In short: The Province of Syracuse in the south-east combines Greek antiquity (Syracuse with the old-town island of Ortigia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park) with the UNESCO Baroque of the Val di Noto (Noto, Palazzolo Acreide), quiet coastal villages like Marzamemi, the Vendicari nature reserve and the rock necropolis of Pantalica. One of the most rewarding corners of Sicily for culture, Baroque and the sea.
Quick Facts
- Location: south-east coast of Sicily
- UNESCO: Syracuse & the Rock Necropolis of Pantalica; Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto (with Noto, Palazzolo Acreide)
- Highlights: Ortigia, Neapolis, Noto, Marzamemi, Vendicari
- Best for: culture, Baroque, food & wine and beach travellers
- Getting there: Catania airport + train/bus or rental car
Who is the Province of Syracuse good for? (decision guide)
| Traveller type | Well suited | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Antiquity & culture | Syracuse/Neapolis, Ortigia, Pantalica | summer heat in the excavation sites – start early |
| Baroque (Val di Noto) | Noto, Palazzolo Acreide | compact, but crowded in summer/during festivals |
| Beach & nature | Vendicari, beaches around Avola/Marzamemi | the best coves are mostly reached by car |
| Food & wine | Marzamemi, Avola almonds, Nero d’Avola, street food in Ortigia | book ahead in season |
Places in the Province of Syracuse
- Syracuse (Siracusa) – ancient metropolis with Ortigia and Neapolis.
- Noto – capital of Sicilian Baroque (UNESCO).
- Marzamemi – picturesque fishing village, tonnara, restaurants.
- Avola – known for its almonds and Nero d’Avola wine.
- Palazzolo Acreide – Baroque town and ancient Akrai (UNESCO).
Top Sights
- Neapolis Archaeological Park – Greek theatre, Ear of Dionysius, Roman amphitheatre (UNESCO).
- Ortigia – old-town island with the cathedral, Fonte Aretusa and the market.
- Vendicari Nature Reserve – coves, salt pans, birdwatching.
- Pantalica – rock necropolis in a gorge (UNESCO).
Getting There & Best Time to Visit
Usually via Catania airport, then train/bus or a rental car. Best time: spring and autumn; hot in high summer, and Noto/Ortigia get crowded. More: Best Time to Visit, Getting There, Car Rental.
Antiquity, Baroque and coast as an individual trip or a building block – our travel agency puts it together and books it. Just send us a non-binding trip request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the highlights of the Province of Syracuse?
Ancient Syracuse with Ortigia and the Neapolis Archaeological Park, the Baroque town of Noto, the fishing village of Marzamemi and the Vendicari nature reserve.
How many days should you plan?
One to two days for Syracuse/Ortigia; with Noto, Vendicari and Marzamemi, three to four days is better.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn – pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in high summer.
Sources & Update
Basis: editorial local knowledge; UNESCO World Heritage Sites “Syracuse and the Rock Necropolis of Pantalica” and “Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto”. Last updated: 14 June 2026. Opening hours and prices change over time and should be checked before your trip.
More Sights & Castles in this Province
- Akrai (Palazzolo Acreide) – Greek theatre & the Santoni
- Megara Hyblaea – early Greek colony near Augusta
- Castello Maniace – Hohenstaufen castle on Ortigia
