Pantalica Tour Guide

Necropolis of Pantalica, necropoli di Pantalica, 96010 Sortino SR, Italy 

Things to do in Necropolis of Pantalica?

Review and Itinerary by Baldassarri Giuseppe from Italy.

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Exploring Pantalica and its surrounding attractions in Italy can be a fascinating experience. Pantalica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southeastern Sicily, known for its ancient necropolis and stunning natural beauty. To make the most of your visit, I would recommend planning for a 1 to 2-day itinerary. Here's a suggested itinerary to guide you:

Day 1:

- Arrival in Pantalica: The nearest airport to Pantalica is Catania Fontanarossa Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Pantalica, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Syracuse or Sortino and then continue by taxi or local transportation to Pantalica.

- Explore Pantalica Nature Reserve: Start your visit by exploring the Pantalica Nature Reserve, which is famous for its ancient rock-cut tombs and stunning canyon landscape. Take a hike along the trails that wind through the reserve, leading you to the various necropolises and viewpoints. Don't miss the Anaktoron, a prehistoric cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the past.

- Local Cuisine: For lunch, you can enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty of Pantalica or opt for a nearby trattoria or agriturismo. Sample Sicilian specialties such as arancini (rice balls), pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant and ricotta salata cheese), and cannoli (pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese). Pair your meal with local Sicilian wines, such as Nero d'Avola or Etna Rosso.

Day 2 (optional):

- Visit Nearby Attractions: If you have an extra day, you can explore nearby attractions in the region. One option is to visit the city of Syracuse, located approximately 40 kilometers from Pantalica. Explore the historical center of Syracuse, including the ancient Greek theater, the Ear of Dionysius, and the island of Ortygia with its charming streets and piazzas.

- Another option is to visit the Vendicari Nature Reserve, known for its pristine beaches, wetlands, and diverse birdlife. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, spot flamingos and other bird species, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

Accommodation:

Since Pantalica is a relatively remote area, there are limited accommodation options directly within the reserve. However, you can find hotels, bed and breakfasts, and agriturismi (farm stays) in nearby towns such as Sortino, Ferla, or Floridia. These towns are within a short driving distance from Pantalica and offer a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. It's recommended to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability.

A 1 to 2-day itinerary should provide enough time to explore the highlights of Pantalica and its surroundings. However, if you wish to have a more relaxed and immersive experience, you can extend your stay and spend additional time exploring the region.

Enjoy your visit to Pantalica and have a wonderful time discovering the ancient necropolis, savoring the local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area!

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