To speak of good coming from a natural disaster may seem, if not perverse, at least in bad taste.
Yet were it not for the devastating earthquake of the 11th January 1693 that obliterated the lives, livelihoods and towns across the south-east corner of Sicily, much of what makes this particular part of the island so magical - for tourists and locals alike - may very well not exist today.
The earthquake provided a blank canvas upon which Sicilian architects, many of whom were trained by the Baroque masters in Rome, could paint their dreams.
And paint they did.
Palaces, churches, cathedrals. Entire cities and towns not simply rebuilt, but reborn - and none more beautiful than Noto, the undisputed jewel in the Val di Noto crown.
Epitomising the definition of Sicilian Baroque, so perfect, so elegant is its historical centre, it’s somewhat easy to forget that this is a thriving town, and not a museum or some eerily accurate film set - a feeling that can be accentuated if you choose to roam its streets under a bright midday sun.
Instead, this is a town to explore as the sun begins to fall, when the sandstone walls of these 18th century masterpieces glow ochre and Noto comes alive. When the steps of Rosario Gagliardi’s cathedral are not only a way to get closer to God but a meeting point for the young, the plazas a resting place for the old, and all around you, the air fills with rapid and heavily accented Italian.
Noto is meant to be enjoyed in the late afternoon glow, over cups of icy granita and cones of famous ice cream. That’s why it’s also such a perfect base from which to explore this truly unique region in south-eastern Sicily - it is ideally situated to visit the area’s best sand beaches as well as a number of other stunning Baroque towns, so you can out and about and explore during the day and then be back in time to enjoy Noto at its finest!
In this guide you’ll find all you need to plan the perfect trip to this noto-riously beautiful place (sorry); the sites and architectural wonders you can’t miss, the best day trips, where to eat, where to stay and the very best things to do in Noto.
Things to do in Noto
Fall in love with Baroque Architecture
So, as we’ve mentioned above, what really sets Noto apart from many other places in Sicily is its stunning architecture - it’s the reason why its a UNESCO heritage site.
You can, of course, begin your wanderings at any point, but the first time you set out and explore, we’d recommend beginning at Porto Reale, the gateway to the historic centre before heading along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a wide and beautifully elegant walkway flanked by iconic Baroque plazas and churches, stopping to gaze up in wonder, photograph everything and enter whatever takes your fancy (providing they’re open, of course!).
Here are the main sites you can’t miss:
Noto Cathedral | We seen a lot of churches, cathedrals, monasteries and chapels in Italy, but Noto Cathedral is almost certainly one of the most impressive - both in size and design. Built almost immediately following the devastation of Noto Antica, it required significant restoration in the early part of this century following a further earthquake. Very much part of the town’s active landscape, it is particularly beautiful at night, when artfully placed lighting brings its limestone walls to life and the steps are a social meeting point for groups of friends and families.
Palazzo Ducezio | Directly opposite the cathedral is the stunning Palazzo Ducezio, now Noto’s Town Hall. Inspired by the palaces of 17th century France, the upper level offers a chance for visitors to enjoy a panoramic view, at eye-level with the cathedral - especially beautiful during the later part of the day. It cost €3 to enter the palazzo, but this is a combination ticket also allowing entry into Sala degli Specchi (the ‘Salon of Mirrors’ on the ground floor and the nearby Teatro Tina Di Lorenzo).
Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata | Located on Via Corrado Nicolaci, this beautiful 18th century palace with the prettiest balconies, was built as a residence for the Nicolaci family (hence the name) and is considered one of the best examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture in Noto. Open daily from 10 am - 6.30 pm and costs €4 per person.
Noto’s Churches | There are several truly impressive Baroque churches in Noto, and whilst we didn’t enter them all, they are worthy of punctuating your wanderings of Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and along its many off-shoots. The ones to save in your Google Map are: Chiesa di San Carlo Borromeo, Cheese di San Domenico, Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi all’Immacolata, Chiesa di Santa Chiara and Chiesa di Santissimo Salvatore.
Palazzo Castelluccio | For a palace with an interesting backstory, definitely pay a visit to Palazzo Castelluccio. Abandoned in the 1980s, it lay empty until 2011 when a Frenchman, inspired by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s 1958 novel, The Leopard, purchased the property and began bringing it back to life. Decorated with period-style flourishes, plush fabrics, bold colours, original frescos, and exquisite antiques, this is a palace very much returned to its golden age. Admission 11 am - 7 pm by guided tour only, coasts €12 per adult (children are free).
Teatro Tina Di Lorenzo | As we mentioned above, Noto’s impressive Baroque theatre is part of a combo ticket alongside Palazzo Ducezio. We were unfortunately unable to make it here, but others say the guided tour is very much worth your time.
Experience Infiorata di Noto
Every May for a period of three days, Noto is transformed into a festival of flowers that has been held here for nearly 40 years.
Created after an encounter between flower artists of Noto and Genzano (a province of Rome) in 1980, this annual festival turns the entire 700 metre stretch of Via Nicolaci into tapestry of colour.
Depicting various religious, folkloristic and mythological designs based around a specific theme, each artist is given their own section upon which to work. The artists begin their work on a Friday, and by Saturday the ‘carpet of flowers’ is ready to be seen and enjoyed by the crowds.
However, the displays are not restricted solely to Via Nicolaci; the entire town of Noto becomes part of the festival with various individual decorative displays and sideshows dotted around the historic centre.
The festival almost always takes place on the third weekend of May, but details can be confirmed here.
Not visiting for the festival? You can still see elements of modern art dotted around Noto throughout the year in the form of painted public stairways. When you’re on them they don’t seem that special, but once you look upon them from a distance step, you’ll be amazed at the intricate murals climbing up from top to bottom!
Head up il campanile di san carlo
As wonderful as it is exploring streets upon two feet, to really get a sense of a place it helps to head high - and in Noto that means scaling the bell tower of Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso.
Opening times are 10 am - 10 pm Jul & Aug, 10 am - 8pm May, Jun & Sep, with reduced hours the remainder of year. Entry costs €2 per person, and modest dress is required for entry (as is common across Sicily).
Hit up the beaches near Noto
As we alluded to in our introduction, one of the many reasons that Noto is such a wonderful place to base yourself in south-east Sicily is due to its proximity to a number of truly fantastic beaches.
Whilst the west of the island is home to many of our favourite bathing spots where rocky outcrops or pebbles are the norm (like Favigana), closer to Noto you’ll find large stretches of sandy beach which are perfect for a lazy day of sunbathing and swimming.
If you’re looking for a few sea, sun and sand day trips, here are our pick of Noto’s best beaches.
Fontane Bianche
Taking its name from the numerous freshwater springs which arise from its seabed, Fontane Bianche is another wonderful stretch of pale golden sand just over 1km long. Clear shallow water makes this a great option for families, and the availability of lidos, restaurants and general amenities mean it has everything you could need for a full day at the beach.
Fontane Bianche is around 25 minutes away from Noto by car or, if you’d prefer to use public transport, there are frequent trains leaving from Noto train station (in the newer part of town). Journey time is around 20 minutes and costs approx €2 per person.
Spiaggia Marianeddi (and Eloro)
One of three beautiful beaches in the Vendicari Nature Reserve, Marianeddii is an isolated stretch of golden sand flanked by almond trues and soft dunes. Just south of Eloro Beach in the northern part of the reserve, this is a relatively quiet retreat even in the summer months - and a popular spot for naturists!
To reach it park here, and follow the trail through the reserve.
Spiaggia di Calamosche
This is Vendicari’s most popular beach, and my goodness was it busy when we visited! Thankfully - as is common across Sicily and Italy - a sea of colourful parasols only adds to the ambience on a beach here.
To reach it you’ll need to park in the carpark here and then walk through the reserve. It’s an easy-ish 20 minute walk through scrubland punctuated by quintessential Sicilian flora and fauna.
As you would expect, there are no formal facilities here but there are a few beach vendors to offer you drinks, sarongs and trinkets throughout your stay. Definitely come prepared if you plan to bed down for the day though.
San Lorenzo
We happened to celebrate Andrew’s birthday when we we were in Noto, and chose to head to San Lorenzo and splurge on a super fancy beach club. Unfortunately this also happened to coincide with the only day of rain we had during our entire month in Sicily, but such is life!
We opted for Agua Beach Club and paid €32 for first row deluxe sunbeds with parasol, but there are cheaper options nearby. We chose to eat at the club, but if you plan your visit for the morning or afternoon only, it would be worth visiting the super-stylish small town of Marzememi for lunch - it’s just 10 minutes away by car.
Isola delle Correnti
If you prefer your beaches a little more wild and rugged, then we recommend checking out the sandy beach opposite Isola Delle Correnti, about 30 km south of Noto (around a 35 minute drive). The southernmost point of Sicily, it’s also where the Mediterranean and Ionian seas meet, creating a strong current - hence the name.
These strong currents mean it’s a popular spot for surfers, but not ideal for children or those that aren’t terribly strong swimmers.
For those feeling a little adventurous, during low tide it’s possible to walk across to the small island where you’ll find various ruins and native wildlife.
Sampieri
Considered a bit of a locals-only secret (and hence why we found out about it too late to visit), Sampieri is a world away from the busy beach-club beaches popular with tourists. Located at the edge of a quintessential little fishing village, it has fine golden sand beach a pristine crystal clear water.
We will not be missing this one if we make it back to Sicily!
This beach may be a little too far away from Noto for some (it can take up to an hour to drive there), but given its relative proximity to Modica and Ragusa, would be an ideal stop on a full-day trip out west.
Avola Beach
Located in Avola town, this is a super popular beach in the summer months but given its proximity to Noto (just 10 - 15 minutes by car) it’s a good choice if you don’t have much time, or fancy a couple of sunny afternoon hours after a day of exploring Noto.
There is paid parking nearby, but we managed to find a free spot in a residential street a little back from the beach.
It was very very busy though.
Take a Noto Day Trip to Modica and Ragusa
Noto is just one of the collective of towns and cities which make up the Val di Noto (Noto Valley), which was recognised as a Unesco World Heritage site in 2002. The others are: Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Palazzolo, Ragusa, and Scicli.
We chose to base ourselves primarily in Noto to explore these towns and the region with our rental car, something we highly recommend. If you’re also planning on using it as a base, then Modica and Ragusa are relatively close to each other and easily explored on a single day trip from Noto!
We’ve written short guides to these towns, so head over there for full details on everything to do, see and eat (and some recommendations on where to stay if you’d prefer to explore them a little more slowly).
Keep reading | Our Guide to Modica & Our Guide to Ragusa
Step Back in time at Noto Antica
Although old Noto '(‘Noto Antica’) was devastated by the earthquake of 1693, around 8km outside of the its Baroque reincarnation, there still remain some fairly impressive ruins within the walls of the city’s original site, stretching back across centuries all the way to the early Bronze Age.
And whilst many of the older buildings are buried beneath the Medieval town that fell, it’s still possible to explore the ruins of a Capuchin convent, various ancient cemeteries, Byzantine tombs, Christian catacombs, and a more than 2000 year old gymnasium; visiting Noto Antica is said to be like passing through time.
How to visit Noto Antica | Only accessible by car, it’s certainly possible to visit independently but in order to fully appreciate the surroundings, history and story it’s generally advisable to join an organised tour from town.
It’s also a a popular spot for mountain-biking!
Where to eat + drink
Manna | Immaculately designed with a modern flair (in what used to the Prince’s wine cellar), Manna is widely recognised as one of - if not the - best restaurants in Noto. Simple, classic Sicilian food with a contemporary flare, at really quite reasonable prices. As you would expect, fish features quite heavily on the menu but when we visited, there were a handful of vegetarian options.
Il Brillo Parlante | If you’re looking for an early snack platter or a chunky Italian sandwich, we’d highly recommend Il Brillo Parlante. A relatively new wine bar run by a young couple who know their stuff, they serve up fresh local cheeses, meats, salads and breads alongside excellently selected glasses of wine.
Cafe Sicilia | This family run, multi-generational café has, over the course of its 127 year existence, developed a reputation for its gelato, with many claiming it to produce the best on all of the island. So of course, we went several times. Be sure to try their almond granita too, which is also exceptionally good.
Anche Gli Angeli | A curious blend of lounge bar, restaurant, concept and book store, all located in an old church. The food is amazing, but even if you don’t plan on staying for dinner, Anche Gli Angeli is an absolute must visit during your time in Noto.
Puttia del Copo | If you’re a seafood lover after a quick lunch, this little street food spot was always heaving. Offering up cones of friend fish and vegetables, the calamari is incredibly highly rate by those that have tried it.
Pizzeria Orto Di Santa Chiara | There are a few pizza places in town but after reading some reassuring reviews online we opted for Orto Di Santa Chiara and were not disappointed! A variety of topping options, and at an excellent price.
Panificio Maidda | We developed quite the sfincione obsession whilst in Sicily, and whilst none will ever beat the deliciousness we had from a tiny bakery, on a nondescript street in downtown Palermo, that on offer at Panificio Maid came pretty damn close! Sold by weight, they have a variety of baked goods all cooked to a secret family recipe.
Fancy a drink in the evening? Unfortunately our very favourite negroni spot - The Mug - appears to have closed down (please let us know in the comments if this springs to life again), but if you’re looking for a 6 pm aperitivo, we’d recommend Emily’s Wine for well, an excellent glass of wine, Il Libertyno for an Aperol Spritz, or if you’re all about the people watching, just pick somewhere on Corso Vittoria Emmanuelle - the drinks are a little pricier than you’ll find on many of the nearby backstreets but given its location you’re in prime passeggiata territory!
Where to Stay in Noto
We’ve said it a few times already, but Noto is an incredible base for your south-eastern Sicily adventures - all you’ve got to do is pick the right accommodation for your budget and you travel style.
Thankfully, we’ve done the hard work and selected our top picks covering small B&Bs, boutique hotels and Airbnbs!
Guest Houses, B&Bs and Hotels in Noto
B&B Novecento Siciliano | We love beautiful accommodation with quirky vintage details - and this B&B has them in boatloads! It’s also extremely good value and excellently located just a stone’s throw from the cathedral. Oh, and it’s pet friendly too if that’s something you need. Click here to find out more.
If the above sounds like your sort of place, we’d highly recommend checking out Room 55 too.
Filinona B&B | This B&B is simply stunning. With the feel of a boutique hotel, every single element has been carefully curated, and its contemporary design, large, bright and airy rooms, great location and exceptional breakfast make this one of our absolute top picks in Noto. Click here to find out more.
Welcome Garden | A little hideaway in the centre of Noto, this boutique hotel features a wonderful guest garden which is uncommon amongst accommodations in the town. Add in that really quite splendid rooms that have been sensitively restored to hight standard throughout (and which are also bigger than most on this list) and it’s clear why Welcome Garden is one of the highest rated hotels in Noto. Click here to find out more.
Gagliardi Boutique Hotel | Our most expensive recommendation in the centre of Noto (with rooms starting from €190), but this boutique hotel couldn't possibly be left off the list. Sumptuous furnishings in keeping with the Baroque building within which the hotel is housed, it also has a large terrace from which to enjoy golden hour views over Noto. Click here to find out more.
IUTA Glamping & Farm | If you’re not fussed about staying in the centre of Noto and love when your accommodations come with a wonderful ‘experiential’ factor, consider this amazing agriturismo glamping spot! Seriously stunning accommodation (it sort of reminds us of those luxury safari lodges) replete with swimming pool, landscaping-light surroundings and, by all accounts, fantastic hosts. Click here to find out more.
An couple of alternatives to this - especially if glamping isn’t your thing but you love the idea of being surrounded by olive groves and in a high-standard of accommodation - are Terre di Romanello with beautiful views out over Noto, or Battimandorlo, which blends Sicilian charm with contemporary luxury in a country guest house.
If your priority is good value accommodation without too many frills in the historic centre, then Ostello della Gioventù, La Casa del Barocco, B&B Vinci and La Perla Di Noto all have rooms for around €55 a night or less.
Airbnbs in Noto
First things first, there are a HUGE number of Airbnbs in Noto - more even than when we visited. So, how do you pick the one that’s right for you (without opening up a gazillion tabs on your browser and reading, and re-reading way too many listings and reviews over several evenings)? You take a look at our guide with our pick of the very best Airbnbs in Noto!
To give you an idea of the sort of place that made the cut, below are just handful of the type of thing we think you should take a look at…
Casa di Gio | As lovers of simple, clean lines, contemporary design and light - oh so much light - we absolutely adore this Airbnb. Set over two floors, it has a large communal living space with excellent kitchen, two bedrooms (one with three single beds making this Airbnb perfect for a family), a small patio and good sized terrace with all the views. To check price and availability, click here.
Kalimera | A large, super modern apartment that has recently been renovated. Very clean, bright and airy space with a neutral colour palette and not one but three balconies from which to enjoy the view. Also comes with free on-street parking, which is quite a rarity in the historic centre. To check price and availability, click here.
Appartamento Belle Arti | A truly beautiful, luxurious apartment with two bedrooms in the centre of Noto. Nice and bright, excellent kitchen, plush furnishings throughout and decorated to a high finish, it also has a large terrace from which there are spectacular views over the town. To check price and availability, click here.
Casa Vacanze Lori| This is where we stayed for our five nights in Noto, and honestly, we couldn’t fault it. The hosts are some of the most wonderful we’ve ever encountered and put more food in the fridge than we could actually eat during our stay, it’s furnished well, super comfortable and absolutely massive! It’s also exceptionally well located and has super close (and free) parking. To check price and availability, click here.
Read next | The Best Airbnbs in Noto
How to Get to Noto
For most people, the nearest airport is Catania (93 km, 1.5 hour drive), although there are a handful of national and international flights into Comiso airport, a few kilometres outside of Ragusa.
To get from the airport to Noto, you have a few options:
Arrange a private transfer
Jump in a taxi (although expect to pay up to €150)
Take one of the regular intercity buses that pass through the airport (around 1.5 hours, cost €5-8)
Hop on a train. There are multiple departures every day but due to the three changes required it’s a three hour journey. (€9 per person)
Hire a car. If you’re planning on doing a few day trips, or visiting as part of a bigger Sicily road trip, this is obviously the option that we recommend. You can find all the essential information on rentals and driving on the island in this post - 15 Essential Things To Know Before Driving in Sicily.
Parking in Noto
If you’re staying in some of the super centrally located hotels, you may have a few problems with being able to park nearby but our Airbnb in the historic centre had free parking within less than a minute’s walk.
Do note that, as with all Italian historic centres, there are multiples streets - known as ZTLs - where you will receive a pretty hefty fine for driving down so it’s super important to have your parking planned out in advance!
For more information, beside to check out our guide to driving in Sicily.
