lakes Region, is also one of Upstate Italy’s most wonderfully preserved cities.
14 Best Things to Do in Syracuse in 2022
Visiting Syracuse without putting these in priority will be a miss. Hence, check the best things to do you Syracuse before you plan your trip.
1. Eurialo Castle
Eurialo Castle consists of an area of one-and-a-half hectares, is one of the strongest fortifications in 402 and 397 BC, which is modified many times by the military requirements.
It is said when Romans besieged Syracuse, there was a giant mirror constructed by Archimedes to use to reflect and set fire to the enemy fleet’s sails. You can view Old Town and the Porto Grande harbor area from the fort.
Address: Viale Epipoli, Belvedere, Syracuse
2. Island of Ortigia and Fonte Arethusa
The Island of Ortigia and Fonte Arethusa is also known historical center of Syracuse, has other historical attractions like Citta Vecchia (Old City), cathedrals, cafes, and shops, giving you a local setup where you find a lot of things.
There is a shore on one side, the promenade of Foro Italico on the other side has a gorgeous walkway, seating area under trees is a location must visit.
Address: Largo Aretusa, 96100 Siracusa SR.
3. Latomia del Paradiso and the Ear of Dionysius
Latomia del Paradiso and the Ear of Dionysius is known to be ancient stone quarries are the work of the sixth century is best known of these is the Latomia del Paradiso, which has 2 underground galleries, that measures 60 meters long, five to 11 meters wide, and 23 meters high.
The legend says the tyrant Dionysius was able to stand on one end and listen to whispers on the other end. There is Grotta dei Cordari where the rope-makers used to work.
Address: Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Viale Paradiso, Syracuse.
4. Santa Maria Delle Colonne (Cathedral)
Syracuse’s cathedral is known to be one of the major landmarks of the city, shows the evolution of the city through the different eras ruled by different kings.
Built around the temple of Athena, the Doric entrance columns have a Baroque front, a wide step leading forward, Apostles Peter, and Paul’s statues that create a vibe you love.
Other buildings include Santa Lucia Alla Badia, Municipio,Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, etc.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Syracuse
5. Roman Amphitheater and Altar of Hiero II
Built-in Third center, Roman Amphitheater and Altar of Hiero II, partly made from the existing rock with entrance gates, however, most of the parts are ruined by the Spanish, the stones were used to make the walls of the old town.
Consisting of Necropoli Grotticelli has the most number of graves of limestone in Greek, Roman, and Byzantine times. Also, it has the gabled facade of well known Grave of Archimedes.
Address: Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Viale Paradiso, Syracuse
6. Galleria Regionale
Introducing the most prominent art museum of the era that has the best paintings, statues, and sculptures, Palazzo Bellomo displays artworks of Early Christianity during the 16th and 17th centuries. This also includes Madonna del Cardillo by Domenico Gagini apart from the book of sketches by Filippo Paladino from 1544 to 1614, a large wooden model showing the 18th-century Syracruz.
Address: Via Capodieci 14-16, Syracuse
7. San Giovanni Crypt and Catacombs
San Giovanni Crypt and Catacombs were built during the Early Christian period, while the main section is left untouched, the church of San Giovanni was destroyed by the Saracens.
The designs on the pillars are carved with ancient and Christian symbols. At the crypt’s eastern end, there’s an altar where it is believed that Apostle Paul prayed for 61 years.
The San Giovanni catacombs are extensive underground necropolis built back in the 4th-5th century.
Address: Via San Giovanni Alle Catacombe, Syracuse
8. Santa Lucia
Constructed in the 12th century, Santa Lucia is a triple-aisled basilica triple built in the 6th century, this was the location where St. Lucia was murdered.
You’ll find Baroque porticoes, open roof trusses, numerous uncovered graves, etc. Besides, there’s the octagonal 17th-century Chiesa del Sepolcro, Piazza Santa Lucia, and the patron saint of Syracuse.
Address: Mr. Micah George, Entrepot, Marchand P.O, Castries LC05 201, Saint Lucia
9. Neapolis Archaeological Park and Greek Theater
Neapolis Archaeological Park and Greek Theater are known to be one of the largest theatres, were originally built during the reign of Hiero I, about 470 BC, built by Demokopos.
The theatre includes the Altar of Hieron II, the Roman Amphitheater, the Ear of Dionisio, etc. With a diameter of 138 meters that holds 15,000 spectators, the auditorium remains the same wherein the lowest row seats were destroyed between AD 69 and 96.
Address: Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Viale Paradiso, Syracuse
