Food tours in Syracuse, Sicily cut straight to the heart of this ancient city’s culinary soul. The best experiences combine culture and cuisine, especially in the historic Ortigia district. We love the private walking tours through Ortigia’s markets – they’re intimate and allow time to sample local cheeses, wines, and seasonal treats at your own pace. The hands-on cooking classes are another standout, teaching visitors how to make perfect arancini (rice balls) and crispy cannoli in local kitchens.
The street food tours through Ortigia’s bustling markets are particularly special, offering the most authentic taste of daily Sicilian life. Combination tours that include both archaeological sites and food tastings give you the best of both worlds.
Check out these top-rated Syracuse food experiences…
Key Points
- The Sicilian Street Food Class is a highly-rated 3-hour hands-on cooking class that teaches participants how to make local dishes like arancini and cannoli.
- The Sicilian Street Food Tour is a 2.5-hour guided exploration of Ortigia’s local markets, cheese shops, and street food vendors, providing cultural insights.
- The Syracuse Street Food Walking Tour is a 3-hour tour that visits at least 4 stops showcasing local specialties, including a seafood market visit and tastings.
- The Private Walking Tour of Ortigia includes a 2-hour tour of the island’s top sights, while the Boat Tour offers 1-hour coastal views and local specialties.
- The Private Tours package includes a 4-5 hour Archaeological Park and Ortigia tour with knowledgeable guides, hotel pickup/drop-off, and an optional traditional lunch.
Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting
This private tour of Syracuse takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich historical heritage.
Over 4-5 hours, guests will journey through the Archaeological Park and the charming Ortigia island, led by knowledgeable guides praised for their engaging storytelling.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus an optional traditional lunch with local food and wine tasting to further immerse participants in Syracusan culture.
With a 95% recommendation rate and an average 4.8/5 rating, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Syracuse’s iconic landmarks and monuments.
Flexibility in group size and free cancellation policy make this an appealing choice for travelers seeking an in-depth historical experience.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting Review
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Syracuse: Sicilian Street Food Hands-On Cooking Class
For travelers eager to explore the heart of Sicilian culinary traditions, the Syracuse: Sicilian Street Food Hands-On Cooking Class offers an immersive gastronomic adventure.
Priced at Kč 2,501 per person, the 3-hour class is limited to 8 participants and features interactive cooking lessons with Chef Ettore. Guests will learn to prepare classic Sicilian dishes, including arancini and cannoli, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
The experience also includes a market visit, wine pairing, and stunning views of the sea. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 36 reviews, this class promises an authentic and memorable introduction to the rich flavors of Sicilian cuisine.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Sicilian Street Food Hands-On Cooking Class Review
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Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine
Travelers seeking a more immersive experience in Syracuse can embark on a Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and a Private Boat Tour with food and wine.
The walking tour lasts 2 hours, exploring the island’s top sights, while the 1-hour boat tour offers unique coastal views. Participants can savor local specialties like cheeses, cold cuts, olive oil, and wine.
The tour includes pickup from all Syracuse hotels, starting at 10:00 am.
Though the overall rating is 4.0 based on 3 reviews, some customers felt the experience was rushed, with shortened boat time and missing promised food and wine.
The tour costs nearly $350 per person, making it a pricier option compared to booking similar tours separately.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine Review
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Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Siracusa
Visitors to Siracusa can embark on a captivating 2.5-hour Sicilian street food tour and wine tasting experience. Priced from $84.62 per person, the tour begins in the beautiful island of Ortigia, where you will explore a food market, sample local cheeses, and enjoy street food and wine tastings.
Along the way, a multilingual guide provides insights into Sicilian culture and cuisine. The experience includes three different street food spots, as well as an optional historical tour of Ortigia for an additional charge.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a delightful way to savor the flavors of Sicily.
Read our full review: Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Siracusa Review
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Syracuse: Guided Street Food Tour in Ortigia
The Syracuse: Guided Street Food Tour in Ortigia offers visitors a captivating 2.5-hour exploration of the island’s vibrant culinary scene. Priced from $72.99 per person, the tour takes groups of up to 10 participants to discover the hidden flavors of this historic Sicilian town.
Highlights include a coffee tasting in Piazza Duomo, sampling regional specialties on Via della Giudecca, and indulging in local desserts on Via Trento. Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour provides an immersive cultural and culinary experience, allowing travelers to interact with vendors like Francesco and learn about traditional Sicilian products.
With a 5/5 rating based on 66 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for an authentic taste of Ortigia.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Guided Street Food Tour in Ortigia Review
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Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia With Tastings
This 3-hour Syracuse Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia immerses participants in the vibrant culinary scene of the historic Sicilian island. Priced from $72.99 per person, the tour offers a chance to visit at least 4 food stops and taste local specialties like arancini, impanate, cannoli, and granita.
Guests will also explore Ortigia’s seafood market and savor artisanal bakery products. The tour is available in English and Italian, with flexible group sizes.
Highlights include a local liqueur and gelato/granita tasting, plus an engaging guide who provides insightful historical context.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 124 reviews, this tour is a must for foodies visiting Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia With Tastings Review
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From Syracuse: Mount Etna Guided Morning Hike & Food Tasting
Eager to explore the volcanic wonders beyond Syracuse’s historic streets, travelers can embark on a guided morning hike to the majestic Mount Etna.
This 7-9 hour excursion takes participants from Piazza Pantheon to the Silvestri Craters, where they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour. Depending on interest, they may also visit the Grotta dei Tre Livelli cave.
After refreshments at Ragalna, the group returns to Piazza Pantheon. With safety equipment provided, hikers can reach an altitude of 2000 meters, taking in views of the craters and lava flow.
Rated 4.9/5 based on 82 reviews, the tour offers knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value for money.
Read our full review: From Syracuse: Mount Etna Guided Morning Hike & Food Tasting Review
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Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking More Lunch
While exploring the historic streets of Ortigia, travelers can enjoy the vibrant culinary scene with an Ortigia Food and Wine Tour.
This 3-hour walking tour takes participants through the charming island, stopping at local eateries, wineries, and food markets to sample authentic Sicilian specialties.
Highlights include tasting regional wines, trying cannoli and other Sicilian desserts, and learning about the island’s rich food history and traditions.
The tour culminates with a hands-on Sicilian cooking class, where participants create a traditional multi-course lunch under the guidance of a local chef.
With rave reviews and a competitive price of Kč 1,743, this tour offers a delicious way to experience the flavors of Syracuse.
Read our full review: Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking More Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Duration of These Food Tours?
The typical duration of these food tours is around 2-3 hours. The tours generally provide an in-depth exploration of the local cuisine, allowing participants to sample a variety of dishes and learn about the region’s culinary traditions.
Are Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available?
Many food tours do offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to dietary preferences. Guests should inquire about the availability of such options when booking a tour to ensure their needs are accommodated.
Can I Request a Tour in a Different Language?
Yes, most food tour providers offer tours in languages other than English. Travelers can often request tours in Spanish, French, Italian, or other languages, depending on the company and location. This allows for a more immersive and accessible experience.
Are the Tour Guides Knowledgeable About Local Food History?
The tour guides are highly knowledgeable about the local food history, providing guests with in-depth information on the origins, traditions, and cultural significance of the regional cuisine. They’re well-versed in the local culinary landscape and eager to share their expertise.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Many food tours accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guides work with participants to ensure their needs are met, offering alternative dishes or substitutions when possible to provide an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.
The Sum Up
Syracuse offers an array of captivating food tours, from exploring the city’s rich culinary heritage in Ortigia to indulging in Sicilian street food and wine tastings. Travelers can enjoy the vibrant local cuisine, learn about traditional cooking methods, and discover the flavors that make this region of Sicily so renowned. Whether seeking a private walking tour or a hands-on cooking class, there’s a food-focused experience to suit every traveler’s taste in Syracuse.