The port of Siracusa is a new hub for MSC Mediterranean Cruises ships, both as a port of departure and arrival.

The Italian port city of Siracusa, a sought-after MSC Mediterranean Cruises destination, is located in Sicily on the Ionian coast. The gateway to Noto and Ragusa, Siracusa is famous for its glorious sunshine, ancient heritage, and Baroque piazzas.

MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

• Noto, capital of Sicilian baroque
• Ragusa, Modica and Scicli
• Syracuse

Noto is famous worldwide for its Baroque art and architecture masterpieces. A short coach ride from the Siracusa port, the city of not is an unmissable MSC Excursions destination. The city is located along the slopes of Mount Iblei, characterised by the olive groves and almond trees. After an earthquake in the late 1600s, the city was rebuilt by genius architects Rosario Gagliardi and Francesco Sortino amongst others, who created a unique masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque recognized with UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Spend a day immersed in the extraordinary countryside and atmospheric baroque cities nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their rich artistic and architectural marvels. Begin this MSC Excursion in the town of Ragusa, where you will explore the old town of Ragusa Ibla, known as the “Pearl of the Baroque” for its palaces, gardens and churches. The tour continues with a visit to Modica, known baroque palaces and beautiful squares lined with palms and home to world famous chocolatiers. Before returning to the ship, the final stop will be Scicli. Visit the churches of Sant'Ignazio and San Giovanni, marvelling at their spectacular interiors, and tour the main streets and squares of the town.

Experience Siracusa as a local with a walking tour. Make your way to the Old Market, where plenty of Sicilian food such as cannoli, granita and brioches can be tasted. Visit the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and then head to Corso Matteotti, the city’s most elegant shopping area. Syracuse is also home to stunning Cathedrals and the Abbey of Santa Lucia, home of a world-famous Caravaggio painting. To complete the tour board a nearby boat for an inspiring tour of the island of Ortygia, the historical heart of Siracusa, seeing it from the sea.