Moving a little bit forward east here we are: the breathtaking Noto Valley, with its 7 twins towns. Ragusa first of all! After Ragusa as levelled by an earthquake in 1693, wealthier members of the population decided to build their new town higher up a cliff, while the rest of the inhabitants rebuilts on the originl site, at the bottom of a gorge. The two district towns remained separeted until 1926, when the higher and lower sections became one, and now a jumble of homes and churches cling to the walls of the steep ravine that divides them. The upper Town is noted for the extravagant Sicilian Braoque architecture of the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista and the terrific views of the surronding contryside. The Baroque splendor of Ragusa Ibla (the lower Tow), one of the Sicily's best-preserved old towns, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with numerous structures ornately decorated in the Baroque style with elaborate balconies. A highlight is the 18th-century Duomo di San Giorgio, set in the center of Ibla, with a neo-classical dome added in 1820. To exclusively accomodate you, Y Entertainment recommend the Luxury Hotel De Stefano Palace, completely restored from a former aristocratic family: the De Stefano's!
Still driving east, you’ll finally reach the Sicilian East Coast: the most touristy, rich and developed part of the island. Your tour of this section will start from Siracuse, known as the birthplace of the famed mathematician Archimedes and as one of the most powerful ports of the ancient Mediterranean world. At 2,700 years old, Syracuse boasts a rich and storied history—evident today in the city’s Greek, Roman, and Baroque architecture, which has helped earn Syracuse UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
Enchant yourself strolling through the narrow alleys of Ortigia: its historical city center! To stop a couple of days, try the 5 stars luxury Hotel Des Entrangers. You will not be disappointed.
Moving north, following the eastern coastal line, you’ll easily find Catania: the island’s second largest town and a vibrant city perched on the edge of the Ionian Sea. Founded in the 8th century BC, Catania was once among Italy’s most important cultural centers, particularly in the Renaissance period. Sicily’s first university opened here in 1434, and Catania’s tradition of education and industry continues to thrive today. Lose yourself in the local fish market, where an array of sights and sounds (and seafood!) delight. Also, along Via Crociferi, a scenic passage laced with churches, monasteries, and private homes. Please, while there, don’t miss the seventh floor garden rooftop cocktail bar of the luxury UNA Hotel!
The last two pearls of our imaginary, top destinations tour.
The small, picturesque town of Taormina is one of the most highly regarded ruins in Sicily. Spend your time touring the ancient site with its impressive Greek amphitheatre, as well as the charming village, and admire sweeping views of Mt. Etna and the Ionian Sea. Just after that, if you’re tired we suggest happy hour on one of the 35 5 stars luxury hotels concentrated just on a 10 km perimeters area. Y Entertainment suggests Timeo Hotel! Ah la dolce vita!
You like wild life? What about hiking in the tallest active volcano in Europe? Mount Etna, la mamma (the mother) as it is known there, is waiting for you to discover it!
Sicilians used to say, “In Sicily you cry twice, once when you come and once when you leave.” We think that’s true.
Enjoy
