Catania to Syracuse and Noto: Private day trip

Founded by Greek colonists in 734 BC, Syracuse was an ancient superpower, warring with Athens, Carthage, and Rome. Over its long history, the city has accrued a rich collection of landmarks and attractions that are sure to satisfy any visitor several times over. At the ancient city, which Cicero called ‘the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all’, visitors will find one of the world’s largest Greek amphitheatres, the “Ear of Dionysius” cave with its legendary acoustics, as well as temples, and a museum filled with more delicate artefacts. Syracuse’s island of Ortygia is a delightfully eclectic mixture of architecture, where visitors will find Greek and Roman remains, medieval buildings, and Baroque marvels. This is embodied by the Piazza del Duomo, where the Baroque cathedral incorporates an ancient Temple of Athena. Also on this square is the Baroque Palazzo Beneventano and the church of Santa Lucia - the town’s patron saint.

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.