Syracuse - Noto Sicily - Sicily holidays

The main sights in Syracuse are on the island of Ortigia, the oldest part of the city, just a few hundred meters from the mainland. Cross the small island on foot and arrive at the main square, Piazza Duomo where you must visit the beautiful baroque cathedral, built on the foundations of a temple to Minerva. Head south to the monumental Fonte Aretusa, a water source populated by rare papyrus specimens, a plant so important to the city that it has a museum devoted to it.

On the southern tip of Ortigia is the medieval fortress of Maniace Castle, one of the most important monuments of the Swabian era and today the architectural symbol of the city. Get the best view of the castle from the Aretusa terrace, as well as across to Mount Etna and the Greek fortress of Eurialo. Going back to the mainland, don’t forget to browse along the characteristic alleyways of Ortigia, leading you through old workshops and picturesque facades to the charming fountain of Diana and the baroque palazzi of Piazza Archimede, where you’ll get the best view of the oldest doric temple in Sicily: the glorious Temple of Apollo.

No visit to Syracuse is complete without a side trip to the baroque masterpiece, Noto. This charming town, with its hills, mountains and natural harbors will seduce you with spectacular balconies of buildings like Palazzo Nicolaci, churches rich in artistic treasures and the baroque jewel of Noto cathedral.

No less impressive is the superb cuisine of this town, which makes use of strong flavors like almond and the suggestive perfumes of citrus and Muscat wine.