What to see in Ragusa and Modica: 1 easy day trip
From our base in Noto, we traveled to Ragusa and Modica.
These small towns in the south of Sicily are exactly as you’d expect, and a reminder of its historic past.
There’s really no way of getting around Sicily than by car. That said, you’ve either got to hire one, or find a tour company that’ll take you there. The journey takes around 40 minutes from Noto, and you’ll see plenty of the arid yet pretty Sicilian countryside.
Take note of the lemon and olive trees, as well as the old stone structures, that whizz past your window. These are muragghi, stone constructions that were built to keep rocks from clogging up the field.
Arriving in Ragusa
When you eventually spot Ragusa in the distance, it almost feels like a mirage. From afar, the city looks majestic, with a sense of mystery and intrigue that builds the closer you get.
It’s a feeling that intensifies when you’re on the winding road driving up to the heart of the city.
The earthquake in Ragusa 1693 split the city of Ibla in 2, with some of the buildings re-built in Baroque style. However, you can also see the older pre-earthquake buildings. Walking around and exploring the city is a must — just try to do this early morning, before the sun gets too hot.
1. See Duomo di San Giorgio in Ragusa
The number one attraction most people flock to see in Ragusa are the mesmerizing duomos in the city. The Duomo is the principal church or cathedral in every Italian town or city.
Start at the Duomo San Giorgio in Piazza Duomo, or the Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista. Both are perfect examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture.
More than a church — what to see in Ragusa and Modica
Inside Duomo San Giorgio, there’s almost a theatrical feel, with deep red full-length curtains married with the golden-brown fringing.
The interior itself is impressive as is the wondrous ceiling. Upon visiting, we were witness to the preparations for a wedding and so decided to pay our respects by leaving.
2. Explore the streets of Ragusa
If you’ve no itinerary to stick to, I recommend getting lost in the small streets around Ragusa.
We came across a workshop that wasn’t only selling local crafts, but also restoring them. We spotted a traditional carrotero (Sicilian cart) and a Fiat 500 adorned in colorful Sicilian print.
“The number one attraction most people flock to are the awe-inspiring duomos in the city”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
“We spotted a traditional carrotero (Sicilian cart) and a Fiat 500 adorned in colourful Sicilian print”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
3. Have lunch at Locanda Don Serafino
When in Italy, finding somewhere good, and something delicious to eat, is never hard. And, when in Ragusa, I urge you to stop for lunch at the exquisite Locanda Don Serafino.
You’ll find the restaurant adjacent to the UNESCO site of La Chiesa del Miracoli, a church from the 17th century. With 2 Michelin stars to its name, the quality, as well as the prices, is better than a regular trattoria.
The food here is nothing short of excellent, which I think shows from my photos. On top of this, the ambience matches the restaurant’s high standard, in no less than a cave-style environment. Locanda Don Serafino is also part of the striking boutique hotel of the same name.
Map: what to see in Ragusa and Modica in 1 day
4. Discover churches and chocolate in Modica
The pretty town of Modica is around 20 minutes by car from Ragusa. It’s much smaller in size, but with just as much character as its closest counterpart.
Modica used to be an old walled town when the Arabs ruled. However, the era of baroque architecture would soon replace any signs of its former rulers.
Come for the chocolate — what to see in Ragusa
Modica’s most famous export is its chocolate.
You’ll see plenty of shops selling it when walking around town, but the best quality is at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. The chocolate has a grainy texture to it, and a robust taste, and may not be to everyone’s palate.
We, on the other hand, ended up taking home 3 chocolate bars. This included Massa di cacao 100%; Cioccolato Salinae and Cioccolato Mascobedo.
5. Visit Duomo di San Pietro
It’s pretty impossible to miss the Duomo di San Pietro in Modica.
Its striking baroque edifice and stone sculptures stop you in your tracks, demanding your full attention. With 250 steps to reach the top, be sure to have your ‘Rocky’ moment when you get there.
Another selling point about visiting this duomo, is that there were no other travelers around.
All in all, seeing Ragusa and Modica is possible to do in one day, and is the ideal day trip from a base in Noto.
“Another selling point about this Duomo, is that there were no other tourists around.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
Where to stay near Ragusa
Make the most of your time exploring Noto, Ragusa and Modica with a stay at the fabulous Seven Rooms Villadorata. This boutique hotel’s in the heart of the historic center in Noto, and a good base for your Sicily travels.
Alternatively, you may be interested to try glamping in Sicily. IUTA Glamping & Farm is around 2km from Noto city centre, and gives you a taste of Sicilian nature.
Have you ever visited Ragusa or Modica? If so, what were your highlights? Let me know in the comments below.
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Lisa Rivera
Founder
Welcome to my site! I'm Lisa, founder of Following the Rivera. I write primarily for a ‘flashpacker’ audience, a demographic (late 20s onward) that enjoys glamping over camping and staying at boutique/luxury boutique hotels. Flashpackers also like to indulge in the local food and wine, cultural activities, as well as a spot of wellness on their travels. Want to know more? Read on....
I’ve always been curious about Sicily as I heard it was really different from the rest of Italy. This post definitely gives me some insight into the island. The Sicilian print looks so colorful and vibrant – I love it! And the restaurant you ate at looks divine! I would love to try a few of those dishes.
Ragusa and Modica are truly great places to visit. And the food’s even better in person!