Wine touring in Syracuse combines ancient history with excellent tastings. The standout routes include Seneca Lake’s winery circuit – perfect for sampling regional varieties in a stunning setting. I’m especially fond of the Ortigia experience, where you can pair local wines with authentic Sicilian street bites while wandering historic lanes. For adventurous travelers, the Mount Etna wine tours offer something special: imagine sipping volcanic-soil wines after hiking this mighty peak.
These aren’t just standard tastings – they’re memorable cultural experiences. The private tours that mix archaeology with wine education are particularly worthwhile, offering intimate groups and knowledgeable guides.
Check out these top Syracuse wine tours for your next Italian adventure.
Key Points
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The Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour offers a full-day exploration of the Finger Lakes region’s winemaking heritage, visiting 4 out of 27 wineries along Seneca Lake.
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The Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Ortigia, the historic center of Siracusa, features authentic Sicilian street food and local wine sampling.
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The Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia includes an optional food and wine tasting experience and focuses on historical sites from the Greek and Roman eras.
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The Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking Masterclass provides a 4.5-hour culinary journey through Ortigia Island, including a guided street food tour and a hands-on cooking class.
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The Mount Etna Tours from Syracuse offer guided hikes with a light lunch and wine tasting or a private tour with a honey shop visit, providing unique geological insights.
Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour
The Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich winemaking heritage of the Finger Lakes region. Located just 2 hours from Buffalo and 5 hours from New York City, this full-day tour takes participants to 4 of the 27 wineries along Seneca Lake.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, wine tastings ranging from dry to dessert, and an educational experience at each winery. Participants can opt for a Small & Mighty tour or a Small & Mighty plus Lunch package. With a maximum capacity of 12 travelers, the tours provide an intimate and personalized experience.
To join the tour, guests must be at least 21 years old and bring a valid photo ID. The meeting point is at the 41 Lakefront Hotel in Geneva, NY, and the tour ends at the same location.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Priced starting at $248.11 per person, the tour has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 194 reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery.
Read our full review: Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour Review
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Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Siracusa
Although located just a short drive from the Seneca Lake wine region, the Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Siracusa offers a distinctly different culinary experience.
This 2.5-hour tour takes guests on a journey through Ortigia, the historic center of Siracusa, where they’ll savor authentic Sicilian street food and sample local wines.
The tour begins with a visit to the Ortigia Market, followed by a cheese tasting, and then a stop for street food and wine.
Multilingual guides provide insights into the local culture and cuisine. Participants can also opt for an additional historical tour.
The tour includes food tastings at three different spots, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests with dietary restrictions should inform the agency in advance.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews, this tour is a must-try for those seeking an immersive Sicilian food and wine experience.
Read our full review: Sicilian Street Food Tour and Wine Tasting in Siracusa Review
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Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Syracuse’s rich history and cultural heritage, this private tour invites travelers to explore the archaeological wonders and captivating Ortigia district.
Over the course of 4-5 hours, the tour provides an in-depth look at the region’s historical sites, including monuments from Greek and Roman eras. Accompanied by a knowledgeable driver-guide and professional guide, visitors will embark on a walking tour of Ortigia, the charming historic center of Syracuse.
The tour can be enhanced with an optional food and wine tasting experience, allowing participants to savor the local cuisine and flavors. Priced from $288.73 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a traditional lunch.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals. With a 4.8 average rating and 95% recommendation, this private tour promises an engaging and informative journey through Syracuse’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Syracuse – Archaeological Park and Ortigia With Option of Food and Wine Tasting Review
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Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking More Lunch
This 4.5-hour Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking Masterclass takes travelers on a delightful culinary journey through the historic heart of Syracuse.
Guests will explore the charming Ortigia Island, indulging in a guided street food tour and visiting local food purveyors.
The experience culminates in a hands-on cooking class, where participants learn to prepare classic Sicilian dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
With a small group size, the tour provides personalized attention and ample opportunities to interact with the knowledgeable local guide.
Guests will savor the flavors of Sicily, from crisp white wines to homemade pasta, all while immersed in the island’s rich cultural heritage.
This unique culinary experience is perfect for foodies seeking an authentic taste of Syracuse‘s vibrant gastronomic scene.
At $92.56 per person, the tour offers excellent value, inviting visitors to discover the delectable wonders of Sicilian cuisine.
Read our full review: Ortigia Food and Wine Tour and Sicilian Cooking More Lunch Review
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Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Traditional Lunch and Wine
The Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Traditional Lunch and Wine provides visitors with an intimate and immersive exploration of Ortygia, the historic center of Syracuse.
Guests can expect a private guided tour of ancient sites, including the Temple of Apollo and the Arethusa Fountain, as well as the charming Jewish Quarter. With a flexible schedule and no crowds, the experience offers a personalized encounter with a knowledgeable local guide.
Highlights include a traditional food and wine tasting at a local wine bar, rounding out the cultural experience. Priced from $230.98 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, and all food and wine tastings.
Travelers rave about the guides’ expertise and storytelling, as well as the opportunity to savor authentic Sicilian cuisine. With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation, this tour is an excellent introduction to the history and flavors of Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse Private Walking Tour With Traditional Lunch and Wine Review
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From Syracuse: Etna Tour With Light Lunch and Wine Tasting
Venture beyond the historic streets of Syracuse and explore the majestic Mount Etna on this immersive tour. Lasting 7 to 9 hours, this excursion takes you to the UNESCO-listed volcano, where you’ll embark on a guided hike and indulge in a food tasting. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 85 reviewers, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Start your day with convenient pickup from your Syracuse accommodation, then journey to the slopes of Mount Etna. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable local, you’ll navigate the volcanic landscape and learn about its geology and cultural significance.
After the hike, savor a light lunch showcasing the region’s culinary delights.
Afterward, visit a local winery for a tasting of the area’s renowned wines. Sip and swirl as you gain insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir of Sicily.
This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Mount Etna and its gastronomic offerings, all from the convenient starting point of Syracuse. Priced at $91.53 per person, this experience is sure to be a highlight of your Sicilian adventure.
Read our full review: From Syracuse: Etna Tour With Light Lunch and Wine Tasting Review
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Private Tour of Mount Etna and Etna Winery Visit With Tasting From Syracuse
Why not explore the majestic Mount Etna on a private tour from Syracuse? This full-day excursion includes a visit to a local honey shop for tastings, an optional cable car and Jeep ascent to 9,800 feet, and a lunch and wine tasting at an Etna winery.
The tour provides hassle-free, round-trip transportation from Syracuse. You’ll have a private, air-conditioned car and a local, licensed guide to provide insights throughout the day.
The experience includes a guided tour of Mount Etna, as well as the opportunity to sample honey, jams, olive oils, wines, and liquors at the honey store.
Lunch and alcoholic beverages are included, along with the cable car ride up the volcano (at an additional cost). Health and safety measures like masks and hand sanitizer are provided.
With a 5.0 rating based on 5 reviews, this private tour offers an enjoyable and memorable way to experience the natural wonders of Mount Etna from Syracuse.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Mount Etna and Etna Winery Visit With Tasting From Syracuse Review
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Syracuse: Ortigia & Pillirina Boat Tour W/ Aperitif & Wine
Set out on a captivating 4-hour boat tour that showcases the stunning coastline of Syracuse, including the ancient castle of Maniace.
This small-group tour, limited to just 9 participants, offers a unique opportunity to sail along the picturesque shores while enjoying a delicious aperitif and local white wine.
Throughout the journey, you’ll discover the myths and legends linked to the Syracuse area.
Depending on weather conditions, you’ll either sail the northern route, featuring the Scoglio dei Due Fratelli, or the southern route, which navigates the Plemmirio marine protected area.
The tour culminates with refreshing swimming stops in the clear, turquoise waters.
With an experienced skipper at the helm, you’ll receive personalized attention and learn about the region’s rich history and culture.
Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, this boat tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Syracuse.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Ortigia & Pillirina Boat Tour W/ Aperitif & Wine Review
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Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine
Although the Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine is slightly more expensive than the previous option, it offers a more intimate and personalized experience in Syracuse.
The 2-hour walking tour takes visitors on a guided exploration of the top sights in Ortigia, while the 1-hour private boat tour provides unique views of the city and coastline. Travelers can expect to sample local specialties like cheeses, cold cuts, olive oil, and wine during the excursion.
The tour includes pickup from all Syracuse hotels, with a start time of 10:00 am.
While customer reviews are generally positive, mentioning a knowledgeable and engaging guide, there have been some issues reported, such as a rescheduled tour due to rain, a rushed walking tour, and a shortened boat tour lacking the promised food and wine.
Plus, some customers faced difficulties in addressing these problems with the tour operator and requested partial refunds.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-accessible and allows service animals.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour of Ortigia and Private Boat Tour With Food and Wine Review
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Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Tour With Lunch and Wine
Syracuse offers a variety of captivating boat tours, and the Ortigia Island Boat Tour with Lunch and Wine stands out as a popular choice. This 4-hour activity takes visitors on a scenic boat trip from Syracuse to the enchanting Ortigia Island, allowing them to explore the Plemmirio Nature Reserve and swim in crystal clear waters.
During the tour, guests will enjoy a delightful onboard lunch featuring local specialties, appetizers, and a main course of spaghetti with mussels. Drinks like water, wine, Prosecco, and seasonal fresh fruit are included.
The tour also includes stops for swimming and diving, providing opportunities to observe colorful fish. Priced at $92.56 per person, the tour is available in both Italian and English.
With a 4.4/5 rating based on 7 reviews, it’s recommended for its beautiful experience and friendly atmosphere. Advance booking is required, and guests are advised to arrive 20 minutes early, as no refunds are provided for late arrivals.
Read our full review: Syracuse: Ortigia Island Boat Tour With Lunch and Wine Review
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From Syracuse: Mt. Etna Trekking Day Trip With Wine Tasting
Travelers can explore the majestic Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, on a captivating day trip from Syracuse. This 7- to 9-hour guided tour takes visitors on a hike through the volcanic landscape, offering stunning views and the chance to taste the region’s delicious wines.
The tour begins with transportation from Syracuse to the base of Mount Etna, where hikers will embark on a guided trek up the slopes of the volcano. Along the way, they’ll learn about the geological history and formation of this natural wonder.
After the hike, you will be treated to a wine tasting, sampling the unique flavors of the wines produced in the volcanic soil.
The tour has a 4.9 rating, and at $91.53 per person, it provides an excellent opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with culinary delights.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a wine lover, this Mount Etna trekking and wine tasting day trip from Syracuse isn’t to be missed.
Read our full review: From Syracuse: Mt. Etna Trekking Day Trip With Wine Tasting Review
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From Siracusa Day Tour To Etna Volcano, Winery and Taormina
This private day tour from Siracusa offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to explore the majestic Mount Etna, indulge in a winery visit, and discover the enchanting town of Taormina.
Spanning 8 hours, the tour accommodates up to 4 participants and features a customizable itinerary with English, Italian, and Spanish-speaking guides.
Guests will travel along the south-east side of Europe’s largest active volcano, reaching an altitude of 2000 meters and visiting the Silvestri Craters.
The tour includes a stop at a local winery for wine tasting and a light lunch.
Afterward, the journey continues to Taormina, the “pearl of the Ionian Sea,” where visitors can explore the Greek Theatre and Corso Umberto.
Priced from $822.73 per group, the tour includes a luxury vehicle with air conditioning, bottled water, and complimentary parking.
Customers can reserve their spot now and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Siracusa Day Tour To Etna Volcano, Winery and Taormina Review
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The Sum Up
Syracuse, located in Sicily, offers a variety of wine tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s rich wine heritage. From Seneca Lake to Mount Etna, these tours provide opportunities to sample local wines, savor Sicilian cuisine, and take in the area’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Syracuse’s wine tours cater to diverse interests and preferences.