Ortigia Market is an open-air food market on Ortigia, the historic-centre island of Siracusa. It’s a compact stop for local produce, seafood and Sicilian street food, and you can pair it with a walk to nearby historic sights.
- Location: Ortigia, a short walk from the Temple of Apollo.
- Typical opening pattern: Open Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday
- Entry and visit: Free to enter; allow about 45 minutes.
- Good timing: Arrive before noon to see the market at its busiest.
Where to find the Ortigia market
The Ortigia Market is on Via Emanuele De Benedictis, a short walk from the Temple of Apollo. The market sits within Ortigia, where the island’s streets also lead to the Fountain of Arethusa and Syracuse Cathedral.
Today’s market location has a history of its own. The Antico Mercato served as Syracuse’s main market until the late 1980s; after that, fish, food and local craft selling moved to nearby Via Emanuele De Benedictis. Ortigia’s market tradition also reflects the period of Islamic rule in Syracuse.
For accommodation in Siracusa, this four-star hotel is another part of the trip to plan.
What can you expect at the Ortigia food market?
The stalls sell fish and seafood, vegetables, cheeses, olives, spices and other local foods. Look out for swordfish, sea urchins and red prawns, as well as produce from the Hyblaean hills.
Some businesses make sandwiches with Sicilian cured meats and cheeses, open oysters on the spot and serve street food. That mix makes the market a place to browse local ingredients and find something to eat as you go.
When is the Ortigia market open?
Arrive before noon if you want to see it at its busiest. Entry is free, and a suggested visit takes about 45 minutes.
Opening hours
- Monday to Saturday: 7:00–13:45
- Sunday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Opening times can change, so check Siracusa’s official tourism site before you go.
What can you combine with a market visit?
Start with the stalls, then continue on foot through Ortigia’s historic centre. The Temple of Apollo is close to the market, while the Fountain of Arethusa and Syracuse Cathedral offer other landmarks to include in a longer island walk.
If you’re planning to include the Neapolis archaeological area as well as Ortigia, this one-day Siracusa itinerary brings those two parts of the city together.
FAQs
Is Ortigia Market free to enter?
Yes. Entry is free, and about 45 minutes is a suggested visit time.
What is Ortigia Market known for?
Its stalls sell seafood, vegetables, cheeses, olives, spices and other local foods. Some businesses also serve Sicilian sandwiches, oysters and street food.
Is Ortigia Market open on Sunday?
Open Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday. For a broader route through the island’s historic streets, you can pair the market with this walk through Ortigia’s old town.