Ragusa
Latest update: 4 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Ragusa, situated in southeastern Sicily, is the capital of the province of Ragusa. With a population of approximately 73,000 residents, it is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ragusa is famous for its picturesque old town which is divided into two areas: Ragusa Ibla and Ragusa Superiore, each offering charming streets, historic churches, and panoramic views. The city's architectural beauty and cultural heritage attract visitors from around the world. |
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Ragusa: a tale of two cities
Ragusa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Sicily, enchants visitors with its timeless charm and stunning architecture. Explore the picturesque Old Town, Ragusa Ibla, where winding cobblestone streets lead to Baroque masterpieces like the Cathedral of San Giorgio.
Admire the panoramic views from the Belvedere Terrace, offering vistas of the city's elegant skyline against the backdrop of the Hyblaean Mountains. Nearby, Modica beckons with its enchanting hillside setting and delectable chocolate. Savour authentic Sicilian cuisine at local trattorias, showcasing the island's culinary heritage. Ragusa promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Admire the panoramic views from the Belvedere Terrace, offering vistas of the city's elegant skyline against the backdrop of the Hyblaean Mountains. Nearby, Modica beckons with its enchanting hillside setting and delectable chocolate. Savour authentic Sicilian cuisine at local trattorias, showcasing the island's culinary heritage. Ragusa promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Comune di Ragusa
Province: Ragusa
Region: Sicily Population: 73,476 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 443 km² Elevation: 520 metres Top sights: Ragusa Ibla, Chiesa di San Giorgio, Giardino Ibleo Close by: Modica, Comiso, Vittoria, Marina di Modica, Pozzallo Recommended stay: San Giorgio Palace Hotel Ragusa Ibla |
Public transport: central train station, local buses
By train: Modica - 21 minutes, Scicli - 33 minutes |
By car: Syracuse - 1 hour 28' (87 km), Catania - 1 hour 32' (104 km)
Fly to: Catania Airport - 1 hour 24 minutes by car (100 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto (South-Eastern Sicily)
Year: 2002
Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto (South-Eastern Sicily)
Year: 2002
What are the most popular tours and activities in Ragusa?
- Ragusa Ibla Walking Tour: Explore the charming historic center of Ragusa Ibla on a guided walking tour. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Giorgio, the Baroque palaces along Via Nicolaci, and the picturesque Piazza Duomo while learning about the city's history and architecture.
- Ragusa Food and Wine Tour: Embark on a culinary journey through Ragusa, sampling traditional Sicilian dishes and wines at local restaurants, trattorias, and markets. Taste specialties such as arancini, cannoli, Modica chocolate, and Ragusano cheese while discovering the region's gastronomic heritage.
- Val di Noto Day Trip: Explore the UNESCO-listed towns of the Val di Noto, including Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli, on a guided day trip from Ragusa. Admire the Baroque architecture, historic churches, and picturesque streets of these charming towns, which are renowned for their beauty and cultural significance.
- Cooking Classes: Take a hands-on cooking class in Ragusa and learn to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes under the guidance of a local chef. Visit local markets to select fresh ingredients, then return to the kitchen to create classic recipes such as pasta alla Norma, caponata, and cassata.
- Ragusa Countryside Tours: Explore the scenic countryside surrounding Ragusa on a guided tour. Visit olive groves, vineyards, and family-owned farms, and learn about traditional agricultural practices such as olive oil and wine production. Enjoy tastings of local products and panoramic views of the Sicilian landscape.
- Ragusa Beach Excursions: Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches near Ragusa, such as Marina di Ragusa and Punta Secca. Join a beach excursion or rent a sunbed and umbrella for the day, and soak up the sun while swimming in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Archaeological and Natural Parks Visits: Discover the archaeological and natural parks in the Ragusa area, such as the Cava d'Ispica and the Irminio River Nature Reserve. Explore ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut tombs, and scenic hiking trails while enjoying the beauty of Sicily's countryside.
What are the main sights in Ragusa?
- Ragusa Ibla: The old town of Ragusa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts narrow streets, Baroque architecture, and picturesque squares such as Piazza Duomo and Piazza Pola.
- Ragusa Superiore: The modern part of Ragusa features elegant streets, palaces, and the majestic Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista.
- Donnafugata Castle: A stunning castle located just outside Ragusa, renowned for its beautiful gardens and sumptuous interiors.
- Modica: A nearby town famous for its Baroque architecture, particularly its impressive churches and the traditional chocolate-making industry.
- Scicli: Another Baroque gem near Ragusa, known for its ornate architecture, including the Church of San Matteo and Palazzo Beneventano.
- Cava d'Ispica: An archaeological site with a network of caves, rock-cut dwellings, and ancient tombs, offering insight into Sicily's ancient history.
- Syracuse: While further away, a day trip to Syracuse allows visitors to explore its rich history, including the ancient Greek theater, the archaeological park of Neapolis, and the historic island of Ortygia.
Where should I eat in Ragusa?
- Locanda Don Serafino: Located in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, Locanda Don Serafino is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative Sicilian cuisine. Helmed by Chef Vincenzo Candiano, the menu features creative dishes that showcase local ingredients and flavors in a refined setting.
- Duomo Ristorante: Situated in a historic palazzo overlooking the Duomo di San Giorgio, Duomo Ristorante offers an elegant dining experience with breathtaking views. Chef Ciccio Sultano creates dishes that celebrate Sicilian traditions with a modern twist, highlighting the island's culinary heritage.
- Trattoria da Luigi: This charming trattoria, located in Ragusa Ibla, is beloved for its homestyle Sicilian cooking and welcoming atmosphere. Serving classic dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, Trattoria da Luigi offers a taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Ristorante Il Barocco: Nestled in the heart of Ragusa Ibla's Baroque quarter, Ristorante Il Barocco is known for its authentic Sicilian dishes and warm hospitality. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant offers a menu featuring regional specialties like pasta alla norma, caponata, and fresh seafood.
- Antica Osteria Zammara: This family-run osteria, located in the historic center of Ragusa Superiore, offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious Sicilian fare. Serving homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties, Antica Osteria Zammara prides itself on providing guests with an authentic taste of Sicily.
Ragusa Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Ragusa?
- San Giorgio Palace Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, offering elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a gourmet restaurant serving Sicilian cuisine.
- Hotel Villa del Lauro: A charming boutique hotel situated in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a central location close to Ragusa's main attractions.
- Antica Badia Relais Hotel: A stylish hotel set in a restored 18th-century monastery, offering elegant rooms, a spa with a Turkish bath and Jacuzzi, and a gourmet restaurant serving Sicilian specialties.
- La Moresca Maison de Charme: A boutique hotel located in Ragusa Ibla, offering stylish rooms, a garden courtyard, and a central location within walking distance of the city's historic sites.
- Eremo della Giubiliana: A luxury hotel set in a historic estate surrounded by olive groves, offering elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and a gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
What's the closest airport to Ragusa?
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA): Located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Ragusa, Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is the closest international airport to Ragusa. It offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, serving as a major gateway to Sicily.
- Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO): Situated approximately 250 kilometers northwest of Ragusa near Palermo, Falcone-Borsellino Airport is another international airport serving Sicily. While it is further away from Ragusa compared to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, it still provides access to domestic and international flights.
What's the main train station in Ragusa?
Ragusa railway station (Stazione di Ragusa)
It is located in the city of Ragusa and serves as a transportation hub for both regional and long-distance train services. Ragusa station provides connections to various destinations across Sicily, including Catania, Syracuse, and Palermo.
It is located in the city of Ragusa and serves as a transportation hub for both regional and long-distance train services. Ragusa station provides connections to various destinations across Sicily, including Catania, Syracuse, and Palermo.
What private transfer options are there for Ragusa?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Ragusa takes around one hour 30 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Ragusa?