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Book Syracuse Food Tours
- Feel the streets of Syracuse come alive on this guided street food tour that takes you through a lively celebration of culture and cuisine.
- Make your way into the Market of Ortigia with a professional guide where you will get to meet welcoming locals and a magnificent spread of local produce.
- The Market is known for the many types of cheese, meats, vegetables, nuts, and much more that are sourced locally, so you will have a ton of options to choose from.
- On this tour, you will also get to taste samples from 3 places that will bring you closer to Sicilian culture.
- Should you choose to extend your tour, you can also go on an excursion to the historical island of Ortigia with a guide.
Inclusions
- Food tasting
- Wine tasting
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Tip: Don’t fill up with a heavy meal prior to this tour as you would not be able to enjoy this experience to the fullest.
- It is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes.
- The tour is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy a Sicilian culinary affair right from shopping for local ingredients at the Ortigia market to making a three-course Sicilian meal with the help of a local chef guide beside you.
- Learn about the different scents and flavors of the Sicilian spices at Ortigia, one of the oldest markets in Syracuse.
- Interact with the Siracusa traders as you stroll through the market and get to taste some seasonal local ingredients and wine.
- Enjoy the process of cooking Sicilian dishes with the local ingredients you just purchased under the guidance of your chef.
- The cooking class will teach you to cook a three-course Sicilian meal – a first course, a second course, and a salad.
- Revel in tasting the food prepared and enjoy some local wine that pairs best with your food.
Inclusions
- Cooking class by a local Sicilian chef
- Shopping for fresh ingredients at Ortigia market
- Local food and wine tasting
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Sicily with our Syracuse Food Tour. Discover a tantalizing fusion of history and flavors as you savor traditional arancini, heavenly cannoli, and more. Let the scents of fresh seafood and aromatic herbs guide you through hidden alleys to uncover Syracuse's gastronomic treasures. Bon appétit!
Why a food tour in Syracuse is a must-do?
- Culinary diversity: Syracuse, like many places in Sicily, has a diverse and flavorful culinary tradition that combines influences from Greek, Roman, Arabic, and Norman cultures.
- Fresh seafood: Syracuse is famous for its fresh seafood. Stroll through city's seafood markets and restaurants, where you can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, seafood pasta, and freshly shucked oysters.
- Local specialties: Syracuse has its own special local specialties, such as "pasta con le sarde" (pasta with sardines), "arancini" (deep-fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings), and "cassata" (a traditional Sicilian cake).
- Traditional markets: Classic markets like the Ortygia Market have an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and other ingredients used in Sicilian cooking.
- Off-beat gems: Food tours often take you to lesser-known, family-run restaurants and local eateries that you might not discover on your own
Which food tour in Syracuse is the best for you?
First-timer in Syracuse
Go for: Cooking class with market tour
Duration: Half-day (4-5 hours)
- For first-timers in Syracuse, this experience offers an immersive introduction to the local culture and cuisine. Explore the ancient market of Ortygia, choose the freshest ingredients with a local chef, and participate in a traditional cooking class.
- It's a great way to kickstart your culinary journey in Syracuse and learn about Sicilian gastronomy from the experts.
Recommended tour
Traditional Cooking Class with Ancient Market Visit in Syracuse
Short on time?
Go for: Street food tour
Duration: 2:15 hours
- If you're short on time but still want to savor the essence of Syracuse's culinary delights, nothing beats is ideal.
- It offers a condensed experience, taking you through the lively market of Ortigia, sampling local street food, and giving you a taste of Sicilian culture in just a few hours.
Recommended tour:
Street Food Guided Tour in Syracuse
Market visits
Go for: Exploring Ortigia's market
Duration: Half-day (4-5 hours)
- If you're passionate about exploring local markets and experiencing the vibrancy of Syracuse's food scene, the Cooking Class & Shopping at Ortigia's Market is perfect. It combines a market visit, interaction with local traders, and hands-on cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Recommended tour
Cooking Class & Shopping at Ortigia's Market
Food hubs in Syracuse
Ortygia
In the heart of Syracuse, Ortygia's narrow streets lead to vibrant markets. From fresh produce to local delicacies, Ortygia's markets offer a sensory journey through centuries of rich gastronomic heritage.
Borgata
The residential neighborhood is a local food haven, featuring authentic eateries and traditional Sicilian flavors. The food tours here delve into the genuine and less-explored side of Syracuse's gastronomy.
Isola (Island)
Isola is known for its seaside ambiance and fresh seafood. Food tours in this area showcase the best of coastal Sicilian cuisine, offering a delightful mix of flavors against a backdrop of the Mediterranean.
Popular dishes of Syracuse
Pasta alla Norma
A Sicilian classic, featuring pasta with tomato sauce, eggplant, basil, and ricotta salata, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Arancini
Deep-fried rice balls filled with ragù, peas, and mozzarella, offering a crispy exterior and a savory, gooey center.
Cassata
A traditional Sicilian dessert, layers of sponge cake, ricotta, candied fruit, and marzipan create a sweet and colorful delicacy.
Sarde a Beccafico
Fresh sardines stuffed with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, and raisins, creating a savory and aromatic seafood dish.
Caponata
A flavorful eggplant-based dish with tomatoes, olives, and capers, often served as a side or appetizer.
Scaccia
A Sicilian flatbread filled with various ingredients, such as tomato, cheese, and herbs, creating a delicious and portable meal.
Frittella
A sweet and indulgent dessert, frittelle are deep-fried dough balls, often coated in sugar and filled with ricotta or custard.
Granita
A refreshing frozen dessert made from water, sugar, and various flavors like lemon, almond, or coffee, offering a delightful Sicilian treat.
Food culture of Syracuse
Mediterranean touch
Discover the symphony of Mediterranean flavors in Syracuse, where the freshest seafood harmonizes with zesty citrus fruits, olives, and aromatic herbs.
Culinary crossroads
Syracuse's food culture is the heavenly blend of Greek, Roman, and Arab influences, thereby creating a tantalizing fusion of tastes and traditions.
Sicilian delights
Indulge in authentic Sicilian delicacies as you wander through hidden alleys, where local artisans craft delectable treats like arancini and cannoli.
Timeless traditions
Experience the legacy of generations as you feast on dishes that have graced Sicilian tables for centuries, preserving the essence of Syracuse's culinary heritage.
Feasts of the sea
With its coastal charm, Syracuse delights in the bounty of the sea, offering an array of seafood dishes that celebrate the region's maritime heritage.
Family & food
Explore the heart of Sicilian culture through shared family meals, where recipes are passed down through generations, fostering a strong sense of community.
Sweet temptations
Satisfy your sweet tooth with irresistible Sicilian desserts, from the world-renowned cannoli to cassata and granita - a delightful culinary adventure awaits!
Wine n Dine
Syracuse's love affair with wine dates back centuries, and wine enthusiasts can savor a diverse selection of locally-produced wines that perfectly complement each meal.
Festival of flavors
Join in the city's festive spirit as culinary events and food festivals throughout the year celebrate Syracuse's vibrant and cherished food culture.
Know before you go
Timings
Weather
Location
The street food guided tour usually begins around meal time, around 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Whereas full day guided tour starts pretty early at 8:30 AM.
Dinner experiences typically begin between 6 PM - 8 PM, but it's essential to refer to the ticket for precise timing and details.
The best time to take Syracuse food tours largely depends on your personal preferences and what kind of experience you're seeking.
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, blooming flavors, and fewer crowds create a delightful food tour experience.
- Summer (June to August): Embrace vibrant festivities, warm weather, and a lively atmosphere during Syracuse's peak food tour season.
- Autumn (September to November): Savor the harvest's bounty and enjoy wine festivals amidst pleasant weather on your food tour.
- Winter (December to February): Cozy up to unique winter dishes, quieter streets, and a more intimate food tour experience.
Syracuse is located on the east coast of the island of Sicily, Italy. It is situated on the Ionian Sea, south of the Italian mainland. The historical center of Syracuse, Ortygia, is located on a small island connected to the mainland by bridges.
Getting there
- By air: The nearest airport is Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). From the airport, you can take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car to Syracuse, approximately a 45-minute drive.
- By car: Drive from Catania to Ortigia, but parking can be challenging. Opt for parking lots on the Syracuse side or park in the city and walk over, especially during high season.
- By train: Take the train from Catania Centrale to Siracusa; the journey takes just over 1 hour. Consider continuing to Taormina by train after exploring Syracuse.
Frequently asked questions about Syracuse food tours
What are the different types of food tours available in Syracuse?
Syracuse offers a variety of food tours, ranging from traditional cooking classes and street food explorations to market-focused experiences. Each tour provides a unique perspective on the city's rich culinary scene.
Which Syracuse food tour is best for first-time visitors?
For an immersive introduction, the "Traditional Cooking Class with Ancient Market Visit" is ideal. It not only explores the vibrant market but also allows participants to engage in hands-on cooking with a local chef.
Is there a quick food tour option suitable for those with limited time in Syracuse?
Certainly! The "Street Food Guided Tour in Syracuse" is a condensed option, offering a snapshot of local delicacies and flavors for those with time constraints.
I'm keen on local markets and fresh produce. Which Syracuse food tour would you recommend?
The "Cooking Class & Shopping at Ortigia's Market" is a perfect fit. It combines a market visit, interaction with local traders, and a hands-on cooking class with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Are there any family-friendly food tours available in Syracuse?
Yes! The "Cooking Class & Shopping at Ortigia's Market" is an excellent family-friendly food tour in Syracuse. It not only introduces participants to the vibrant Ortigia market but also involves a hands-on cooking class with a local chef. This interactive experience is engaging for all ages, making it a delightful and educational culinary adventure suitable for families.
Are Syracuse food tours suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies?
Absolutely. Syracuse food tours often cater to individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies. Tour organizers are generally accommodating and can customize the experience to meet specific dietary needs. It's advisable to inform the guide about any restrictions or allergies in advance, ensuring a tailored and enjoyable culinary journey that considers individual dietary requirements.
Do Syracuse food tours include alcoholic beverages?
Alcoholic beverage offerings differ among Syracuse food tours. For instance, street food tours and cooking classes may include insights into wine pairings, while other tours may feature a selection of local beverages. Given the rich wine culture of Italy, Syracuse food tours often present a variety of wines. For precise details, refer to the specific tour descriptions.
Can I take my kid on food tours in Syracuse?
Yes, many food tours in Syracuse are family-friendly and welcome children. However, it's advisable to check the inclusions of each specific tour to ensure it aligns with the age and preferences of your child. Some tours may have age-appropriate activities or options to accommodate families, providing an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone.