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Noto & Modica Exploration

A day trip visiting the Baroque towns of Southeast Sicily.

The Ragusa province is an open-air museum. Located in the south-eastern portion of Sicily, this area is home to stunning Baroque cities built after a devastating earthquake that shook the entire province in 1693. Today this portion of the island is one of the richest areas of Sicily.

Our full-day adventure begins with a visit to Noto, a town which was rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake. Noto is famous for its Sicilian Baroque architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries.

We start the day with breakfast at one of Sicily’s most famous cafés. Enjoy brioche with almond granita, cappuccino and other Sicilian specialities before visiting a number of churches which stand out for their artwork and strategic locations.

We also point out numerous aristocratic buildings with Baroque facades and twisted iron railings located on the main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, as well as many adjoining streets.

After our morning in Noto, we drive 40 minutes to Modica. Nestled in the breathtaking Val di Noto gorge. Modica is one of Sicily’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for its Baroque architecture, splendid churches and cold-processed chocolate. We taste the local chocolate and learn how this unique local product is made followed by a leisurely lunch in town.

For those who wish, we can arrange to conclude our day visiting Ragusa, enjoying traditional biscotti and dessert wine, or a tasting of cheese, cured meats and local wine.

Features

Special Information

  • Weaving through the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Noto and Modica, tasting local sweet and savory specialties, food lovers admire the towns’ Sicilian Baroque architecture. 
  • Lunch is enjoyed in Modica at a family-run trattoria with a selection of mixed antipasti, seasonal soup or pasta, and wine. 
  • A visit to the town of Ragusa can be added to this itinerary for an additional cost.

Practical Info

Key Points to Consider

  • Private transportation can be arranged upon request.
  • A visit to the town of Ragusa can be added to this itinerary for an additional cost.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 
  • Bring a small reusable shopping bag to pick up treats at food stops. 
  • Tours operate in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • In summer we suggest wearing a hat and sunscreen. 
  • Please notify us in advance of any food allergies and aversions.

Duration

Tour Length

This is a full day tour (8 hours).

Start time is flexible, suggested start time for this tour is 9:00 am.

FAQs

Frequent Asked Questions

Inquiries

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    We reached out to Casa Mia Tours at the last minute the morning our ship docked in Sicily. Within a few hours they arranged a Sicilian cooking lesson and dinner for us. We had such a wonderful experience.

    MiamiShelUSA