Medieval Ibla perched on the rock, Modica's Baroque chocolate, and the landscapes made famous by Inspector Montalbano.
Ragusa is split into two parts: the modern town on the plateau, and Ragusa Ibla, the historic core perched on a rocky spur, connected to the upper town by hundreds of steps or a scenic road. Ibla, rebuilt after 1693 while keeping its medieval layout of narrow alleys, is today one of Sicily's most striking Baroque centres.
The Cathedral of San Giorgio, its dome visible from every corner of the lower town, dominates Piazza Duomo, one of the most photographed public squares in Val di Noto. From here, alleyways and panoramic public gardens branch off, offering views that have made Ragusa a natural filming location for numerous TV and film productions, including the Inspector Montalbano series.
A few kilometres away, Modica adds a unique piece to the picture: chocolate worked cold according to an ancient Aztec-derived recipe, passed down through Spanish rule, with Protected Geographical Indication status. The historic shops in the centre offer tastings ranging from classic varieties to versions spiced with cinnamon, chilli, or citrus.
The countryside between Ragusa and Modica is also a land of farmhouses, olive groves, and the coast of Marina di Ragusa and Sampieri, with beaches less crowded than the Ionian coast — a combination of art, taste and sea that's worth a full day or more.
Ragusa & Modica is 1h 30min from the airport. You can arrange your transfer with a private transfer, car rental, or the scheduled connections listed in our guide to getting around Eastern Sicily.
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