Syracuse: Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour

Syracuse, the ancient Greek city on the island of Sicily, has long captivated travelers with its rich history and stunning architectural wonders. On the Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour, visitors can enjoy this captivating destination, exploring iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo and the Cathedral of Syracuse. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour promises seamless transportation, included entry tickets, and insights into the Baroque-style buildings and ancient heritage that define this captivating city. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder why Syracuse has become a must-visit destination for those seeking to uncover the secrets of Sicily’s past.

Key Points

• Guided tour covers the historic heart of Syracuse, Ortygia, and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, providing a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and heritage.
• Priced at €326.00 per group (up to 30 participants) for a 2-hour duration, with no upfront payment required and a full refund policy for cancellations 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include the Temple of Apollo, Cathedral of Syracuse, Fonte Aretusa, Maniace Castle, Roman amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysus cave.
• Guided tour includes licensed guide, entry tickets, and transportation between the Ortygia and Neapolis sites.
• Tour available in multiple languages: English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish, with a meeting point at the Umbertino Bridge.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This guided tour of Syracuse takes visitors through the Ortygia and Neapolis Archaeological Park.

Priced at €326.00 per group (up to 30 participants), the tour lasts 2 hours. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour includes a licensed guide, entry tickets to the Duomo and Neapolis Archaeological Park, and transportation between the two sites.

Offered in multiple languages, the tour has earned a 5/5 rating from previous travelers who praised its entertaining and informative nature.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins by exploring Ortygia, the historic heart of Syracuse. Visitors will marvel at the Temple of Apollo, dating back to 580 BC, and the intricate Baroque-style architecture lining Piazza Archimede and Piazza della Minerva.

The highlight is the Cathedral of Syracuse, built upon the remains of the ancient Temple of Athena. Along the seafront, guests can admire the Fonte Aretusa and the imposing Maniace Castle.

The tour then moves to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where highlights include the 11th-century Church of San Nicolò ai Cordari, the Roman amphitheater, and the awe-inspiring Ear of Dionysus cave with its remarkable echo.

Ortygia Exploration

Visitors first explore Ortygia, the historic heart of Syracuse. The tour begins at the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, dating back to 580 BC.

Guests then stroll through the picturesque Piazza Archimede, home to the stunning Diana Fountain.

Next, they visit the Cathedral of Syracuse, built upon the remains of the ancient Temple of Athena.

Along the seafront, they admire the Baroque-style Palazzo del Vermexio and Palazzo Beneventano.

The tour also includes the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, known for its Caravaggio painting.

Cathedral of Syracuse

Towering over the historic city of Syracuse, the Cathedral of Syracuse, also known as the Nativity of Mary Most Holy, stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious heritage.

This magnificent cathedral was built on the remains of a 5th-century BC Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Visitors can admire the cathedral’s stunning Baroque façade and explore the interior, which features a mix of architectural styles, including Greek, Roman, and Norman elements.

The cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the enduring legacy of Syracuse’s religious traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Baroque-style Architecture

Several impressive examples of Baroque-style architecture can be found throughout the historic city of Syracuse. One standout is the Palazzo del Vermexio, a grand palace constructed in the 17th century. Nearby, the ornate Palazzo Beneventano is another architectural gem, featuring intricate carvings and an impressive facade. Plus, the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia is home to a renowned Caravaggio painting, showcasing the artistic flair of the Baroque period.

Building	Architectural Style	Notable Features
Palazzo del Vermexio	Baroque	17th century construction, grand palace
Palazzo Beneventano	Baroque	Ornate facade, intricate carvings
Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia	Baroque	Caravaggio painting

Neapolis Archaeological Park

The Neapolis Archaeological Park offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Syracuse’s rich history.

One of the highlights is the Church of San Nicolò ai Cordari, an 11th-century structure that has withstood the test of time. Nearby, you’ll find the Roman Pool, a series of water tanks that once served the ancient amphitheater.

Speaking of which, the impressive Roman amphitheater, dating back to the Augustan era, is a must-see, where gladiators once entertained the crowds.

The Altar of Hieron and the Latomie del Paradiso, stone quarries, are additional fascinating sights.

Don’t miss the remarkable Ear of Dionysus cave, known for its remarkable echo, and the iconic Greek theater, a true architectural marvel.

Tour Inclusions

Although the tour price may seem reasonable, the tour inclusions make it well worth the cost. The guided tour provides a licensed guide to lead you through the highlights, along with entry tickets to the Duomo and Neapolis Archaeological Park. Transportation is also included, with a transfer by vehicle or public transport between Ortigia and Neapolis. To summarize the key inclusions:

Inclusion	Details
Guide	Licensed tour guide
Tickets	Entry to Duomo and Neapolis Archaeological Park
Transport	Transfer between Ortigia and Neapolis
Language	English, Italian, French, German, Spanish

With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour offers excellent value for an immersive experience exploring Syracuse’s ancient wonders.

Participant Information and Meeting Point

Visitors can choose from a variety of language options for the guided tour, including English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish.

The meeting point is at the Umbertino Bridge, where the tour guide will be displaying a visible license badge. This makes it easy for participants to identify and join the group.

The tour has received an overall rating of 5/5 from previous customers, who praised the guide’s entertaining and informative nature.

With convenient transportation options available to move between Ortigia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience exploring Syracuse’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though participants should be mindful of any restrictions in certain areas. It’s best to check with the tour guide for specific guidelines on when and where photos can be taken.

Can I Book the Tour for More Than 30 Participants?

The tour pricing indicates a maximum group size of 30 participants. However, larger groups can be accommodated by booking multiple tours or inquiring with the tour provider about the possibility of exceeding the stated group size limit.

Are There Any Child-Friendly Activities or Discounts?

The tour accommodates groups up to 30 participants. While there’s no specific child-friendly activities, children under 6 receive free admission. Discounts may be available for larger groups or students, so it’s best to inquire when booking.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Focus on Specific Areas?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to focus on specific areas. Customers can work with the tour operator to modify the schedule and highlight their areas of interest within the Ortygia and Neapolis archaeological sites.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

No, the pricing information provided seems comprehensive. It states the tour costs €326 per group of up to 30 participants, and includes the licensed guide, entry tickets, and transportation between Ortygia and Neapolis – there are no additional costs mentioned.

Recap

The Syracuse: Ortygia & Neapolis Archaeological Park Guided Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Discover iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, with a licensed guide providing insights into the Baroque influences and ancient heritage that define Syracuse. With seamless transportation and included entry tickets, this 2-hour tour is a comprehensive and practical way to uncover the captivating essence of this historic Italian city.

You can check if your dates are available here: