What to see in Noto, Sicily
The Sicilian town of Noto is located in the south of Sicily. It’s part of the province of Siracusa, and a good base to visit the equally beautiful Ragusa and Modica.
Noto’s historic center may be small in size, but there’s plenty of things to do and see.
May is a great time to visit, and for 5 reasons that I’ll outline in this post. My hope is that by the end, I’ll have convinced you to add Noto to the itinerary.
1. Immerse yourself in the history — what to see in Noto
Noto has undergone many different influences before becoming the place it is today. The Arabs conquered the city in 866, where Noto was even the capital at one point.
Their reign ended when the Christians took over Sicily, changing the landscape, and religion too.
2. Enjoy the good weather
It may sound obvious, but having good weather when traveling makes a big difference. And in Noto, it’s usually sunny for approximately 9 months of the year. Feeling the sun on your face is a dream, especially when you’re used to a northern European climate.
Average temperatures in Noto in May range from 25° during the day, to 15° at night. It can get hot in May, meaning high factor sunscreen and a good sunhat is a must. However, compared to summer, May’s more bearable, and you’re also less likely to need 2 showers every day.
3. Noto historic center — what to see in Noto
Though Noto is more than just the city center, it’s really the hub where everything happens. If arriving by car, be prepared to drive into some of the narrowest streets around.
Parking is very tight, so you may want to think twice about hiring that SUV. Sloped streets and cobbled roads also create a challenge for any female travelers wanting to wear heels.
Good walking shoes are a must, because you’ll be walking a lot, plus there are many sloping streets. If you want to know the real Noto, you may want to consider booking a tour. It’s a fun way to see the city, and also with your very own local guide.
4. Noto architecture — what to see in Noto
Noto’s historic center is a mecca for buildings in the style of Sicilian Baroque. Its cathedral is incredibly beautiful, and will leave you speechless when you first set sights on it.
After the earthquake hit Noto in 1693, the cathedral underwent many repairs, mainly to the cathedral’s roof. Unfortunately, it collapsed again in 1996, and didn’t reopen till 2007. In fact, if you observe closely enough, it’s something evident when you compare the interior walls to the roof.
Noto Cathedral is also — hands down — one of the most impressive cathedrals I’ve ever seen in Italy. The cathedral’s façade takes on the style of Sicilian Baroque, with an exterior of pale yellow limestone.
The grand doorways are revivals of 15th century architecture, and the façade, resembles the style of the Notre-Dame in Versailles.
5. Infiorata di Noto — what to see in Noto
A very good reason to visit in May is the colorful Infiorata di Noto. This annual festival usually takes place in the last week of May in the historic center on Via Nicolaci.
The festival began as an idea over 20 years ago, by artists from Noto and Genzano, a commune in Rome. Designated streets are decorated with art all in floral display. Artists begin painting and drawing on the street on Friday. By Saturday, it’s ready for the crowds to view.
Via Nicolaci is also the street where you can find the ‘Insta-worthy‘ Villadorata Palace. It’s home to the ‘most beautiful balconies in the world,’ and the achingly chic luxury boutique hotel, Seven Rooms Villadorata.
Where to stay in Noto — boutique hotels in Noto
Villadorata Palace is an 18th century palace with many striking features. It’s most famous for its wrought-iron balconies, with theatrical figures hanging beneath.
Villadorata Palace was also the former home of local aristocrat, Baron Giacomo Nicolaci. Today it’s home to the city’s library.
Seven Rooms Villadorata — what to see in Noto
Seven Rooms Villadorata is the next best thing to staying at the Villadorata Palace. It’s a boutique hotel in the private apartments of the south wing of the Nicolaci Palace. Guests are treated to a taste of Sicilian aristocracy, first-class service and sumptuous furnishings.
They serve breakfast in a grand dining room — and you won’t want to arrive in your sleepwear here! Guests dine together at one long grand table, with staff serving you coffee and/or tea. There’s an excellent buffet-style breakfast serving classic continental choices.
What’s more, Seven Rooms Villadorata has an enclosed, and ample, parking area within the grounds. The hotel’s a good choice if you’re looking for a boutique hotel in a quiet, and central part of Noto. In short, it’s somewhere I’d happily stay again.
Are you planning to visit Noto, or Sicily soon? Drop me a comment or question below, and I’ll do my best to answer it!
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Lisa Rivera
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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 never knew this beautiful town of Noto in south of Sicily. It is perfect destination for May travels. Staying at Villadorata Palace also looks very luxurious and royal one. I would love to see artists painting on weekends. Thanks for sharing!
Seven Rooms Villadorata is one of the best luxury boutique places I’ve stayed at. It’s the icing on the cake for a stay in Noto 🙂
Italy is one of my favourite holiday destinations. Done most of it but Sicilly not done yet. Great post and well presented with visuals speaking for themselves. The food the views and history all adds to it making it a go to place. The best time to travel most Europe including Sicily is May as you have suggested. The Architecture along with those churches are beautiful as well and one of the main reasons I like to visit Europe.
It’s beautiful, and we’re lucky to be in Sicily every summer. If you do ever return to Italy, be sure to stop by Sicily, and in May, if possible 🙂
Sicily has been long featured in must-visit list, however to be honest I was not really aware of Noto. Thanks to your lovely post, I’m already in love with this gorgeous city. The Infiorata di Noto sounds very interesting, I/m sure the artwork is equally fascinating. I’m also intrigued to check out the palace with most gorgeous balconies, that would be a sight to behold.
It’s so wonderful, and honestly I encourage others to visit. Plus the Infiorata di Noto is so pretty to see in person!
Noto’s architecture looks quite impressive. I’ve never been in Sicily and as such have never heard of Noto, but I’d surely love to visit. Infiorata di Noto seems like a good reason for visiting this place in May. I bet hotels are also cheaper at this time of year.
Yes x 100! It’s an incredible festival, and the best hotels are much cheaper too 😉
now i see the reason why people should visit this place during the month of May. Such a beautiful place to go to and it’ll be perfect in a sunny day. your article will definitely help many tourists.
Thank you! It’s always great to hear positive feedback from readers 🙂
Noto looks amazing. I have like others above never even heard of it but to be fair I know very little about Sicily. I bet Darcee would love to go there in May since the weather is mild and she hates it when I drag her around in the hot season.
I would love to see all that architecture in person. I know the Cathedral is rebuilt but I bet it is truly beautiful inside.
Only problem for me visiting in May is I bet the water is a wee bit Nippy!
May’s a perfect time to visit. The weather’s great and not too unbearable. Yes, the water’s on the cool side, but some may enjoy it!
What a gorgeous city! The architecture is impressive, to say the least. I haven’t visited Europe but it’s on my list 🙂
That’s great! Hope you make it one day.
OMG! Noto looks amazing! I love the architecture and artistry of the streets. I would love to visit Sicily one day. Villadorata looks incredible!
I loved this hotel! It’s so chic, yet not snobby. And the location’s perfect too.
I have never known of Noto before, but it looks like a sensational city. I love the Baroque architecture of the Noto Cathedal. And I would love to go to the Infiorata di Noto. I love a good art festival.
Then you’ll love this one! I hope you get to visit one day soon.
I’m from Italy but I’ve never been to Sicily. This isn’t the first time I read great things about the place. I really need to go
You must go! It’s an incredible island and with plenty of things to see and do.