Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour

Travelers looking to explore Sicily’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and historic towns often seek a tour that’s both comprehensive and comfortable. The Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour offers just that—a full-day adventure departing from Malta, combining scenic boat rides, guided visits, and free time in charming towns. Although the tour has an average rating of 3.5 based on 15 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find it a worthwhile way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning individual transport and activities.

One of the standout features is the high-speed catamaran that makes the crossing between Malta and Sicily smoother and faster, giving you more time to enjoy your destination. Plus, the included wine and sweets tasting at Marzamemi is a delightful way to indulge in local flavors. However, the long coach ride from the port to the towns might be a drawback for some, especially if you prefer more time exploring each place or dislike lengthy bus trips.

This tour is best suited for those who want a structured day with a mix of guided sightseeing and free time, particularly travelers who enjoy scenic boat journeys and cultural stops. If you’re looking for an easy, all-in-one day trip with a taste of Sicily’s history, culture, and coastal charm, this could be a great pick—just go in with realistic expectations about the pace and scope.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with a climate-controlled bus makes long hours manageable.
• Includes round-trip boat tickets, eliminating the hassle of separate bookings.
• Guided tours provide insight into historic sights like Syracuse and the Duomo.
• Free time in towns like Ortigia and Marzamemi allows for personal exploration.
• Taste local Sicilian wine and sweets—a highlight for food lovers.
• Long travel hours mean this is more of a sightseeing day than a relaxing one.

What to Expect from the Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins early, with a 6:30 am departure from Malta on a high-speed catamaran operated by Virtu Ferries. The crossing itself is a significant part of the experience—around 2 hours of smooth sailing that offers spectacular views of the sea and a chance to relax before the day of exploring begins.

Once in Sicily, the group boards a climate-controlled coach, which is crucial given the often hot Sicilian weather. The long drive from the ferry port to Syracuse requires about two hours, but the scenery along the way is generally pleasant, rolling through the Sicilian countryside.

Syracuse and Ortigia

The first stop is Syracuse—a city that was once one of the most influential in Western Europe. Your guide will introduce you to its Greek origins, reminding you that Syracuse played a pivotal role in the ancient Mediterranean world. Travelers have noted that guides like Monica are knowledgeable and friendly, making the rich history easier to appreciate.

You’ll spend about two hours in Syracuse, which provides enough time to get a taste of its historic streets, ancient ruins, and vibrant atmosphere. The highlight is Ortigia, an island connected by a bridge, filled with narrow alleyways, lively cafes, and picturesque views. In just an hour, you can wander at your own pace, soaking in the colorful houses, quaint shops, and the general charm of this historic district.

Syracuse Cathedral and Piazza Duomo

Within Ortigia, the Piazza Duomo features the extraordinary Duomo of Syracuse, built on the site of an ancient Greek temple. The building showcases a compelling mix of Greek, Byzantine, Norman, and Baroque architecture—making it a visual feast. The interior has been modified over centuries, reflecting the many cultures that have occupied the city. Visitors have appreciated the unique architectural blend, noting it’s one of the oldest sites of ongoing worship in the world. Spending about 30 minutes here allows for a quick but meaningful visit.

Marzamemi: A Picturesque Fishing Village

After Syracuse, the tour takes you roughly 45 minutes to Marzamemi, a tiny village packed with colorful fishermen’s houses, an old tuna processing plant (the Tonnara), and a lively central square. The village is a favorite for its sea of colors: bright blue doors, potted red flowers, and traditional wooden boats lined along the waterfront. Reviewers have described Marzamemi as “the most charming fishing village”, where the atmosphere captures genuine Sicilian coastal life.

Here, the group enjoys a one-hour free exploration, giving you the chance to stroll, take photos, and maybe sample some local deli if you wish (though food isn’t included). The village’s beauty lies in its authenticity and the relaxed pace it offers.

Stop at Pozzallo and Return Journey

On the way back to Malta, the group stops in Pozzallo for about two hours. This provides a final opportunity to stretch your legs or do some last-minute sightseeing before the returning boat trip. The journey back, which takes another two hours, allows you to reflect on the day’s experiences or simply unwind after a busy day.

The Value and Practicalities

The $157.57 per person price covers a full day of guided sightseeing, boat crossings, and tastings. Considering that the tour includes round-trip boat tickets, transportation within Sicily, and a knowledgeable guide, many might see it as good value. The included wine and sweets tasting is a bonus, especially for those keen to sample Sicilian flavors without additional expense.

However, the long coach journey—around four hours of total driving—means you’ll spend a significant part of the day in transit. Some reviews, such as one from Jeffery, mentioned the day felt “too long” with limited time in each location. Others like Nancy found the bus ride smooth but would have appreciated slightly more focused stops.

What the Tour Does Well

• Smooth crossing: The high-speed catamaran makes the crossing comfortable and scenic.
• Balanced itinerary: Combining guided tours with free exploration gives you both context and flexibility.
• Authentic experiences: Visiting Marzamemi and Syracuse lets you see real Sicilian towns, not just tourist spots.
• Guides’ knowledge: Reviewers praise guides like Monica for their friendly and informative approach.
• Local tastings: The Sicilian wine and sweets tasting adds a flavorful touch to the day.

Potential Drawbacks

• Long travel hours: The coach journey might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long bus rides.
• Limited time in key locations: Two hours each in Syracuse and Marzamemi can feel rushed, especially if you want to linger.
• Focus on major sights: The tour hits the highlights but skips some off-the-beaten-path gems.
• No hotel pickup: You need to meet at the starting point in Malta, which might be inconvenient for some.

Who’s It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip from Malta without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s perfect if you love scenic boat rides, historic towns, and local tasting experiences—especially if you enjoy guided commentary and flexible free time. Keep in mind that it’s a long day with significant travel time; so, if you prefer more relaxed days or in-depth exploration, consider whether the schedule suits your style.

If you’re after a taste of Sicily’s highlights without the cost or effort of multi-day trips, this tour offers an efficient overview. It’s also suitable for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see Syracuse’s ruins, Ortigia’s charm, and the colorful fishing village of Marzamemi.

The Sum Up

The Syracuse and Marzamemi Sicily Tour provides a well-organized way to experience Sicily’s cultural and scenic highlights from Malta. The combination of comfortable transportation, insightful guides, and authentic towns makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a guided day with a mix of history, coastal beauty, and local flavors.

While the lengthy coach rides might be a downside for some, the included boat trips and the chance to explore places like Ortigia and Marzamemi make it worthwhile. You’ll enjoy beautiful views, learn about Sicily’s layered history, and sample some delicious local wine—all within a single day.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a structured adventure that balances guided sightseeing with personal exploration, all at a reasonable price point. Just be prepared for the long hours and swift schedule—if you’re happy with that, you’ll likely find this Sicily trip a memorable and worthwhile experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat trip from Malta to Sicily?
The high-speed catamaran crossing takes about 2 hours each way, making it a relatively quick and smooth journey across the Mediterranean.

Is food included in the tour?
No, the tour price covers sightseeing, transfers, and tastings, but food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during free time.

What do I need to bring for the trip?
It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and have your passport ready for cross-border travel. A hat and water are also recommended, especially in summer.

Are the stops in Syracuse and Marzamemi guided or free?
You’ll have guided tours in Syracuse and Ortigia, with about 2 hours allocated. Marzamemi offers about an hour for free exploration, giving you time to wander at your own pace.

How long is the coach ride from the port to Syracuse?
The drive from the ferry terminal to Syracuse takes approximately 2 hours, which accounts for a significant part of the day.

Can I customize the tour or choose where to spend more time?
The itinerary is fixed, with limited free time in specific towns. If you’re looking for more in-depth exploration, this might not be the best option.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour typically involves a small group of up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need a valid passport?
Yes, a current valid passport is required for crossing from Malta to Sicily.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund if the experience is canceled.

In essence, this Sicily tour from Malta offers a practical, scenic, and culturally rich day out for those eager to tick off some major sights in one go. It’s not perfect—those long bus rides and brief stops are trade-offs—but for many, the balance of guided insight, stunning scenery, and local flavor makes it a worthwhile adventure.