Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour

Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour: A Day of History, Charm, and Scenic Views

This full-day adventure from Malta, priced at approximately $157.57 per person, offers a chance to explore some of Sicily’s most captivating sights—Syracuse, Ortigia, Marzamemi, and even a glimpse of Mount Etna. Starting early at 6:30 am and lasting around 14 hours, it’s a long but rewarding trip that combines a high-speed boat ride with immersive sightseeing.

What we love most about this journey is the comfortable climate-controlled bus—a godsend after a two-hour ferry crossing—and the opportunity to taste Sicilian wines and sweets, which add a delicious local touch. Plus, the free time in Modica and Marzamemi allows for personal exploration, offering flexibility that many group tours lack.

On the flip side, this tour can feel quite long and bus-heavy for some, with over 5 hours spent on the coach as highlighted by some reviewers. It’s a good option if you’re eager to see Sicily’s highlights but may not suit travelers looking for a relaxed pace or multiple stops.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, food lovers, and those who enjoy scenic day trips. If you’re craving a structured yet flexible way to experience Sicily’s iconic sights from Malta, it’s a solid choice—just be prepared for the long day.

Key Points

• Comfortable journey: Climate-controlled bus and smooth high-speed ferry ride make the day more enjoyable.
• Rich historical sites: Highlights include Syracuse’s Greek ruins and the unique architecture of the Duomo.
• Taste of Sicily: Included wine and sweets tasting provides a flavorful local experience.
• Free time: You’ll have some flexibility to explore places like Modica and Marzamemi at your own pace.
• Long travel time: Expect over 5 hours on the bus, which can feel tiring for some.
• Limited stops: Only two main towns are visited, with more time spent traveling between them.

Detailed Review of the Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins quite early in the morning at 6:30 am from Marsa, Malta, setting off by high-speed catamaran. We appreciated the smooth ride promised by the fast boat, which helps minimize seasickness and makes the journey more comfortable. The ferry crossing, included in the price, is a highlight itself—offering a chance to enjoy the views and feel the breeze.

Once across to Sicily, the group is greeted by a professional guide and a climate-controlled coach. This duo is crucial for making the long day manageable, especially considering the two-hour drive from the ferry port to Syracuse.

Syracuse: An Ancient City Reborn

The first stop is Syracuse, a city with a history that seems to echo through every stone. Known as Magna Graecia, Syracuse was once a powerhouse in Western Europe, and the remnants make that clear. We loved the way the guide brought the city’s past alive, pointing out Greek theatres, ruins, and stories behind each site.

In just two hours, we wandered through Ortigia, the island core of Syracuse, which is connected to the mainland by a short bridge. This area has been revitalized, with charming streets, lively cafes, and vibrant markets. It’s the ideal place for a quick stroll or some photo opportunities—think brightly colored buildings, cobblestone streets, and a lively atmosphere.

The Syracuse Cathedral: An Architectural Melting Pot

The Piazza Duomo is centered around the Duomo di Syracuse, a building that’s a testament to centuries of change. Originally a Greek temple dedicated to Athena, it was transformed into a Christian church, with subsequent modifications by Byzantines, Normans, and after the 1693 earthquake, the stunning Baroque façade we see today.

This site exemplifies Sicily’s layered architecture, blending Greek, Byzantine, Norman, and Baroque styles—an architectural mosaic that speaks to the island’s complex history. The guide explained the significance of each alteration, enriching our understanding of the site.

Marzamemi: A Colorful Fishing Village

After Syracuse, we headed to Marzamemi, about 45 minutes away, and instantly felt transported into a postcard scene. The brightly colored fishermen’s houses, the old Tonnara (disused tuna processing plant built by Arabs in the 10th century), and the potted red geraniums create a vibrant setting.

The central square, Piazza Regina Margherita, is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery. We loved the multicolored wooden boats and the lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, small shops, and tasting local Sicilian delicacies, a part of the tour included wine and sweets tasting—a highlight that many reviews praise.

Mt. Etna and Modica: A Brief Glimpse

While the tour description mentions Mt. Etna, the itinerary suggests that the main focus is on the towns of Syracuse and Marzamemi, with some mention of visiting Mt. Etna in the highlights. However, reviews imply a limited time in this region, and the long coach journey means you might only get a quick look if you choose to explore independently.

The long bus ride—over five hours—is a common point of critique. As one review notes, “we spent over 5 hours in the bus,” which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to such long travel days. It seems that the tour prioritizes covering multiple highlights over a relaxed pace, which might not appeal to everyone.

Practical Considerations and Real Traveler Feedback

Several reviewers mention that guides like Monica are knowledgeable and friendly, making the long day more engaging. Others appreciate the smoothness of the trip and the self-directed free time, although some wish for more stops or a different itinerary to better experience Mount Etna or Catania.

A standout point from positive reviews is the value for money—especially considering the included ferry, guide, transport, and tastings. As one reviewer put it, “Well worth the money, fantastic island with beautiful scenery and places to visit.” Conversely, a few travelers felt the long coach hours and limited time at each site detracted from the experience, with some describing it as “a long day and only 2 cities”.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see multiple Sicilian highlights without the hassle of planning transportation. It suits those who enjoy structured days with guided commentary, and aren’t bothered by long travel hours. Food and wine enthusiasts will appreciate the included tastings, and history buffs will enjoy the layered architecture and Greek ruins.

However, if you prefer more relaxed exploration or are concerned about long bus rides, this might not be the best fit. It’s also best suited to travelers with good energy levels, since the day is physically demanding.

Final Thoughts

The Syracuse and Marzamemi tour from Malta offers a solid overview of Sicily’s key sights—Greek ruins, baroque architecture, colorful fishing villages, and tasty local foods—all in one day. The high-speed ferry provides a fun start, and the climate-controlled coach makes the long day more tolerable. While it’s true that you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the bus, the guide’s commentary and the variety of stops help make the journey worthwhile.

This tour delivers good value for those interested in a quick, comprehensive taste of Sicily. It’s perfect if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, culture, and a bit of local flavor on a tight schedule. If you’re adaptable and enjoy guided trips with some free time, you’ll likely find it an engaging and memorable experience—despite the long hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day on the coach. It’s best suited for those with good mobility and endurance.

What should I bring for the ferry crossing?
Comfortable clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket. Seasickness remedies might be helpful if you’re sensitive.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during your free time.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about two hours in Syracuse, one hour in Ortigia, half an hour at the Duomo, and about an hour in Marzamemi, with the rest of the time spent traveling.

Will we see Mount Etna?
The itinerary mentions Mount Etna as a highlight, but the actual time dedicated to it may be limited. Reviewers suggest most of the focus is on Syracuse and Marzamemi.

Is there free time in Modica?
The tour does not explicitly list Modica in the itinerary, but free time is available in places like Syracuse and Marzamemi, allowing for personal exploration.

What is the booking process?
Most trips are booked approximately 55 days in advance. The tour provides a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

Are there any discounts or special considerations?
The price listed is per person, with no specific discounts mentioned. Be sure to check for updates or promotions when booking.

What if my cruise ship is delayed or misses the tour?
Since refunds are not issued for missed departures due to late arrival, it’s essential to coordinate your ship’s schedule carefully. Refunds are only available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this Sicily tour from Malta offers a well-structured day of sightseeing, blending history, scenery, and local flavors. It’s best for travelers who don’t mind a long travel day and want a guided experience that hits the highlights with some flexibility. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and excellent value, it can be a memorable way to taste Sicily’s essence, even if it’s a bit intense at times.