One day in Siracusa Sicily

Who is in your party? The archaeological area is very good but even better (with kids) is the Archimedes museum (right next door) that is a 'please touch' place. As an adult, I had a blast learning about his inventions and then being able to work them myself.

Ortigia, an island just off of Siracuse, is much more interesting, I think, than the city. Meander around, stop for a drink by the water (sunset side, please) and just enjoy the 'resort' feel of the place. My favorite place for dinner: Spizzuliamu (sorry, don't have an address that would mean anything to you, you can find it on google).

No tour is needed. As mentioned, visit the Greek theater in Siracusa but spend most of your time on historic Ortigia. Good restaurants are Locanda de Collegio and Regina Lucia on Piazza Duomo . Avoid Don Camilo, terrible service and food.
If you want to sit outside with water views, there are many casual places facing the bay/harbor side at south end of island, from Fountain of Arethusa to the castle.

You might want to visit the Santuario della Madonna delle Lacrime (Madonna of Tears) modern church which is a 7 minute walk from the Greek theatre site. On Ortigia visit the street market and you might want to have lunch at Caseficcio Borderi. Best and biggest sandwiches in Italy and a show to boot. The Cathedral on Ortigia is worth a visit and depending on your interests, you can take in a traditional Sicilian puppet show at the Teatro dei Pupi Via della Giudecca, 22.

I would also suggest staying in Ortigia. We were there several years ago and enjoyed the many wonderful restaurants and Archeological sites. We enjoyed the Archimedes Museum. We did self guided walking tours on the island as well as Siracusa. Just fun to wander. Our B & B was 5 mins. walking distance to the stunning Piazza Duomo. It was absolutely magical at night.

Thank you all. We will be a group of 8 adults from a cruise ship and will have 14 hours. It sounds like there will be plenty to see. Janis, which self-guided walking tour did you do? Rick doesn't have one that I can find but I did find a couple of others online. The puppet theater sounds great. I saw Rick talk about it on a lecture show. Thank you for the restaurant recs too.

jojolew,

You are correct that RS doesn't currently have the info. you are looking for. That said, the RS Sicily Guidebook is slated to be out soon. Before we went to Ortigia/Siracusa I did a lot of research. I used several guidebooks, i.e. Lonely Planet, and online websites. Some recommended sights: The Greek Theater, Ear of Dionysius, Ortigia market, Piazza Duomo, Temple of Apollo, Piazza Archimede/Fontana Diana. Very walkable area.