With its incredible historical heritage and its charming old town, Siracusa is the Sicilian city of wonders!
Among Greek theatres, Roman ruins, Norman castles and Gothic and Byzantine churches, Siracuse is certainly one of the most interesting cities in Sicily.
It was considered one of the most populated cities of antiquity, while today it is an important tourist centre. Due to its millenary history, Siracusa is today very rich in archaeological finds, but also in testimonies of Baroque art.
What to see in Siracusa
The first thing that strikes you arriving in Syracuse is its unique composition: a city divided between the mainland and the island of Ortigia , to which it is connected by a bridge.
The island of Ortigia is nothing but the ancient historic center of Syracuse, a suggestive place with high tuff cliffs and sea views, where the evidence of Greek and Roman civilizations, such as the temple of Apollo and the fountain of Aretusa, coexist with the Baroque buildings and the Castle of Maniace.
The historical evidence of Siracusa
We cannot fail to mention the Archaeological Park of Neapolis , which contains all the Greco-Roman archaeological beauties in a single tour.
The itinerary continues with a visit to the Basilica of San Nicoló dei Cordari , built in the 11th century on a Roman swimming pool; immediately afterwards you can admire the Roman Amphitheater , dating back to the 3rd century BC, certainly one of the largest amphitheaters of late Roman times.
Then you can appreciate the Greek Theater , built between 238 and 215 BC It has a particular feature: its panoramic view, which offers a view of the port and the island of Ortigia.
In conclusion , the Ear of Dionysius and the Sanctuary of Apollo Temenite can not be missed.
But Siracusa is not only monumental and architectural beauties, in fact its coasts are perhaps among the most beautiful on the island.
What to see with a rental car in the province of Siracusa
Starting from Syracuse, you can head south and visit the Maddalena Peninsula and Ognina Island . Here the coast is mostly rocky; the depths are particularly interesting and are an ideal destination for those who love snorkelling or scuba diving.
Continuing a few kilometers further south in the direction of Noto , you will find the Gallina beach , inside a protected reserve, and the Fontane Bianche beach . These two tourist resorts are known and highly appreciated, above all for their long beaches of fine sand and shallow, clear waters.
Thanks to the rental car in Syracuse , booked on the Acarent website , you can easily reach these destinations, ideal destinations for a family holiday with children. Indeed, the beaches are perfectly equipped while maintaining their natural charm.
For a cultural and worldly trip , in a few minutes, heading north with your rental car from Syracuse , you can stop to visit the beautiful Catania : a city with historical charm and a great gastronomic tradition . There is no better place to try the tasty almond pastry and local specialities.
