Among the excursions we recommend most often to our guests, Siracusa holds a special place. One of the most important cities of the Greek world, today a UNESCO heritage site, it contains twenty-five centuries of history within a few square kilometers. Starting from Aci Castello, you can reach it in about an hour by car, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
The heart of Siracusa is Ortigia, the small island that safeguards its historic center. You willingly lose yourself among its narrow alleys until you reach Piazza Duomo, one of the most beautiful Baroque spaces in Sicily: the cathedral is built incorporating the columns of the ancient Temple of Athena, still visible in its walls today. A few steps away, the Fonte Aretusa — a freshwater mirror with papyruses, a stone's throw from the sea — and the waterfront from which to admire the sunset. In the morning, the market of Ortigia is an explosion of colors, scents and Sicilian flavors.
On the other side of the city lies the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where Greek Sicily takes shape before your eyes. The Greek Theatre, still home to classical performances in summer, the Ear of Dionysus with its legendary acoustics and the Latomies tell the story of the greatness of ancient Syrakousai. It is the ideal stop for those who love history, to be combined with a stroll through the alleys of Ortigia.
Among one marvel and another, Ortigia also offers a masterpiece by Caravaggio and perfect corners for a break based on fresh fish. Siracusa ideally completes your tour of eastern Sicily: together with Catania and Taormina it forms the triptych of cities that our guests love to discover starting from the Base.
A day in Siracusa means leaving in the morning, exploring Ortigia at leisure and returning to Aci Castello in the evening. As with other trips, we will be happy to advise you on times, parking and the right places to eat. Discover our rooms or check availability and let Oasi Perla del Mare be your starting point for Greek Sicily.