What to see in Noto | 5 reasons to visit in May

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Last updated on March 26th, 2024.

Nestled in the sun-kissed landscape of southeastern Sicily is the historic city of Noto.

A jewel within the province of Syracuse (Siracusa), Noto serves as a gateway to exploring the rich and colorful history of the cities and towns in the region.

In this travel guide, I’ll be outlining 5 excellent reasons to visit Noto in May.

A city where every cobblestone tells a story, and an architectural style that embodies the spirit of Sicily, prepare to fall head over heels.

By the end of this post, I’m hoping that I’ll have convinced you to mark May as the month to visit Noto.

Noto: past to present

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, Noto, and Sicily in general, are highly worth adding to your Italy bucket list.

Noto has undergone many different influences before becoming the place it’s known as today. Like Palermo, the Arabs conquered Noto in 866, with Noto being heralded as the capital at one point.

Their reign ended when the Christians took over Sicily, changing the landscape, and the religion too.

Iron balconies in Noto Sicily - 5 reasons to visit Noto in May
The wrought-iron balconies in Noto Sicily — 5 reasons to visit Noto in May

Today, signs of its former ancestors and influences are still visible throughout the city center. Small, yet incredibly fascinating, it’s possible to see the main attractions of Noto in 1 day.

To see Noto from a local’s point of view, I highly recommend booking a tour. This baroque tour of Noto, Ragusa and Modica from Catania takes you around the architectural sites of all three cities.

Excellent value and a package that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, it’s a great tour to consider.

5 good reasons to visit Noto in May

The weather is perfect in Noto in May

If you want to know the best time to visit Noto Sicily, my answer will always be May.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Sicily in general. Average temperatures in Noto in May range from 77°F (25°C) during the day to 59°F (15°C) at night.

Unlike July or August, Sicily weather in May is perfect. There’s no danger of sweating buckets as we experienced in Isole delle Correnti or in Marzamemi.

In Noto, you can expect nothing but sunshine for approximately 9 months of the year. While other northern European neighbors will still likely be experiencing cooler climes, it’s pure Mediterranean bliss in Noto.

Come prepared

Though I find temperatures ideal in May, there are days where it does get hotter than the average 77°F (25°C). Making sure you’ve sufficient high factor (SPF 46) sunscreen and a good sunhat will ensure that you’re covered.

Other essentials for Noto include suitable walking shoes. The center consists of sloping streets and cobbled roads where some stones can be uneven and slippery.

Map of Noto, Sicily

Fewer crowds in Noto in May

Because August is typically holiday season in Italy, Sicily tends to get overrun with tourists — both Italians and foreigners.

While this is great for businesses, it’s not so great having to cram into the same attraction with other sweaty visitors.

Lisa Rivera outside Noto Cathedral
Me standing outside Cattedrale di San Nicolò (Noto Cathedral)

In Noto in May, there’s no danger of this happening. The main street of Via Corso Vittorio Emanuele is perfectly quiet, almost empty, depending on the time of day.

Cars are also noticeably fewer during this period, a real plus if you want to park in the historic center. In short, if you prefer your trips, and photos, without the obstructing crowds, visit Noto in May.

The attractions are just for you

Noto’s historic center is a mecca for buildings that reflect a Sicilian Baroque architectural style.

Its cathedral is one of the most underrated cathedrals I’ve visited in Italy and tops the list of what to see in Noto.

Incredibly beautiful, the Cattedrale di San Nicolò will leave you speechless the moment you set eyes on it. The cathedral’s façade takes on a Sicilian Baroque style, with an exterior consisting of pale yellow limestone.

Palazzo Ducezio in Noto Sicily
Palazzo Ducezio — 5 reasons to visit Noto in May

A brief history of Noto

After the Sicily earthquake in 1693, many parts of Sicily, including the cathedral’s rood were significantly damaged. Consequently, it underwent many repairs over the decades since the earthquake.

Unfortunately, the roof collapsed again in 1996 and Noto Cathedral didn’t reopen its doors until 2007.

If you observe closely inside, you can see where the original building and the restoration works collide. The interior walls also have a slightly different color to the roof.

Noto Cathedral’s grand doorways are revivals from the 15th century architecture, while the façade resembles the style of the Notre-Dame in Versailles.

Via Corrado Nicolaci in May - what to do in Noto
Wake up early to see Via Corrado Nicolaci in Noto

Infiorata di Noto

One of the best reasons to visit Noto in May is to see the colorful Infiorata di Noto. This annual festival usually takes place from the second to last week of May in the historic center on Via Corrado Nicolaci.

Lisa Rivera outside la Chiesa Montevergine in Noto Sicily
Me standing outside la Chiesa Montevergine in Noto Sicily

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.

Infiorata di Noto – the annual flower festival in Noto, Sicily
The Infiorata di Noto is another of many good reasons to visit Noto in May

Via Corrado 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.

Booking.com

Things cost slightly cheaper in May

One of the biggest reasons to visit Noto in May is that you’re less likely to find high tourist prices.

As regular visitors to Noto, I can tell you first hand that the difference is noticeable. During the quieter months, hotel prices will have much lower tariffs than in summer.

You’re also more likely to find special offers on the hotel’s website.

Local tip: call the hotel when making your reservation. It’s something that many visitors overlook when planning a trip to Italy. However, some hotels may be able to offer a better deal than the prices offered online.

It’s something that we learned about during our 3 days in Lake Como. Since then, we always prefer to call hotels rather than book online.

Pistacchio granita - where to eat in Marzamemi
Granita Siciliana may be cheaper, and of better quality, in May

Dining differences in Noto in May

Personally, the biggest difference we’ve seen when visiting Noto in May relates to the quality and cost of dining.

We’ve found that some places along Via Corso Vittorio Emanuele charge more for breakfast in July and August.

On top of this, the breakfast foods, like granita Siciliana, are nowhere as good quality compared to the quieter months. Dull in color and lacking in taste and quality, it’s downright disappointing.

But I’m not trying to infer that you’ll find the best granita in Noto in May.

I’m just saying that from our experience, we’ve noticed that it costs more in August and the granita has always been substandard.

Another of the best reasons to visit Noto in May, there’s also less chance of having to wait in line for a table.

Where to stay 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, a part of the building is 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.

This boutique hotel has private apartments in the south wing of the Nicolaci Palace. Guests are treated to a taste of Sicilian aristocracy, first-class service and sumptuous furnishings.

5 reasons to visit Noto in May - breakfast room Seven Rooms Villadorata
Dress up for breakfast at Seven Rooms Villadorata
Curtains in bedroom at Seven Rooms Villadorata
The bedroom view from Seven Rooms Villadorata — what to see in Noto

A place unlike any hotel in Noto, it perfectly combines comfort and elegant design. We booked a few nights in a 2-bedroom suite and instantly felt at home. The suite has generous sized bedrooms, a large bathroom and living area.

Breakfast is served in a grand dining room — so you may want to change out of your pajamas before going in. Guests dine together at one long grand table, while staff serve you coffee and/or tea. They’ve an excellent buffet-style breakfast that serves up freshly made 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 we’d happily stay again.

IUTA Glamping & Farm

A unique alternative just outside Noto’s city center is the exquisite IUTA Glamping & Farm.

Booking.com

Just a few minutes’ drive is this gorgeous glamping site with luxury eco-tents and suites. Surrounded by the lush Sicilian countryside, it’s your chance to get closer to nature while enjoying the mod cons.

What are your thoughts on my reasons to visit Noto in May? Would you like to visit Noto, or Sicily, anytime soon? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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Noto Cathedral - what to see in Noto

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Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

122 thoughts on “What to see in Noto | 5 reasons to visit in May

  1. Salvatore j Noto says:

    My wife and I are going to Noto in May 2023 my grandfather and his wife came from Noto ,My last name happens to be Noto it would be fantastic if I could find his house where he lives I’m really excited about getting there and seeing where my grandparents came from I have two uncles that are buried in Noto who died at birth I can’t wait to get there

    • Lisa says:

      Ciao Salvatore, thank you for sharing your story. I really hope you enjoy your time in Noto, it’s really a wonderful city. I hope you also get to trace your family’s roots

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