The perfect combination of relaxation and culture, Noto is a fantastic place to see some of the best 17th and 18th-century baroque architecture examples. It is home to one of Sicily's most beautiful historic centres. Make sure you see Corso Vittorio Emanuele, an elegant walkway flanked by stunning palazzi and churches. We would recommend visiting in the evening, as the red-gold buildings look particularly beautiful at this time.
Although a town called Noto or Netum has existed here for many centuries, the Noto that you see today dates to the early 18th century, when it was almost entirely rebuilt in the wake of the devastating 1693 earthquake. Local architect Rosario Gagliardi designed many of the finest buildings - you can also see his work in the churches of Modica and Ragusa.
You can relax and unwind on one of the many beaches that Noto boasts, including the popular sands of Noto Marina. It is a truly beautiful town and is a listed UNESCO world heritage site because of its incredible buildings.
Noto is Best Known for: Noto Cathedral built in the 1776's and renovated in the 1990's (Cattedrale di San Nicolo).
Nearest Airport to Noto: Palermo (PMO), Catania (CTA) or Comiso (CIY)
Towns to Visit near Noto: Modica, Syracuse, Ragusa, Comiso, Pozzallo
What to Eat in Noto: fresh buffalo mozzarella topped with citrusy bergamot jam, casarecce alla palermitana (pasta with sardines, fennel, and pine nuts) or fresh grilled octopus and spaghetti with lightly sautéed shrimp and pesto, lightly breaded baked swordfish with cherry tomatoes, homemade gnocchi with creamy pesto, which was topped with a dramatic heap of ricotta salata shavings.
