From Catania: Neapolis of Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through Sicily’s storied past with the "From Catania: Neapolis of Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto Tour." This comprehensive day trip unveils the UNESCO-listed Baroque splendor of Noto, the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Neapolis, and the charming island of Ortygia, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant streets. Led by a knowledgeable multilingual guide, this immersive experience offers an unparalleled glimpse into Sicily’s captivating history and culture. As you explore these enchanting destinations, prepare to be transported to a world where the echoes of the past resonate in the present.

Key Points

• This 8-9 hour tour departs from Catania and visits the Neapolis Archaeological Park, Ortygia Island, and the UNESCO-listed city of Noto.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, shuttle bus transport, and a multilingual guide, with a price starting at £96.88 per person.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring Greek and Roman ruins, admiring Baroque architecture, and immersing in Sicily’s rich history and culture.
• The guided tour in Noto focuses on the city’s renowned Baroque architecture, while also allowing time to explore Neapolis and Ortygia.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain, but overall it receives positive reviews with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the historical and cultural gems of Catania, Neapolis, Ortygia, and Noto.

Lasting 8-9 hours, the tour departs from Catania and includes visits to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, the island of Ortygia, and the UNESCO-listed town of Noto.

Priced from £96.88 per person, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by shuttle bus, and a multilingual guide.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is both flexible and convenient.

Highlights include Greek and Roman ruins, Baroque architecture, and the chance to take in Sicily’s rich history and culture.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from hotels and B&Bs in Catania, after which participants travel by van to the town of Noto, located around 1.5 hours away.

Once in Noto, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour guided tour to explore the city’s Baroque architecture.

The tour then moves on to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, a 30-minute drive from Noto. After spending an hour at the park, the group visits Ortygia Island for 1.5 hours.

Highlights

Exploring Greek and Roman temples at the Neapolis Archaeological Park is a highlight of the tour.

Visitors can wander through the ruins, admiring the impressive architecture and envisioning the vibrant history of the site.

The tour also includes a visit to historic Ortygia Island, where travelers can:

• Discover Greek temples and Arabian-influenced streets
• Admire the Baroque splendor of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Marvel at notable landmarks like the Ear of Dionysius and Piazza del Duomo

This diverse itinerary offers a captivating blend of ancient and Baroque wonders, providing an immersive experience of Sicily’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by shuttle bus, and a multilingual tour leader.

Admission to the Neapolis Archaeological Park is also included. However, food and drinks aren’t provided.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and navigating uneven terrain.

The tour offers a comprehensive experience, with the necessary transportation and guidance, while allowing participants to explore the historical sites at their own pace.

Customers should be aware of the inclusions and exclusions to ensure the tour meets their needs and expectations.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to customer reviews and ratings, this tour has garnered an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 215 reviews.

Highlights include:

• Customers praise the tour guides, rating them 4.8 out of 5 for their friendliness and knowledgeability.

• The transportation by shuttle bus received a 4.6 out of 5 rating, with some mentions of occasional punctuality issues.

• Overall service and organization of the tour were rated 4.6 out of 5, with most customers reporting a positive experience.

While the tour generally receives excellent feedback, a few customers have noted minor concerns regarding punctuality that tour operators may wish to address.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickups from Catania, where guests are transported by shuttle bus to the first stop – Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Baroque architecture.

The 1.5-hour journey to Noto allows travelers to sit back and admire the picturesque Sicilian countryside.

Upon arrival in Noto, a guided tour introduces visitors to the city’s main highlights, such as the impressive Cathedral and the ornate Palazzo Ducezio.

From Noto, the shuttle continues to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to impressive Greek and Roman ruins, before heading to the historic island of Ortygia.

The return journey to Catania takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Guided Tour in Noto

After arriving in Noto, the guided tour introduces visitors to the city’s main highlights.

Travelers explore the stunning Baroque architecture that earned Noto its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, including:

• Visiting the iconic Cattedrale di Noto, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque design
• Strolling through the elegant Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by magnificent palaces
• Admiring the intricate façades and ornate details of buildings like Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata

The knowledgeable guide shares insights into Noto’s history and cultural significance, bringing the city’s impressive architecture and vibrant spirit to life for an immersive experience.

Visiting Neapolis and Ortygia

Following the guided tour of Noto, the itinerary leads travelers to the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse. Here, visitors can explore the remains of Greek and Roman temples, including the famous Greek Theatre. After the archaeological site, the tour moves on to the historic Ortygia Island, the heart of Syracuse. Ortygia is filled with Greek temples, Arabian streets, and Baroque architecture, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage. The tour provides ample time to wander through the island’s charming alleyways and visit notable sites like the Arethusa Fountain and Piazza del Duomo.

Site	Duration	Highlights
Neapolis Archaeological Park	1 hour	Greek Theatre, Roman temples
Ortygia Island	1.5 hours	Greek temples, Arabian streets, Baroque architecture
Arethusa Fountain	–	Ancient Greek mythological site
Piazza del Duomo	–	Baroque cathedral and square

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Casual attire that allows for easy movement and exploration is generally appropriate for this type of sightseeing tour.

Can We Take a Break for Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows for a lunch break. There’s time set aside during the Ortygia Island visit for participants to enjoy a meal at one of the local cafes or restaurants along the waterfront.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though it’s not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments. Participants of all ages can enjoy the cultural and historical sights on this excursion.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and request modifications to the standard itinerary if they’d like to focus on particular attractions or landmarks during the tour.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Proficient In?

The tour guides are multilingual, proficient in English, Italian, and often other languages like Spanish, French, or German. They can provide informed commentary about the sites in whichever language best suits the tour group’s needs.

Recap

This comprehensive tour from Catania offers an enriching exploration of Sicily’s historical gems. Visitors can enjoy the Baroque splendor of Noto, uncover the ancient ruins of Neapolis, and discover the charming streets of Ortygia. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore Sicily’s captivating history and culture, making this an ideal day trip for those seeking to experience the island’s diverse heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: