The street in Syracuse that hosts one of the most beautiful markets in the Mediterranean

Unlike many other historic markets, the Antico Mercato di Siracusa followed an unusual path, moving from an indoor to an outdoor setting. Originally housed in a covered structure built in 1900 on the ancient Spanish walls near the Temple of Apollo, the market has, since the 1980s, been operating along the lively Via Emmanuele De Benedictis and its surrounding streets in Ortigia.

The market on Via Emmanuele De Benedictis

Don't be surprised if, as soon as you cross the bridge connecting Ortigia to Syracuse, you notice a bustling flow of Ape Cars and hear vendors “vanniare” (shouting their sales pitches) while admiring the breathtaking view of the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Every morning at dawn, Via De Benedictis comes alive, transforming into Syracuse’s most famous "souk".

The Antico Mercato is a vibrant and folkloric place, bursting with colour and energy. Stalls and small shops overflow with every kind of delicacy, while vendors often sing in the local dialect, improvising catchy rhymes to entertain tourists and persuade them that their goods are the best around. But one thing is certain—the quality here is always top-notch.

Salumeria Fratelli Burgio - Siracusa

Dive into the intense flavours of local gastronomy, then lose yourself in the enchanting alleyways of Ortigia, a place that captivates visitors with its picturesque views. Here, you will find everything:

• Fresh fruit, citrus, and vegetables from the surrounding countryside
• Ricotta and cheeses from local dairies
• Meat, poultry, and legumes
• And the undisputed star: fish.

The fish arrives straight from the crystal-clear waters of the Arethusa coast, filling the air with its unmistakable freshness. The selection is vast, with a focus on bluefish and the exquisite sea urchin roe, which is sold fresh and ready to eat.

Cappuccio - Siracusa

Street food delights

Amid the "vanniàte" (calls) of the vendors, you can also savour authentic Siracusan street food, renowned above all for its abundant selection of crustaceans and seafood—sea urchins, oysters, fasolari clams, langoustines, prawns, mussels, and clams—all freshly caught and served raw, with just a squeeze of lemon (and at competitive prices).

To ensure you don’t miss out on some must-visit stops, take note of these local favourites: If you're visiting between Easter and October, be sure to stop by Cappuccio at Via Emanuele Giaracà 8 for excellent seafood dishes. This seasonal spot is also open for dinner.

At Via De Benedictis 29, La Carnezzeria (despite its name, which suggests a butcher shop) serves fantastic fish-based appetisers and pasta dishes.

Caseificio Borderi - Siracusa

A little further down, at number 6, the market’s long-standing superstar is the legendary sandwiches from Caseificio Borderi.

Just a few steps away, in Piazza Cesare Battisti, don’t miss Fratelli Burgio, where you can enjoy charcuterie boards, cheeses, and mixed tastings, alongside their famous panini.