Tucked away in the southeastern part of Italy, Noto is a charming town that has been captivating visitors for centuries with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This ancient city, located on the island of Sicily, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, delicious local cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
A Brief History of Noto
Noto’s history dates back to the 5th century BC, when it was founded by the Greeks. The city has since been influenced by various cultures, including the Romans, Arabs, and Normans, each leaving their mark on its architecture, language, and traditions. During the Middle Ages, Noto flourished as a major center of trade and commerce, earning the nickname “La Perla del Sud” (The Pearl of the South).
Must-See Attractions in Noto
Cattedrale Minore di San Nicolò
One of Noto’s most iconic landmarks is the Cattedrale Minore di San Nicolò, a stunning example of Baroque architecture. This beautiful church features intricate stone carvings, ornate frescoes, and an impressive bell tower that offers breathtaking views of the city.
Eremo di S. Corrado Fuori le Mura
Located just outside the ancient city walls, the Eremo di S. Corrado Fuori le Mura is a peaceful retreat that dates back to the 14th century. This former monastery features stunning frescoes and a beautiful garden, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and relaxation.
Palazzo Nicolaci dei Principi di Villadorata
This exquisite baroque palace is one of Noto’s most prized possessions. With its ornate balconies, majestic columns, and beautifully preserved interiors, Palazzo Nicolaci is a true masterpiece of Sicilian architecture.
Quartiere Agliastrello
One of the oldest and most characteristic neighborhoods in Noto, Quartiere Agliastrello boasts narrow streets, stone houses, and picturesque alleys. This charming neighborhood is perfect for getting lost in and discovering hidden gems.
Daytime Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary for exploring Noto during the day:
- Start your day by visiting the ancient city of Noto Antica, located on Monte Alveria.
- Head to the Eremo di S. Corrado Fuori le Mura, which is about 10 minutes from the ancient city by car.
- Next, visit Quartiere Agliastrello, one of the oldest and most characteristic neighborhoods in Noto.
- After that, visit Palazzo Nicolaci dei Principi di Villadorata, a beautiful baroque palace with ornate balconies.
- Then, head to the Chiesa di San Carlo, where you can climb to the top of the campanile for a panoramic view of the city.
- Next, visit the Cattedrale Minore di San Nicolò, the most important church in Noto, and its beautiful interior.
- After that, visit Palazzo Ducezio, which houses the current town hall, and the Museo Civico di Noto, which features a collection of art and artifacts from the city’s history.
- Finally, end your day by visiting Porta Reale, the symbol of the entrance to the city.
Where to Eat in Noto
Noto is renowned for its delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, traditional Sicilian dishes, and exquisite wines. Here are some top recommendations for places to eat:
- Porta Reale Bistrot Siciliano: A small and charming restaurant serving traditional Sicilian cuisine.
- Angeli: A cozy restaurant with a great selection of wines and Italian-Mediterranean cuisine.
- Trattoria Fontana d’Ercole: A seafood restaurant serving dishes made from fresh fish at km 0.
- Ristorante Manna: A restaurant specializing in traditional Sicilian cuisine, prepared with elegance and respect for the ingredients.
- Putia del Coppo: A street food friggitoria serving fried fish and vegetables.
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What to Do in the Evening
Noto comes alive at night, offering a range of activities and entertainment options. Here are some top recommendations:
- Morrison’s Irish Pub: A classic Irish pub with a great selection of beers and a pizza oven.
- Violet Club: A popular discotheque that plays until late at night.
- Il Brillo Parlante Enoteca: An enoteca (wine bar) with a wide selection of wines, where you can enjoy small plates of food and cheese.
- A Sud cocktail: A cocktail bar made with professional skill and served with delicious snacks.
- MoMaDrinks: A cocktail bar that serves creative and tasty drinks.
Getting to Noto
Noto is easily accessible by air, car, or tour. Here are some practical tips for getting to the city:
- By plane: The closest airport is Catania Fontanarossa (95 km, flights from €19.00), where you can take a bus or drive to Noto.
- By car: Follow the A18 and A19 highways to reach Noto.
- By tour: There are organized tours that depart from Catania to visit Noto and other nearby towns.
Getting Around
Noto is best explored on foot, as it is relatively small and easy to navigate. However, if you need to visit the surrounding areas, a car is necessary. Here are some practical tips for getting around:
- The city is best explored on foot.
- To visit the surrounding areas, a car is necessary.
Parking Outside of the City
There are always free parking spots available near Porta Reale, just outside the city center. However, be sure to follow local regulations and respect local residents when parking in designated areas.
Conclusion
Noto is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone: history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, sipping wine at an enoteca, or indulging in traditional Sicilian dishes, Noto is a place that will leave you enchanted. So why not start planning your trip to this fascinating city today?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Noto?
A: The best time to visit Noto is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and sunny.
Q: How do I get to Noto from Catania?
A: You can take a bus or drive from Catania Fontanarossa airport to Noto.
Q: What are some must-see attractions in Noto?
A: Some must-see attractions in Noto include the Cattedrale Minore di San Nicolò, Eremo di S. Corrado Fuori le Mura, and Palazzo Nicolaci dei Principi di Villadorata.
Q: Where can I eat in Noto?
A: There are many great places to eat in Noto, including Porta Reale Bistrot Siciliano, Angeli, Trattoria Fontana d’Ercole, Ristorante Manna, and Putia del Coppo.
Q: What are some top recommendations for activities in the evening?
A: Some top recommendations for activities in the evening include Morrison’s Irish Pub, Violet Club, Il Brillo Parlante Enoteca, A Sud cocktail, and MoMaDrinks.
Q: Can I explore Noto on foot?
A: Yes, Noto is best explored on foot, as it is relatively small and easy to navigate.
Q: Are there any free parking spots available near Porta Reale?
A: Yes, there are always free parking spots available near Porta Reale, just outside the city center.
