Syracuse, the most ancient and magnificent of all Mediterranean cities, and former capital of the Magna Graecia, owes its unique charm to the succession of invading civilisations that have conquered it. It is a true melting pot of ancient Greek, Roman, Arabic, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures and combines all their styles, tastes and scents. In every corner of the city traces of these ancient civilisations can be seen. A visit to Syracuse is like a journey in time and through history. Added to which is the wonderful coastline and delightful surrounding countryside. You will have the chance to mix art, history, nature and fine food with our warm Sicilian hospitality.

As a visitor to Siracuse, you should first see around the historic city, concentrating on the island of Ortigia, before visiting some of the many nearby sites: (including the baroque marvel of the city of Noto - a Unesco world heritage centre - the world-famous archaeological sites of Augusta and Palazzolo Acreide, the nature reserves at Vendicari and Cavagrande, the prehistoric site of Pantalica, etc.) If you care to venture a little further, visit the beautiful city of Taormina (beloved of D H Lawrence and many other English writers and artists), the ceramics of Caltagirone, the villa at Casale di Piazza Armerina, the baroque splendours of Modica and Ragusa (where you should try the famous cuisine), the nightlife of Catania, the splendid landscape around Alcantara and, of course, the awe-inspiring heights and lave-flows of Mt Etna. Finally, the nearby coastline offers many wonderful opportunities for sea bathing in a warm and crystal-clear sea.