Ortigia, Sicily, Is One of the Most Beautiful Places in Italy

Although travelers flock to Sicily every year in search of Mediterranean Sea views, imposing ancient architecture, and fresh seafood, many miss a visit to the stunning city that has it all: Syracuse and its historic center, Ortigia. Located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian) is often overlooked by travelers in favor of Taormina, its opulent cousin to the north. But its unique blend of coastal Italian culture, coupled with rich history and Baroque-style architecture, make it a must-visit destination.

Syracuse began as an ancient Greek settlement nearly 3,000 years ago, and its beauty has beckoned both travelers and empires for centuries (Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Norman, to name a few). Even the Roman orator, Cicero, referred to it as “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of all.” Steeped in layers of history, Syracuse was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historic and cultural significance.

Syracuse’s old town and crown jewel is the island of Ortigia. Perched on the sea at the city’s southern edge and connected only by two bridges, Ortigia is considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Just two miles in circumference, this small island has everything travelers to Italy crave: charming cobblestone streets and Baroque-style piazzas, ancient history around every corner, endless views of the sparkling sea, and fresh Sicilian-style seafood. Plus, it’s connected by train to many popular Sicilian spots like Taormina, Noto, Ragusa, and Modica.

I was lucky enough to explore Ortigia on a recent trip to Sicily, and collected many amazing experiences on the island. But to help travelers fully appreciate the destination, I asked for additional insights from Linda Sarris, a Palermo-based travel expert, author, and private chef who organizes incredible experiences throughout Sicily. Here’s everything you’ll need to explore the magical island of Ortigia.

Best Hotels

Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel

Situated near the water on the eastern side of the island, Algilà is housed in a renovated Baroque palace and spreads across three gorgeous building complexes. There are a variety of room types, each uniquely designed and decorated with restored wooden paneling, wrought-iron detailing, and stone archways. We also loved the complimentary breakfast buffet and Sarris recommends trying the in-house restaurant for dinner.

Ortea Palace Hotel, Autograph Collection

Once a historic 1920s post office, Ortea Palace Hotel is conveniently located right across the bridge from mainland Syracuse and is considered to be one of the best in Sicily. Part of the Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the property’s dazzling lobby and spacious rooms are outfitted with Italian marble and elegant furnishings, with many accommodations boasting sea views, too. Guests can unwind in the indoor swimming pool, enjoy full spa treatments, or grab a drink at Incanto, the hotel’s rooftop terrace with panoramic vistas of the city.

Hotel Gutkowski

Sarris describes Hotel Gutkowski as “an eclectic little boutique hotel” spread out over two buildings overlooking the water. Both recently renovated buildings date back to the 19th century and house 26 rooms with their own stylish mix of modern and antique furnishings. Guests love the breakfast with local ingredients and relaxing on the terrace, right on the water’s edge.

Lùme

Sarris recommends this small but stylish six-room hotel not far from the water, noting its design and bistro. Meant to resemble a family home, Lùme feels comfortable and intimate, and it’s full of charming details and pops of color. Enjoy evening aperitivo on the rooftop terrace or try one of the many types of massages offered in the on-site hammam.

Best Things to Do

Explore Ortigia Street Market.

From Monday through Saturday, various stalls line the northern corner of Ortigia, filled with colorful textiles, local spices and nuts, produce, and fresh seafood. The vibrant market feels like the cultural heart of the city, with neighbors greeting each other as they shop and vendors bartering across stalls. It’s located right by the water and dotted with casual restaurants where you can grab a quick bite and enjoy the views. If you can, snag a bag of Sicilian almonds from one of the stalls—their delicate, buttery flavor is unlike any you’ve had before.

Experience ancient Siracusa at Neapolis Archeological Park.

Perfect for history and nature lovers alike, this archaeological park is located in the heart of Syracuse, an easy mile-and-a-half walk or 10-minute taxi ride from Ortigia. Neapolis Archeological Park is full of ancient wonders, including a Greek theater dating back to the third century B.C.E., a Roman amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius, a massive limestone cave carved into the hill. The park itself is gorgeous and peaceful, removed from the bustling city. Walk along winding pathways lined with centuries-old lemon and orange trees, and marvel at the limestone grottos as you take in the historic sites. Occasionally, the park hosts modern art installations for visitors to admire during their visit.

Walk the entire island.

Small and easy to navigate, Ortigia is best explored on foot. Start along the lungomare, the outer path along the water, where you’ll find scenic viewpoints and locals sunbathing on the rocky beaches below. Then, head into the city center and wander through the charming cobblestone streets and piazzas. Don’t miss some of Ortigia’s primary attractions, including the Maniace Castle, Temple of Apollo, Cathedral of Syracuse, and Fountain of Diana, along the way. End your walking tour on the western side of the island at the mythologically famed Fountain of Arethusa, and grab a drink at Zefiro or at one of the many waterfront bars along Lungomare Alfeo for sunset.

Visit the Cathedral of Syracuse.

Also known as the Duomo di Siracusa, this stunning church is infused with history. It began as the Greek Temple of Athena, built in the fifth century B.C.E., and its original doric columns are still incorporated into the walls of the church. Today, its incredible Baroque facade is the focal point of Ortigia. Multiple layers of architectural history can be seen throughout the cathedral as it has been transformed a number of times by Byzantine, Arabic, and Norman settlers. The piazza surrounding the Cathedral of Syracuse is similarly elegant, with other Baroque-style architecture woven among charming cafes and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to stop, have a coffee, and take in the view.

Take a boat tour.

To fully take in the beauty of Ortigia, Sarris recommends hopping on a boat tour. Ortigia Island Excursion offers a variety of options, from a daytime tour of Ortigia and its stunning nearby sea caves to a sunset aperitivo cruise. Soak up the sunshine and learn a bit of history as you discover some of Ortigia’s defining landmarks from the sea.

Best Nightlife

Zefiro

For great cocktails and a fun vibe with an even better view, head to Zefiro. Sarris describes it as the “perfect spot to catch the sunset,” and we couldn’t agree more. This seafront cocktail bar is ideally located on the western coast of the island, right under Belvedere Largo Aretusa, a bustling piazza that locals and tourists flock to in the evening. Sip an expertly crafted cocktail while watching the sun dip behind the Ionian Sea. For sunbathers visiting in the warmer months, Zefiro also rents out beach recliners for the day in their solarium.

Best Restaurants

Caseificio Borderi

Looking for lunch near the bustling Ortigia Street Market? Try one of the enormous sandwiches at Caseificio Borderi. Each one is loaded with Italian meats and cheeses, as well as local delicacies like pistachio pesto, artichoke cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Sicilian caponata. Try to grab a spot at one of the deli’s outdoor tables or take your sandwich to go and eat it along the water.

Fratelli Burgio

Sarris recommends eating at Fratelli Burgio, the salumeria right next door to Caseificio Borderi. Fratelli Burgio makes excellent salads and sandwiches, but it’s especially renowned for its charcuterie boards. Each one features little bowls filled with local meats, cheeses, vegetables, and delicious house-made spreads. Snag a seat outside for lunch or peruse the shop for Sicilian goodies you can take home with you.

Apollonion Osteria da Carlo

If you’re craving a seafood dinner, consider Apollonion. Nestled on a side street behind the Temple of Apollo, this small osteria is known for its tasting menu, fully dependent on the daily catches of the day. Reserve a table in the cozy, stone-walled dining room, order a glass of Sicilian wine, and sit back as Apollonion brings out course after course of fresh seafood dishes, all prepared in local styles. The restaurant also offers an à la carte menu.

Cortile Verga

“Reserve ahead and spend your evening in this cocktail bar that serves small plates and some of the best drinks in town,” says Sarris. Located in a gorgeous 18th-century courtyard, the romantic ambience of Cortile Verga is unmatched. In addition to its mix of classic and creative cocktails, it serves a variety of innovative bites and bruschettas, from salmon tartare and an eggplant mille-feuille to fresh shrimp salad and burrata with anchovies.

Antica Locanda

To experience true Sicilian hospitality, visit this homey dinner spot on the western side of Ortigia. Antica Locanda doles out comforting Sicilian dishes, from platters of fresh fish to generous bowls of seafood pasta. We loved the appetizer of mussels with croutons, but perhaps even more impressive than the food is the warmth of the staff. The chef and owner and his team go out of their way to welcome guests, offer suggestions, and make you feel like you’re having dinner in a Sicilian home.

Best Time to Visit

While you can visit any time of year, Syracuse and Ortigia are best enjoyed during the warmer months—spring through fall. During the summer, Ortigia (like all of Sicily) experiences high temperatures and sunny skies, perfect for boat rides and taking a dip in the Mediterranean (don’t forget to pack your water shoes). For art lovers, a series of classical plays are put on in Neapolis’ ancient Greek theater every May and June. We especially recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to October, as the weather is milder and the city is less crowded.

How to Get There

Ortigia is located about an hour south of the Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). Once you fly in, you can easily reach the city by taxi. For a less expensive alternative, the Interbus runs every 30 minutes or so between the airport and Siracusa-Corso Gelone 50 (the stop for Ortigia). Tickets can be bought ahead of time online or at an airport kiosk. Alternatively, you can rent a car from the airport. If you choose this option, we recommend asking your hotel for parking options, as many offer convenient valet services for a small, additional fee.

How to Get Around

Once you’re on the small island of Ortigia, the best way to get around is by walking. Ortigia is only about two-thirds of a mile long by one-third of a mile wide, making it manageable on foot. If you want to take a taxi to Neapolis Archeological Park or elsewhere in Syracuse, there are active taxi stands right by Ortigia’s main bridge, near the Temple of Apollo. Syracuse’s train station is about a mile from Ortigia, and from there, you can take easy day trips to Noto, Ragusa, Catania, and Taormina.