There’s an elegance to Noto, Sicily that I’ve always loved. It almost feels as if its streets were made for the evening passeggiata — elegantly dressed people walking through the city during golden hour, when the warm stone turns Noto the unmistakable color of the setting sun.
And in a way, they were.
The original town of Noto lies on a hill about five miles from the Baroque city we admire today. After the devastating earthquake of 1693, instead of simply rebuilding it, they decided to move the entire city and start again. Some of the greatest architects, mathematicians and even military engineers of the time were involved in planning the new Noto.
Maybe that’s why the city feels so majestic. Its wide streets, monumental staircases, palazzi and churches didn’t simply evolve over centuries. Noto was planned this way and built from scratch.
Today, Noto shows a more cosmopolitan side of Sicily. People from all over the world have fallen in love with the city, and many have made it their second home. During summer, villas in the surrounding countryside fill with dinners, parties and private celebrations, bringing together locals, creatives, artists, food and wine lovers. You can never be entirely sure if the person at the next table happens to be the creative director of a major fashion house. There’s also a strong LGBTQ+ community, all part of Noto’s open and international energy.
For me, Noto has become a place of close friendships, great conversations, elegant parties, my favorite affogato (more on that below) and the occasional opportunity to come home with a design piece from an international name or a local designer.
I live in Scicli , another Baroque town about an hour away, but I spend plenty of time in Noto. Between local friends, countless visits and weekends here, I’ve tried quite a lot of what the city has to offer. So, to give you the luxury of not having to think about where to find the perfect design piece, the best affogato, lunch near wild flamingos or a fancy cocktail, I’ve put together my personal must-visit list.
Where to Eat & Drink in Noto
Caffé Sicilia
There’s no guide to Noto without Caffè Sicilia, also featured in Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pastry. Try the pastries, granita with brioche or my personal favorite — affogato with almond and cinnamon gelato. Its location on the main corso also makes it perfect for some Noto people-watching.
Panificio Maidda
A modern take on the traditional Sicilian bakery. This panificio is famous for its bread and pastries, but don’t leave without trying the focaccia — easily one of the best in Noto.
Forno Piano Altro
I love this lunch spot in Noto. Part bakery, part natural wine bar, with just a few dishes on the menu each day — usually making it very hard to choose. Come hungry and stay for longer.
Casa Rossa
A true hidden gem just outside Noto. Easy to miss at first — until you notice all the cars parked around it. Authentic Sicilian food and a crowd mixing local workers with Noto’s more elegant regulars. Definitely worth the stop.
Ristorante Manna Noto, Lido di Noto
Still on my own must-visit list. Set inside a beautiful old Sicilian baglio near Lido di Noto, surrounded by greenery and citrus trees, Manna brings a more refined touch to seasonal Sicilian cooking. One to save for a long summer dinner.
Barone Sergio Winery
A family-run winery where wine, art and a younger creative energy come together. Come for a tasting, but in summer, don’t miss their famous Thursday evenings — DJ sets between the vines, a glass of wine in hand and one of the best sunsets around Noto.
Giasira
A beautiful organic winery between Noto and Modica, but keep an eye on their Instagram — you never know what might be happening. Their summer evenings with wine, live music and DJ sets among the vineyards are definitely worth experiencing.
I Crociferi
One of the most beautiful settings for an evening in Noto. Set in the courtyard of a historic Baroque building, the setting alone is worth the visit. Come for dinner or a cocktail, and stay longer when there’s a DJ set — this is Noto after dark.
Where To Shop In Noto
Archivio Gallery and Boutique
A unique space worth visiting in itself. Inside, you’ll find designs by Rosita Gia, who is also a photographer and exhibits her own work here, alongside vintage furniture and objects. Rosita is usually around — and a conversation with her is an inspiration in itself. A true Noto must-visit.
Santaagatha Pozzilei Concept Store
A concept store inside a church — already a reason to visit. A beautifully curated mix of fashion, design and objects from local and international names, and a perfect excuse to leave Noto with something you didn’t plan to buy.
Amare Noto
A small boutique full of charm, with beautifully selected clothing, accessories and some of the coolest Noto-inspired pieces.
Art & Antiques in Noto
Sergio Fiorentino Studio
Sergio Fiorentino is one of the artists shaping Noto’s contemporary creative scene. His studio in Noto is a beautiful reflection of his world — and his work is definitely worth knowing.
Antichita Haga Antiques and Interiors
A little paradise for antique lovers. The space is filled with characterful furniture, art and objects from Italy and beyond. Definitely worth a browse — especially if you’re looking for something with a story.
Beaches & Nature Near Noto
Vendicari Nature Reserve
A beautiful protected stretch of wild coastline, wetlands and some of the best beaches around Noto — Spiaggia di Vendicari, Calamosche and my personal favorite, Spiaggia di Eloro. The reserve is also known for its birdlife, including flamingos that stop here during migration. Calamosche might be the most famous beach, but keep in mind there’s a longer walk to reach it — not always the most pleasant idea under the Sicilian summer sun.
Agriturismo Il Baglietto
A true hidden gem in the Vendicari reserve and a great place for lunch. Simple, local food served in the shade of olive trees, with the loveliest owners making you feel instantly at home. Exactly the kind of place you hope to find in Sicily.
Laghetti di Cavagrande
Not exactly Noto, but close enough that it would be a shame to miss it. Hidden at the bottom of the spectacular Cavagrande del Cassibile canyon, these natural freshwater pools are one of the best escapes in the area. Getting there means a proper walk down — and, more importantly, back up — so avoid the hottest hours of the day. But trust me, it’s worth it.
Where To Stay In Noto
Seven Rooms Villadorata
Set inside the 18th-century Palazzo Nicolaci, Seven Rooms Villadorata is an opulent stay in the heart of Noto. Expect grand interiors, frescoed ceilings and plenty of Baroque atmosphere.
Gagliardi Boutique Hotel
A soulful stay in the historic center, Gagliardi pairs period interiors with a more relaxed, intimate feel. Its rooftop terrace is a lovely spot for an aperitivo above the city.
Dimora Santagatha
A quietly stylish stay in Noto’s historic center, Dimora Santagatha mixes contemporary design with original details and early 20th-century furnishings. The secluded courtyard is a lovely place to linger over breakfast before heading into town.
IUTA Farm
Set among olive and citrus groves just outside Noto, IUTA Farm brings a more contemporary feel to the Sicilian countryside. Stay in a suite with a private pool or one of its secluded lodges, with yoga, farm-grown food and plenty of space to slow down.
Looking for more stays like this? Discover our favorite glamping retreats in Italy.
