Tour of Noto and Siracusa with private trasportation
- 1 Day
- 7 Persons
- Medium difficulty
Tour of Noto and Siracusa with private trasportation
- 1 Day
- 7 Persons
- Medium difficulty
A devastating 1693 earthquake destroyed many villages and cities in southeastern Sicily, from Catania to the Iblei Mountains. This tragedy reshaped the region’s economy, society, and demographics — but it also sparked a rebuilding boom that birthed the UNESCO-protected “late Baroque” style. This tour takes you to the epicentre of the disaster and rebirth, spotlighting Noto as a masterpiece of that era.
We’ll then explore Syracuse, one of Sicily’s most ancient and beautiful cities. Its millennia-spanning history leads us to the archaeological riches of the mighty Greek colony — the pinnacle of Magna Graecia — and the ruins of its Roman successor. Finally, we’ll wander enchanting Ortigia, the bridge-linked island of the original Greek settlement, now a stunning Baroque stage set.
- Flexible Meeting Point: Pick-up from Catania, Taormina, or nearby areas with private transportation to Noto. En route, marvel at Mount Etna’s majesty, the eastern coast’s dramatic vistas, the Catania plain, and the Iblei foothills.
- Noto exploration: Stroll the main street lined with grand squares, dramatic staircases, and undulating façades adorned with lace-like stone carvings. Visit the Cathedral and climb to the roof of a nearby church for panoramic city views.
- Syracuse Archaeological Park (Neapolis): Arrive late morning via private transport. Discover Hieron II’s Altar, the infamous “Ear of Dionysius,” the vast ancient Greek theatre (one of the largest in the world), and the Roman amphitheatre.
- Lunch in Ortigia: Head to Syracuse’s historic heart and original colony core. Dive into the local market for fresh Sicilian bites at a cosy bistro or tavern.
- Ortigia Walking Tour: Post-lunch, navigate the earthquake-ravaged and 18th-century rebuilt streets. See the Temple of Apollo ruins, the Fountain of Diana, and Arethusa Spring. Visit the Cathedral, then stroll to the grand harbour basin and Frederick II’s Maniace Castle.
- Optional Add-Ons: Customize your Ortigia visit with Palazzo Bellomo Regional Gallery (Antonello da Messina’s Annunciation), Saint Lucy’s Church (Caravaggio’s masterpiece), or early Christian catacombs.
- Return: Rejoin the driver for drop-off at your preferred location.
This itinerary is fully customizable to suit your preferences.
Lunch/Tasting: €30–40 per person at the market (varies by wine selection).
- Mercedes Minivan V 250
- Seating capacity: up to 7 passengers (plus the guide)
- Leather seats
- Air conditioning
I’m not a guide-driver, but I can provide a professional driver with his own minivan or car for commuting. The type of vehicle and the number of vehicles required depends on the number of passengers.