Last updated on November 17th, 2024.
Chances are you haven’t heard of Ispica before.
The small and sleepy town in southeastern Sicily is the perfect definition of a hidden gem. With few tourists passing through, Ispica makes a welcome change from the busier, and more well-known, destinations in Sicily.
Though Ispica doesn’t have enough attractions to fill an entire day, the town is a must-see on Sicily’s east coast. Keep on reading as I list some of the best things to do in Ispica Sicily.
A beautiful town to add to your Italy bucket list, use this post to help plan your trip to Italy.
For me, Ispica deserves a spot on the list of the most beautiful places in Sicily.
The small southern Sicilian town has some of the best free Sicily attractions and will make a unique addition to your East Sicily itinerary.
Like us, many visitors usually travel to Ispica before visiting the cities of Ragusa and Modica.
Best things to do in Ispica
Visit Ispica’s cave complex
If I had to sum up Ispica’s vibe in one word it’d be peaceful. From the moment you exit the highway to follow the directions to Ispica’s center, there’s hardly anyone around.
But the tranquil surroundings leading to Ispica’s historic center provide the perfect backdrop to one of Ispica’s most important attractions.
Cava Ispica is a river valley of around 13km (8mi) that runs through the Hyblean plateau between Modica and Ispica. Between them are a series of ancient cave dwellings and catacombs carved into the surrounding limestone cliffs.
Cava Ispica is considered to be one of the largest rock settlements in Sicily.
Within the complex
Inhabited by early civilizations, Cava Ispica was used for various purposes. In the north of Cava Ispica is the early Christian catacomb of the Larderia. One of the most important burial complexes it contains 464 burials that date between the 3rd and 5th century.
Also in this part of the caves is the rock church of St Mary. An ancient rock oratory, it houses a prehistoric necropolis that dates to the 11th century.
Towards the south of Cava Ispica is where you’ll find Parco Forza (the fort park). Within this part are palace ruins, the Church of the Annunziata and a cave that was used as an antiquarium.
How to visit Cava Ispica
At the time of writing, the Fort archaeological park is temporarily closed. However, Cava Ispica north should be open.
Information on how to visit Cava Ispica isn’t very clear.
The most ‘up-to-date’ information I found on the official website stated the following:
To visit the Fort Park area (south Ispica)
- Open daily from 09:00 to 13:15 (May to October)
- Children until 18 years old are free
- Young people from 18-15: €1 ($1.10/£0.86)
- People 25+: €2 ($2.20/£1.73)
To visit the archaeological area (north Ispica)
- Open daily from 09:00 to 13:15 (May to October)
- Children until 18 years old are free
- Young people from 18-15: €2
- People 25+: €4 ($4.41/£3.45)
Please note, the information on the website says this information was valid until 31 December 2017. It may be the case that the date just hasn’t been updated, or the prices and timetables are still the same.
Map: best things to do in Ispica Sicily
Head to Ispica town center
The ‘ghost town’ feeling extends as you drive into Ispica’s historic center. Characterized by Sicilian Baroque architecture, historic churches and grand piazzas, it’s a welcoming sight.
Finding parking wasn’t an issue, even on a hot and humid morning in early July. At the heart of Ispica is Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia. Within the square are several notable buildings, one of them being St. Bartholomew’s Church (Chiesa Madre di San Bartolomeo).
Dating to the 18th century, the church with its baroque and neoclassical façade is flanked by a grand double staircase.
Not 100% reliable
Unfortunately, St. Bartholomew’s Church was closed during the time of our visit. This was unusual as the church should have been open as stated on a Tuesday morning.
But, as frequent visitors, and part-time residents in Sicily, we weren’t too surprised. We’ve experienced several times where an attraction should’ve been open, like in Forza d’Agro, but it was closed.
I still recommend checking the church’s website but just be mindful that in smaller towns, the outcome may be different.
Chiesa Madre di San Bartolomeo, Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia
The Loggiato del Sinatra
Just a few feet from Piazza dell’Unità d’Italia is Ispica’s hidden gem. As you veer off into a dusty side road two remarkable attractions await on the other side.
The first thing that comes into view is the magnificent curved ‘Loggiato del Sinatra’. Designed by Noto-born architect Vincenzo Sinatra in the mid-18th century, the Loggiato del Sinatra is one of a kind. With 23 openings, which are interspersed with pilasters, it’s a sight that brings you to a standstill.
With no one around, the only sound within range came from the distant whirring of passing cars.
From my many travels across Italy, the Loggiato del Sinatra is the first curved loggia I’d ever seen.
So renowned is the structure, it was featured in an episode of the popular Inspector Montalbano TV series. A show mainly associated with the city of Scicli, it’s an honorable cameo.
One of the best things to do in Ispica, be sure to visit the Loggiato del Sinatra.
Loggiato del Sinatra, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, Via Vincenzo Bellini
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
As you turn away from the loggia, you’re greeted with another fine and grandiose sight. Dating to the 17th century, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore was originally built to house the ‘Cristo alla Colonna’ statue. It was rescued after the destruction of the old church in Cava Ispica.
Unlike St. Bartholomew’s Church, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore was open. A tranquil scene mimicking Ispica’s vibe was waiting inside; the only other person present being a local parishioner.
My husband and I exchanged a couple of quiet oohs and aahs as we admired the scene. The basilica’s walls and ceilings were draped in dramatic frescoes by Sicilian painters Olivio Sozzi, Giuseppe Cristadoro and Vito d’Anna.
During our time in the basilica, we didn’t meet any other (non-local) visitors. By far one of the top things to do in Ispica, we were glad to have been able to enter.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore
Basilica della Santissima Annunziata
Another basilica you can’t miss seeing when in Ispica is the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.
Located in the piazza of the same name, the baroque-style church was built 10 years after the devasting 1693 earthquake.
Elevated on its own stage, to the side of the basilica is a bell tower and a loggia. While the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is almost hidden away, this basilica proudly flaunts its magnificent structure.
Inside is a striking tapestry of blues, whites and gold all beautifully blended together.
Unlike the previous basilica, we had the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata all to ourselves. A magnificent attraction to enjoy without anyone around, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Ispica.
Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, Piazza SS. Annunziata
Where to eat and drink in Ispica
I can only comment on refreshments in Ispica, and not lunch or dinner, given that we visited in the morning.
We chose Bar La Movida as it was one of the few that were open at the time. Serving coffee, Sicilian granita, brioche, patisserie and aperitivo, it was a good choice.
The staff at Bar La Movida were friendly too. Visiting smaller Sicilian towns, you can never know if the locals will be open to visitors. But, speaking from experience, they were welcoming.
Other locals were also helpful when we asked about whether St. Bartholomew’s Church was open. One elderly man even encouraged us to try another side door. It was still closed.
Bar La Movida, 30, Corso Garibaldi
When to visit Ispica
As mentioned above, we visited Ispica in early-July. Temperatures that day were around 96.8°F (36°C) but the heat was manageable as we had arrived early.
Usually, I wouldn’t visit during this period, but July was still doable and far better than August. My guide on when to visit Sicily provides a detailed month-by-month breakdown of the weather and other events.
What do you think about this post on the best things to do in Ispica? It’s a side of Sicily I enjoy visiting and one that mainly Sicilians only get to see. Does it look like a town you’d like to visit? 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.
Like this post? Pin it!
You Might Also Like
- Things to do in Scicli, Sicily in 1 day
- A road trip from Sicily to Perugia
- The Godfather movie locations in Sicily
ABOUT me
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.
Ispica truly seems like a hidden treasure waiting to be explored! Your insights about this quaint Sicilian town are intriguing, especially for those seeking a unique and quieter Italian experience. It’s refreshing to uncover lesser-known destinations like Ispica and your post provides a valuable guide for those looking to enhance their Italy travel plans.
Ispica really is a hidden gem. It’s a small town here but is worth seeing
Some lovely ideas of things to do when visiting the area thank you for sharing
My pleasure
One of the prettiest spots in Italy! Love it!
Thank you
Some great ideas. Thank you.
You’re welcome