Things to Do at Ortygia Island
Complete Guide to Ortygia Island in Syracuse
About Ortygia Island
What to See & Do
Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo)
Ortygia Island stands as an example of the area's rich heritage and character in Syracuse. Admission $10. Check seasonal hours and special events that might enhance your experience Every corner reveals intricate details that engage the senses and invite closer exploration of this unique local treasure.
Fountain of Arethusa
A freshwater spring right by the sea that's been flowing for millennia. According to myth, it's where the nymph Arethusa emerged after fleeing from Greece. Today it's home to papyrus plants and ducks, creating this unexpectedly peaceful spot amid the urban landscape.
Castello Maniace
This 13th-century fortress sits at Ortygia's southern tip, built by Frederick II. The castle itself is interesting enough, but the real draw might be the dramatic coastal views and the sense of standing at what feels like the edge of the world.
Temple of Apollo
The oldest Doric temple in Sicily , dating to the 6th century BC. What remains are mostly foundations and a few columns, but it gives you a genuine sense of just how ancient this place really is.
Via del Crocifisso and the Jewish Quarter
The medieval streets here are where Syracuse's Jewish community lived for centuries. You can still see remnants of ritual baths and what's believed to be Europe's oldest mikvah. The narrow alleys have this timeless quality that makes you forget what century you're in.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
The island itself is accessible 24/7, though individual attractions have varying hours. The Cathedral is typically open 8am-7pm, while Castello Maniace usually operates 9am-7pm (shorter hours in winter). Many sites close on Mondays.
Tickets & Pricing
Walking around Ortygia is free, obviously. The Cathedral is free to enter, though there might be a small fee (around €2) for the crypt. Castello Maniace charges about €4 for adults. A combined ticket for multiple Syracuse archaeological sites runs around €13.50.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon tend to be ideal - you'll avoid the cruise ship crowds and catch better light for photos. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, though the island has its charms year-round. Summer can get quite crowded and hot.
Suggested Duration
You could easily spend a full day here if you're the type to wander and explore. A focused visit hitting the main highlights might take 3-4 hours, but honestly, this is a place that rewards taking your time.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Just across the bridge on the mainland, this is where you'll find Syracuse's famous Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius cave. It's essentially the other half of Syracuse's archaeological story.
These early Christian underground burial chambers are among the most extensive outside of Rome. They offer a fascinating glimpse into Syracuse's early Christian period and are surprisingly well-preserved.
Houses one of Europe's finest collections of ancient Greek artifacts, many found right here in Syracuse. If you want to understand the full scope of this area's ancient importance, this museum provides excellent context.
About 20 minutes south of Syracuse, this coastal reserve offers some of Sicily 's best diving and snorkeling. The underwater archaeological sites here include ancient anchors and pottery scattered on the sea floor.