Overview
Syracuse (Siracusa) is a city of 122,000 people on Sicily's eastern coast, once described by Roman writer Cicero as "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all." The city combines Greek and Roman archaeological wonders with Baroque architecture on the island of Ortigia, making it one of Sicily's most compelling destinations. "Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica" are UNESCO World Heritage listed, and the city serves as an excellent base for exploring southeast Sicily including the Baroque towns of Ragusa and Noto.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Culture · Day Trips · History
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget dorms near the station start at €18-25 per person. Mid-range hotels near the station or on Ortigia range from €25-100 depending on season.
Connectivity
Italian mobile providers (TIM, Vodafone, Wind, 3) offer prepaid SIM cards. WiFi is available at most hotels and some public areas.
Food
Pizza and pasta start around €5-8 at casual spots. Fresh seafood restaurants like L'Ancora offer lunch/dinner service Tu-Su. The Ortigia market has fresh produce daily.
Language
Italian is the official language. In Syracuse and throughout Sicily, Sicilian dialect is also spoken. English is limited outside tourist areas.
Money
Italy uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available. Most restaurants and hotels accept credit cards but smaller establishments may be cash-only.
Transport
Local bus single fares start at €0.50 with day passes at €2. Trains connect Syracuse to Catania and Palermo. The intercity bus hub is next to the railway station.