Enchanting stretches of sand and historical monuments on the Sicilian coast

The summer is coming to an end, but many are still looking for the ideal destination to spend their last weekends at the seaside. Syracuse is one of the most popular destinations, especially because of its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea. 

The city of Greek origin, world-famous for the Greek Theatre of Syracuse, is also the gateway to another picturesque location: the island of Ortigia. Here ancient monuments and seaside resorts meet. Discover the must-see stops for a special holiday in Syracuse and Ortigia.

Syracuse’s most beautiful beaches 

In Syracuse, you will find several beaches that are considered among the most beautiful on the east coast of Sicily and are suitable for any type of holiday, whether you want to relax with your family or stay active.

A few kilometres from the city lies the famous beach of Fontane Bianche, overlooking the Ionian Sea and renamed the Caribbean of Syracuse. It’s especially popular with families, offering several bars and clubs, as well as crystal-clear waters and a shallow, white seabed.

The Massolivieri beach lies within the Plemmirio marine protected area. It’s a dream setting, an unspoilt place nestled between two cliffs and lapped by the typical turquoise sea, ideal for those who love to explore. Syracusans are also very fond of Arenella Beach, with its wide shoreline, clean sea and fine golden sand. 

Then, there is the beach of Punta Carozza, characterised by golden sand and washed by an iridescent sea boasting colours ranging from turquoise to aquamarine with fascinating shades of indigo. 

If you want to get out of the city area and discover a true gem, about 20 km from Syracuse is the Gelsomineto beach It’s also known as Marchesa because it’s said to have been the favourite destination of a local noblewoman.

Situated between the sea and the luxuriant pine forest of the Casalgrande di Cassibile Reserve, this evocative beach also offers the possibility of exploring the nearby cliffs and coves via a special path – underwater photography and diving enthusiasts will find everything they are looking for here.

If you would like to spend a few days in this city and discover all its beaches, you could book a stay in a prestigious hotel in Syracuse: the UNAHOTELS One Siracusa. Easily accessible from the historic part of the city, it boasts a splendid Sky Roof for events and apéritifs, among many other facilities. 

The island of Ortigia, between monuments and beaches

Ortigia lies a few hundred metres off the coast of Sicily. A beautiful island connected to the mainland by two bridges that can be crossed by car. However, since several areas are within a wide ZTL, the most popular option is to visit the island on foot or by bus. 

What to see on the island of Ortigia? This little pearl near Syracuse offers monuments and buildings of great prestige, harking back to its ancient, exciting history. Start at the Temple of Athena, erected in the 5th century BC, of which the columns were incorporated into the more recent Cathedral of Syracuse.

Another building you cannot miss is the Baroque Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, which houses Caravaggio's work of art, Seppellimento di Santa Lucia (The Burial of Saint Lucy). The next stop is Maniace Castle, once a strategic building due to its unique position on the tip of the island. 

An unmissable stop in Ortigia is the Tropical Aquarium of Syracuse, located inside a gallery of Spanish origin. Here you will find tropical fish from all over the world and, at the end of the visit, you will find yourself in front of the Arethusa Spring, an enchanting mirror of fresh water that recalls the famous Greek myth. 

What’s more, Papyrus plants grow near the spring. Not everyone knows this, but the one in Ortigia-Siracusa is one of only two existing papyrus in Europe.

As for the beaches, the most beautiful and famous on the small island is Cala Rossa. This rocky beach with its turquoise waters is easy to reach and offers shade in the hottest hours of the afternoon.

From September, you will find a new hotel overlooking this beach ready to welcome you. It’s the Maniace Boutique Hotel Ortigia | UNA Esperienze, a refined and elegant historic residence with a spectacular view of the sea.

Twenty-one rooms and suites await you – all unique and dedicated to specific themes that recall the territory with their distinctly Sicilian style and sober, elegant decor. In addition, you will find a private indoor wine cellar, a historic garden and a terrace where you can enjoy cocktail, wine and aperitif tastings. 

Syracuse and the island of Ortigia, with their enchanting beaches and sights that reveal an ancient and fascinating history, are the ideal destinations for your next holiday.