Southeastern Sicily is one of the wealthiest areas of the island.
Here, the union of nature and culture reaches its maximum expression. Just think of the cities of Noto, Ragusa, and Sciacca: beautiful, authentic, and more or less close to the sea; they are perfect destinations for spending time on the beach, in nature reserves and discovering the area’s historical traditions.
Risk of getting bored? Nonexistent. You only risk falling in love with Sicily! Let’s discover these 3 beautiful cities together.
Read my blog post on our trip to Sicily with Jet2.
The wonders of Noto
Noto is the city that gives its name to the valley that houses some of Sicily’s most fascinating places. It is famous for the spring event of the Infiorata and is considered a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque—a well-deserved title!
We challenge you to say the opposite: visit its imposing cathedral, dedicated to San Nicolò, and we assure you that you will be speechless. It stands majestically along one of the liveliest streets in the centre, where another site to visit is also located: Palazzo Ducezio.
The city is attractive both because it is rich from a historical-cultural point of view and because there is so much to explore in its surroundings. Staying in Noto is a practical solution for getting around the Ionian coast.
Without wasting any more time, after having also visited the Scalinata Mariannina Coffa, which digitally reproduces the theme of the infiorata, all you have to do is dive into the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
The beaches in the surroundings of Noto
Noto is close to the sea, and you can head north, towards the Syracusan beaches or the island’s southern tip.
If you want to enjoy the best of the sea, here are some proposals to consider:
- Lido di Noto: It is the closest seaside resort to the city, suitable for all needs and with a clear sea that laps the golden sand;
- Calabernardo and Malacala: These two hamlets of Noto are close by, more ideal for you if you prefer the cliffs and, perhaps, do some snorkelling;
- Avola and Marzamemi: These are two charming towns in the surroundings of Noto. It is worth spending a few hours visiting them. In particular, Marzamemi is a picturesque fishing village that social media visitors love. Here, you can take a dip at the Spinazza beach. In Avola is the Pineta del Gelsomineto beach, where the coast is sandy and rocky and full of caves. It is a paradise for divers, and it is pleasant to stay there, thanks to the freshness of the pine forest.
- Vendicari Oasis: The Vendicari Oasis is famous because it is considered one of the significant nature reserves in Sicily. It is an extensive and sometimes unspoiled wildlife area. You can go there to observe flamingos in flight or to admire other species, hike trails or enjoy the sea of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Calamosche and Marianelli are pristine paradises, and Eloro is ideal for those who prefer a little more comfort.
Ragusa the Majestic
Ragusa is one of the most charming and livable cities in Sicily. Destroyed by the 17th-century earthquake, it was reborn and became a masterpiece of Baroque art. Together with Catania, Syracuse, and the other small towns of the Val di Noto, it is protected by UNESCO.
The old town is Ragusa Ibla, a tangle of narrow streets and steps, hidden squares, and majestic valley views. We highly recommend visiting the Cathedral of San Giorgio and the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
After strolling along Corso Vittorio Veneto, a must-stop is the Giardino Ibleo, where you can relax in a well-kept garden. Not too far from the beaches, which we will discuss in a moment, is the beautiful Donnafugata Castle, famous for its labyrinth.
The beaches of Ragusa
If you want to go to the beach, then there are three places to consider.
First, there is Marina di Ragusa. It is one of the most popular seaside resorts in southeastern Sicily. The historic centre is charming and well-equipped for a comfortable beach experience, with beach clubs and restaurants. The sea is clean, the sand is an attractive golden colour, and it is suitable for swimming for everyone.
If you are a nature lover, the Irminio River Natural Reserve is undoubtedly a place to visit. It is located in the hamlet of Scicli, between Marina di Ragusa and Donnalucata, and embraces a large park near the sea, rich in Mediterranean vegetation and animal species.
You can take four trails to discover all its unspoiled beauty if you wish. A stretch of beach is suitable for swimming, ideal if you love uncrowded places and are in close contact with wild nature.
We also mention Donnalucata, a Scicli hamlet, and the beaches of Micenci, Palo Bianco, Palo Rosso, Spinasanta, and Playa Grande. Even in these parts, you will find fine sand and a clear sea, landing places to enjoy the sea in peace.
Finally, remember Santa Croce Camerina, only 8 kilometres from Marina di Ragusa. Here, you can swim in one of the most famous television locations: Punta Secca, a place well-known to fans of Inspector Montalbano, created by the creative genius of the Sicilian writer Andrea Camilleri.
Sciacca: an unforgettable journey through art and nature
Sciacca has the power to enchant you because it has a millennial charm, a vibrant culture, and natural beauty in which to immerse yourself. You can have different experiences, discovering every facet of it.
The historic centre of Sciacca is a labyrinth of picturesque streets and lively squares that house priceless treasures and are reflected in the water. We recommend visiting the Basilica Maria Santissima del Soccorso, the imposing Baroque cathedral with an equally majestic dome. Not far away, there are Palazzo Steripinto and Castello Luna, which are testimonies to the glorious medieval past of Sciacca.
Yet Sciacca has been known since Roman times, who held it in great esteem for the presence of thermal springs. In addition, over time, the city has established itself to produce ceramics.
Don’t miss a visit to the artistic staircase near the port. If you love art, you must absolutely follow the permanent street art itinerary in the San Lorenzo district and take a trip to the Enchanted Castle, the sculpture garden created by Filippo Bentivegna.
To experience a day as a pasta maker, we suggest you tour the Grotte del Caricatore. If you want to discover an ancient thermal site, go to the steamy Grotte di San Calogero on Monte Kronio.
By the sea in Sciacca
As far as beaches are concerned, Sciacca is no less than other more famous resorts in southeastern Sicily.
The first to be mentioned is Capo San Marco. It is located 8 km from the town centre and is a long stretch of golden sand caressed by clear waters. In addition to being accessible and well-equipped, it also has a particular environmental value because the loggerhead sea turtle loves to lay its eggs here. You might even witness the hatching!
Famous but huge is the San Giorgio beach. In addition to having a beautiful sea, it is convenient and easy to reach. Furthermore, thanks to the clay of the rocks near the beach, you can indulge in beauty treatments.
With its white sand and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape, Sovareto Beach is appreciated by everyone. Two bathing establishments make it convenient, and the sloping seabed is accessible even to little ones.
Finally, there is the Tonnara beach. It is very suggestive because the remains of the ancient tuna fishery are its backdrop. It is a small beach but pretty, with a clear sea teeming with fish.
Now you have to fly to Catania or Ragusa, head to the most beautiful cities in Sicily and enjoy your seaside vacation!