How to plan your small group tour from Taormina to Siracusa and Noto, Italy

Are you looking for the best way to explore ancient ruins and Baroque architecture while in Sicily? The small group tour from Taormina to Siracusa and Noto should be on your bucket list. This one-day tour promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through time from the Greek and Roman epochs to the Baroque period. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the tour to ensure you make the most of your experience.

Highlights

This comprehensive small group tour visits some of the most historic and beautiful attractions that Syracuse and Noto have to offer. Some of the tour’s highlights include:

• Admiring the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius in the archaeological park of Syracuse
• Taking a walking tour through the narrow streets and alleyways of Ortigia Island, the beating heart of Syracuse’s historical center
• Exploring the harmony of Baroque style in the streets of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Experience

The small group tour from Taormina to Siracusa and Noto takes you on a journey through time to explore ancient ruins and Baroque architectural wonders. Here’s what you can expect from your experience:

• The tour starts from Taormina at 8:00 AM with a convenient pickup from the pre-arranged meeting point.
• After greeting your driver, you will embark on a scenic drive to Syracuse, taking in all the sights along the way.
• Your first stop of the day will be the Archaeological Park of Syracuse, where you’ll admire the site’s Greek and Roman heritage by witnessing landmarks such as the Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, and the Latomie.
• Afterward, you’ll move to Ortigia Island, where you will explore the alleys, the squares of the old town, and its landmarks starting from the ruins of the Temple of Apollo to the Cathedral and the Arethusa Fountain.
• Later, you will visit Noto, an enchanting town famous for its Baroque style treasures, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the streets, admiring the architecture and visiting stores selling traditional Sicilian products.
• The tour will end with a drop-off back to the pre-arranged meeting point at around 6:00 PM.

Full Description

The small group tour from Taormina to Siracusa and Noto is an excellent way to explore ancient ruins and Baroque architecture. The tour is perfect for visitors who would like to see multiple locations in one day, without the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation. Here’s a breakdown of the tour:

Meeting Point and Departure Time

The tour departs from Taormina, and the exact meeting point will be communicated to you upon booking. You’ll meet your driver at 8:00 AM, and you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point by this time.

Archaeological Park of Syracuse

The first stop of the day is the Archaeological Park of Syracuse, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore the Greek and Roman ruins. You’ll be able to marvel at the Greek Theatre, which is one of the largest ancient Greek theatres. You’ll also be able to see the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave shaped like an ear, and the Latomie, ancient quarries where you can see the evidence of the slave labor that built this fantastic city.

Ortigia Island Walking Tour

After the Archaeological Park of Syracuse, you’ll head to Ortigia Island, the historical center of Syracuse, which is connected to the city by a short bridge. Here you will walk through the alleys and the squares of the old town discovering its landmarks starting from the ruins of the temple of Apollo to the Cathedral and the Arethusa Fountain. During your visit of Ortigia Island, you’ll see the best of ancient Greek history and the Baroque architecture.

Noto

The final stop on the tour is Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the town’s fascinating and harmonious Baroque style. In Noto, you will have the chance to stroll through the picturesque streets, taking in the unique architectural features that are recognized worldwide. You will also have the opportunity to visit stores selling traditional Sicilian products while getting lost among the city’s precious Baroque buildings.

Return to Taormina

After your visit to Noto, your driver will take you back to Taormina. You’ll arrive at the pre-arranged meeting point at around 6:00 PM, ending the tour.

Booking the Tour

Booking the tour is straightforward. You can book it directly from the tour operator’s website, which is GetYourGuide. The link to book the tour using a third-party platform can be found on this page. Remember that booking early can help you avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. In conclusion, the small group tour from Taormina to Siracusa and Noto is an excellent way to explore ancient ruins and Baroque architecture. During the tour, you’ll see some of the most significant historical landmarks available in these scenic villages. Remember to book early and follow the tour’s guidance to make the most out of your experience. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Noto Italy

Noto is a beautiful city on the southeastern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is known for its stunning baroque architecture, delicious food, and fascinating history. If you’re planning a trip to Noto, you probably have a lot of questions. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about visiting Noto.

1. What is the best time to visit Noto?

The best time to visit Noto is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. The summer months (July to August) can be very hot and crowded.

2. What are some of the must-visit attractions in Noto?

Noto is home to many beautiful attractions, including:

Porta Reale

This is the main entrance to the city and is a spectacular example of Baroque architecture.

Noto Cathedral

The cathedral is a beautiful example of Sicilian Baroque architecture and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Myra.

Palazzo Ducezio

This beautiful Baroque palace is now home to the town hall and is a popular tourist attraction.

Teatro Tina Di Lorenzo

This stunning theatre is an example of Art Nouveau architecture and hosts many events throughout the year.

Casa Museo Salvatore Quasimodo

This museum is home to the personal belongings and works of the Sicilian poet Salvatore Quasimodo, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1959.

3. What are some traditional dishes to try in Noto?

Noto is known for its delicious Sicilian cuisine, and some traditional dishes to try include:

Arancini

These are fried rice balls filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Caponata

This is a vegetable dish made with eggplant, celery, onions, tomatoes, and olives.

Cassata

This is a traditional Sicilian dessert made with sponge cake, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit.

Cannoli

These are pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and sometimes chocolate chips or chopped nuts.

4. What is the best way to get around Noto?

The best way to get around Noto is to walk. The city is small, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis and buses are also available if you need to go further afield.

5. What are some day trips that are possible from Noto?

There are many beautiful places to visit near Noto, including:

Syracuse

This beautiful city is just a short drive from Noto and is home to many beautiful attractions, including the ancient Greek theatre, Ear of Dionysius, and the beautiful island of Ortigia.

Modica

This beautiful town is famous for its chocolate and is also home to many beautiful Baroque churches and palaces.

Ragusa

This gorgeous town is home to many beautiful Baroque buildings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. What is the weather like in Noto?

Noto has a Mediterranean climate, which means the summers are hot and dry, and the winters are mild and wet. The average temperature in the summer months is around 27°C (81°F), and in the winter months, it is around 13°C (55°F).

7. What is the local currency in Noto?

The local currency in Noto and the rest of Italy is the euro (€). Most places in Noto accept credit and debit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you just in case.

8. What is the time zone in Noto?

Noto is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). During daylight saving time, it is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

9. What language do people speak in Noto?

The official language of Noto and the rest of Italy is Italian. However, many people in Noto also speak Sicilian, which is a Romance language that is closely related to Italian.

10. Is Noto safe for tourists?

Noto is a very safe city for tourists, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Noto, Italy

Noto, a small town in Sicily, Italy, is famous for its baroque architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. If you are planning a trip to Noto, there are plenty of things to see and do. In this guide, we will take you through the top attractions and activities to make the most out of your time as a tourist in Noto, Italy.

1. Visit the Noto Cathedral

No trip to Noto would ever be complete without a visit to the Noto Cathedral. The Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Myra, was built in the 18th century and is a superb example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. It is located at the heart of the town and is impossible to miss. Take a stroll through the cathedral and marvel at the intricate details in every corner. The high ceilings and intricate arches capture the beauty and grandeur of this masterpiece.

2. Explore the Palazzo Nicolaci

The Palazzo Nicolaci is another spectacular example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. The building was constructed in the 18th century and is located in the center of the town. Visitors can explore the building and marvel at the intricate details, including the stucco sculptures and unique frescoes. The palace overlooks the Piazza del Municipio and is famous for its impressive balconies. If you visit during the summer months, you can witness the famous Infiorata festival, where the balconies are decorated with colorful flowers arranged in intricate patterns.

3. Visit the Villa Romana del Tellaro

A must-see attraction for history enthusiasts, the Villa Romana del Tellaro is a well-preserved Roman Villa located outside of Noto. The villa dates back to the 4th century and was thought to be the country residence of a noble Roman family. Visitors can explore the villa and marvel at the impressive mosaics and frescoes that depict scenes of hunting, farming, and everyday life during ancient times. The Villa Romana del Tellaro is an impressive testament to the high quality of life during the Roman Empire.

4. Go on a Food Tour

Sicily is famous for its delicious cuisine and wine, and Noto is no exception. Take a food tour of the town and sample the best of Sicilian cuisine, from mouth-watering pasta dishes to fresh seafood and fruity wines. Visit Piazza Immacolata and try some of the best street food in the town, including the famous arancini, a fried rice ball filled with cheese or ragù. Sample the delicious cannoli, the traditional Sicilian dessert made from ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and sugar, and try the refreshing granita, a semi-frozen dessert made from three simple ingredients – ice, sugar, and fresh fruit juice.

5. Explore the Nature Reserves

Noto is located in the middle of diverse natural reserves, making it a haven for nature lovers. The Vendicari Natural Reserve is one of the most famous reserves and boasts an impressive wealth of flora and fauna. Take a stroll through the reserve and discover rare migratory birds, sea turtles, and an impressive array of rare plant species. The reserve also boasts sandy beaches where you can sunbathe or relax and soak up the breathtaking scenery.

Book Your Tour Now

Noto is a hidden gem in Sicily with a rich history and a lot to offer visitors. From ancient Roman villas to delicious Sicilian cuisine, Noto has something for everyone. If you are looking for a relaxing and cultural vacation, Noto is the place to be. Plan your trip today and discover the hidden treasures of this beautiful town.