Holidays to Noto are brimming with culture and history, with some of Sicily’s best beaches close by.

An architectural gem

Noto’s nestled in south-east Sicily, on the southern slopes of the Hyblaean Mountains. It earned UNESCO world heritage status in 2002 thanks to its Baroque architecture. The town was entirely rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake using local yellow limestone, which gives the place a warm, honey-coloured glow in the early evening light. Wrought-iron balconies and intricate stone carvings decorate the buildings.

Historic ruins meet natural beauty

Around 20 minutes’ drive north of Noto you’ll find the ruins of the old city, which was destroyed by the catastrophic earthquake in 1693. If you take a trip here, be sure to make the short hike to the nearby Cava del Carosello, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of two freshwater plunge pools.

A base for beach-lovers

South-east Sicily boasts some of the island’s best beaches, and Noto puts them all within easy reach. For bustling beach clubs, hit up Lido di Noto, or for a more away-from-it-all vibe, head over to Calamosche – both are less than 20 minutes away by car.

Further Reading

  • Travel Advice
  • Things To Do

    • At a Glance

    • Marvel at 17th-century Baroque architecture
    • Wander through the ruins of the old city
    • Snorkel in calm waters on a trip to Calamosche Beach

    Location

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    Masseria della-Volpe