Top Things to Do in Noto, Sicily

The cathedral in Noto took shape in the 18th century as part of widespread construction following the 1693 earthquake. A flight of steps leads to an imposing baroque façade, flanked with Corinthian columns and statues of saints. Inside, a 16th-century silver ark contains the remains of the city’s patron saint. The dome is a modern addition, replaced after a catastrophic collapse in 1996. An altar, lectern and crucifix embellished with silver-plated bronze sculptures pop against the simple and elegant interior, as do the frescoes around the cupola.

The Nicolaci family went all out when they started work on their opulent palazzo in 1720. The result, a sprawling 90-room pad in a baroque style, is one of the most impressive visitor attractions in Noto today. Before you enter, look closely at the wrought-iron balconies supported by stone mermaids, angels and winged horses. Inside, focus your attention on the noble floor, where the Nicolacis would have entertained. Climb a grand staircase to the sumptuous Salone delle Feste, the family’s breathtaking party hall.

Work on the Palazzo Ducezio, the Town Hall in Noto, started in the mid-18th century. The ground floor was the work of Sicilian architect Vincenzo Sinatra, but the upper level was a much later project designed to complement the original building. Its oval hall had an extravagant makeover at the end of the 19th century, and the result is reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles. The lavish Hall of Mirrors is filled with Louis XV-style furniture, gold decor and the fabulous mirrors that give the room its name.

Caffè Sicilia has been a fixture on this Noto street since 1892. These days, it’s in the capable hands of Corrado Assenza – as a child, he watched his aunt run the place, but now he calls the shots. The cafe’s speciality is its granita. Some call this semi-frozen sweet treat a dessert, but, here, it’s served for breakfast. The cafe’s signature serve is made with almond milk, though the menu also lists sour cherry and lemon flavours. Provi ad assaggiare, as they say here – “try it, and see what it tastes like.”

Turquoise waters gently lap this secluded strip of sand, flanked by a rocky headland, just 9km (5.6mi) from Noto. Eloro Beach shelves gently, making it ideal for swimmers. As it forms part of the Vendicari Nature Reserve, there are few facilities within walking distance, aside from a small car park, a bar and some showers. As you stroll to the beach, you’ll pass the ruins of the Greek settlement of Helorus. Archaeologists have excavated the footprints of a temple and a theatre at this coastal site.

Cantina Palmeri is a winery, just a 10-minute drive from Noto. Its history can be traced back to the 15th century, though, since 2002, it’s been run by a Swiss couple with a passion for organic viticulture. Grapes thrive in this place: the soil is the ideal balance of clay, lime and sand, while the dry, sunny climate ripens the fruit perfectly. The result is a collection of exceptional wines, which you can taste on a visit to Cantina Palmeri’s cellars.

Thousands of migrating birds come to the Vendicari Nature Reserve each year, particularly in spring and autumn. The saltwater lagoons (known locally as pantani), sand dunes and rocky coastline provide the ideal stopover as the birds rest on their way to and from North Africa. Waders like curlews and marsh sandpipers are regular visitors during nesting season. You’ll also see herons, egrets, spoonbills and terns. The most eagerly anticipated, however, are the flamingos that potter in the shallows and raise fluffy chicks.

Ristorante Manna Noto occupies what was once the wine cellar of the Palazzo Nicolaci. Here, Manna Noto’s talented kitchen chefs turn simple recipes into culinary works of art. Enjoy a seasonal menu of delicious Sicilian food that reflects local tastes and traditions. The decor is fun and whimsical. As much thought has gone into the presentation of each dish as in the sourcing of the fresh, local ingredients used to create them.