Noto
Introduction
Nestled at the foot of the Hyblaean Mountains, you will find Noto situated in the Province of Syracuse. This city gives its name to the surrounding Val di Noto region.
You can explore a landscape rich in history where both the city and its church are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Before you go
Before you arrive, you can reflect on the history of the city, which was destroyed by an earthquake in Val di Noto and subsequently rebuilt in a distinct Baroque style.
To help plan your visit, you can use the Eloro District app to find interesting places throughout the area and stay updated on local events and services.
Getting there
You can reach this destination as a day trip from Syracuse or as a stopover while traveling toward Ragusa, Gela, or Enna. Regional buses provide connecting services with Syracuse, and you can find tickets at a nearby hotel.
Alternatively, you can travel by train to the station located south of the town. While trains run several times a day toward Ragusa and Syracuse, there are no services on Sundays. Because the station is often unmanned and obtaining return tickets can be difficult, you may find it more convenient to use the bus for your return journey.
Getting around
You can explore the area on foot.
Where to stay
You can choose between several accommodations in the region surrounding Noto. For a more personal experience, Macrina B&B offers spacious rooms and a pleasant garden where you can enjoy your breakfast. The proprietor is known for being friendly, though they do not speak English.
If you prefer a larger space or a coastal setting, consider a villa rental in Marzamemi. This seafront holiday home, situated in an old warehouse near the water, provides enough room for large groups and offers weekly rental options.
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of Sicily by dining in intimate settings that highlight regional specialties. You can enjoy fresh seafood served in a charming outdoor courtyard or experience traditional Sicilian dishes set within a historic wine cellar featuring period furnishings and an extensive collection of bottles.
For a sweet treat, you can visit a cafe to sample gelato renowned for its exceptional quality. Other dining options include a small family-run restaurant known for honest service.
What to see and do
Explore this World Heritage site, celebrated as one of the most attractive Baroque towns in southeast Sicily. You can wander along a single main street where significant buildings are aligned together, including the well-restored 18th-century Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata and the Palazzo Ducezio, which houses the town hall and features Neo-Classical frescoes. The architectural landscape includes several churches such as the Cattedrale di San Nicolò, situated atop a magnificent staircase with a facade flanked by two imposing bell towers, as well as the Chiesa di Santa Chiara, Chiesa di San Domenico, Chiesa di Montevergine, and Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso.
Experience the local culture through these notable sites:
- Porta Reale (Ferdinandea), which serves as the entrance to the town.
- Teatro Comunale "Tina Di Lorenzo," a venue sometimes referred to as a miniature version of La Scala di Milano.
- The Museo Civico, located in a former convent, which houses an archaeological collection and a contemporary art gallery with a roof terrace offering wonderful views.
- The Infiorata di Noto, where you can see a street covered in splendid mosaics made from flower petals.
Three days in Noto
Day one, you can explore the historic center of Syracuse and wander through the Eloro District to experience the local atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby coastal area of Marzamemi.
Day two, you can travel toward the Hyblaean Mountains or explore the regional scenery of Sicily. You can see the architecture in the area and enjoy the surroundings.
Day three, you can visit the various sites including Palazzo Nicolaci, Palazzo Ducezio, and the Cattedrale to appreciate the local heritage.