NotoThings to do

Things to do in Noto

  1. A

    San Nicoló Cathedral

    Pride of place in Noto goes to the recently renovated San Nicoló Cathedral, which stands centre stage in Noto's most graceful square, the Piazza Municipio. Following its dome's collapse and subsequent restructuring, the cathedral was scrubbed of centuries of dust and dirt and is now once again gleaming in its peachy glow. The June 2007 re-opening was a major event in town, with the inhabitants keen to see the cathedral looking brand-new.

    reviewed

  2. B

    Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore

    In the opposite, easterly direction, towards the grand Porta Reale is the Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore with its adjoining nunnery, which was reserved for the daughters of local nobility. The interior is the most impressive in Noto, but it is unfortunately closed to the public. The fountain suspended on a wall next to it remained after Noto's streets were lowered in 1840 to facilitate the movement of carriages.

    reviewed

  3. C

    Ristorante Il Cantuccio

    Chef Valentina presents a seasonally changing menu that combines familiar Sicilian ingredients in exciting new ways. Try her exquisite gnocchi al pesto del Cantuccio (ricotta-potato dumplings with basil, parsley, mint, capers, almonds and cherry tomatoes) and follow it up with legaccio di spigola al limone con insalata d’arancia e finocchi (lemon-stuffed bass with orange-fennel salad).

    reviewed

  4. D

    Palazzo Villadorata

    In the Palazzo Villadorata, the wrought-iron balconies are supported by a swirling pantomime of grotesque figures. Although empty of furnishings, the richly brocaded walls and frescoed ceilings of the palazzo give an idea of the sumptuous lifestyle of Sicilian nobles, as brought to life in the Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa novel Il Gattopardo (The Leopard).

    reviewed

  5. E

    Il Barocco

    Another brilliant place to eat in Noto, tucked into a converted stable block of the Palazzo Astuto-Barresi. The eccentric character of the owner and chef is everywhere - from the graffitied walls (signatures from appreciative clientele) to the spaghetti with limpets.

    reviewed

  6. F

    Dolceria Corrado Costanzo

    This is just around the corner from Caffè Sicilia. Both make superb dolci di mandorla (almond cakes and sweets), cassata (with ricotta cheese, chocolate and candied fruit) and torrone (nougat). Costanzo is ­famous for its gelati.

    reviewed

  7. G

    Ristorante Neas

    You'll find a high standard of both food and service at this place, which opens up its terrace in summer. Try the linguine allo scoglio (with mixed seafood), or the legendary fish soup.

    reviewed

  8. Trattoria Baglieri Crocifisso

    This Slow Food–­acclaimed trattoria is one of Noto’s finest eateries. The list of bottled wines is extensive, but you can also get an excellent glass, starting at €3.50.

    reviewed

  9. H

    Caffè Sicilia

    Dating from 1892, this vies with Dolceria Corrado Costanzo for the honours of Noto’s best dessert shop. Sicilia is especially renowned for its granite.

    reviewed

  10. I

    Trattoria Al Buco

    This bustling, popular place is a good cheap option in Noto, and locals like it too. There are several vegetarian options and the fish is fresh and delicious.

    reviewed

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  12. J

    Palazzo Ducezio

    The cathedral is surrounded on all sides by elegant town houses such as Palazzo Ducezio and Palazzo Landolina, once home to Noto's oldest noble family.

    reviewed

  13. K

    Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso

    For sweeping rooftop views of Noto’s baroque splendour, climb the campanile (bell tower) at Chiesa di San Carlo al Corso.

    reviewed

  14. L

    Chiesa di Santa Chiara

    For sweeping rooftop views of Noto’s baroque splendour, climb the campanile (bell tower) at Chiesa di Santa Chiara.

    reviewed

  15. M

    Trattoria del Carmine

    A low-key eatery that’s popular with locals, serving classic Sicilian cuisine.

    reviewed

  16. N

    Allakatalla

    Wears various hats including that of tour guide.

    reviewed

  17. Trattoria Ducezio

    Ducezio is a popular local trattoria.

    reviewed

  18. O