Day Trips from Sicily to Syracuse

Head from Catania to three of Sicily’s top destinations during this full-day, attraction-packed guided tour. Travel comfortably by air-conditioned minivan. Highlights include the Neapolis archaeological park in Syracuse (admission tickets purchased separately), a visit to the Greek and Baroque-influenced island of Ortigia, and a stop in picturesque, UNESCO-listed Noto.

Dive into the world of ‘Commissario Montalbano,’ the hit Italian TV series that follows a Sicilian police chief who solves crimes by reconstructing the events. Visit a number of filming locations around southern Sicily that are used to portray the fictional city of Vigata on television. This small-group tour is ideal for fans of the show and includes round-trip transportation from your Catania hotel.

The baroque cities of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa have been recognized by UNESCO for their lavish 17th-century churches and palaces. Visit all three in a single day with this driving tour from Catania. Skip the delays of public transportation with hotel pickup and transportation directly to each of these architectural gems. Explore at your own pace and cap off your day with a stop at a historic chocolate factory.

Depart from Catania and reach Syracuse, the city that was one of the most powerful and richest in Magna Graecia. Here you can visit Ortigia, the island that forms the historic center of the city, connected to the mainland by two bridges. With an expert guide, you can stroll through the narrow streets that wind between ancient palaces and baroque churches, and discover the monuments that bear witness to the glorious past of Syracuse. Among these are the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily, the Cathedral, built on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena and enriched by Byzantine, Norman and Baroque elements, the Arethusa Fountain, linked to the legend of Alpheus and Arethusa and surrounded by papyrus plants, and the Castello Maniace, a medieval fortress that dominates the port. The tour includes transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Catania, and an expert guide who will accompany you during the visits.

Take a break from the crowds and heat of the city and explore one of the most pristine nature reserves in eastern Sicily with this guided Cavagrande hike. Skip the hassle of reaching the trailhead on your own with round-trip transportation from the center of Syracuse and join your hiking guide to explore this protected canyon with its lush vegetation and take a dip in its crystalline rock pools.

Skip the large tour groups in Sicily, and opt for an intimate, private day trip instead. With a private driver whose focus is your personal group, see ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, stroll through Ortigia's small streets to shop for Sicilian products, and discover UNESCO-listed baroque architecture in Noto. Even better: A hotel or port pickup and drop-off service is also covered.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Catania and venture to nearby Sicilian towns on this full-day excursion. Alongside a private guide, enjoy guided tours of the towns of Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli and visit several points of interest. Some highlights include the baroque architecture of Ragusa, a chocolate tasting, and the Chiafura Archaeological Park.

Visit three of Sicily's prettiest spots with this private tour. You'll spend time in the historic village of Buscemi and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Palazzolo Acreide, followed by a trip to the beautiful seaside village of Marzamemi where you can taste local fare. Hotel pickup and private transportation are included for a seamless experience.

Discover the fictional areas of Vigata, Montelusa, and Marinella from the hit detective show “Inspector Montalbano” on this exciting tour in Catania. Alongside a private guide, walk the same streets the inspector does as you explore the Sicilian towns of Ragusa, Scicli, Modica, Punta Secca, and Donnalucata. While you explore, your guide sheds light on the history of each location and its relation to the show.

Combine your love of aquatic wildlife with your quest for adventure on this small-group sightseeing boat tour from Avola to Portopalo. With stops for swimming and snorkeling, there’s plenty to see and do. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of time to relax too—there’s a complimentary aperitif with snacks, prosecco, and wine to enjoy.

Explore the historic seafront city of Syracuse with this full-day tour from Taormina. Learn about the town’s ancient Greek roots at its archaeological park, complete with an intact amphitheater. Discover the old town of Ortigia with a guided tour and then wander through its charming streets at your own pace with free time.