My love affair with Sicily began way before I visited for the first time in 2016. Many moons ago, I met my Sicilian friend Guiseppe in Brussels. We instantly bonded over being island kids with a joie de vivre for food and wine. Through him, I met many people in the Sicilian community in Brussels who gave me a glimpse into this storied island. Last year, I visited Noto for the first time with my family to visit a friend who lives there. The baroque architecture, the warm people, and, of course, the food automatically drew us in. I decided to return last summer to work on an independent video project where I met so many wonderful people who shared their favorite spots across the city. This guide to Noto encompasses my experiences and the recommendations of locals I met along the way.
Getting To Noto
When planning a trip to Noto, Sicily, the closest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA). However, flights directly from the USA to Catania can be pretty expensive. For travelers with flexible schedules, a more budget-friendly option might be to fly into a major European hub such as Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt, or Paris. From there, you can use low-cost carriers like Transavia, Wizz Air, or EasyJet to get a more affordable flight to Catania. This strategy can significantly reduce travel costs while allowing you to explore additional European destinations en route to your Sicilian adventure.
I recommend renting a car, but you can also take a bus from Catania Airport to Noto. It takes around 90 minutes and costs 9 Euros each way, and you can buy it at the airport. You can also take a train from Catania city center, but it will take 2.5 hours and you’ll have to change trains.
Should I rent a car if I’m traveling to Noto?
Yes. Driving from Catania to Noto is straightforward. If you’ve driven in Brussels, Puerto Rico, NYC, or DC, driving in Sicily is a breeze. We’ve rented from Locauto several times, and the service is excellent. If you can’t drive a manual, make sure you explicitly reserve an automatic car. Book directly through their website for the best prices. Rent a small car, especially if you want to visit some of the smaller towns because the streets are very narrow. Trust me on that one! We’re experienced drivers and gasped at a few tight turns on the narrow streets of Sicily.
Where to Stay in Noto
Noto is a walkable city, and there’s plenty to keep you busy for at least three days. You won’t find big, chain hotels in Noto but more vacation rentals and small inns. You can stay in a luxurious villa or a quaint apartment in the many small buildings lining the city. I asked friends for recommendations, and these are their picks:
Aria Rooms & Terrace: this beautifully designed boutique hotel sits atop a hill with picturesque city views.
Seven Rooms Villadorata: If you’re looking for a luxurious property in the heart of Noto, this is it—bonus: head to Viva Il Bistro, the restaurant on the property, for their fabulous cocktails.
What to pack for Noto if Traveling in the Summer
Sicily is HOT in the summer. Above 30-32 Celcius/ 90-95 Farenheit. Last July, there was a heat wave, with temperatures climbing over 40C/105F. Flowy dresses in light fabrics like linen and cotton work best for the ladies. Noto is very hilly, so leave your high heels at home. If you’re like me and have to have those heels, wear wedges. The cobblestones are unforgiving. Wide-brimmed hats and plenty of sunglasses are a must! Sicilians are stylish people, so don’t be afraid to be fashionable!
Things to do in Noto
There are plenty of things to do in Noto to fill your days with memorable experiences. Start your adventure by booking a walking tour of Noto at the Tourism Office. This guided tour, which usually costs 20 Euros per person, will provide fascinating insights into the city’s history and architecture. We loved getting a local perspective of Noto with our guide, who also shared some restaurant tips. One of the stops is the Cattedrale di San Nicolo, a historic church in the city center.
Make sure to have room in your luggage for some goodies! Noto has plenty of gorgeous independent shops offering textiles, ceramics, and gourmet foods. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or high-quality local products, there’s something for everyone.
Another thing to do in Noto is visit the Vendicari National Reserve, a 20-minute drive from the city center. Nature lovers will love the scenes of secluded beaches, bird watching, and desert vegetation. Getting there early is best to avoid the midday heat. A 20-minute hike will take you to the closest beach within the reserve, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and serene atmosphere. There are no beach clubs or restaurants once you’re in the reserve, so pack towels and food.
For beach lovers, Lido di Noto is just a 20-minute drive from the city center. There are several beach clubs where you can rent beach chairs and cabanas. Runners can go for an early morning run along the boardwalk and end with a cappuccino and a pistachio-filled croissant.
Noto is also home to many stunning Palazzos. Some of the most popular ones to visit include Palazzo Nicolaci, renowned for its exquisite baroque balconies and lavish interiors, Palazzo Ducezio, which houses the Town Hall and offers a glimpse into the city’s administrative history, and Palazzo Castelluccio. This impeccably restored noble residence captures the elegance of 18th-century architecture. Spend time exploring these magnificent buildings, each with its unique history and architectural style.
One of my favorite things to do in Noto is eat! Check out our Dining Traveler dining guide to Noto for recommendations on the best places to eat. Make reservations a few days ahead to ensure you get a table at your chosen restaurant. Some of the best dishes of Noto include pasta a la Norma, eggplant parmesan, arancini, and cannoli.
Where to Shop in Noto
Visiting Noto is worth it just from the shopping alone! From colorful Sicilian print dresses to handmade ceramics, there’s plenty to shop for in Noto. Here are some of our favorites:
Amare Noto: A small shop owned by Monica who sources dresses, shoes, and jewelry from independent Italian designers.
Antica Sartoria by Giacomo Cinque: I stumbled upon this small dress shop in Noto and loved the colorful dresses. Bonus: They have girls’ clothing; I got a mini, the cutest Sicilian print dress to match mine.
Sebastiano Caristia: Throughout Sicily, you’ll see the Testa di Moro, a pair of ceramics, a man and a woman, which goes back to a famous Sicilian legend of a love story gone awry. One of the best places to get handpainted ceramics is at Sebatiano Caristia, a local artist with a workshop in the heart of Noto.
Campisi Conserve Noto: If you love pistachio pestos and bottarga in Sicilian dishes, shop here for tinned fish, olive oils, tapenades, and pesto.
Colori del Sole: This small shop in the city center of Noto sells colorful handpainted tapestries and tablecloths.
Acqua di Noto: This cozy boutique featuring perfumes and candles inspired by the region is an ideal spot to buy a unique gift or simply to spoil yourself.
Day Trips from Noto
When visiting Noto, Sicily, there are several must-see destinations and experiences that you should include in your itinerary. One of the highlights of a Sicilian vacation is a visit to Mount Etna. As Europe’s highest and most active volcano, Mount Etna offers a spectacular and unique experience. If you’re traveling from Noto, plan for a 2-hour car ride each way. We enjoyed taking a cable car to the top of Etna, where we got some impressive views. Note: the temperature changes drastically once you’re up at Etna, but they have coats for rent, and you can even buy socks.
Another gem in the region is Taormina, known for its picturesque scenery, charming atmosphere, and, of course, White Lotus. While it is a bit touristy, it’s busy for a reason. Stroll along its ancient streets, visit the famous Greek Theatre, and enjoy stunning views of the coast. It’s an ideal spot to go visit after Mount Etna. We visited Mount Etna early and then headed to Taormina for a late lunch and stroll.
Catania, the bustling city near Noto, has its own unique charm. Known for its vibrant street life and rich history, Catania offers a mix of baroque architecture and lively markets. Explore its historic center, visit the Piazza del Duomo, and enjoy the local cuisine. We had a fantastic lunch by the sea at Andrew’s Faro Ristorante. The fresh grilled swordfish is a must.
For a more laid-back experience, head to the fishing village of Marzamemi. This quaint village is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Be sure to have a meal at La Cialoma, a local culinary treasure.
The region around Noto is dotted with smaller cities perfect for day trips. Scicli, Agrigento, Ortigia, and Modica each offer unique attractions and charm. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, wandering through historic streets, or sampling local delicacies, these towns provide an authentic glimpse into Sicily’s rich culture.
Finally, no visit to Sicily would be complete without spending time on its stunning beaches. The southeast coast of Sicily is lined with gorgeous beaches, each offering a unique experience. One of my favorite spots is the rocky beaches of Marina di Modica. Here, you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and relax in one of the many beach clubs that charge between 10-20 Euros for cabanas or beach chairs. Whether you prefer sandy shores or rocky coastlines, the beaches in this region are sure to impress.
If you’re planning a Sicilian vacation, spending a few days in Noto is worth it. From cannoli at Caffe di Sicilia to a dip at Lido di Noto, a getaway to this historic city is a must.
