The Lungomare Alfeo is Ortigia's best-loved promenade: from the Arethusa Spring towards Maniace Castle, suspended between the walls and the Great Harbour, with the city's most beautiful sunsets.
The name honours the river god Alpheus, the lover of the nymph Arethusa: here the myth continues in the geography. The promenade faces west, towards the Great Harbour and the Hyblaean mountains, perfectly oriented for sunset.
Along the way you will find cafés, terraces and restaurants with a view: this is the heart of the Syracusan aperitivo. In the waters in front of the promenade, the naval battle that sealed Athens' defeat was fought in 413 BC — one of the decisive moments of ancient history.
Practical tips
- Arrive 40 minutes before sunset to find a seat at the cafés with a view.
- From here you can reach both the Arethusa Spring and Maniace Castle in a few minutes on foot.
