Syracuse may be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to historical richness. This city in Sicily is a treasure trove of Greek, Roman, and baroque architecture that has stood the test of time. Exploring Syracuse on a tour offers a unique way to soak up its storied past while enjoying local flavors and spectacular views. We particularly love the Discover the wonders of Ortigia: a Tuk-Tuk tour through history and the sea for its blend of comfort, sustainability, and local charm. Imagine zipping through narrow alleyways, stopping at iconic sites like the Arethusa Spring or the Temple of Apollo while a knowledgeable guide shares stories that bring the stones to life. If you prefer a more personal touch, Ortiga: Tuk-tuk tour, historic alleys, mythology, and views offers multilingual narration and tastings of local products—think wine, olive oil, and cannoli—making it perfect for those craving both culture and cuisine.
Syracuse’s appeal as a history-focused destination is broad, with tours ranging from quick highlights to full-day immersive experiences. Whether you’re interested in ancient Greek ruins, medieval castles, or cinematic history, there’s a tour that fits your curiosity. Below, you’ll find a list of our top six picks, each offering a different perspective on Syracuse’s past.
1. Discover the wonders of Ortigia: a Tuk-Tuk tour through history and the sea
At number 1, this 1-hour tuk-tuk adventure offers a lively yet relaxed way to explore Ortigia’s ancient streets. The tour is led by an expert guide who makes the history engaging and accessible, whether pointing out the Arethusa Spring or the Castello Maniace. What sets this tour apart is its sustainable approach—using a comfortable velocipede rather than a noisy bus, which allows you to get closer to the sights. The itinerary includes stops at scenic viewpoints like the Belvedere della Turba and the iconic Ortea Palace Hotel. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights in a friendly, flexible format.
Guests consistently praise the customizable nature of this tour. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting an authentic experience without the hassle of navigating alone. The guide’s local insights add depth, making history feel alive amid Ortigia’s lively atmosphere. A key advantage is the easy meeting point right across from Drogheria Drago, making it simple to hop on and off. The 1-hour duration means you get a snapshot of Syracuse’s charm without feeling rushed—great for a morning or afternoon activity.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, eco-friendly way to see the essential sights of Ortigia with a friendly guide, this tuk-tuk tour is hard to beat.
2. Ortigia: Tuk-tuk tour, historic alleys, mythology, and views
Ranked just behind the first, this 1 to 2-hour tuk-tuk experience offers an immersive taste of Ortigia’s mythology and architecture. The tour is supported by an instant translator, making it accessible to travelers from around the world. The focus is on historic buildings, piazzas, and legendary stories that have shaped Syracuse’s identity—think the Piazza Duomo and Piazza Archimede—with plenty of photo opportunities. Plus, it includes tastings of local products like wine, olive oil, and cannoli, which adds a delicious layer to the sightseeing.
The tour’s multilingual guides and inclusion of professional photos help you keep memories alive long after your trip. The itinerary covers key sites like Porta Marina and the Carcere Borbonico, offering insights into both ancient and modern stories of Syracuse. Its flexibility and the personalized service suit travelers who want a deeper, more story-driven experience.
Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the local flavor of the tastings as highlights. The tour’s length allows for a more relaxed pace—ideal if you like your sightseeing with a mix of culture, stories, and local tastes. It’s a great pick for those who want to combine history with a bit of culinary fun.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want a detailed, story-rich tour with multilingual support and a dash of local flavor.
3. CineLab: journey through the history of cinema in Syracuse
Number 3 on our list is a 1.5-hour workshop dedicated to film lovers eager to explore Syracuse through its cinematic history. This tour is less about physical landmarks and more about understanding how Syracuse has influenced and been portrayed in film. You’ll discover the machinery and techniques behind early filmmaking, with opportunities to repair a film at the film pass table—an interactive element that sets this experience apart. Plus, enjoy an exclusive screening of a silent film, connecting you to the city’s cinematic past in a truly immersive way.
This tour is ideal for those who appreciate cultural history and want a different lens through which to see Syracuse. It’s a niche experience that combines hands-on activities with storytelling, making it suitable for travelers looking for something off the beaten path. The workshop format means you’ll walk away with not just knowledge, but tangible skills.
While this tour offers a unique perspective, it’s more specialized—best suited for film buffs or history enthusiasts interested in media. It’s not a traditional sightseeing tour but rather a creative interpretation of Syracuse’s contribution to cinema.
Bottom Line: If film history intrigues you, this workshop offers a memorable way to connect with Syracuse’s artistic side.
4. Ortigia in Risciò: 1-hour Guided Tour of History and the Sea
At number 4, this 1-hour risciò (rickshaw) tour combines relaxation and sightseeing with the added bonus of customizable start points. It takes you through baroque streets, along crystal-clear sea views, and past key landmarks like the Temple of Apollo and Fountain of Diana. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose your pick-up location, making it ideal for those staying in different parts of Syracuse or Ortigia.
Participants enjoy the comfortable ride and the passionate local guides who weave stories about the city’s past into each stop. The itinerary offers a good balance of sightseeing and free time, with options to shop or take photos at iconic sites. The tour’s length—between 1 and 3 hours—lets you customize the experience depending on your schedule and energy level.
This tour is best suited for travelers who prefer a gentle pace and personalized service. The audio guide option in multiple languages broadens accessibility, while the scenic views and informative commentary make it a well-rounded choice.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxing, customizable way to see Ortigia’s highlights, this risciò tour delivers comfort and local insights.
5. Syracusa Heritage Tour
Number 5 offers a full-day (10 hours) exploration of Syracuse’s Greek, Roman, and baroque heritage. This guided tour is a comprehensive dive into the city’s classical past, including Sicily’s largest Greek theatre and the charming streets of Ortigia. The focus is on large-scale archaeological sites combined with baroque architecture, giving a well-rounded picture of Syracuse’s layered history.
The tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want an in-depth experience. It’s praised for its expert guides who bring the ruins and architecture to life, making them feel relevant and real. The full-day format makes it suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time and see more than the usual highlights.
Guests appreciate the balanced itinerary and the opportunity to walk through ancient theatres and bustling markets. The extensive length means you’ll need comfortable shoes and a bit of stamina, but the payoff is a rich, contextual understanding of Syracuse’s past.
Bottom Line: Great for dedicated history lovers wanting a full immersion into Syracuse’s archaeological and architectural treasures.
6. Syracuse Tour to visit the best historical monuments
Number 6 is a 2-hour velocaddy tour, making it a quick yet comprehensive way to see more than 15 points of interest. Starting at Via Eritrea, this Hop-on Hop-off style tour covers both Ortigia and mainland Syracuse. It’s designed for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
The tour includes stops for photos, guided sightseeing, and self-guided exploring, with a professional guide providing context en route. It’s particularly useful for those who prefer a structured, efficient experience without sacrificing depth. The small additional fee (€2) for the cathedral visit is a practical detail, and the contract signing ensures clarity about the weather and safety considerations.
This tour’s value lies in its speed and coverage—a good choice for travelers with limited time or those who want an overview of Syracuse’s most important sites. It’s especially suitable for families or groups who want a flexible, guided approach.
Bottom Line: A quick, all-in-one way to see Syracuse’s highlights for those pressed for time but eager to learn.
How to Choose Your Perfect Syracuse Historical Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, pace, and what you want to get out of the experience. If you’re short on time but want a fun, eco-friendly overview, the tuk-tuk options (discover, Ortiga) are ideal. Love stories and local flavors? The Risciò tour offers a relaxed, customizable experience. For those with a passion for architecture and archaeology, the Heritage Tour provides a detailed full-day exploration, while film buffs should not miss the CineLab experience for its creative approach.
Consider your budget, the time you have, and your level of physical activity. Many tours offer flexible cancellation policies and book-now-pay-later options, so planning ahead is straightforward. Booking early is recommended, especially for your preferred time slots in high season.
Final Thoughts
Syracuse offers a diverse range of historical tours that suit different interests and schedules. For a quick introduction, the tuk-tuk tours are excellent, offering a friendly and eco-conscious way to see the highlights. Those wanting a more in-depth experience will appreciate the full-day Heritage Tour, while cultural enthusiasts should consider the CineLab workshop for its unique take on the city’s cinematic history.
No matter which tour you choose, Syracuse’s layered past—from Greek temples to baroque palaces—awaits to be explored. To make the most of your trip, consider booking your tour early and deciding based on your pace, interests, and curiosity. This way, your Syracuse experience will be as rich and memorable as the city itself.
