Catania to the southern Sicily region: Private day trip

Founded in pre-Roman times, Noto was decimated by an earthquake in 1693, and as such was completely rebuilt in a new position. Expertly planned on a modern grid, and built in the beautiful Baroque style, the city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic urban plan and rich architecture. Of the city’s many beautiful churches, the Cathedral is without a doubt the most impressive. Visitors are given plenty of time to admire its elaborate Baroque facade as you work your way up the monumental staircase. The interior is an elegant white with pops of opulent ornamentation. Nicknamed ‘the stone garden’ for its many richly ornamented buildings, Noto’s beauty is best experienced by simply walking around, discovering its many fountains, plazas, and many hidden details.

Settled since the second millenium BC, Ragusa was devastated by an earthquake in 1693. Many of the villagers moved higher up the hill and founded Upper Ragusa, which was built in the lavish Baroque style, while Old Ragusa remained a separate entity until the two towns were fused in 1926. Today, both sections of the city are filled with enough Baroque landmarks Ragusa received UNESCO recognition. In the lower city, visitors can enjoy the views offered by the Hyblean Gardens before heading out to see the Basilica di San Giorgio, and tackle its 200 steps. En route to the upper city, St. Mary of the Stairs, sitting atop 242 steps, still bears some of its original Gothic features amongst the Baroque ornamentation. Dominating the upper city is the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, which was actually rebuilt twice after the earthquake as the first version wasn’t extravagant enough.