ragusa ibla tourist train

Baroque train in Ragusa Ibla

The history of ragusa ibla.

Considered the capital of Sicilian Baroque, Ragusa Ibla is the oldest neighborhood in the city of Ragusa, on the Iblei Mountains, a Unesco World Heritage city that proves to be an authentic treasure chest.

The ancient historic center, in a dominant position on a hill, welcomes us with over fifty churches and numerous noble palaces, including thirteen Unesco sites, in which the rich Baroque architecture in local limestone takes the form of scrolls, empty and full voids with columns and capitals, statues and decorations of various kinds.

Following the domination of the Greek and Roman populations, was then conquered by the Arabs in 848, remaining under their dominion for two and a half centuries, and later by the Normans.

After the earthquake of 1693, which razed a large part of the Val di Noto to the ground, Baroque palaces were born near the churches, with protruding balconies supported by huge masks to amaze, impress and amaze.

Ragusa Ibla, the ancient heart of the city, is full of baroque wonders, such as Piazza Duomo, dominated by the majestic Cathedral of San Giorgio, one of the most evocative works of Sicilian Baroque and from which the beautiful and white baroque streets wind, as well as ancient noble palaces, such as Palazzo La Rocca, with its splendid masks, and Palazzo Sortino Trono, a magnificent noble residence.

Ibla is also rich in imposing churches such as the Church of the Holy Souls of Purgatory, the Late Baroque Church of Ss. Trova and the Church of San Giuseppe.

Baroque Train will amaze you by showing you the impressive and elaborate architectural beauties of this magnificent ancient land, telling you the story behind them.

Another place of interest in Ragusa Ibla is the famous Portal of the ancient Cathedral of San Giorgio, which survived the earthquake of 1693, flanked by the wonderful Iblei Gardens.

Ragusa Ibla is famous for the evocative feast of the patron saint San Giorgio, which takes place on the last weekend of May.

Expression of Sicilian liveliness and folklore, the feast of San Giorgio is divided into various events, which include the procession with the characteristic “abballata” of the statue of the saint, various concerts, fireworks and parades of flag-wavers. In addition to the religious event, cultural and sporting events and markets are also held on the occasion of the festival.

But the highlight of the festival is Sunday, the day when the statue of St. George is carried on the shoulder to the rhythm of music and followed by a large crowd cheering the saint with the cry of “all Truonu!” which means that he is the patron saint of the city.

Ragusa Ibla is also the site of demonstrations and events, such as Ibla Buskers, the great festival of street artists and Ibla Grand Prize, an international music competition open to composers, pianists and instrumentalists of all ages and from all over the world.

Ragusa Ibla with its places and its views has been chosen several times as the setting for the fiction “Il Commissario Montalbano”.

It is undoubtedly a must-see in Sicily with its splendid monuments declared a World Heritage Site.

• Ragusa office: +39 379 28 69 608

The places of the Tour of Ragusa Ibla

Piazza Duomo

Duomo S. Giorgio

Palazzo La Rocca

Palazzo Sortino Trono

Chiesa Anime Purgatorio

Chiesa S. Maria dei Miracoli

Chiesa SS. Trovato

Portale S. Giorgio

Giardini Iblei

Chiesa S. Giuseppe

Palazzo Arezzo di Donna Fugata

The baroque train tours.

• Baroque train Ragusa Ibla
• Baroque Modica train
• Baroque Scicli train
• Baroque Palazzolo Acreide train
• Ragusa Ibla: +39 392 1422893
• Modica: +39 379 28 69 587
• Scicli: +39 379 28 69 568
• Palazzolo Acreide: +39 351 61 47 130
• [email protected]

© Trenino Barocco 2021 – Privacy e Cookie Policy

Panoramica sulla privacy

Visiting Ragusa Ibla 2024: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a visit to ragusa ibla in sicily.

Even in the rain, Ragusa Ibla-Sicily’s UNESCO world heritage site is beautiful. The pastel buildings tumble down on top of each other, hiding cobble-stoned pathways and enticing Sicilian restaurants and cafes.

You’d be crazy not to visit Ragusa Ibla during a stay in Sicily, and we’ve got the ultimate guide for when you do!

We visited on a rainy afternoon, without high hopes. There was little information in our guidebook, and from the few months we had been staying in Marina di Ragusa we had heard very few good things about it.

People seemed to much prefer the more famous Syracuse, so we didn’t hold high expectations for our visit here, and in fact, it was only the rain that forced us here in the first place!

It turned out to be one of our favourite spots, even after two months of living in Sicily, and we are thrilled that the rain led us here.

Even though Sicily is part of Italy we found it has such a different feel. It’s like its own little country. Ragusa Ibla was nothing like any other Italian town we visited so it was an exciting place to explore, and we’re sure you will love it just as much!

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

Quick Guide To Ragusa Ibla

A little history, where is ragusa ibla.

• When To Visit
• What To Do In Ragusa Ibla
• Where To Stay
• Where To Eat
• Must-Knows Before You Go

What Is The Difference Between Ragusa And Ragusa Ibla?

We discovered there are two sides to Ragusa. Ragusa Superiore, the modern-day Ragusa full of shops and businesses, and Ragusa Ibla, the old town.

The modern town was built higher up the mountain after an earthquake destroyed most of the old town in 1693. It was rebuilt and the two towns merged to become the provincial capital in 1927.

We enjoyed Ragusa Ibla the most, as it is full of history and charm. Make sure you give this area a decent amount of your time, as it is by far the prettier of the two areas.

Like all of Sicily’s best tourist destinations, Ragusa Ibla is steeped in history. In 1693 Ragusa was devastated by a huge earthquake, which killed around 5,000 inhabitants.

The city was largely rebuilt, and many beautiful Baroque buildings remain in the city. However, after the earthquake most of the population moved to a new settlement called “Ragusa Superiore”, meaning upper Ragusa, due to the fact it was up on the hill.

The two cities remained separated until 1926 when they were fused together to become a provincial capital in 1927. The difference between the once two cities is still obvious, with Ragusa Superiore being more modern and where a lot of the commercial industries are based.

Ragusa Ibla is very much a tourist attraction with its incredibly beautiful baroque buildings and churches.

Ragusa Ibla is in the southern ‘nose’ of Sicily and is the perfect place to stay if you’re planning on doing day trips to some of the most famous landmarks in Sicily . From Ragusa Ibla it is easy to reach Syracuse, Catania, and Mount Etna, and go over the Valley of the Temples and The Turkish Steps.

We were based just half an hour from Ragusa Ibla during our two-month stay in Sicily and we found it the ideal location for getting out and exploring the country.

When To Visit Ragusa Ibla

We visited Ragusa Ibla in the pouring rain and it was still breathtakingly beautiful, so whenever you decide to go I have no doubt that you will have the most incredible time! There isn’t a best time to visit Sicily .

That being said, if you do have a choice of when to go then here are some things to bear in mind!

Sicily gets very hot! The summer months may seem like the ideal time to visit Ragusa Ibla, but in reality, Sicily really does get scorching in the months of July and August.

This doesn’t mean it’s not one of the best times to visit – the sun will almost certainly be shining for your visit – it just means plan around the heat of the day and perhaps don’t squeeze in too much (a long, boozy lunch should definitely be scheduled in!) It’s also the time of year that Ragusa Ibla will be at its busiest with school holidays in full flow.

The shoulder months of Spring and Autumn will be a little less predictable weather-wise but also less crowded (unless visiting over Easter). It will be cooler too, though in September the sea will probably still be nice and warm if you’re planning a little beach time.

Winter was mostly sunny but cooler. For those used to the English winters, you’ll probably still be fine in just a jumper, though the locals are all dolled up in huge coats and hats!

Be aware that there can be some big winter storms over the winter months, but don’t let it put you off. Sicily is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit!

Things To Do In Ragusa Ibla

Ragusa Ibla is set on the hillside. It is a mass of beautiful stone houses and baroque churches and we are not exaggerating in saying we could have wandered the fascinating alleyways here for hours, each one full of character and charm.

There is a lot to see here, a lot of it in the form of churches and historic buildings.

But if history isn’t your thing then not to worry, we’ve included some alternative suggestions of things to do here too so no one will be bored – there’s plenty to showcase what Sicily is so famous for !

Ragusa Cathedral In Ragusa Superiore

Start off in Ragusa Superiore (this is where you’ll end up if you come on the bus and where you’ll find most parking, see below for details ). Ragusa Cathedral is located in Ragusa Superiore.   

It is also known as the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista or Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista, translated as the Cathedral of John the Baptist. 

The church was built in the 18th century and is very similar in style to most of the churches you will find in Ragusa Ibla. It has some cute cafes around it if your legs are getting tired!

Opposite you will find the tourist office which is very helpful and informative. Grab a map from here and get exploring!

Take In The Views

Once you’re armed with a map then walk towards the old town of Ragusa Ibla. You will hit a long winding set of steps that leads you down into the old town, and the most incredible view of all the beautiful old buildings.

It is these same views that were used many times in the hit Italian detective series, ‘Inspector Montalbano’. The photos don’t do the view justice.

It’s a stunning sight, with the pastel-coloured houses rising on top of one another and the hills stretching out beyond.

If you stay until it starts to get dark then you will see the old town lit up with the orange glow of street lights, making it even more magical than it was in the day.

We would suggest you visit Ragusa Ibla in the afternoon so that you get the daytime views on the way down and the evening views when you come back up.

The Church Of Santa Maria Delle Scale – Between Ragusa Superiore And Ragusa Ibla

The Church of Santa Maria delle Scale is sat between Ragusa Ibla and Ragusa Superiore, on a winding street that connects the two parts of the city. 

If you walk down the stairs from Ragusa Superiore to Ragusa Ibla you can’t really miss it.  Santa Maria delle Scale actually means “St. Mary of the Stairs”, since the church is located along the stairway.

It’s a pretty spot to take a photo or two. The church was built in the Gothic style by Cistercian monks in the 13th century but in the 18th century, the church was enlarged and rebuilt in the popular Baroque style.

The Basilica Of San Giorgio

The Basilica di San Giorgio was built in 1738 by Rosario Gagliardo. It lies at the top of some 200 steps and has an impressive neoclassical dome that was added in 1820. This dome can be seen from many points all over Ragusa Ibla, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding your way back to the square it lies in!

The facade of the church is an excellent example of Sicilian Baroque architecture and one of the main reasons Ragusa is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Baroque art.

 San Giuseppe Church In Ragusa Ibla

Built in the 18th century, the church of San Giuseppe can be found in Ragusa Ibla (the historic old town) and stands out because of its especially fancy Baroque facade, which is decorated with statues of the Saints of the Benedictine orders.

The Church Of The Souls Of Purgatory

Chiesa del Purgatorio is one of the only churches to have survived the earthquake of 1693 and dates back to the early 17th century. Again, it is a stunning example of the baroque architecture that Ragusa Ibla is so famous for.

Santa Maria Dell’ Itria

This is one of the older churches built in Ragusa Ibla, dating back to the 14th century under the direction of the Knights of Malta (a medieval Catholic military order). 

The church features a stunning Maiolica bell tower and a beautiful interior with Corinthian columns. It is a little different from the other churches you will find in Ragusa Ibla and so is worth a little look!

The Church Of San Filippo Neri

The Church of San Filippo Neri was again, built in the 17th century and is another example of Baroque architecture in Ragusa Ibla.

Top Tip: If you leave wanting more history then it would be remiss of me not to mention Sicily’s incredible Valley of the Temples . Only a few hour’s drive from Ragusa and full of ancient wonder, this historical site will not disappoint.

Time To Relax

If your feet have had enough of sightseeing then The Piazza Duomo, overlooked by the stunning Duomo di San Giorgio, makes for a beautiful spot to nurse a coffee (or something a little stronger!)

Or grab a cold drink from a local newsagent and head to the Giardino lbleo. The Hyblean Gardens are an unexpected corner of peace and tranquillity and they also offer some beautiful views.  

Ragusa Ibla is full of boutique shops and souvenirs. You could spend an afternoon pottering around the little alleyways and exploring what the shops have to offer.

Mixed in among the shops there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering a range of food and snacks for a variety of prices.

Take A Private Cooking Course

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in Ragusa Ibla then you won’t get much more authentic than taking a private cooking course with a local .

Sicily is famous for its great food and on this cooking course, you’ll learn the secrets of the most famous dishes of the region. And don’t worry, you get to tuck into the starter, main, and pudding you prepare along with paired wines of the region!

✅ Book a Sicilian cooking course

Private Tour Of Ragusa Ibla

This is a private tour with a difference! On this 3 hour tour of Ragusa Ibla you’ll get to take in the incredible historic sights alongside a true Sicilian wine tasting experience.

If there’s one thing better than the sights of this beautiful city, it’s the sights of this beautiful city with Sicilian wine!

✅ Book your private tour here

Where To Stay In Ragusa Ibla

There are lots of beautiful places to stay in Ragusa Ibla, but here are a few of the best!

Intervallo Guest House

You can stay right in the centre of Ragusa Ibla for all the romantic atmosphere, as Intervallo Guest House is situated in the historical centre of Ragusa.

There is free WiFi throughout the property, a shared kitchen, a terrace with panoramic views, and BBQ facilities.

✅ Head here for more information and prices

La Casa Del Gelsomino

A central location and a garden to die for. In fact, you probably shouldn’t stay here or you’ll never leave and explore the beautiful town!

This is definitely the place to stay in the summer, with a natural pool for lazing in while you read, hammocks overlooking the incredible views, and swish boutique rooms.

Locanda Don Serafino

For pure luxury head to Locanda Don Serafino, a 19th-century building set in the heart of Ibla, Ragusa’s historic centre. It is only a 5-minute walk from the San Giorgio Cathedral, and check out those rooms!

✅ Book your stay here

Where To Eat In Ragusa Ibla

Given the weather when we visited we opted for hot chocolate and pastries and we weren’t disappointed. The hot chocolate in Sicily is more like a melted chocolate bar! So it’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth!

Check out Salumeria Barocca for some traditional Italian food or Monsu for something a little more extravagant.

Need to knows

Top Tip: Avoid wearing shorts and strappy tops if you want to visit the churches here.

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Ragusa Ibla is to drive, much like most of Sicily. There is plenty of parking in Ragusa Superior, just follow the parking signs.

From there Ragusa Ibla is a pleasant walk and it will mean you don’t miss the stunning view down to the old town.

How long to spend in Ragusa Ibla

You could easily spend a day here if you are happy just pottering around the windy back streets. But if you have more to see then a morning or afternoon gives you plenty of time to take in the main sights and get a feel for this beautiful town.

If you’re short on time then head straight to the old town, which is the most beautiful area of Ragusa.

Ragusa Ibla for kids

There are lots for children here so don’t hesitate when visiting as a family. Ragusa Ibla’s gardens have a large play park that should amuse kids for an hour or two.

There is also a mini sightseeing ‘train’ that you can catch from the main square and some interesting museums to visit.

Sicily felt very safe when we visited and we can imagine it’s the perfect destination for family holidays.

What to bring

• The usuals like suncream (or a raincoat in our case!), a water bottle and sun hat.
• Money for parking (or an ice cream or three!)
• Good walking shoes are a must. Most of the streets are cobblestones so avoid heels at all costs!

Further Reading

Visit the incredible Valley of the Temples in Sicily . You won’t be disappointed!

Follow your visit to The Valley of the Temples with a trip to see the Turkish Steps at sunrise .

Visit Syracusa and make sure you take a trip to the famous archaeological park just 5 minutes from the historic centre.

Follow us on social media for more articles on exploring Sicily and beyond.

Similar Posts

111+ Couple Travel Quotes For Instagram 2024

Marina di Ragusa In Sicily Over Winter

Is Sicily Part Of Italy? Fascinating Facts

The Valley Of The Temples In Sicily: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Time To Visit Sicily (And The Worst!) 2024

Visiting Syracuse’s Archaeological Park 2024

11 comments.

• Pingback: What To Do When You're Stuck At Home | Two Get Lost
• Pingback: Visiting Syracuse's Archaeological Park | Two Get Lost
• Pingback: The perfect one-week Sicily itinerary • The Smooth Escape
• Pingback: Marina di Ragusa In Sicily Over Winter | Two Get Lost

Beautiful – we visited St. Giovanni Battista Cathedral.

Isn’t it stunning! Was that your favourite part?

• Pingback: Homepage
• Pingback: kardinal stick
• Pingback: headless cms examples
• Pingback: booking
• Pingback: relx

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
• Privacy Policy

Ragusa Ibla, Sicily – A guide to the city split in half.

Ragusa is one of Sicily’s most unique towns. It is definitely one of the prettiest and most genuine experiences we have had in a long time. Ragusa is such an interesting place, it is actually split in half. An earthquake in 1693 ruined part of the town and the new part was built further up the valley, creating Ragusa Ibla and the newer Ragusa Superiore. Both are equally beautiful!

Is Ragusa worth visiting?

Ragusa is absolutely worth visiting! It has so much history and really feels like you are experiencing the real Sicily , before tourism. This is particularly true in Ragusa Superiore as Ragusa Ibla is better set up for tourism.

How to get to Ragusa Ibla?

There is no airport in Ragusa, you would reach it via bus or train from most other cities and towns.

Catania to Ragusa:

Starting in Catania you can get to Ragusa in a few different ways. There is a bus that goes from the airport direct to Ragusa, it takes about 2 hours and does make stops along the way. The cost is approximately 9€ and tickets can be bought on the bus.

The bus will stop at Ragusa Piazzale Zama, which is a bus terminal (Autostazione di Ragusa -Nodo Zama) just outside of the main area in Ragusa Superiore. From here you can catch another bus or taxi to Ragusa Ibla or into Ragusa Superiore. If you don’t have a lot of baggage you can walk into Ragusa Superiore (24 minutes and 1.8km).

Alternatively you can get a train from Catania to Ragusa with one change at Syracuse. From the train station in Ragusa take a taxi or city bus Number 1 or 3 to get to Ragusa Ibla.

The buses are ok to get around on but in our experience unless it is high season it can be a little difficult in that they don’t come very often. Some hotels will also arrange pick up ( at a fee) from the bus or train station in Ragusa.

Palermo to Ragusa:

From Palermo you can get a bus from Palermo Central to Ragusa with a change at Gela or Caltanissetta. This takes about 5 hours in total and cuts through the centre of the island at a cost of 15€.

Ragusa to Syracuse

Syracuse is a really popular town near Ragusa and we really recommend visiting it if you are going to Ragusa. We went there once we left and stayed in Syracue for 3 days which was wonderful. Take the train to Syracuse, it costs about 10€ and takes around 2 hours.

Where is best to stay in Ragusa?

Both have their benefits. Ragusa Ibla is very much set up for tourism and there are lots of things to see here. It really is the prettiest part of Ragusa and staying here would make it easy to see it all.

These are the best places to stay in Ragusa Ibla:

Budget: Terra di Venere Inn , Bella Epoque , Ragusa Inn ,

Midrange: Incanto barocco , Centosedici Rooms , Casa Vacanza B&B Sangiovanni

Luxe: Hotel Vittorio Veneto , Locanda La Meridiana

Ragusa Superiore is more authentic and less touristy. It does have the cheaper accommodation options and is closer to the train station. It is beautiful and feels like you are living in the real Sicily. Not as many tourists stay here so you will be walking amongst the locals mostly.

These are the best places to stay in Ragusa Superiore:

Budget: Oikos – Ragusa Ibla , Specula Domus – Ibla , Bella Giulia

Midrange: B&B Loft Famiglia Arezzo , Il Giardino Dei Sospiri , IBLA ROOMS

Luxe: A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel , Epoca – Camere con stile , HyblaLifeRooms

What to do in Ragusa Ibla

Ragusa Ibla has so many incredible sights, these are our favourites.

Walk the old streets

Of course the first thing you have to do in Ragusa Ibla is to wander the old streets. They are so beautiful and charming with their lovely baroque buildings. Consider doing a guided walking tour of Ragusa Ibla , these are great ways to learn about the place you visit from a local.

Visit Duomo di San Giorgio

The Duomo di San Giorgio is the biggest and most incredible building in Ragusa Ibla. Before the earthquake and the splitting of the town this was the main church in Ragusa. It is beautiful inside and outside, you can take a tour to learn about it or just happily explore it yourself. Please remember to dress respectfully, there is a sign requesting no shorts or singlets.

Other churches nearby to visit are: Chiesa di Santa Lucia / Santa Maria dello spasimo, Church of Saint Joseph and Chiesa di Sant’Agnese.

Piazza Duomo

The square in front of the Duomo, Piazza Duomo, is such a great spot to sit and enjoy a granite or meal at any of the cafes and restaurants that line it. The perfect place for people watching with a scoop of gelato or a coffee it is guaranteed to be the busiest and prettiest part of Ragusa Ibla.

Circolo di Conversazione (Caffè dei Cavalieri)

This elegant building was a club for the aristocracy. The building is pretty from the outside and you can take a tour of the rooms inside. They were used on the show Inspector Montalbano, if you are a fan I recommend a visit! This is located at the start of the Piazza Duomo.

Giardino Ibleo

Giardino Ibleo is a beautiful garden area right near a bus stop in Ragusa Ibla. Walk through the lush surrounds and take in the views from the edge. It is a great spot for a picnic, to take a drink or just to relax out of the sun. While we were there we saw a lady singing opera for a group, which was mesmerising! Amble down the paved pathways and visit the church, Chiesa di San Giacomo Apostolo , fountain and statues. There is also a playground for children.

Portale di San Giorgio

Portale di San Giorgio is a symbolic monument of Ragusa, built in the 8th century as part of a church that is now gone. It is one of the few relics that survived the 1693 earthquake.

Find the best viewpoints for Ragusa Ibla

These are the best viewpoints over Ragusa, the names are all linked to find them on Google Maps:

Mirador de Ragusa Ibla , Panoramica su Ragusa Ibla , Ragusa View point , Percorso delle Scale .

What to do in Ragusa Superiore

Watch passeggiata.

This Italian tradition is particularly noticeable in Sicily and honestly moreso in Ragusa Superiore. It is so noticeable that we were ordering pizzas (early for Italians but dinner time for us!) and were standing outside the local pizzeria takeaway. I suddenly noticed that locals were coming out of their homes, standing on the street, children running around while they chatted, some drinking coffee. We watched as they milled about, some men popping into the pizza takeaway, not to order food but to chat.

I was confused thinking something had happened, until I learned about passeggiata! This is the tradition. Every evening around 5pm locals leave their homes, walk along the street, chatting to neighbours or heading to the squares to do so. It is so lovely, such a charming tradition that I haven’t seen before. If you are staying in Ragusa make sure to be outside around this time and sit and watch the slow catch up, some people dress up for the occasion which is just lovely. Walking back to our accommodation with our pizzas we watched a couple go into an older mans store, he turned up the radio and all started couples dancing, it was just the sweetest moment to witness!

Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista

Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista is the Ragusa Cathedral located in Ragusa Superiore. It is decorated in the baroque style and is very impressive internally, free to visit it is open from 9.30am to 12.30pm and then again from 2.30pm. Behind it there is a lovely square to sit and enjoy a meal or drink in the afternoon. You can also climb the clock tower of the church.

Chiesa Ecce Homo

This beautiful church is really impressive inside. Not as many tourists visit here although it really is worth visiting.

Sanctuary of Carmine (Santuario Madonna Del Carmine)

This is another beautiful church that is not heavily visited, you will find it in the streets of Ragusa, it is very peaceful and pretty.

Ponte Vecchio (Ragusa)

This beautiful bridge with arches is a really nice sight across the Vale. It is a transport bridge so you can drive over it but it really makes a great photo from one of the other bridges as well.

Rotonda di Via Roma (Belvedere)

Great views over the valley below. It is a place where people sit and hang out, there are lots of young people here in the evenings.

Palazzo Zacco

Palazzo Zacco is a mansion in Ragusa which has a decorated exterior. Built in 1750 the most notable feature is the balconies that are supported by baroque faces.

Prefecture Ragusa

This is a council building which has a lovely round garden inside. You can wander around the interior home to government buildings.

Ragusa Post Office

The post office is another building that is worth stopping by. Built in the 1930s it is declared a cultural heritage site, the architecture is very much in the imperial style with its 9 columns holding up 9 statues.

Walk between Ragusa and Ragusa Ibla

This is an absolute must do! We walked from Ragusa Superiore to Ragusa Ibla and the incredibly picturesque views, charming buildings made it such a unique experience. We felt like we were the first people to have walked it as the gardens were all overgrown and rambling across the path and stairs.

Where to eat in Ragusa

Ragusa chocolate.

Ragusa chocolate is a must! It is actually from Modicia which is a town nearby. It is the local and authentic chocolate of the area and originates from Amazon. You will find this all over Ragusa in every store.

This Despar supermarket is the one closest to the centre, it is not huge but convenient if you are staying in the centre of Ragusa Superiore.

Pizza ___ is the best pizza place in Ragusa Superiore. We got takeway pizzas to enjoy at our accommodation and loved it so much we went back again. They make an excellent gluten free pizza also!

Best tours and activities in Ragusa

2-Hour Pottery Making Workshop in Ragusa – This would be such a unique activity! I’m hoping to do this on my next trip, the pottery is so iconic in Sicily so to have the chance to make your own is very cool.

Traditional Sicilian Cooking Class , Ragusa: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class , Ragusa: Private Cooking Class at a Local’s Home These cooking classes look great, learning how to cook local food by locals is always a great experience.

Dining Experience at a Local’s Home Don’t want to cook but want to experience locals home cooking in a traditional setting? This is the activity for you!

Guided walking tour of Ragusa Ibla ! Learn about this beautiful city from a local.

Where to next:

Visit Locorotondo, the prettiest town in Puglia

Best 10 day Puglia Itinerary

Gluten free in Italy

A short guide to Cisternino the most charming town in Puglia

Amalfi Coast

Best things to do in Amalfi

How to visit Positano on a budget

How to plan a perfect day trip to Capri from Sorrento

Is 3 days in Sorrento Italy enough?

Our ultimate 5 day Itinerary for the Amalfi Coast

Positano Travel Guide: Is Positano worth visiting in 2023?

Why Casa Marino is the best accommodation in Sorrento!

How to travel Lake Como on a budget

Perfect Lake Como two day itinerary

Why you should go to Menaggio when visiting Lake Como

Hotel Garni Corona in Menaggio is your dream Lake Como stay!

Como city everything you need to know for your Lake Como trip

Sheraton Lake Como is the best place to stay for your perfect Lake Como trip!

Just an Aussie couple wandering the world

Things to do in Taormina

Things to do in ortigia siracusa, sicily, you may also like, norway & northern lights packing list, norway road trip, what to do in reine, lofoten, best country to see northern lights, 10 best instagram photo spots in norway, northern lights lofoten, things to do in ballstad, lofoten, lofoten islands of norway, travelling in norway tips, tromsø northern lights tour, gluten free in norway, things to do in tromso, norway, northern lights in norway tour – best arctic review, things to do in malta – 3 day itinerary, glass igloos, finland – review of artic snow hotel lapland..., ice hotel finland- our review of artic snow hotel lapland..., what it’s like staying at arctic snow hotel lapland, finland, flight delay compensation europe, best beaches on sicily, italy, sicily itinerary, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Ragusa, Sicily Travel Guide

How to visit this Baroque city

Ragusa is a fascinating town on the Italian island of Sicily. Ragusa's Baroque architecture has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status . It's an unusual town, divided into two parts—the Upper Town and Ibla.

After the earthquake of 1693 destroyed most of the town, half the people decided to build on the ridge above the town, and the other half renovated the old town. Ibla, the lower town, is reached on foot by a series of stairways or by bus or car on a winding downhill road. There's a large parking lot at the bottom of the road. From the upper town, there are enchanting views of Ibla.

What to See in Ragusa and Ibla

There are 18 UNESCO monuments, five in the Upper Town, and the rest in Ibla. Many of the buildings are ornately decorated in Baroque style. Be sure to look up at the balconies and figures overhead.

The spectacular Baroque Duomo di San Giorgio sits in the center of Ibla, behind a large piazza where there are several cafes, shops, and Gelati Divini , selling ice cream made from wines. Ibla has several UNESCO churches, including Santa Maria dell'Idria, San Filippo Neri, Santa Maria dei Miracoli, San Giuseppe, Santa Maria del Gesu, San Francesco, and Chiesa Anime del Purgatorio. UNESCO Baroque buildings in Ibla are Palazzo della Cancelleria, Palazzo Cosentini, Palazzo Sortino Trono, Palazzo La Rocca, and Palazzo Battaglia.

At the far end of Ibla is a large, pretty park with picturesque views from the edge. Buses stop in front of the park, and there's a small parking lot next to it.

Along the southeast cliffs of the Ibla are Bronze age necropolis or cemeteries. They can be seen from the road to Modica.

In the Upper Town is San Giovanni Cathedral dating from 1706, in a large piazza off Corso Italia. There are three Baroque buildings—Palazzo Vescovile, Palazzo Zacco, and Palazzo Bertini. The small Church of Santa Maria delle Scale, dating originally from 1080, sits just at the top of the stairs leading down to Ibla.

The Ibleo Archaeological Museum, in the Upper Town, has displays from archaeological digs in the province. Materials cover prehistoric to late Roman settlements.

Via Roma, in the Upper Town, is a big shopping street, featuring several bars and restaurants.

Ragusa is in the  Val di Noto  of southeastern Sicily about 56 miles (90 kilometers) from Catania. Marina di Ragusa, a well-developed resort with beaches, is on the coast about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the town. Modica, another UNESCO Baroque town, is about five miles (eight kilometers) to the south. Ragusa can be visited as a day trip from the city of Siracusa to the east of Ragusa.

Transportation

The closest airport is Catania, Sicily. From the airport, there are frequent connections on  ETNA Transporti  coaches. Train service is on the Catania—Siracusa—Ragusa rail line, and the station is in the center of the Upper Town. Buses to nearby towns depart from Piazza Stazione. A local bus connects  Corso Italia , the upper town's main street, with Ibla.

Tourist Information

Tourist information is available in the Upper Town in Piazza San Giovanni by the cathedral. The Ibla tourist info point is on Piazza Repubblica. 

Where to Stay

There are several dozen hotels in Ragusa, both in the upper and lower towns. Reliable choices in the upper town include the 5-star Antica Badia Relais or, near the train station, the modern 4-star Mediterraneo Palace.

It is recommended to stay in Ibla, both to avoid the uphill walk back to Upper Town and to be closer to restaurants and monuments. The Hotel Il Barocco is a comfortable 3-star in the center of Ibla.  San Giorgio Palace  is a 4-star boutique hotel, and  Locanda Don Serafino  is a small 4-star hotel that's a member of the Relais & Chateaux hotel group. There are several bed and breakfast inns in Ibla. The  Bed & Breakfast L'Orto sul Tetto  is a friendly, cozy option.

Where to Eat

There are many good restaurant choices in Ibla where you can enjoy an authentic, affordable meal. Locanda Don Serafino has a high-end restaurant with 2 Michelin stars and features a creative menu and an excellent wine cellar. In the Upper Town, you'll find good, inexpensive meals at  Al Bocconcino , serving typical food of Ragusa,

Piazza Duomo in Ibla is a nice place to sit and enjoy a coffee or snack. If you want ice cream, try  Gelati Divini , selling good ice cream made from wines.

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

48 Hours in Florence: The Ultimate Itinerary

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Matera Travel Guide

The Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

Walking Tour of Pisa, Italy

The 25 Top Attractions in Rome, Italy

Todi Travel Guide

Lecce Travel Guide

48 Hours in Milan: The Ultimate Itinerary

San Gimignano, Tuscany's City of Beautiful Towers

3 Days in Rome: What to See and Do

September Festivals and Events in Italy

Northern Italy's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Cities

Puglia Travel Planning Guide and Maps

12 Top Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

Ragusa: Sicily Tourist Guide

One of Sicily’s most picturesque and charming towns

About Ragusa

Ragusa is one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily. The view from the upper town over Ragusa Ibla on its own separate hilltop is quite breathtaking. One of the UNESCO-listed Baroque towns of south-eastern Sicily, Ragusa is also one of the principal filming locations for the Sicilian detective drama Il Commissario Montalbano (Inspector Montalbano) , a series which has done wonders for publicising the beauty of this area. With a new airport at Comiso, ten miles away, due to open, this is a tourist destination which is definitely up and coming.

• Sicily destinations and practicalities: full menu (at foot of this page)

Ragusa is in the Monti Iblei, a large area of high ground, divided up by dry stone walls and incised with ravines. The town was originally built on a small steep-sided hill with deep valleys on three sides separating it from the high plateau. After the earthquake of 1693, which destroyed many of south-eastern Sicily’s buildings, it was decided to rebuild Ragusa on higher, more level ground nearby. This new planned town was built, with straight streets and a rational layout, but local aristocrats didn’t want to move, and instead built themselves new palazzi on the ruins of the old town. So nowadays Ragusa has two parts: Ibla (or Ragusa Ibla), the older nucleus on its hilltop, and Ragusa Superiore, the more modern upper town which spreads from the post-earthquake streets into more recent developments. Like all Sicilian towns, Ragusa has its share of ugly modern sprawl, but this is well away from the historic centre, which is remarkably unspoilt.

Ragusa Ibla is the magnet for tourists, though the upper town is still worth a visit. The bus and railway stations, the town’s archaeological museum and its everyday shops and businesses are in Ragusa Superiore as well as most of the hotels. Ibla is the more charming base for a holiday, though, with picturesque lanes, cafes, restaurants and gastronomic shops aimed at tourists. Its main artery is the perfect venue for the evening passeggiata .

What to see in Ragusa

The best activity in Ragusa is wandering; meandering along the character-filled lanes of Ragusa Ibla or clambering up the steps towards the upper town and enjoying the great, classic view over Ibla. This is an inviting town for even more leisurely pursuits – a long drink at a cafe table on the pretty sloping piazza in front of the Duomo, a wine-flavoured gelato , a splendid meal at one of the town’s small restaurants or a stroll in the park.

Like neighbouring towns, Ragusa was rebuilt after the great earthquake in the Baroque style, and its palazzi and churches are elegant and covered with a profusion of florid detail. The grandest building in Ibla is the cathedral, the Duomo di San Giorgio , begun in 1738 and designed by the architect Rosario Gagliardi. Up a flight of steps and segregated from the streets by ornate railings, this is the heart of the old town and contains some of its best, and most prized artworks. These include a statue of St. George which is carried around town in devout processions. Alongside the church is the small Museo del Duomo (open at weekends), a museum containing stone statues and reliefs from the original pre-earthquake San Giorgio and other churches, architectural drawings by Gagliardo, some extravagant reliquaries and gloomy religious paintings. One of the highlights is a nice little stone carving, from the 15th century, portraying a honey-maker ( mielaio ) with honeycomb and jug.

Ibla’s lanes contain many charms, from elaborately-sculpted balconies to views over the narrow valleys below town. If you have time, it’s a good place to explore, with some intriguing corners. A little tourist train ( trenino ) departs from Piazza Duomo and is an entertaining way of touring the principal streets.

At the end of Ibla’s rocky ridge is the town’s public park, the Giardino Ibleo . The pride of the town, these manicured and leafy gardens have views over the surrounding valleys and are the venue of choice for promenading locals as well as tourists. Watching three or four generations meeting up and groups of teenagers strolling arm-in-arm is a charming introduction to Sicilian life.

As well as exploring Ibla, most visitors will want to take a look at Ragusa Superiore . The two towns meet at a saddle of land marked by the small Piazza della Repubblica. One of the town’s tourist offices is alongside, and also the attractive Chiesa delle Anime del Purgatorio. The upper town can be reached by an energetic climb or by the little local bus from the Giardino Ibleo or Piazza della Repubblica.

Ragusa Superiore is more than just the ‘modern’ part of town – it too boasts elegant streets and noble palazzi. It also has its own Duomo, the Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista, another eighteenth-century Baroque edifice. The main street, Corso Italia, which descends towards Ibla, is lined with attractive buildings. However, there is no denying that the best part of the upper town is the descent, via flights of steps or the winding road, towards Ibla, with the hilltop town spread out before the eyes in an unforgettable panorama.

For any traveller interested in Sicily’s history, Ragusa’s archaeological museum ( Museo Archeologico ) is a must. Situated in Ragusa Superiore, this museum contains some fascinating and important exhibits from the surrounding area. Interesting artefacts include an articulated doll with moving joints from a child’s grave at Greek Kamarina, and the sculpture of a warrior known as the Guerriero di Castiglione. It’s a bit off the tourist trail; we were the only visitors, our arrival surprising the chatting attendants. The museum is just off Via Roma – at a lower level, down steps from the main street – and there’s an admission charge.

Between July and September the area is enlivened by the Estate Iblea, a summer festival of music and events around Ragusa. In October Ibla hosts a festival of busking and street entertainment, called Ibla Buskers. Other colourful events during the year in Ragusa include Easter and St. George’s Day processions.

Eating and drinking

My favourite Ragusa restaurant was La Rusticana (Corso 25 Aprile, 68), a small place with friendly staff serving local and Sicilian food – all the classics, from local antipasti through fettucine alla Norma to cassata for dessert. The charming interior features red and gold velvet wallpaper, a chandelier, crossed swords and scrawled autographs on the wall – the restaurant is a significant Montalbano location, standing in for the detective’s ‘Trattoria San Calogero’ and the cast of the series have left their mark. Book ahead. Another good spot is the family-run Cucine e Vino (Via Orfanotrofio, 91) with a restrained atmosphere in a stone-vaulted and white-plastered interior, offering thoughtful local cuisine. For a quick no-frills meal, visit Il Gattopardo, (via Orfanotrofio, 35) a friendly little tavola calda where you can join Italian families eating pizza slices, focaccia and the local stuffed-bread scacce at little tables inside or out.

One of the most picturesque places for a drink is at the outdoor tables of Caffe Al Borgo in Piazza Duomo. Close by is the most popular gelateria in the region, Gelati DiVini, renowned for its special ice-cream flavours such as wines and olive oil. Ibla’s tourist shops are mostly of the speciality-food type, and food-loving visitors can spend happy hours browsing, sampling and shopping.

Around Ragusa

One of the best sights in the Ragusa area is the Castello di Donnafugata , a pseudo-Venetian-Gothic country villa in the countryside. In Montalbano this festures as the home of retired Mafia boss Balduccio Sinagra. The building is a strange blend of influences, mostly dating to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Reachable by car, taxi and very occasional trains, this grand country villa is a fascinating insight into the lives of the Sicilian aristocracy. With a garden to explore and some country paths starting outside the entrance, it’s also a good chance to get out into the open spaces of this rather striking landscape. There are a handful of places to eat and drink outside the entrance to the villa. Donnafugata is closed on Mondays and opening hours vary throughout the year; check the latest times before you make your trip (see links panel).

Donnafugata is a popular day out in the Ragusa area; another is the seaside – local seaside resort Marina di Ragusa and fishing village Punta Secca (another Montalbano location) are connected to Ragusa by bus.

The other Baroque towns of Sicily are within easy reach of Ragusa. It’s possible to explore by public transport, although travellers should check timetables when making plans. We toured the area, spending nights in different towns, but it is also possible to make day trips from Ragusa. Modica , another dramatic town, is the nearest and easiest to visit. Famous for its chocolate as well as its Baroque architecture, it’s a town well worth a visit. The archaeological site of Cava d’Ispica, a green valley lined with rock-cut tombs, is easy to reach by car. Noto and Scicli are two more sights worth seeing.

Travel to Ragusa

If and when it opens for international flights, the airport at Comiso, ten miles away, will be the obvious choice for visiting Ragusa. Catania Airport is the nearest major airport, with international flights. There are direct buses between Catania Airport and Ragusa, a journey which takes just one hour and forty-five minutes.

Ragusa has both a bus and a railway station in the modern part of the upper town. Bus connections are generally more efficient and practical. Buses operated by various companies connect Ragusa with other Sicilian towns; AST run to Modica, Scicli, Noto and Siracusa , and Etna Trasporti operate services to Catania Airport. Modica is thirty minutes away, on the same bus route which continues to Siracusa. Tumino operate a local service to the seaside, stopping at Marina di Ragusa, Punta Secca and Kamarina. Ragusa is at the end of the railway line connecting Siracusa with the other Baroque towns – in the summer, look out for special excursions on the ‘Treno del Barocco’. Useful information on buses can be found on the website of Ragusa council ( comune ), listed in the right-hand links panel. The best way to reach Ibla from the bus and railway stations is by catching the little local bus which connects Ragusa Superiore with the public gardens in Ibla. A timetable for this service can be found on the comune website, under Linea Urbana . Local bus tickets can be bought from some tabacchi shops in Ibla; longer-distance bus tickets can be bought at a kiosk at the bus station (for some companies) and around the corner at a bar on Via Teocrito.

There are signposted car parks in several points outside Ibla. The principal car parking (with a fee) is in the valley below Piazza della Repubblica and Ibla. There is also car parking by the Giardino Ibleo.

Ragusa accommodation

Where to stay in Ragusa will depend largely on your taste and on hotel availability. Ibla is a charming place to wander, particularly in the evenings when restaurants are inviting. Staying in Ragusa Superiore will mean a stiff walk or a bus ride when you head across to Ibla, but the upper town does have a larger selection of hotels and offer plenty of amenities. We stayed in Hotel Il Barocco, a very conveniently-located hotel in Ibla, near the public gardens and bus stop. The hotel confused my reservation, forcing me to change rooms during my stay, but in other respects offered decent accommodation. > Hotel Il Barocco .

Other options include: > The four-star Antica Badia Relais , an elegant five-star hotel on the main street of Ragusa Superiore > San Giorgio Palace , a four-star in Ibla. > B&B Orto sul Tetto , a B&B in Ibla > L’Apparthotel – self-catering apartments on the edge of Ibla, for a more independent stay.

> Availability search for Ragusa hotels, B&Bs & apartments

UNESCO sites in Italy

Inspector Montalbano on the BBC

Montalbano locations

Useful external links

Ragusa hotels, B&Bs & apartments

Italy car hire

Castello di Donnafugata opening hours

Ragusa bus timetables

Etna Trasporti (Catania Airport bus)

Ibla Buskers

Sicily destinations and more

• Sicily introduction
• Food & drink
• Hotels & B&Bs
• Travel and transport
• Aeolian Islands
• Castellammare del Golfo
• Egadi Islands
• Giardini Naxos
• Piazza Armerina
• San Vito Lo Capo

Sicily hotels  – Online hotel reviews and booking (Italy Heaven affiliate link – thank you for your support)

SICILY ON WEB

The sicilian blog about sicily, ragusa ibla, a travel guide to visit magical panoramas.

Ragusa Ibla is famous all over the world for the stunning baroque churches and the awesome historical alleys. This place is regarded as one of  the most relevant tourist attractions of Sicily and Italy. If you want to visit it, maybe also to buy a property  for sale, follow my travel guide and you’ll discover how to enjoy a wonderful holiday in the likewise wonderful streets of Ragusa Ibla.

Tourist Information

Ragusa Ibla is located in the South East of Sicily and in the Southern side of the Iblei Mounts. That is the baroque heart of Ragusa. It is also the brightest symbol of the baroque architecture in Sicily. I visited several times this magical place. Just think that some years ago I attended two   weddings  celebrated  in the magnificent San Giorgio Cathedral . That day, I was very touched and was about  to faint when I saw the baroque columns which surrounded the newlyweds while they say Yes each other. 

As a matter of fact, the San Giorgio cathedral dominates just the hill where Ragusa Ibla is. For the impressive and unique architectural style, in  2002 Ragusa has been included in the Unesco World heritage list. The city became very famous in the world thanks to Inspector Montalbano movie series. If you are a fan of Inspector Montalbano ,  you’ll see the alleys and the landscape of Vigata while you are visiting Ragusa Ibla. 

Starting from the square of the cathedral and from the club in Pola Square (Circolo della Conversazione), you’ll discover the most hidden and charming places  you saw in the Television, namely  the rich architecture in limestone, the shapes of the vaults, the columns, the statues and any kind of decoration.

What to see in Ragusa Ibla

The first thing you must see is the wonderful square dominated by the San Giorgio Cathedral  with the magnificent staircase. The site of the cathedral is the heart of Ibla. This place is surrounded by many noble palaces. The most important one is Arezzi Palace . Another monument I advise that you visit is the church of Santa Maria del Gesù, built in 1636 and with a convent, alongside.

The most ancient zone of Ibla is the district of Saint Paul, where you can see the namesake church and some Sicilian graves. The district stretches along a channel. Over it, there are San Bartolomeo  Church, Carmine Church, and the church of Santa Maria delle Scale, towering on the entire city of Ragusa . I talked about the city in a previous post, but that was dedicated to the whole province of Ragusa, also including Scicli and Modica . Here, instead, the true protagonist of your travel is Ragusa Ibla . It is really worth to visit this ancient zone of Ragusa, to dip into a maze of stairs, look at the picturesque alleys and the ancient houses  piled  on the rocky slope.   

Among these picturesque lanes you will be led to another epoch, in a place where time stopped  in the early years of the past century.   Another place you must visit is the Ibleo Garden, located just at the center of Ibla. Created in 1858 on a hill towering the mouth of Irminio river, the garden is surrounded  by many tree rows, stone benches, engraved columns and a terrace where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Iblei Mounts.

You can follow this itinerary, on foot, in a day tour. After your tour, you’ll have lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants I listed in the paragraph  Ragusa Ibla restaurants.

But, in the meanwhile, I want to provide you with further details to visit the San Giorgio cathedral.  

San Giorgio Cathedral

The cathedral of San Giorgio was an ancient  church that  before the earthquake of 1693 was in the south east tip of Ragusa, near the current Garden of Ibla. There, can still see the old  gothic style entrance. This entrance is the only ruin saved from the awful earthquake that destroyed the entire Noto Valley at the end of the 1600. As you know, even Ragusa is included in the large Sicilian territory of Noto Valley, along with Syracuse and Catania .

Well, in 1693, a sudden and strong earthquake destroyed and razed to the ground all of the cities of this stunning Sicilian valley. After the dreadful event, many cities and monuments were rebuilt with a baroque architectural style, among these ones, there is also San Giorgio Cathedral.  Indeed, in the XVIII century, the San Giorgio Church was rebuilt in the current position, namely, the Duomo square. The features of the church mirror a late baroque style, with lateral marble columns supporting the central dome and marble statues depicting San Joseph and San Giorgio.

Furthermore, the dome and the vaults are depicted  with stunning and religious decorations and sculptures, turning it into a wonderful gallery made  with the artworks by eminent artists. Up to here, I talked about the interior of the cathedral, but you must observe the exterior, first. It is at the top of  Duomo Square, in the highest point, as if the church was  watching over the city of Ragusa Ibla. To reach the main entrance of the cathedral, you must stroll a magnificent staircase.

It is as if you climb on a high hill. At the end of your walk, you’ll arrive in front of a magnificent Church with a likewise magnificent external façade supported by massive lateral columns and split into three separated floors that shrink toward the sky and  take the shape of a large and monumental baroque triangle.

For this impressive magnificence, the San Giorgio cathedral in Ragusa Ibla is regarded as the most important baroque monument of Sicily and Italy. Here are the opening hours to visit it: 10 – 12.30 AM  (until 13 in Summer) and  4 – 7 PM. When I visited the cathedral, I paid no entrance fee. You must pay a ticket of 3 euros, instead, if you want to visit the ancient museum near the church. The museum contains the artifacts saved from the earthquake of 1693. This small museum is daily opened from May to September and in the weekend only, in winter.

Local markets   

In Ragusa Ibla, in addition to visit churches and monuments, you can enjoy very interesting local markets to buy typical Sicilian products. Every Monday, in Sergente Scribano street, you can ride the local market of Ragusa. There, you’ ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, clothes and other products. On Wednesday, instead,  in Selvaggio street, you can visit another large and well supplied  local market. Furthermore, in Ragusa Ibla, you can attend delicious food festivals. One of these ones is named Scale del Gusto (The Stairs of Taste). That is a picturesque  food festival that is held just among the baroque alleys of Ragusa Ibla, usually in October. The event lasts two days and is enriched with cooking lessons, food taste, concerts, galleries and guided tours to better discover the territory of Ragusa Ibla and its traditional recipes.   

Ragusa Ibla Restaurants

If you visit Sicily,  I guess you are also searching for information about the restaurants. Indeed, it is just at these facilities you can taste the best traditional Sicilian dishes.

Here is a list with the best restaurants of Ragusa Ibla.

La Terrazza dell’Orologio .

That is a polished tavern /wine bar with a stunning view  of the historical downtown of Ibla. Here, you can taste the traditional  food of this baroque zone of Sicily and the best local wine (see the image above)

That is an elegant  and tasteful restaurant in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, in XXV Aprile street. The restaurant offers you traditional Sicilian recipes seasoned in a modern way. From this modern mix, you’ll taste dishes with potatoes and the famous eggplant parmigiana.

This restaurant is on Orfanotrofio street. The main feature of this facility is that you’ll eat only traditional recipes of Ragusa Ibla, such as the delicious and famous schiacciata, homemade bread and pasta with ancient Sicilian flour and, obviously, delicious fish recipes.  

A few walks away from the San Giorgio Cathedral, you’ll find Il Barocco restaurant/pizzeria. Here you can have lunch after visiting the cathedral. This restaurant offers you only traditional recipes, especially the Sicilian pizza of Ibla.

In the Duomo square, you’ll find also the bars to taste  ice-cream, delicious Sicilian cannoli and the best of Sicily pastry. 

Hotels in Ragusa Ibla

This ancient Sicilian district offers really many hotels that make the search and the choice fairly hard. Among the others,  some of them are very expensive because of the fame gained through the movie of Inspector Montalbano. In this baroque destination, you can book suites, hotels, B&B and resorts. The prices depend on the season and go from 30 euros per night  in low season to over 100 euro per night in high season. I searched hotels in Ragusa Ibla with the best value for money, to allow you to find  luxury accommodations with a small price . 

Here is my list

San Giorgio Palace . That is an hotel boutique  located just in the baroque district of Ibla.  Thank to the favorable position, the hotels offer  a stunning view of Santa Domenica Valley and  of Ragusa Ibla. In front of your eyes , from your room,  you can admire the view of Ibla by night.  The hotel is also 15 km away from Modica and you can take advantage to visit this second wonderful baroque city during your vacation in Sicily.  The averaged price is 50 euros per night. 

Iblaresort Boutique Hotel . Placed in the heart of the historical district, the hotel enjoys a terrace overlooking the baroque downtown. The building is only five minutes of walk from the San Giorgio Cathedral. If you book this hotel, you can visit the cathedral on foot. The average price is 65 euros per night.

Hotel Il Barocco . This hotel is always five minutes away from the cathedral. Hence,  you can also visit it on foot.  The average price is 50 euros per night.

Locanda Don Serafino . That is really a luxury accommodation, but when I visited it I couldn’t help but mention it because this hotel is located not only in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, but in a stone grotto. The building  was built in a XIX century palace and the reception is housed in the above mentioned stone grotto. The complete name of the hotel is Relais and Chateaux Locanda Don Serafino ( see the image above) and is always at a short distance from the famous San Giorgio Cathedral. The averaged price is 130 euros per night.

If you find these hotels booked, you can find other beautiful accommodations in Ragusa Ibla, here .     

 Ragusa Ibla map

In this post, I published the tourist map allowing you to better understand where Ragusa Ibla is.

It is very important to know that you can easily reach this baroque district from Catania or Comiso Airport . Through a car or a taxi , you’ll arrive to your hotel and then, you can follow the path of the map to visit Ibla also on foot. On this image, you’ll see only the main roads of Ragusa Ibla. This baroque district is located above the downhill of Santa Barbara.  In this tourist map you’ll see also the district of San Paolo I mentioned in  my post, and the market square.

The streets in Italian are said Via. Follow these streets to reach San Giorgio Cathedral and visit the baroque landscape you see in the images of the map. If you follow this map by car, you’ll find a free parking in Piazza della Repubblica and another near the Garden. The latter is just in the center of Ragusa Ibla . Since these free parking could be occupied by many cars, I strongly advise that you book a hotel near the surroundings of Ibla so that to enjoy your tour in this baroque district on foot and with no stress.

And you? Have you already visited this mesmerizing place? If you did or if you want to visit it, share your thoughts here. Your opinion will be greatly appreciated.

Photocredits in order of appearance:

Jamie Tarallo

Gianluca Carnicella

Stijn Nieuwendijk

Dom Fellowes

Andrea Shaffer

www.giornaleibleo.it

Tuttocitta.it

Related Posts

Rosalba Mancuso is a freelance journalist born in Sicily. Passionate about her loved island and with extensive writing experience, Rosalba worked as contributor for the main Sicily’s newspapers and as bilingual Italian – English writer. Thanks to her skills, she also founded four websites in English. On Sicilyonweb, Rosalba tells every corner of her beloved Sicily. Furthermore, she writes this blog thanks to your help. Rosalba, in fact, earns a small commission, with no cost for you, when you book your travel or buy products through the affiliate widgets or links you find in her posts.

• ← Modica, Travel Guide to the Most Baroque City of Sicily
• Original Sicilian Lace for Sale →

One thought on “ Ragusa Ibla, a Travel Guide to Visit Magical Panoramas ”

Pingback: Ragusa – SICILY ON WEB

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CAPTCHA Code *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Ragusa Ibla

Top choice in Ragusa

Ragusa Ibla is a joy to wander, its labyrinthine lanes weaving through rock-grey palazzi to open onto beautiful, sun-drenched piazzas. It's easy to get lost but you can never go too far wrong, and sooner or later you'll end up at Piazza Duomo , Ragusa's sublime central square.

Facing the piazza, on Corso XXV Aprile, is Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti , built between the 17th and early 19th centuries. Guided tours of the aristocratic palace include its showpiece ballroom, graced with rare, late-18th-century Neapolitan majolica tiles and luminous 19th-century frescoes that have never needed touching up.

Opposite the palace, Via Novelli leads to the entrance of jewel-box Teatro Donnafugata , a 99-seat theatre that looks like a grand Italian opera house in miniature form. The theatre is a stop on the A Porte Aperte walking tour of Ragusa Ibla.

Via Novelli leads to Via Orfanotrofio, home to Cinabro Carrettieri , the colourful workshop of world-famous Sicilian cart craftsmen Biagio Castilletti and Damiano Rotella. The street continues south back to Corso XXV Aprile, where you're met by an eye-catching Gagliardi church, the elliptical Chiesa di San Giuseppe , its cupola graced by Sebastiano Lo Monaco's fresco Gloria di San Benedetto (Glory of St Benedict, 1793).

Further downhill, the street to the right of the entrance of the Giardino Ibleo harbours the Catalan Gothic portal of what was once the large Chiesa di San Giorgio Vecchio , now mostly ruined. The lunette features an interesting bas-relief of St George killing the dragon.

At the other end of Ragusa Ibla, the Chiesa delle Santissime Anime del Purgatorio is one of the few churches in town to have survived the great earthquake of 1693. Step inside to admire Francesco Manno's Anime in Purgatorio (Souls in Purgatory; 1800) at the main altar.

Suggest an edit to this attraction

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte

25.04 MILES

Caltagirone's most evocative sight is this monumental staircase, which rises from Piazza Municipio to Chiesa di Santa Maria del Monte. Built in the early…

Museo Archeologico

28.48 MILES

This splendid archaeological museum offers insight into Gela's great artistic past. It contains artefacts from the city's ancient acropolis and is famed…

Palazzo Bonelli Patanè

Never judge a book by its cover, or a palazzo by its facade. Take the 19th-century Palazzo Bonelli Patanè, its demure neoclassical facade tight-lipped…

Palazzo Castelluccio

18.11 MILES

Abandoned for decades, this 18th-century palazzo found its saviour in French journalist and documentary filmmaker Jean-Louis Remilleux, who purchased the…

Basilica Cattedrale di San Nicolò

18.29 MILES

Pride of place in Noto goes to San Nicolò Cathedral, a baroque beauty that had to undergo extensive renovation after its dome collapsed during a 1996…

Castello di Donnafugata

Located 18km southwest of Ragusa, this sumptuous neo-Gothic palace houses the Collezione Gabriele Arezzo di Trifiletti, an extraordinary fashion and…

Duomo di San Giorgio

The high point of a trip to Modica – quite literally as it's up in Modica Alta – is the Duomo di San Giorgio, one of Sicily's most extraordinary baroque…

Piazza Municipio

18.28 MILES

About halfway along Corso Vittorio Emanuele is the graceful Piazza Municipio, flanked by Noto's most dramatic buildings. To the north, sitting in stately…

Nearby Ragusa attractions

1 . Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti

If you fancy snooping around the private digs of an aristocratic family, Domenico Arezzo offers guided tours of his family's palazzo, built between the…

2 . Teatro Donnafugata

Built in the bassi (working-class abodes) of a noble family's palazzo, this jewel-box theatre looks like a grand Italian opera house in miniature form…

3 . Duomo di San Giorgio

At the top end of the sloping Piazza Duomo is the town's pride and joy, the mid-18th-century cathedral with a magnificent neoclassical dome and stained…

4 . Chiesa di San Giuseppe

Built between 1756 and 1796, this elegant church was commissioned by the wealthy Benedictine order. Inside, turn your gaze upward to appreciate Sebastiano…

5 . Cinabro Carrettieri

Biagio Castilletti and Damiano Rotella are two of only a handful of master artisans still making carretti siciliani (traditional Sicilian carts) the…

6 . Portale San Giorgio Vecchio

On the street to the right of the entrance of the Giardino Ibleo, eye up the Catalan Gothic portal of what was once the large Chiesa di San Giorgio…

7 . Giardino Ibleo

At the eastern end of the old town is the Giardino Ibleo, a pleasant public garden laid out in the 19th century that is perfect for a picnic lunch.

8 . Chiesa delle Santissime Anime del Purgatorio

Consecrated in 1658, the Chiesa del Purgatorio miraculously survived the earthquake of 1693 before being tweaked and expanded the following century. These…

13 Things to do in Ragusa: Sicily’s Town of Two Faces

Planning on visiting Ragusa , the Baroque hilltop town in Sicily? In my easy guide to Ragusa , you will find the best things to do in Ragusa Ibla and around, recommended accommodations, great places to eat, and useful tips for getting to and around the town. 

Rising on the Hyblaenian Mountains in the heart of Val di Noto, Ragusa is one of the most picturesque towns in southeast Sicily . Beige hue buildings line up narrow steep alleys while towering baroque churches and sumptuous palazzi pamper Ragusa’s skyline which can be admired from several elevated viewpoints. 

Holding UNESCO heritage status, elegant Ragusa was raised like Phoenix from ashes after the devastating earthquake in 1693 destroyed many towns in the area. 

This is when a split into  Ragusa Superiore (Upper) and  Ragusa Ibla (lower) happened and shaped two completely different faces of the city. 

The modern and more practical residential part of Ragusa Superiore was built on a higher plateau of the mountain. However, not all the residents wanted to leave their former homes. Instead, they rolled the sleeves up and rebuilt Ragusa Ibla atop the network of medieval streets in a decorative Baroque style. Indeed they did not imagine today’s Ragusa Ibla will be praised as an architectural masterpiece visited by tourists from around the world and even featured in the well-known TV series Inspector Montalbano. 

Illustrated with many photos, this guide will help you easily plan your visit to Ragusa in Sicily . 

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

How to visit Ragusa in Sicily

Ragusa quick links.

• HIRE A CAR : The best way to explore Sicily is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• WHERE TO STAY: Amaca Iblea (budget); Terrazza Dei Sogni (mid-range); Epoca (high-end); A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel (boutique).
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours from Ragusa on  GetYourGuide .
• AIRPORT TRANSFER: Book a private hotel transfer from Sicily Palermo, Catania, or Trapani Airports .
• Learn Italian: take a fun interactive online course Rocket Italian , which will help you quickly learn spoken and written Italian. Study at your own pace either on a desktop or using a mobile app, lifetime access, and a free trial available upon signing up.

Why visit Ragusa? 

Sophisticated Ragusa Ibla pulsates with the old world’s charm and is a must-visit place in Sicily if you love romantic small towns characterized by a maze of narrow streets and beautiful architecture. 

To me, Ragusa was one of the highlights of our Sicily road trip . From stunning viewpoints of Ragusa, waking up to the ringing bells of ages-old churches, watching elegant gentlemen stepping out from their palazzi for a morning catch-up over a cup of coffee, to recording timelapse of the street lights coming up, and discovering how surprisingly different are the two faces of Ragusa. 

The best time to visit Ragusa in Sicily

You can visit Ragusa any time of the year. However, you may want to take a few notes when choosing the time to go.

Best time/shoulder season: For the most pleasant temperatures, early-mid autumn, and mid-spring is perfect.

For the least crowds but colder weather: Although Ragusa is not particularly crowded with tourists, to have the town completely to yourself, come in winter. 

Avoid: It gets particularly hot in summer (June, July, and August) with temperatures soaring over 30 degrees celsius, which feels way worse inland. I visited Ragusa in mid-May and even then the temperatures already started hitting 30 degrees celsius at midday.

Should you stay in Ragusa Ibla or Superiore ?

On my 2-week road trip in Sicily , I picked Ragusa as a base for a couple of nights. If you are wondering which Val di Noto town you should stay at, then I strongly recommend staying in Ragusa Ibla (the old lower part). The old Ragusa is filled with amazing guesthouses, elegant hotels, and cozy self-contained apartments in the old atmospheric buildings. Many of them have balconies or terraces with superb views over the town.

My top picks for accommodation in Ragusa Ibla:

• Amaca Iblea (budget);
• Terrazza Dei Sogni (mid-range);
• Epoca (high-end);
• A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel (boutique).

Top Tip: if you are driving in Sicily, before booking your accommodation in Ragusa Ibla make sure that it provides free parking as it can be tricky to find a spot. 

If you don’t want to deal with parking drama in the old town, you can always choose to stay in a less romantic Ragusa Superiore, where it is easier to drive around and park. You can always walk down to Ragusa Ibla. Remember though, that most of the attractions lay within Ragusa Ibla, where you must likely spend most of your time. To get to and back from Superiore to Ibla, you will have to tackle lots of steep steps connecting the two faces of the city. 

Parking in Ragusa

Ragusa Ibla has narrow streets and also ZTL zones which you as a visitor, should not enter with a car by any means if you don’t want to receive a hefty fine. If you booked accommodation in the old town, make sure to ask your hosts to advise you about parking and the ZTL situation.

Our host showed us a ZTL-free street to park our car (although it was a tough search even for him). Alternatively, there is a small free parking lot at the bottom of Ragusa Ibla called “Via Avvocato Giovanni Ottaviano Parking” (type it on Google Maps and it will show up). There aren’t many spots, but you can get lucky (we did when we came back from our day trip to Modica). You can leave your car there and if you are just staying in town, walk everywhere instead as it doesn’t make sense driving the confusing narrow alleyways of Ragusa Ibla.

Also read: 21 tips for renting a car and driving in Sicily stress-free . Here you will find more details about ZTL and parking rules in Sicily. 

If you are looking for a great deal to rent a car in Sicily, I recommend checking Discovercars . This search engine gives some of the best rates in the market, and that’s where we got our ride from. You can also cross-check with Rentalscars-one of the largest car search aggregators in the market. 

• Compare the best car rental rates in Sicily with international car hire companies at  Discovercars .
• I also recommend cross-checking the offers with the biggest car search engine Rentalcars .

If you are staying in Ragusa Superiore, the parking should be much easier. The only challenge (or maybe an excuse to get a workout) you will have is to walk up and down to the old town.

13 amazing things to do in Ragusa, Sicily  

1. admire panoramic viewpoints of ragusa ibla.

One of the reasons I chose to visit Ragusa was the magical views I have seen in the pictures on the Internet. Indeed Ragusa is a photographer’s dream! The panoramic views over the rooftops of the Ragusa Ibla are one of the best you will find in the whole of Sicily. Sunset and dusk are ideal times to enjoy the iconic elevated view over Ragusa Ibla. 

There are two viewpoints of Ragusa you should not miss:

• Church of Saint Mary of the Stairs ( Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Scale ) viewpoint . A staircase of 243 steep stone steps connects Ragusa Ibla to Ragusa Superiore. Following them from the old town of Ragusa, you will reach the Saint Mary church at the top. Your effort will be rewarded with the perfect postcard view of Ragusa’s rooftops framed by the Saint Mary church bell tower. 

• Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria viewpoint . Just 200 meters down from Chiesa delle Scalle following Corso Mazzini street you will reach a small viewing platform with an unobstructed view over Ragusa Ibla. The beautiful little blue dome of Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria stands out among the honey-hued buildings. This is the other iconic place to photograph Ragusa Ibla from.

Top Tip: Some of the best views of Ragusa Ibla are during the blue hour (at dusk) when the street and building lights come up. Thus once the sun sets, stick around to witness the beauty of illuminated Ragusa Ibla. 

2. Soak up the atmosphere of Ragusa Ibla by wandering the maze of tangled alleyways

Ragusa Ibla is one of those cozy historic old towns with many intertwining narrow streets. Aimlessly follow the maze of cobblestone alleyways to discover pretty corners, courtyards, and yet more different viewpoints and perspectives of Ragusa Ibla.

Ragusa Ibla is a type of place where you find your way around by getting lost. Notice intricate details on the balconies and building. Baroque architecture is extremely decorative and elaborate. Therefore, you will find yourself busy spotting many surprising elements.

3. Appreciate Baroque architecture at Piazza del Duomo di San Giorgio- the beating heart of Ragusa Ibla

As accustomed to every historic town in Sicily and Italy , there is a central square ( piazza del duomo ) where the main Cathedral building is located. Moreover, most of the action in town is usually happening around it.

Duomo di San Giorgio Cathedral is the central piece of the finest Baroque architecture examples not only in Ragusa but also in all of Sicily. Located on a sloped hill with a flight of over 200 stairs leading to its facade, 18th century San Giorgio Church took 40 years to complete. An impressive neoclassical dome was added later in 1820. The credit for the creation of this imposing building goes to Rosario Gagliardi, a Sicilian architect, who had a significant impact on the further development of the Baroque architectural style in Sicily. 

Make sure to also visit Duomo di San Giorgio after dusk (late evening). The church illuminated with lights looks even more magical and mysterious. Meanwhile, the piazza del duomo comes to life at night with people gathering in lively Sicilian tavernas, restaurants, and bars. 

4. Discover more of the wonderful Baroque churches

There are at least 50 baroque churches in Ragusa, and you must be really obsessed with churches to visit them all in a day or two. Nonetheless, since most travelers have limited time, here are a few other important beautiful baroque churches of Ragusa:

• Chiesa di San Giuseppe . Located just a hundred meters downhill from piazza del Duomo, this 18th-century church is known for its elegant Baroque facade and a beautiful fresco of the internal cupola. 
• Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria . Characterized by the Maiolica roofed blue bell tower- one of the most distinctive elements of Ragusa’s skyline. You will notice the blue dome immediately from the viewpoint mentioned above. Situated in the former Jewish quarter of Ibla, this church dates back to the 14th century. Surviving the earthquake with minor damage, it was modified to match the baroque style of the 18th century.
• Chiesa della Santissime Anime del Purgatorio . Located in the Piazza della Repubblica this church was practically untouched by the devastating 1693 earthquake. The church is dedicated to all the souls in Purgatory and is known for Francesco Manno’s painting, Anime in Purgatorio.
• The Cathedral of San Giovani Battista . Located in Ragusa Superiore, this evocative cathedral rich in elaborate details and sculptures is the central house of worship in “modern” Ragusa. Created by the same superstar architect Rosario Gagliardi, the Baroque facade of the cathedral is characterized by asymmetrical design. 

TIP: If you are hungry for more wonderful views over Ragusa, you can climb to the campanile of the Cathedral of San Giovani Battista. Tackling 129 steps will cost you 2 euros. 

5. Spot street art in Ragusa Ibla and Superiore

Ragusa Ibla doesn’t leave any of its corners blank. While strolling along one of the main streets, we stumbled upon a mural, creatively decorating a boring gray wall that would otherwise have looked like a blank empty spot. Instead, a colorful mural fills up the grey space and adds more character and a modern twist to the old city. 

There is more street art scattered between the upper and lower parts of Ragusa. In fact, these murals are the result of the famous street art event The FestiWall . During the event, Ragusa’s walls were used as a canvas by famous international artists, such as Guido Van Helten (look for Una Madre Siciliana mural) and Sebastián Velasco. 

6. Find a shade in Ibleo Gardens-green heart of Ragusa Ibla

Following Corso XXV Aprile you will reach the green space of Ragusa- an elaborate garden Giardino Ibleo lined with elegant palm trees and filled with various Mediterranean plants. This beautiful natural corner established in 1858, offers relief in the shade on a hot summer day and a refreshing escape from the stone-paved streets and buildings. Yet, in the garden, you will still find three baroque churches (San Domenico, San Giacomo, and the Capuchin Church) and an archeological excavation with some important findings from the ancient times of Ragusa Ibla. 

Once in the garden, make sure to stroll until the far end for some wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. 

Do not miss the gothic portal of Portale San Giorgio Vecchio –  the only remaining element of the destroyed cathedral. It is located in the small street on the right-hand side of the Ibleo Garden entrance. 

• The Gardenio Ibleo opening hours are 8 AM – 8 PM. The entrance is free.

7. Explore the gritty corners of Ragusa Superiore

Ragusa Superiore, although considered a modern part of the town, is not that new or modern after all. In fact, it is still quite old, granted it was established immediately after the 1693 earthquake. Superiore doesn’t lack interesting architectural elements, and decorative details, just buildings here are somewhat taller and less manicured than in Ibla. 

Yet the atmosphere of the upper part of the town is far from dreamy and romantic. 

Continuing up, past the viewpoint at Church of Saint Marry of the Stairs, you will immediately encounter a different face of Ragusa- gritty, rough around its corners, and I would dare to say tired working-class city, vibing more with Palermo or Catania than a tranquil mountain town. 

The audience of locals instantly changes from elegantly dressed elderly aristocrats to let’s admit suspiciously looking groups of mid-aged men in tracksuits. 

Gathering at the piazza San Giovani, the main square of Ragusa Superiore, those dudes were staring at us as if they have never seen foreign visitors before.

Meanwhile, we were admiring the Grand Cathedral of San Giovani – the above-mentioned baroque church you shouldn’t miss. Apart from it, and a few other old churches, there aren’t as many historically acclaimed attractions. Nonetheless, Ragusa Superiore is a place to be experienced rather than visited with the aim of ticking off the list of famous buildings. 

After a few more leg muscle-killing inclines, before turning downhill to Ragusa Ibla, we grabbed some great takeaway pizza. The pizzeria that I found on Google Maps turned out to be featured in several publications because of its skilled Pizzaro who proudly displayed his certificates of excellence on the pizzeria’s tiny walls.

While walking in Ragusa Superiore, I noticed quite a few funky bars based on the ground floors of characteristic old buildings. Something that you do not see in a more sophisticated Ragusa Ibla. 

When visiting Ragusa, definitely make sure to visit the upper part (“new” part) to fully comprehend what this town of two faces is about. 

8. Cross the bridges in Ragusa Superiore

Ragusa Superiore is also called “the city of the bridges”. Three picturesque arched bridges are crossing a green valley. 

Those are Ponte Vecchio, Ponte Nuovo, and Ponte Giovanni XXIII (or Ponte San Vito), overlooking Cava di Santa Domenica, the valley beneath. It is a place we missed out on but it looks pretty cool from a photography perspective. 

9. Try the local cuisine of Ragusa

Sicily is definitely a destination you come to not only for architecture and natural vistas but also for great food. Each town, however, has its own specialties and so does Ragusa. 

Here is a list of local dishes that are typical of Ragusa:

• Scacce -stuffed flatbread, vegetarian friendly and a great snack for lunch, available in most of the bakeries around the town. 
• Caciocavallo Ragusano -typical cow milk cheese which differs in flavor depending on aging. Look for it in specialty cheese shops. I found Casa del Formaggio (house of cheese) family-run cheese shop which also offers tastings so you know what you buying. 
• Pastieri – pastry stuffed with minced lamb, offal, and cheese (available in pastry shops). 

Ragusa Ibla is a foodie’s dream come true. And if budget permits, then you should know that the small historic town is proud of being home to three Michelin-starred restaurants :

• Duomo -rewarded with 2 stars this Michelin restaurant prides itself on chef Ciccio Sultano’s ability to creatively experiment with different cultural influences and still stay true to Sicilian roots when creating his signature dishes. Reservations are strongly recommended. 
• La Locanda di Don Serafino -located in the old palazzo which is turned into the luxurious hotel of the same name, this restaurant offers atmospheric candlelight dinner for a slightly lower budget than Duomo. 
• La Fenice – located outside the old town of Ragusa in a 19th-century farmhouse this restaurant is highly rated for the very skilled chef who makes some magic in the kitchen using the top quality ingredients. 

Are you obsessed with Sicilian food yet? Why not try to learn to make some dishes before you return home? Ragusa has some amazing cooking classes held at local’s houses (bummer, I only found out about it later after the trip).

10. Take a day trip to Modica and Scicli (or Noto) 

Ragusa is a great base for visiting other Val di Noto towns ((Caltagirone, Militello, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, and Scicli). The closest ones, however, if you only have one day to spare for a side trip, are Modica and Scicli. They are also close to each other, thus it would be viable to combine them both in a one-day trip. 

Modica, apart from baroque architecture, is famous for its unique granulated chocolate. If you are like me, obsessed with chocolate, you can even visit a factory of chocolate and totally overdose on various flavors. Add some chocolate granitas available in every gelateria and bar, these special flavor granitas are exclusive to Modica. 

Meanwhile, Scicli is much smaller than Modica and Ragusa, making it easy to navigate. Set at the foothills of the craggy rock, Scicli is an atmospheric baroque town that you can easily explore in a couple of hours. 

If you have more days in Ragusa, you can definitely go on a day trip to Noto (the main Baroque town in Sicily), or venture to Caltagirone-the town of Ceramics famous for its colorful tiled staircase. 

Read more: 17 Most beautiful mountain towns in Sicily . 

11. Swim at Ragusa beach

Ragusa, although a hilltop town and doesn’t have direct access to the beach, managed to claim its own beach resort Marina di Ragusa  which is located 20 kilometers south of the town. It is a public beach (not a paid resort) filled with facilities and is very popular during the summer month,s, especially among young people who come here to have a great time and party in the evening. Also called Mazarelli this sandy beach can be reached by car or a public bus. 

Other beaches to check are Polazzo and San Maria del Focallo. 

Public transport from Ragusa to Marina di Ragusa: there are frequent buses available with TUMINO . All buses leave from the Ragusa bus terminal.

12. T ake a cooking lesson in Ragusa

If you love cooking and want to learn some Sicilian cuise secrets, there is no better way than to be taught by a local. GetYourGuide offers this unique experience of a Cooking class at a local’s home in Ragusa .

13. Unfold tragic love story hidden behind the walls of Donnafugata Castle

20 kilometers from Ragusa, the Donnafugata Castle is a pseudo Venetian-Gothic 19th century mansion with an exquisite garden rich in Mediterranean and exotic plants. The fans of Inspector Montalbano will definitely recognize this setting. But there is more to it- the walls of high life hide some tragic love story (a legend to be precise) which you can find out about if you visit the castle. 

How to get to Ragusa in Sicily

• Flying to Sicily-the closest airport to Ragusa

The closest international airport to Ragusa is Catania Airport in east Sicily (110 km away from Ragusa). 

Alternatively, there is a small Comiso Airport around 15 kilometers away from Ragusa. This airport serves mostly domestic flights in Italy and a few European destinations. 

• Visiting Ragusa by car

Once in Sicily, the easiest way to get around is by car. If you are renting a car for a road trip around Sicily, which is a great idea if you want to easily explore smaller towns, then reaching Ragusa will be straightforward, just follow Google maps directions. 

• Visiting Ragusa by bus

Although not as convenient as driving your own vehicle, it is possible to visit Ragusa by public bus.

From Catania you will have to catch a bus from Catania airport to Catania city center and from there take a bus to Ragusa. Catania (via Catania airport) with ETNA Trasporti.

TIP: Search “Catania – Via Archimede – Autostazione” to “Ragusa – Via Zama – Autostazione” to find the latest timetables. 

From Syracuse, Noto, Modica, and Agrigento (via Gela) connections to Ragusa are available with AST , or ETNA Trasporti.

• Visiting Ragusa by train

Train connections are available between Ragusa and Noto, Syracuse, Modica, Vittoria, and Gela. 

For timetables, as well as the option to book tickets in advance, see Trenitalia . 

TIP: The train station is located in Ragusa Superiore, from which you can jump on one of the local AST buses to Ragusa Ibla. 

Note: public transport in Sicily is known to be not very reliable. Thus allow yourself plenty of time for commuting. Also, on Sundays buses might not be running (it is a day off for everyone). 

• Private transfer

Definitely the costliest option, but if you opt for it, then Getatransfer is a great private transfer provider which you can pre-book online. Getatransfer can virtually organize pick-up from anywhere in Sicily (the transfer price depends on the destination and distance). 

Places to eat in Ragusa

For those of you who do not fancy the fancy Michelin-starred restaurants and prefer something more reasonably priced yet local, you are no short of options:

• That’s A Moro. Known for great pasta and good wine, this is a popular restaurant around the corner from the main piazza del Duomo in Ragusa Ibla. The outdoor dining area is extremely popular during dinner time (7-8 pm), thus book in advance or show up early so you don’t have to wait forever as we did on our first night in Ragusa.
• Terrazza dell’Orologio. This rooftop restaurant boasts sweeping views across Ragusa. A great option for lunch. 
• Trattoria Agli Archi. Trattoria is a term for a family-run restaurant, and just what it is, Agli Archi offers some delicious antipasti, or if you are up for something more serious, you can also have mains. This trattoria is located at the bottom part of Ragusa Ibla. 
• Gelati DiVini . No Sicily and Italy trip is complete without at least one gelato a day. Gelati DVini (divine ice cream) is beloved by locals which is a sign of good stuff. Located in the main piazza in Ragusa Ibla this gelateria offers some of the best gelatos in town. If you feel more experimental or craving more carbs- go for brioche with gelato-it is Sicilian specialty-an ice cream in a bun. Note it is very filling.

Where to stay in Ragusa-my best accommodation picks

Here are my top picks for staying in Ragusa Ibla (old town), Sicily:

Amaca Iblea $. A cozy one-bedroom apartment in a historic building featuring fantastic views of Ragusa Ibla. We stayed here and it was one of my favorite places in Sicily. Parking is free but not easy to find in the old town, however, the host will help to sort this out.

Terrazza dei Sogni $$. At the heart of the historical center, this hotel is proud of its terrace with gorgeous 360 views over the old town and valley. Rooms are also bright and tastefully furnished, and superb breakfast is served on the terrace.

Itria Palace $$. Located at a lower part of Ragusa Ibla, this hotel has nicely decorated rooms featuring stone walls, a private bar, free parking, and superb breakfast included in the rate.

Epoca $$$.  Enchanting rooms in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, have a beautiful terrace, and breakfast is included, free parking is also available. 

Giardino Sul Duomo $$$.  Modern rooms with wood-beamed ceilings in a guesthouse offering a garden and a pool, a great view of Ragusa Ibla, and some rooms overlooking the Cathedral.

A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel $$$.  The gorgeous boutique hotel perfectly combines art, contemporary design, and classic Baroque architecture. Each room is also different. Located at the very heart of Ragusa Ibla.

Have you visited Ragusa Ibla yet? If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, please share your comments. Make sure to also check other Sicily travel guides below.

More Sicily and Italy travel guides and resources

Sicily travel guides.

• Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily and Driving Stress-Free
• Renting a car in Catania, Sicily
• Renting a car in Palermo: what you need to know
• Epic Road Trip for 2-weeks in Sicily itinerary
• Essential Sicily Travel Tips .
• 21 spectacular places to visit in Sicily 
• How to visit Favignana island, Sicily
• Guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
• Visit Gangi mountain town in Sicily
• The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.
• The most charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Which is better: Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• Thinking of renting a car in Rome? Read my guide to  How to rent a car in Rome .
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Don't take the tourist mini train - Ragusa Ibla

• Europe    
• Italy    
• Sicily    
• Province of Ragusa    
• Ragusa    
• Ragusa - Things to Do    
• Ragusa Ibla

Don't take the tourist mini train

While Ragusa Ibla is an excellent place to visit, please do it by walking. The mini train is a rip-off: It goes very fast, the comments are only in Italian and hardly audible, the wagons are covered and, thus, you can't see anything of the house fronts when passing through the narrow streets.

This is a picture perfect little place. We took the little train ride round which was well worth the 5€ ticket price. The bar on the right hand side of the square very near the cathedral steps was a very good find. Not expensive, very friendly service and a lovely location to enjoy a coffee, glass of wine or local grappa. There is not much to do in Ibla except explore the little back streets and wander through the town gardens but still worth a visit.

If you are able do the steps, it is most rewarding to walk from Ragusa Superiore to Ibla and back. There are several restaurants in Ibla it is a lovely place to spend time.

We took a day trip with guide out of Taormina to visit Ragusa Ibla and Modica. It was the highlight of our 9 days in Sicily. While everyone is drawn to antiquity visiting the Greek and Roman era ruins in Sicily, most miss these hillside towns with built into the Sicilian hills. The aristocratic villas in Ragusa have been preserved as the wealthy file who built them remain, for the most part, to preserve the heritage of their ancestors. The fantastic baroque duomo with its wedding cake facade sets the standard for local architecture. Enjoy a snack of Ragusan cheeses while discovering each gemlike street which unfolds before you.

The walk down the steps from Ragusa ('new' town) is a bit of a trek, but worth it for the sights and views on the way down. Ragusa Ibla itself is charming, and the ice cream shop near the Duomo is also well worth a visit. The green park at the foot of Ragusa Ibla is well shaded and includes a play park for little ones.

Great old city , beautiful monuments .. nice walking there by night ! Very touristic and many restaurants .. a nice place to have a good pizza ;-)

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

16 Epic Things To Do In Ragusa Sicily – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Last Updated on February 8, 2023 by Soumya

Traveling to Ragusa in Sicily and wondering what to do? Looking for the best places to visit in Ragusa ? Keen to find out what are the best Ragusa attractions that you could add to your Sicily itinerary ?

Here’s just the perfect Ragusa travel guide that will answer all your questions and some more.

A part of Italy’s lesser-known UNESCO site called Val di Noto, the city of Ragusa is one of the best places to visit in Sicily. You’ll be surprised to know that Ragusa, along with 7 other towns in Southeast Sicily, were utterly devastated during the 1693 earthquake. They rose out of the ashes like the phoenix – a resurrection process that gave birth to a unique architectural form called Sicilian Baroque .

Quite clearly, one of the best things to do in Ragusa, Sicily is to walk through its charming old town and spot stunning Baroque facades and impressive balconies. Duomo di San Giorgio is a highlight and so are the umpteen number of other churches that dot the historic town. If you are a foodie, you’ll love the gastronomic delights of Ragusa as well as make some nice day trips to nearby towns for their culinary specialties. Inspector Montalbano fans will have a ball because of all the filming locations that you’ll see here.

No doubt, there are tons of attractions in Ragusa and you’ll need at least a couple of days to see them all. Here’s our comprehensive Ragusa travel guide that will give you a list of what to see in Ragusa, where to stay, best places to eat , and lots of insider tips.

Planning your Ragusa trip last minute?

If you are booking your trip to Ragusa last minute, don’t worry. We have you covered. Here are some of the best tours and hotels in Ragusa, Sicily.

Top Experiences and Tours in/to Ragusa, Sicily

• Ragusa Ibla Walking Tour (Highly rated!)
• Inspector Montalbano Locations Tour (Bestseller!)
• Private Cooking Class at a Local’s Home in Ragusa (Immersive experience!)
• Baroque Tour of Ragusa, Noto, and Modica (Very popular!)

Best Sicily Tours that include Ragusa

• Splendors of Sicily (8-day in-depth cultural tour!)
• Mini Tour of Sicily (Best of Sicily in 6 days)

Top Hotels in Ragusa, Sicily

• AD 1768 Boutique Hotel (18th-century palazzo with beautiful ceiling frescoes)
• San Giorgio Palace (Stunning views of the valley!)
• Locanda La Meridiana (Traditional Sicilian feel and food!)

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

About Ragusa, Sicily

• Ragusa is a beautiful, hilltop town in Southern Sicily that is also part of the UNESCO heritage ensemble called the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto.
• Ragusa is one of the 8 Val di Noto towns that were completely destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1693 . These towns were completely resurrected from the debris. A unique architectural form took birth in the process. It was called Sicilian Baroque and the towns were recognized as the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto.
• The town is divided into 2 parts – Ragusa Ibla (the historic old town) and Ragusa Superiore (the new upper town). Ragusa Ibla is chockfull of stunning Baroque monuments including the impressive Cathedral of San Giorgio and the marvelous Church of San Giuseppe.
• Ibla and Superiore are separated by a deep ravine. The walk from Upper Town to Ragusa Ibla is rewarded with stunning views of the lower town. Even though, it requires climbing 340 steps up and down, the hike is totally worth it.
• Ragusa is a popular stop on Inspector Montalbano tours in Sicily . You can also visit some key filming locations such as the Donnafugata Castle and Punta Secca Beach nearby.
• An interesting thing to do in Ragusa is to watch a passeggiata, a popular Italian tradition that is particularly prevalent in Sicily.

Best things to do in Ragusa, Sicily

Take a walking tour of ragusa ibla.

The most fun thing to do in Ragusa is to take a walk through the old town of Ragusa Ibla . The historic center is filled with striking Baroque buildings, quaint homes with pleasing balconies, and picturesque old alleys. Have a look at several pictures of Ragusa here to see what the charming, old town looks like.

On your walking tour of Ragusa , you’ll walk through Ragusa’s narrow lanes and learn a lot about how the town came to be the birthplace of Sicilian Baroque. This unique style developed during the reconstruction of the city after the massive earthquake of 1693. It incorporates rich ornamentation of traditional Baroque architecture while adding a lot of Sicilian elements such as masks and angels in the mix.

You’ll see some amazing mansions in Ragusa adorned by cast iron balconies held up by quirky masks and winged cherubs. On your walking tour, be sure to check out some of the best places in Ragusa such as the San Giorgio Cathedral and more places that we talk about below.

Step into the majestic Duomo di San Giorgio

Ragusa is full of majestic churches & cathedrals. One of the most fascinating ones is the Cathedral of Saint George.

Locally known as the Duomo di San Giorgio , this beautiful Baroque church is an architectural masterpiece . It was constructed in the 18th century and is located in the heart of the old town and is a typical example of Sicilian Baroque .

The stunning Baroque facade of the cathedral is slightly convex. It features 3 orders with a bell tower on the top. Located atop a flight of stairs, the facade showcases images of Saint George’s (patron saint of Ragusa Ibla) martyrdom and statues of several other saints. Inside, the church has 3 naves and beautiful stained glass windows.

The church is open from 10:00am – 12:30pm & 4:00pm – 6:30pm, Monday – Sunday and is free to enter. In the piazza outside the cathedral, you’ll find quaint cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a good meal and experience the famous La Passeggiata, Italy’s tradition of evening walks and catching up.

Marvel at the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista

The Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista is also known as the Ragusa Cathedral. Like every other church in Ragusa (or anywhere else in Val di Noto), the Ragusa Cathedral was built on the remains of ancient Roman Catholic church that stood here before the earthquake of 1693. But unlike others, the Ragusa Cathedral is located in Superiore instead of Ibla.

Ragusa Cathedral sports a typical Sicilian Baroque facade and an impressive interior with a multitude of art work. You can enter it for free every day between 10:00am – 12:30pm and 4:00pm – 6:00pm.

Enjoy the views from the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale

Perhaps another most visited attraction in Ragusa is the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale.

The church is a popular Ragusa highlight because of two reasons. First, it still retains the original Gothic bell-tower and an old terracotta image of Virgin Mary from before the earthquake days. Second, the church’s location on the top of the 340 steps that connect Ibla with Superiore makes it perfect place to witness stunning views of Ragusa Ibla. If you want to get the best photos of Ragusa , the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale is where you should be heading to.

See the beautiful church of San Giuseppe

The Church of San Giuseppe is one of the most elegant churches in Ragusa. With a richly-sculpted Baroque facade, this church features statues of the saints of the Benedictine Order.

Highlights of the church include a beautiful fresco over the vault that depicts the Glory of St. Benedict . Be sure to notice the oval interior of the church which was meant to cloister nuns while they observed the mass. The church is covered in this highly-rated Ragusa walking tour in case you are looking for a good one.

Relax in Giardino Ibleo

Looking for a green space to relax after an overdose of Baroque? Head to the Ibleo Garden.

Located on the eastern side of Ragusa, this 19th-century garden is perfect to sit down and relax, especially if you are unable to bear the scathing afternoon sun of Sicily. The Ibleo Garden is a tranquil park filled with a large variety of plants and ample space for kids to run around.

There’s always something happening here. For example when we went, there was an ongoing exhibition of vintage cars.

Undoubtedly, the garden is a great place for Ragusa’s residents to hang out after a day’s work. Late afternoon is a good time to visit because that is when the place is full of locals and you get to experience the true vibe of Ragusa.

The garden is usually open from 10:00am in the morning to 10:00pm in the evening.

Explore the culinary scene of Ragusa

I love Southern Italian food and food tastings are one of my favorite things to do in Sicily .

Like many other places in Sicily, Ragusa also has some unique delicacies to offer. For example, Ragusa is home to Ragusano, a semi-hard cheese whose origin dates back to the 1500s. The ‘mpante, a savory pie filled with meat, potatoes, seafood, and cheese, is another popular dish to try. And how can I forget about sccacia, a traditional stuffed flatbread that can be filled with anything ranging from cheese to sausages.

You can explore Ragusa’s culinary scene by eating at one or more of the many wonderful restaurants that dot the city. Some of the most popular places to eat in Ragusa are Trattoria da Luigi and Trattoria Al Casareccio .

If you are a foodie and an Inspector Montalbano fan, then you’ll love A’ Rusticana – a traditional Sicilian restaurant where the famous TV series was shot. We had our first lunch in Ragusa at A’ Rusticana and totally loved it. Their seafood is drool-worthy. Since this place is super popular, you many need to book ahead in order to secure your place.

If you are more of a guided tour person, try this 4-course private dining experience at a local’s home where you can taste authentic Sicilian recipes that have been handed down over generations.

Join a local cooking class

Want to learn how to cook Sicilian food? Sign up for this amazing private cooking class with an expert home cook . You’ll learn how to make 3 authentic Italian dishes including a starter and a pasta, followed by a dessert. An immersive foodie experience doesn’t get better than this!

Enjoy a passeggiata at the historic center

You cannot miss a passeggiata when in Sicily. Passeggiata is a traditional Italian evening walk/gathering where everyone catches up with everyone else. Every evening, after work and before dinner, locals (usually nicely dressed for the occasion) head to the downtown area and catch up friends and indulge in gossip. Weekends are more vibrant and active. Everyone from the newest babies to the oldest nonne are out on the streets to show and watch.

Ragusa is particularly known for its daily passeggiata ritual. As soon as evening sets in, people come out of their homes/workplaces and start walking towards the historic center (the piazza around Duomo di San Giorgio). The atmosphere in Ibleo Garden is also very lively where people can be seen enjoying their late afternoon passeggiata. If you can, try to experience a weekend passeggiata in Ragusa – those are the best.

Enjoy splendid views of Ragusa Ibla

Because the city of Ragusa is located on 2 hills separated by a deep ravine, there are ample views to be enjoyed here.

Perhaps the most iconic as well as the most photographed view is that of Ragusa Ibla from the 340 steps that you need to climb down from when walking to Ibla from Superiore. It is common for travelers to stay in Superiore just to make this hike to Ragusa Ibla so that they can enjoy the stunning vistas.

Two other places where you can see breathtaking landscapes are at the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale and the Ibleo Garden.

Best things to do near Ragusa Sicily

Visit the majestic donnafugata castle.

Apart from the many incredible things to do in Ragusa, Sicily, there are several wonderful places to visit near Ragusa . One of my favorites is the majestic Donnafugata Castle.

When I first stepped into the Donnafugata Castle, I had no clue about its historical significance in Sicily. It was just a pit stop for me on my way to Commissioner Montalbano’s house. Of course, the castle is also an important stop on Montalbano tours . But as I walked through its amazing state rooms, checked out its beautiful gardens, and made my way up to the terrace, I realized what a beauty the Donnafugata Castle was!

Located just 10 miles from Ragusa, the Donnafugata Castle dates back to the 14th century and has a quirky history behind it. The name literally translates to “the woman who escaped” . One theory suggests that the castle was named after Bianca di Navarra, the queen who tried to escape from the clutches of a Spanish overlord.

Some of the highlights at the castle include the Music Room which is filled with trompe-l’œil paintings (something I talk about extensively in my post on Villa Oplontis near Pompeii ruins ) and the Hall of Mirrors. There are more than 100 rooms in the castle along with a charming garden where royalty used to spend their free time. The castle itself is a masterpiece, built out of white stone in a classical Neo-Gothic style that stands out from the typical Baroque architecture of Val di Noto.

Do a Commissioner Montalabano tour

Since we were visiting the Donnafugata Castle, you can guess that we were on our way to tick a Ragusa highlight – a Commissario Montalbano Tour .

My husband is a big fan of the Montalbano series. Therefore, we planned our Sicily itinerary in a way so that we could include a half-day tour of Montalbano locations. That included the Donnafugata Castle, the Commissioner’s home, and the Punta Secca beach where he was seen spending many thinking hours, and his office in Scicli. This private tour on Viator takes you to all the above filming locations of Montalbano and includes hotel pickup.

For the uninitiated, Commissario Montalbano is a famous Italian detective series shot extensively in Sicily. The series is based in the imaginary Sicilian town of Vigata where Inspector Montalbano solves countless murder mysteries. For Montalbano fans, Southern Sicily is a true pilgrimage.

Head to the Punta Secca beach

Montalbano’s house is located on the charming Punta Secca beach which is a must-have on every Ragusa travel bucket list. It is a beautiful golden sand beach with azure blue waters that is very inviting.

If you have watched Montalbano, you’ll remember that the inspector swam in the sea right in front of his house. Spiaggia di Montalbano or the stretch of Punta Secca beach by the Montalbano house is that very place. Even if you are not up for a swin (the water can be cold except for in summer), I highly recommend spending a few minutes at the beach, just soaking in all the beauty.

Head to Modica for some Aztec chocolate

Modica , another charming town among the 8 Baroque towns of the Val di Noto ensemble, is not very far from Ragusa. Located just 30 mins by car from Ragusa city center, Modica makes for an interesting day trip.

There are many wonderful things to do in Modica and a lot that you can achieve in one day. You can marvel at the town’s Baroque architecture and check out some impressive churches such as the Cathedral of San Giorgio and the Church of San Pietro.

But most importantly, you have to taste some ancient Aztec chocolate in Modica . Yes, Modica is famous for being home to Cioccolato di Modica that was introduced here by the Spanish and is still made the Aztec way. The best place to try Modica chocolate is Antica Dolceria Bonajuto . There is also a Chocolate Museum in Modica where you can catch up with the unique history of chocolate in Sicily.

Visit other Val di Noto towns

Apart from Ragusa and Modica, there are 6 other Val di Noto towns where you can enjoy Sicilian Baroque architecture. I did another pretty town called Scicli. Noto and Catania are popular tourist destinations whereas Caltagirone, Palazzolo, and Militello Val di Catania are hidden gems.

All the 8 towns were almost completely destroyed after the devastating earthquake of 1693. Then began the rebuilding of these towns in a distinctive architectural style that came to be called Sicilian Baroque.

Head to the Irminio River Nature Reserve

If you are looking for quick nature getaway from Ragusa, head to the Irminio River Nature Reserve located to the southwest of Ragusa. Walk along the palm and agave trees, check out the area’s rich biodiversity, spot migratory birds, relax, and rewind.

Interactive map of the attractions of Ragusa Sicily

Where to stay in Ragusa, Sicily?

When visiting Ragusa, you can either stay in Ragusa Ibla or in Ragusa Superiore. Ragusa Ibla is the historic center, is touristy, and has a medieval feel to it. Ragusa Superiore, on the other hand, is the newer town, has better public transport and rewards you with panoramic views of Ibla. If you wish to get the old town vibe and stay in the heart of city, then it is a good idea to stay in Ragusa Ibla. If you plan to use public transport frequently for your day trips, staying in Superiore is a good idea.

We stayed closer to Ragusa Superiore for two nights and absolutely enjoyed our stay at Locanda La Meridiana , a charming hotel housed in a traditional building, complete with Sicilian balconies and shutter windows. Their breakfast was amazing with eggs, ham, cheese, and homemade jams. →Find more about Locanda La Meridiana here .

Other great hotels in the upper town are Villa Boscarino , an old-style mansion with a beautiful garden, and Bella Giulia featuring modern rooms and friendly staff.

Ragusa Ibla has several boutique properties that would interest history and architecture enthusiasts. A couple of properties that caught my eye were the San Giorgio Palace , a boutique hotel that boasts of stunning views, and AD 1768 Boutique Hotel , a palazzo from the 18th century that features beautiful ceiling paintings and a terrace.

Practical information for visiting Ragusa, Sicily

Best time to visit ragusa.

The best time to visit Ragusa, Italy is from April to August, in short the spring and summer months. The weather is warm and dry, making it the perfect time to walk around and explore.

Winters, on the other hand, can be rainy even though not as cold as the rest of Europe. That said, winter is also low season for Ragusa. So, if you don’t mind a bit of chill and rain, you can plan your trip to Ragusa in winter.

How to get to Ragusa?

Comiso Airport is the closest airport to Ragusa. Ryanair flies to Comiso from Rome, Milan, Bergamo, and a few other big cities. From the Comiso Airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car and get to Ragusa in under 30 mins. Have a look at the Comiso Airport website here to find which cities are connected to Comiso.

If you are looking for a bigger airport to fly into, Catania Airport (services many destinations around the world) is the closest. Find all airlines that fly to Catania here . From Catania Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car and get to Ragusa in 1.5 hours. Book a private transfer from Ragusa to Catania here .

From Catania, you can also take the bus to Ragusa. Book your bus ride from Catania to Ragusa or back on OMIO here .

How to get around Ragusa?

I highly recommend exploring the historic center of Ragusa Ibla on foot so that you can pause and appreciate the abundance of Baroque architecture all around you. A walking tour like this one is a great way to see the best of Ragusa Ibla.

A word of caution: Ragusa is hilly and a walking tour here is not as easy as the one in Naples which is mostly flat. However, with a good pair of walking shoes, a bottle of water, and medium fitness levels, you should be good to go.

If you are planning for day trips to Modica, Scicli, or the ruins of Agrigento , hire a taxi or use the public transport. Regional trains run from Ragusa to Scicli and to Agrigento. Book your train tickets on OMIO website here .

Ragusa, Sicily Travel FAQ

Yes, Ragusa Sicily is absolutely worth visiting. It is one of the 8 UNESCO heritage towns included in the Val di Noto ensemble and is exemplary of a unique form of Baroque architecture that took birth here – the Sicilian Baroque.

Ragusa is known for being the birthplace of Sicilian Baroque – a unique architectural style that retains the ornate sculpting of European Baroque but incorporates several local Sicilian elements such as grotesque masks and winged cherubs. The majestic Sicilian Baroque facades of Ragusa are utterly fascinating.

Ragusa usually refers to the newer, more modern town that is located on the upper fringes of the city. In contrast, Ragusa Ibla is the lower and historic old town that can be reached by a flight of 340 stairs from the upper town. The two Ragusas are separated by a deep ravine called Valle dei Ponti.

You should plan to stay at least 2 days in Ragusa so that you can spend the first day exploring Ragusa Ibla and its historic lanes and the second day in doing some essential day trips to the beaches and other Baroque towns around.

Loved our guide for best things to do in Ragusa, Sicily? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• A Picture Perfect Tour Of Ragusa Italy
• Exploring Sicilian Baroque Architecture in Modica Sicily
• A Perfectly Unique 5 Days In Sicily Itinerary

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Begin typing your search term above and press enter to search. Press ESC to cancel.