Syracuse stands out not just for its ancient ruins and beautiful coastlines but also for its rich culinary scene. Unlike many Italian cities that focus solely on history, Syracuse offers a tempting blend of local street foods, vibrant markets, and volcanic adventures. We especially love the Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better, which combines a lively guide, authentic flavors, and a walk through Ortigia’s historic streets. From arancini to granita, it’s a true taste of Sicily’s soul. Plus, its 5-star reviews and passionate guides make it a top pick for food lovers wanting more than just a meal—they want an experience.
Syracuse’s food tours cover a wide range—from guided walks exploring markets and street food tastings to mountain hikes with wine and local snacks. Whether you prefer exploring historic neighborhoods, sampling seafood, or hiking Mount Etna with tastings along the way, this list has a lot to offer. Dive in below to find the perfect foodie adventure for your trip.
1. Syracuse Ortigia – Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better
At number 1, the Syracuse Ortigia – Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better scores a perfect 5.0/5 with 270 reviews. For about $81.76 per person, this 3-hour guided walk takes you through lively Syracuse markets, sampling an array of sweet and savory street foods. The tour’s focus on local culture and tradition makes it stand out, especially as it includes stops at the Temple of Apollo and Fontana di Diana, where you try classic arancini and impanate.
What makes this tour special is its interactive storytelling, where guides share the history behind each dish. The arancini, filled with meat, spinach, or pistachios, are fried to perfection, while the fried fish cone during summer is a local favorite. The visit to the Mangroves Market in Ortigia offers a chance to taste regional products and see local vendors in action. With rave reviews praising guides like Giuseppe and Ana, visitors consistently say it’s a “long, unhurried, and delicious walk” that makes you feel like a local.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded taste of Syracuse’s street food combined with cultural insights, this tour is your best choice. Arrive hungry and bring your curiosity.
2. Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia with Tastings
This 3-hour street food tour in Ortigia has earned a 4.9/5 from nearly 290 reviews. It balances flavor, scenery, and local stories. Starting at Chiesa San Paolo Apostolo, you’ll visit at least four food stops, indulging in cannoli, granita, and fried rice balls. It’s a lively exploration through local hotspots and bustling markets, with plenty of time to savor each dish.
The tour’s highlight is the chance to sample Sicilian specialties, paired with local liqueurs and fresh seafood. The guide’s storytelling brings the city’s history and cuisine to life, making it ideal for those who love a mix of culinary adventure and cultural context. Reviews mention the tour is “relaxed” and “full of flavors,” with some guests saying they loved how it takes you to places most travelers miss. The walk is manageable, with comfortable shoes recommended.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a comprehensive tasting experience combined with a cultural walk, ideal for those who want to explore local neighborhoods and markets in depth.
3. Syracuse: The Street Food Tour in Ortigia with a Local Guide
Ranked at number 3, this 3-hour tour is praised for its authentic local flavor and personalized approach. With a 5/5 rating from 133 reviews, it’s a favorite for those wanting to discover hidden corners and indulge in Ortigia’s culinary secrets. The guide takes you through historic neighborhoods like Giudecca and introduces you to mozzarella, panino, and granita.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local recipes and stories. The stops include a market visit and a walk through charming squares. The guide’s hospitality and insights make it feel like a friend showing you their favorite spots. Guests comment on how memorable the experience is, especially as it combines food, history, and local stories seamlessly.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you value a personal touch and want to explore Ortiga’s most authentic flavors with a passionate local guide.
4. From Syracuse: Mount Etna Guided Morning Hike & Food Tasting
Number 4 on our list is the Mount Etna guided hike with food tasting. This 8- to 9-hour adventure combines a scenic hike up Mount Etna’s southern slopes with a visit to a traditional farm, where you’ll sample local cheeses, wines, and snacks. The tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see volcanic landscapes and taste Sicily’s rustic flavors.
The tour includes a minivan ride to the craters, a guided walk to extinct craters, and entry into a lava cave, giving you a real sense of Etna’s power. The food tasting at a nearby farm adds a delicious finale, where you get to enjoy local cheeses, wines, and regional delicacies. The guide is very knowledgeable, sharing 25 years of experience, and guests praise the value of the combination of outdoor activity and culinary treats.
Bottom Line: If you’re up for a physical morning with spectacular views and authentic Sicilian treats, this tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and flavor.
5. From Siracusa: Etna Tour – Trek, Wine and Food
The Etna Trek, Wine, and Food tour is a 7-hour journey for outdoor enthusiasts. It departs from Siracusa and combines hiking the southern slopes of Mount Etna with wine tastings at a local winery. The tour’s focus on personalized insights makes it a favorite for visitors who want to understand Etna’s geology and grape-growing.
Starting with a Jeep or SUV transfer, you’ll hike at least 2.5 hours, exploring scenic landscapes and volcanic features. Afterward, the tour continues at a charming winery where you can sample regional wines and cheeses. The guide’s expertise is highlighted by guests, with some saying it’s the “best way to learn about Etna while enjoying regional food.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a balanced outdoor experience with culinary highlights in a small-group setting.
6. The Street Food Tour with a Local Guide in Ortigia!
This 2.5-hour tour scores a perfect 5/5 based on 22 reviews. It offers a shorter, more intimate exploration of Ortigia’s hidden streets and markets. Starting at Piazza Archimede, you’ll visit local bakeries, try famous Arancino, and sip authentic Sicilian iced coffee.
The guide focuses on local life and authentic tastes, taking you through quiet alleys, fishing squares, and markets most travelers overlook. Almost all reviewers mention how Dario’s knowledge and friendliness make the experience memorable, especially as he caters to vegetarian options and shares stories about Sicilian recipes.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a shorter, personalized tasting with an emphasis on local secrets.
7. Sicilian Food and Wine Tour in Siracusa
This 2.5-hour walking tour focuses heavily on market culture, local food, and wine tasting. Rated 4.9/5 from 14 reviews, it’s designed for travelers eager to interact directly with vendors and learn about Sicilian produce.
Starting at Largo XXV Luglio, the tour visits the Ortigia market, where you taste local cheeses, regional snacks, and sample Sicilian wines. The guide’s passion for authentic ingredients makes this experience vibrant and educational. Reviewers appreciate how it combines culinary conversation with tasting and photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who love markets, local culture, and wine, and want a more interactive experience.
8. Private Syracuse Tour & Light Lunch in Food Market
For a tailored experience, the Private Syracuse Tour with lunch is a six-hour private walk focused on local sights and food. Rated 5/5 from five reviews, it’s perfect for travelers seeking customized itineraries.
It includes a guided walk through Ortigia, visiting landmarks like the Duomo and Arethusa Fountain, alongside stops at local food stalls. The highlight is a light lunch in the food market, giving you a taste of Sicilian specialties in a relaxed setting. The private nature means you get personalized attention and a flexible pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or couples wanting an intimate, customized exploration with culinary highlights.
9. Guided Tour of Ortigia with Fish Street Food at the Market
Lastly, the Ortigia Fish Market tour offers a 2.5-hour exploration focused on fresh seafood and local legends. With a 4.2/5 rating from 27 reviews, it’s ideal for seafood lovers eager to see the best fish stalls and enjoy street food.
The tour visits the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede, and the Arethusa Spring, with street food tastings of fresh fish and local delicacies. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the chance to experience Ortigia’s seafood culture firsthand.
Bottom Line: Perfect for seafood fans wanting an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Ortigia’s fish markets.
How to Choose Your Food Tour in Syracuse
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interest in specific culinary themes. If you want a deep dive into street food culture, tours like Syracuse Ortigia – Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better or The Street Food Tour with a Local Guide in Ortigia! provide extensive tastings and cultural insights. For those with a keen interest in volcanoes and regional wines, the mount Etna hikes and treks are unbeatable.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at the shorter Syracuse: Street Food Walking Tour in Ortigia, while families or couples wanting a personalized experience might prefer the Private Syracuse Tour & Light Lunch. Book early especially for the popular tours with glowing reviews—they fill up fast!
Final Thoughts
Syracuse offers a broad spectrum of culinary experiences—from lively street food walks to volcano adventures with tasting stops. Notable options like the Sicilian Street Food Tour by Do Eat Better and the Mount Etna food and wine hike showcase the city’s diverse appeal. For travelers eager to enjoy local flavors, these tours offer authentic, memorable moments.
If your time is limited, the shorter walking options still deliver rich experiences, while those wanting a customized or private tour will find excellent choices. No matter your style, Syracuse’s food tours promise a delicious journey—just be sure to book ahead and bring your appetite.
