Noto, Italy, is a jewel of the Sicilian Baroque with its stunning architecture, vibrant streets, and nearby archaeological sites. While wandering through its elegant streets is a highlight in itself, joining a guided tour can bring even more depth to your visit. Whether you want a full-day adventure exploring Syracuse and Noto, a hands-on botanical workshop, or a culinary experience in the countryside, there are options suited for every type of traveler. One of our top picks is the Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto: full-day tour with pick-up from Catania; it’s a lively, passionate way to see Sicily’s highlights in just one day.
For those interested in combining nature and local flavors, the Botanical workshop & Nepeta’s bitters tasting in Val di Noto offers a creative and aromatic experience. If you prefer to stay closer to Catania but want a rundown of Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto with audio guide narration, the From Catania: Siracusa, Ortigia, Noto audio-guided tour is a perfect choice. For lovers of local cuisine and wine, the Lunch or dinner, wine tasting in the countryside of Noto takes you to a charming organic farm. And if you’re looking for a full-day escape from Pozzallo, the Pozzallo: Siracusa Noto and Marzamemi Day Trip brings together history, seaside relaxation, and flavorful food at a relaxed pace.
Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail, helping you choose the best experience for your trip.
1. Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto: full-day tour with pick-up from Catania
This eight-hour tour is a lively, well-rounded introduction to some of Sicily’s most iconic sights. Starting from Catania, the tour hits Plemmirio Nature Preserve for a quick photo stop, then continues to explore Ortigia Island. Here, you’ll enjoy a brunch and visit the local food market, tasting regional specialties. The guided walk through Ortigia includes scenic views, shopping, and a deeper dive into its history, with a photo stop at the island’s most picturesque spots. Later, the tour moves onto Noto, famed for its Baroque architecture. This part includes a guided walk, some free time, and a sunset view — perfect for photos. The tour wraps up back in Catania.
What makes this trip stand out is its small group setting and the emphasis on authentic Sicilian experiences, like discovering a secret beach and exploring baroque towns with a knowledgeable guide. Reviews highlight the personalized attention and the blend of history, nature, and local cuisine. The itinerary is flexible enough to include surprises, like the secluded beach stop, making it ideal for travelers who want a lively, comprehensive day without sacrificing intimacy.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals to those who want a lively, personalized experience that combines archaeology, scenery, and authentic local flavors—all in one action-packed day.
2. Botanical workshop & Nepeta’s bitters tasting in Val di Noto
This three-hour hands-on experience invites you to create your own botanical print using monotype techniques. It’s perfect for art lovers or anyone curious about the herbal traditions of Sicily. The workshop takes place among the vines and herbs of Casa Nepeta, where you’ll also learn about the artisanal process behind Nepeta’s signature herbal bitters. During the session, you’ll taste three different Nepeta liqueurs while surrounded by the fragrant scents of the Iblean Mountains.
What makes this experience unique is the interactive element—you leave with a personalized botanical print—and the opportunity to explore Sicilian herbal craftsmanship firsthand. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a creative break or a souvenir that’s both beautiful and tasteful. The tasting is informative and relaxed, perfect for those who enjoy discovering local flavors through small-group, artisanal settings.
Bottom Line: If you want a crafty, sensory experience that combines art and herbal tradition, this workshop offers a memorable, hands-on day.
3. From Catania: Siracusa, Ortigia, Noto audio-guided tour
For around $113, this nine-hour tour delivers a self-paced, audio-guided exploration of Sicily’s highlights, starting from Catania. The trip includes visits to Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, with its impressive Greek and Roman ruins, and the fortified island of Ortigia, where myths and legends come alive amid narrow streets and historic sites. The journey continues to Noto, where the Sicilian Baroque architecture makes the town a living museum. The air-conditioned van keeps the comfort high, and the multilingual commentary ensures you understand the significance of each site.
This tour is excellent if you want flexibility — you can listen at your own pace and revisit parts of the audio guide later. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer independent touring but want reliable context and historical background. The reviews praise its value for money and the quality of the commentary, making complex history accessible.
Bottom Line: A great choice for independent-minded travelers who appreciate a structured, informative experience without the constraints of a group tour.
4. Lunch or dinner, wine tasting in the countryside of Noto
This two-and-a-half-hour experience places you at a small, organic farm where you’ll enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine paired with local wines. Daniela and Antonio, the hosts, take pride in sharing their passion for sustainable agriculture and farm-to-table dishes. You’ll tour the vineyard and olive grove, learning about traditional farming methods, then sit down to a home-cooked meal made from ingredients sourced directly from their land.
Guests rave about how personal and authentic this experience feels, with one reviewer calling it “truly magical.” The delicious olive oil and wines complement the meal, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect way to learn about Sicilian culinary culture. It’s best suited for foodies or those seeking a quiet, intimate setting away from tourist crowds.
Bottom Line: For a genuinely local meal paired with wine and engaging stories, this farm-to-table experience is hard to beat.
5. Pozzallo: Siracusa, Noto, and Marzamemi Day Trip
This eight-hour day trip from Pozzallo offers a relaxed pace for exploring Sicily’s highlights. You’ll visit Siracusa, with its Greek theater and archaeological sites, then stroll through Noto’s elegant streets. The trip also includes time in Marzamemi, a charming seaside village known for its lively waterfront and seafood. Traveling in a modern, comfortable vehicle ensures a smooth journey, and your driver provides insights along the way.
Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning logistics, this trip is flexible enough to allow you to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or anyone who wants a mix of history, seaside relaxation, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: This day trip is perfect if you want to see a few cultural highlights and enjoy some leisure time at Sicily’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Noto
When deciding which experience to book, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you’re a history buff or eager to see Sicily’s Baroque towns in one go, the full-day tours and audio-guided trip are excellent options. For a more personal, artisanal experience, the botanical workshop offers a creative taste of Sicilian herbal traditions. Food lovers will appreciate the farm-to-table meal in the countryside, and those with limited time or seeking a relaxed seaside day will find the Pozzallo day trip ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times. Think about your fitness level and interests—if you love active walking, the guided tours offer plenty; if you prefer more relaxed experiences, the wine tasting and farm visits suit you perfectly.
In summary, Noto offers an impressive variety of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes. For a comprehensive day with stops in Syracuse, Ortigia, and Noto, the full-day trip from Catania is a fantastic choice. For a creative, aromatic escape, the botanical workshop stands out. And if you want to combine history, seaside relaxation, and local cuisine, the day trip from Pozzallo delivers it all.
No matter what you choose, these tours promise a richer, more immersive experience of Sicily’s cultural richness and flavor. Book early, pack comfortable shoes, and prepare for a memorable journey through one of Italy’s most stunning regions.