Siracusa in 3 Days – Discover one of Sicily’s Most Fascinating Travel Destinations

If you only have a few days to explore Siracusa (Syracuse), one of Sicily’s most captivating coastal cities, a solid plan is essential. Located on the southeastern coast, Siracusa is a masterclass in harmony: ancient Greek ruins, salty Mediterranean breezes, and warm Sicilian hospitality.

Once a powerhouse of the ancient world, Siracusa today offers a blend of Baroque architecture, lively markets, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here is our curated 3-day Siracusa itinerary to help you experience the best of the city.

Day 1 – The Magic of Ortigia Island

Ortigia is the historical heart of Siracusa. Connected to the mainland by bridges, this small island holds thousands of years of secrets.

• Morning: Market Flavors & Ancient Ruins – Park near the Sant’Antonio dock and walk across the Umbertino Bridge. Your first stop is the Temple of Apollo. To its left lies the vibrant Ortigia Market (open every morning except Sunday). Dive into the scents of fresh oregano, seasonal citrus, and the morning’s catch.
• Midday: Piazza Archimede & The Cathedral – Walk down Corso Matteotti to Piazza Archimede to see the Fountain of Diana. Continue to the Siracusa Cathedral (Duomo). Look closely at the exterior—the building actually incorporates the ancient columns of the Temple of Minerva.
• Afternoon: Legends & Puppets – Visit the Aretusa Spring, a freshwater fountain overlooking the sea wrapped in Greek mythology. End your afternoon at the Maniace Castle or catch a traditional Sicilian puppet show at the Pupi Museum.

Traveler’s Tip: Exploring Sicily in the heat requires effortless style. If you want to take a piece of the island home, check out Sicily Clothing – Le Siciliane, a brand celebrating Mediterranean colors. For a casual day of walking, their Women’s Sicily T-shirtsare the perfect lightweight choice.

Day 2 – Underground Caves & Ancient Theaters

During the morning you should take a walk in the wonderful Latomie dei Cappuccini – caves used as prisons in ancient times and now a fascinating garden dug underground – which are open until one o’clock. And ater your tour have a delicious arancino while overlooking the port of Siracusa from a terraced bar.

In the afternoon you may visit the huge Neapolis Archaeological Park which includes the ruins of Greek and Roman Siracusa, as the Greek Theatre, Dionisio’s Ear and the Roman Amphitheatre. A possible alternative in case of bad weather is the Archaeological Museum ‘Paolo Orsi’.

Day 3 – Catacombs, Canals, and Coastal Breezes

For your last day enjoy a guided tour to the striking San Giovanni Catacombs, and if you still have some time in the afternoon I recommend to take a boat trip around Ortigia, but don’t forget to bargain a bit over the price!

If this isn’t enough to fill your journey, get to the river Ciane, just outside of Siracusa, and have a trip by canoe towards the springs: you will move amid the largest papyrus colony of Mediterranean Europe, one of Siracusa’s symbols.

Conclusion

3 days in Siracusa are enough to fall under the island’s spell — a mix of sea, sunlight, and stories that stay with you long after you leave. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow lanes of Ortigia, tasting the island’s legendary sweets, or simply watching the waves roll in at sunset, Siracusa reveals Sicily’s soul at every turn.

Before you go, take a moment to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and enjoy one last espresso by the sea. Sicily has a way of reminding travellers that beauty isn’t just in its monuments — it’s in its rhythm, its flavours, and its effortless style.

And if you’d like to see a quieter, more authentic side of the island, venture inland and discover its rural charm in Partanna and Salemi: Sicily’s Rural Inland — a journey through the heart of traditional Sicily, far from the coastal crowds.