NOTO

A curated guide by MVDT Collection

Updated: August 2026

Noto is one of the places I find myself returning to again and again. Whether it's for work, meeting friends or simply enjoying a slow morning, every visit feels a little different.

Over the years, I've collected my favourite places throughout the city and its surroundings. From inspiring boutiques and artists' studios to beautiful restaurants, quiet beaches and hidden nature spots, this guide brings together the places I genuinely love to visit and recommend.

Rather than a list of tourist attractions, think of it as a personal collection of places that have become part of my Sicilian life. I hope it inspires you to experience Noto a little differently and discover its beauty beyond the Baroque streets.

This guide is regularly updated as I continue discovering new places.

STORES

ARCHIVIO

One of my favourite places to visit whenever I'm in Noto.

Archivio is much more than a boutique. It is a thoughtfully curated space where fashion, photography, jewellery and art come together effortlessly. Rosita, the founder of Archivio and a talented photographer, has created a place that reflects her love for beauty and craftsmanship in every detail.

Here you'll discover Archivio's silk creations, designed by Rosita and handcrafted in her family's atelier in Puglia, alongside sculptures by Sergio Fiorentino, Rosita's photography and a carefully selected collection of jewellery, including MVDT Collection.

Via Silvio Spaventa 13

CHIESA DI SANT'AGATA

One of the most beautiful churches in Noto, quietly tucked away from the main streets.

Designed by Rosario Gagliardi in the early eighteenth century, the church was originally part of a Benedictine monastery. I always enjoy stepping inside for a moment of silence before continuing through the city. The elegant staircase, peaceful atmosphere and beautiful frescoes make it well worth a visit.

Via R. Trigona

V.

A new little pearl in Noto Alta. The beautiful selection of brands and carefully curated interior perfectly reflect the taste of owner Laurien, a dear Dutch friend of mine. You'll often find her barefoot in the shop, creating a warm, homely atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer. Definitely worth a visit.

Palazzo Astuto, Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 48

ART

SERGIO FIORENTINO STUDIO

Stepping into Sergio's atelier feels like entering another world.

His home and studio are a place where art, conversation and creativity naturally come together. Visits are by appointment, making every experience feel intimate and personal.

SPAZIO NOTO

A small contemporary gallery in the heart of Noto where art and design are constantly evolving. Every visit feels different, with carefully selected exhibitions and objects that inspire.

RACHELLE ANTICHITÀ

If you love antiques and one-of-a-kind jewellery, don't miss this beautiful place.

Every object has been carefully selected, and if you're lucky, Rachelle may even invite you to visit her private home gallery.

GALLERIA SAMUELE MAZZA

Hidden inside an ancient underground cistern in Noto Alta, this remarkable gallery combines contemporary art and design with one of the most unique exhibition spaces in the city.

PHOTOLOGY

Just outside the centre of Noto you'll find one of the area's most inspiring creative spaces. Set inside a roofless nineteenth-century convent, Photology combines photography, exhibitions and events in a truly unforgettable setting.

WHERE TO EAT

CAFFÈ SICILIA

A true Noto classic.

Whether you come for breakfast, granita, pastries or an afternoon coffee, Caffè Sicilia never disappoints. One of those places you simply shouldn't miss.

CAFFÈ COSTANZO

Located next to Archivio, this is one of my favourite places to enjoy a refreshing granita or an aperitivo after wandering through the streets of Noto.

DAMMUSO

Traditional Sicilian cuisine at its best.

Simple, authentic and full of flavour, with recipes that have been passed down through generations.

MANNA

A beautiful restaurant just outside the centre of Noto where every dish is prepared with great care. The peaceful courtyard makes it one of my favourite places for a long lunch or relaxed dinner.

IL BAGLIETTO

A wonderful spot for a relaxed lunch beneath the olive trees.

Afterwards, I love continuing towards the Tonnara di Vendicari for a walk by the sea.

CASA ROSSA

One of those local places you could easily drive past, but absolutely shouldn't.

Start with their warm pizza bread filled with ham and cheese before treating yourself to one of their delicious pasta dishes.

SEA & BEACHES

TONNARA DI VENDICARI

One of the most magical places along Sicily's coastline.

After a short walk you'll reach the old tuna factory overlooking the sea. From here you can continue towards beautiful beaches and walking trails, and if you're lucky, you might even spot flamingos in the reserve.

MARIANEDDI & CITTÀDELLA DEI MACCARI

Wild, untouched Mediterranean beaches where nature takes centre stage.

SAN LORENZO

One of the very first places I discovered in Sicily, and one of the reasons I fell in love with the island.

The crystal-clear turquoise water still feels just as magical every time I return.

LIDO SANTO MAR

A peaceful beach club with a relaxed atmosphere, a lovely restaurant and beautiful views over the sea.

AGUA BEACH

Perfect if you're looking for comfortable sunbeds, good food, music and an easy day by the beach.

LE DUNE

Come here at sunset, order a Gin & Tonic and watch the day slowly disappear into the Mediterranean.

STAY

IUTA FARM

Just a few minutes outside Noto lies one of my favourite places to unwind.

Surrounded by olive trees, Elena and Giulio have created an elegant countryside retreat where yoga, nature and slow living come together beautifully.

Q92

If you're looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of Noto, Q92 feels more like staying in a beautifully designed private home than a hotel.

BATTIMANDORLO

Five peaceful rooms surrounded by nature, offering the perfect place to slow down and completely relax.

MARIANEDDI

Hidden inside the Vendicari Nature Reserve, Marianeddi offers a rare opportunity to wake up surrounded by untouched Mediterranean landscapes.

NATURE

NOTO ANTICA

Before the elegant Baroque streets of Noto came to life, there was Noto Antica.

Hidden among the rolling hills of southeastern Sicily, the original town was abandoned after the devastating earthquake of 1693. Today, nature has gently reclaimed its churches, palaces and ancient streets, creating one of the island's most atmospheric places to explore.

For me, this is one of the most beautiful places to walk in southeastern Sicily. During the summer, I love arriving just after sunrise, when the valley is still cool and the only sounds are birds and the gentle flow of water. In winter, the landscape transforms into lush green scenery, making it just as magical.

My favourite walk follows the valley to a small natural pond with a little waterfall hidden at the end of the trail. Every season feels different, but the sense of peace is always the same. It is one of those places that reminds me why I chose to make Sicily my home.

If you enjoy discovering places where history and nature quietly exist together, Noto Antica is not to be missed.