Excursion (wheelchair accessible) siracusa tour at Syracuse

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking of about 0.7 miles and is specially designed for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair or a scooter.

This Siracusa shore excursion is a wonderful way to experience the charm, beauty and history of Sicily! On this accessible tour, you will explore the incredible Piazza del Duomo, enjoy a visit to the glorious Syracusa Cathedral, browse the colorful Ortygia Market and experience the fascinating Maniace Castle.

Siracusa

Start your tour by meeting your accessible van and tour guide at the Siracusa cruise dock. From here, you will head out on a short drive to the heart of the town, the main square Piazza Duomo. This architectural and historic gem is peppered with incredible structures, charming cafes, gelaterias, museums, churches, street vendors and much more. Escorted by your tour guide, you will explore the beautiful Square and its many memorable highlights.

The most impressive structure on Piazza Duomo is the Syracusa Cathedral. The Cathedral was built in the 7th century over the Temple of Athena (5th century BC). It was a Doric temple with columns that can still be seen incorporated in the walls of the current church. The Façade was rebuilt in 1725-1753 by Andrea Palma. Your tour guide will explore the exterior and interior with you, and point out the most interesting pieces of the site including a font with marble basin from the 12th-13th century, a silver statue of Santa Lucia (1599) and a statue of the Madonna della Neve (Madonna of the snow) from 1512.

Ortygia Market

Next, your tour continues to the colorful Ortygia Market. Here, your tour guide will escort you through the narrow market paths, as you soak in the delicious smells, singing voices of the local merchants and browse all the local products offered throughout. If you desire, you will have some time to purchase local foods such as fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, almond cookies, fresh mulberries etc., or a few souvenirs to bring home.

Maniace Castle

The final part of your day will be spent visiting the famous Maniace Castle. This beautiful, old castle sits on the most picturesque coastal area of the town and offers spectacular views of the water and city. Escorted by your tour guide, you will explore the breathtaking outside grounds and also enter to see some of the beautiful features inside, including the impressive arched ceilings in the main hall. Your tour guide will narrate you through the history of the Castle and you will also have some wonderful photo opportunities here.  

Afterwards, return to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Syracuse, Syracuse Cathedral, Ortygia Market, Maniace Castle.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking of about 0.7 miles and is specially designed for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair or a scooter. Full time wheelchair users, are kindly requested to contact shoreconcierge@silversea.com <mailto:shoreconcierge@silversea.com> in order to provide further details and determine if the tour is suitable for them. The tour route avoids steps and stairs. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. An accessible vehicle with a wheelchair lift or ramp will be used for transportation. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. A minimum participation of 4 guests is required to operate the excursion at the advertised rate. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.