Syracuse Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Syracuse.
Healthcare System
Syracuse operates under Italy's public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN), which provides universal coverage to Italian citizens and EU residents with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare facilities are also available and often preferred by international visitors for shorter wait times and English-speaking staff.
Hospitals
Ospedale Umberto I is the main public hospital (Via Testaferrata, 1). For non-emergency care, several private clinics in Ortigia and the modern city offer services to tourists. Emergency rooms (Pronto Soccorso) accept walk-ins, but expect potential wait times for non-urgent cases.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Farmacie) are widely available throughout Syracuse, marked by green crosses. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can provide advice on minor ailments and over-the-counter medications. At least one pharmacy operates on a rotating night/weekend schedule (farmacia di turno). Many common medications require prescriptions that may not be honored from outside Italy.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for non-EU citizens. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card, though supplementary insurance is still advisable for repatriation and private care. Ensure coverage includes emergency medical evacuation.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with a copy of the prescription
- The Italian healthcare system may require upfront payment for non-EU citizens, so keep insurance documentation readily available
- Learn basic Italian medical terms or carry a translation app, as English proficiency varies among healthcare staff
- For minor issues, visit a pharmacy first - Italian pharmacists can provide medical advice and some medications without prescriptions
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded tourist areas, particularly during peak season. Thieves often work in pairs or groups and target distracted tourists.
Theft from motorcycles and scooters, including bags placed in baskets or hanging from handlebars, is common. Drive-by bag snatching also occurs occasionally.
Syracuse experiences intense summer heat with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), combined with high humidity. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are real risks, especially when visiting archaeological sites with limited shade.
Sicilian driving can be chaotic with aggressive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and limited adherence to traffic rules. Pedestrian crossings are not always respected.
Rocky coastlines, sea urchins, jellyfish (especially in late summer), and occasional strong currents can pose risks to swimmers.
Food safety standards are generally high, but occasional issues with shellfish or improperly stored food in extreme heat can occur.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants add unauthorized items to bills, charge excessive coperto (cover charge), or bring unrequested items then charge for them. Menus may not clearly show prices or may have different prices for tourists.
Unlicensed individuals approach tourists at archaeological sites offering guided tours at inflated prices with poor quality information or aggressive demands for tips afterward.
Individuals approach tourists offering to tie a 'friendship bracelet' or hand them flowers, then aggressively demand payment once the item is in your possession.
Some taxi drivers refuse to use meters, take unnecessarily long routes, or claim the meter is broken and quote inflated flat rates, especially from the train station or port.
Unofficial 'attendants' approach tourists in parking areas offering to 'watch' the car for a fee, sometimes implying the car won't be safe otherwise.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something, asking for directions with a map, dropping items) while an accomplice steals belongings.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Personal Security
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance, credit cards) separate from originals and store digital copies in cloud storage
- Use hotel safes for valuables and passports when not needed
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas after dark, especially in peripheral neighborhoods
- Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs; use machines inside banks during business hours when possible
- Don't leave bags on backs of chairs or hanging on strollers in public areas
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
Transportation
- Use official taxis from designated stands or pre-book through your hotel
- If renting a car, never leave valuables visible inside, even in the trunk
- Be extremely cautious as a pedestrian; don't assume drivers will stop at crosswalks
- Avoid renting scooters unless experienced with Italian traffic conditions
- Keep car doors locked and windows up when driving in congested areas
- Park in attended lots or well-lit public areas, especially overnight
Beach and Water Safety
- Never leave belongings unattended on beaches; theft is common
- Swim only in designated areas and respect warning flags
- Wear water shoes to protect against sea urchins on rocky beaches
- Stay hydrated and reapply sunscreen frequently; Mediterranean sun is intense
- Be aware of boat traffic when swimming
- Avoid isolated beaches, especially when alone
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra credit cards and cash secured
- Use money belts or concealed pouches for important documents and larger amounts of cash
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Carry some cash as smaller establishments may not accept cards
- Be discreet when handling money in public
- Keep emergency cash separate from your main wallet
Cultural Awareness
- Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees required)
- Learn basic Italian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it enhances safety
- Respect local customs and siesta hours (typically 1-4 PM when many shops close)
- Be aware that service may be slower than in northern Europe or North America; patience is appreciated
- Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up or leaving small amounts is appreciated for good service
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in residential areas
Health Precautions
- Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if preferred
- Bring any prescription medications in sufficient quantity with documentation
- Use insect repellent in evenings, especially near water
- Be cautious with sun exposure; use high SPF sunscreen and reapply regularly
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
- Consider travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in well-reviewed, central areas like Ortigia or near the Archaeological Park
- Verify that accommodation has working locks, safes, and emergency exits
- Keep windows and doors locked when absent and while sleeping on ground floors
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel staff
- Know the location of your nearest embassy or consulate
- Keep hotel contact information and address in Italian for emergencies
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Syracuse is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. Sicily has a traditional culture where women may receive attention, particularly from older men, but this is usually harmless if sometimes uncomfortable. Serious harassment or assault is uncommon, especially in tourist areas. Women travelers should exercise standard precautions and be aware that Mediterranean culture includes more overt expressions of appreciation than some visitors may be accustomed to.
- Dress modestly to blend in better and reduce unwanted attention; Sicilian women typically dress elegantly but conservatively in daily life
- Catcalling (complimenti) may occur but is usually not threatening; a firm 'no grazie' and walking away confidently is usually sufficient
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or poorly lit streets after dark; stick to well-populated areas
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended
- Consider staying in female-only dorm rooms if using hostels
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Wearing a fake wedding ring can sometimes reduce unwanted attention
- Solo dining is completely acceptable; bring a book or use your phone to feel more comfortable
- Use official taxis rather than accepting rides from strangers
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers and explore safely
- Be aware that beaches may have areas where topless sunbathing is common, but full nudity is not acceptable
- Keep emergency contacts readily accessible and share your itinerary with someone back home
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Italy with the age of consent equal to heterosexual relationships (14 years). Italy recognizes civil unions for same-sex couples since 2016, though same-sex marriage is not legal. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; while not illegal, they may attract unwanted attention in this conservative area
- LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations can be found but are not widely advertised; research and book in advance
- The LGBTQ+ nightlife scene in Syracuse is very limited; consider day trips to larger cities like Catania or Palermo for more options
- Hotel staff are generally professional and welcoming regardless of sexual orientation
- Use LGBTQ+ travel apps and resources to connect with the local community
- Be aware that some family-run establishments may hold traditional views, though discrimination is rare
- Major tourist areas and international hotels are generally more accepting
- Consider joining LGBTQ+ tour groups for a more comfortable experience
- Pride events occur in larger Sicilian cities but not typically in Syracuse
- Same-sex couples should have no issues booking double rooms, though requesting a 'matrimoniale' (double bed) may occasionally raise eyebrows in smaller establishments
- The general attitude is 'live and let live' with discretion appreciated
- Emergency services and police are professional and non-discriminatory
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Syracuse. While the city is relatively safe, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and theft can occur. Non-EU citizens will need to pay upfront for medical care, making comprehensive insurance essential. Even EU citizens with EHIC cards should consider supplementary insurance for repatriation, private medical care, and non-medical emergencies. The cost of evacuation or serious medical treatment can be substantial.
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