Ragusa (province) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do and see, where to stay, eat, and how to get around in Ragusa (province), Sicily in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ragusa (Province)

Located in the southeastern part of Sicily, Italy, Ragusa (province) is a stunning destination that attracts visitors with its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and historical landmarks. Known for its Baroque architecture, the region has impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and numerous attractions that appeal to travelers of all kinds.

With its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, Ragusa (province) offers visitors ample opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and swimming. The province has a lot to offer in terms of food, shopping, and cultural experiences, making it the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy an authentic Sicilian vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Ragusa (Province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista and Piazza Duomo
  2. Church of Santa Maria dell’Itria
  3. Iblean Archaeological Museum
  4. Donnafugata Castle
  5. Scicli Historic Center

Natural Attractions of Ragusa (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Vendicari Nature Reserve
  2. Cava d’Ispica Nature Reserve
  3. Marina di Ragusa Beach
  4. Cala Mosche Beach
  5. Monte Lauro Nature Reserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ragusa (Province)

  1. Via degli Aranci – A beautiful hiking trail that starts from San Paolo and ends in the heart of Ragusa, passing through some of the most picturesque and scenic landscapes of the province.
  2. Modica to Sampieri – A cycling route that starts from Modica and ends in Sampieri, a small seaside village known for its delightful beaches and clear waters.
  3. Buscemi and Giarratana – An easy hiking route that starts from Buscemi and ends in Giarratana, two picturesque towns with stunning views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Ragusa (Province): Activities and Tours

  1. Take a walking tour of Ragusa Ibla, exploring its stunning Baroque architecture, historic monuments, and cultural landmarks.
  2. Join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli.
  3. Attend a local festival or event, such as the Infiorata of Noto or the Feast of San Giorgio in Ragusa Ibla.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ragusa (Province)

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Donnafugata Castle and Scicli.
Day 2 Explore Ragusa Ibla and the Iblean Archaeological Museum.
Day 3 Visit the city of Modica and taste its famous chocolate.
Day 4 Hike through Cava d’Ispica Nature Reserve and take a dip in the nearby beach.
Day 5 Join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes in Ragusa.
Day 6 Take a guided tour of Vendicari Nature Reserve and discover its wildlife and flora.
Day 7 Visit the charming town of Santa Croce Camerina and enjoy the beach at Marina di Ragusa.

Food and Drink Scene of Ragusa (Province)

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pasta alla Norma – A classic Sicilian dish made with pasta, tomato sauce, fried eggplant, salted ricotta cheese, and basil.
  2. Arancini – Deep-fried stuffed rice balls usually filled with ragu, peas, and mozzarella cheese.
  3. Cannoli – The Sicilian dessert made with fried pastry dough filled with ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips.

Local Beverages

  1. Nero d’Avola – A red wine with a bold and intense flavor, grown on the hills surrounding the town of Noto.
  2. Limoncello – A lemon-based liqueur made from the lemons grown on the hills of Syracuse.
  3. Almond Milk – A refreshing drink made with almonds, sugar, and water.

Where to Stay in Ragusa (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Antico Convento dei Cappuccini – A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Ragusa, housed in a former Capuchin monastery.
  2. Hotel Miramare – A comfortable and affordable hotel situated on the seafront of Ragusa.
  3. Villa Carlotta Resort – A picturesque resort located in a peaceful countryside area, close to Scicli.

What to Buy in Ragusa (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Ceramics – Ragusa (province) is famous for its traditional and handmade ceramics, decorated with intricate patterns and bright colors.
  2. Almond Paste – An indulgent Sicilian delicacy made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites.
  3. Olive Oil – The province produces some of the best olive oil in Sicily, with a strong and fruity flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Ragusa (Province)

Ragusa (province) has a rich and unique culture, shaped by its Byzantine, Arab, and Norman heritage. Its people are friendly and hospitable, and they take great pride in their local traditions, which include:

  1. The Feast of San Giovanni – A religious festival celebrated every year in Ragusa Ibla, featuring colorful processions, parades, and fireworks.
  2. The Infiorata of Noto – A floral festival held in Noto, where locals create colorful and stunning artworks made from thousands of flower petals.
  3. The Palio of S. Cono – A horse race held every year in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele in Scicli.

Best Time to Visit Ragusa (Province)

The best time to visit Ragusa (province) is during the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. July and August are the peak tourist season, with hot temperatures and crowded beaches.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ragusa (Province)

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine, including its famous chocolate, cannoli, and arancini.
  2. Visit the natural reserves and hike through the beautiful countryside, taking in the stunning views.
  3. Respect the local customs and traditions, being polite to locals, and dressing appropriately when visiting churches and historical sites.

Don’t:

  1. Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting churches, monasteries, and other religious sites.
  2. Leave litter on the beaches or in the countryside.
  3. Drive on the narrow streets of Ragusa Ibla, instead park your car outside and walk around the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ragusa (Province)

Ragusa (province) is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, it is always recommended to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding unlit and isolated areas at night.

Health in Ragusa (Province)

There are no major health risks in Ragusa (province). However, it is recommended to bring sunscreen and insect repellent when visiting the nature reserves and beaches.

Getting to Ragusa (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ragusa (Province)

Comiso Airport is the nearest airport to Ragusa (province), located about 22 km away. Catania Airport is another option, located about two hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Ragusa (Province)

The main bus station in Ragusa (province) is located in the city of Ragusa, next to the train station, with frequent connections to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Taxis are readily available in the province, but they can be expensive. Renting a car is also an option for those who want to explore the province at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Ragusa (Province)

The best way to get around Ragusa (province) is by car, as there are many places of interest that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Alternatively, there are frequent bus connections between the towns and cities, or you can hire a taxi or bike if you want to explore a particular area more closely.

Where to Go Next from Ragusa (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Syracuse – A historic city located on the east coast of Sicily, home to the Greek Theatre and the beautiful island of Ortigia.
  2. Agrigento – A UNESCO World Heritage site of the Valley of the Temples, known for its well-preserved Greek temples and ancient ruins.
  3. Taormina – A picturesque town located on the east coast of Sicily, famous for its stunning views, beautiful beaches, and ancient Greek Theatre.

Conclusion

Ragusa (province) is an amazing destination that combines history, culture, and outdoor activities, providing visitors with a truly authentic Sicilian experience. With so many attractions and places to visit, it’s easy to see why it’s becoming an increasingly popular destination among travelers. We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Ragusa (province), and we hope you enjoy your stay!

Province of Ragusa Province of Ragusa


    Chiaramonte Gulfi
    Pozzallo
    Ragusa
    Scicli