Ragusa (province) Voyage Tips and guide

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Ragusa is a former province in Sicily, Italy, that shares the southeastern tip of the triangular island with Syracuse. Its Baroque towns are a World Heritage Site, and it offers coastal resorts, too.

36°54′16″N 14°44′15″E

Map of Ragusa (province)

• 36.919314.71911 Ragusa (Rausa) — impressive baroque architecture ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• 37.03111114.7027782 Chiaramonte Gulfi (Ciaramunti)
• 36.78472214.5502783 Marina di Ragusa (Mazzarelli) — fine golden sand with blue waters
• 36.8514.7666674 Modica (Muòrica) — Baroque town (World Heritage)
• 36.73333314.855 Pozzallo (Puzzaddu) — quiet south coast port
• 36.78805614.6977786 Scicli — another of the eight Sicilian World Heritage Baroque towns

• 37.11611114.8202781 Hyblaean Mountains (Monti Iblei) — the highest peak is Monte Lauro (986 m), Parco degli Iblei
• 36.87166714.44752 Kamarina (Camarina) — Greek city dating to 598 BC, built by the Corintian-Syracusans, 25 km from Ragusa

Ragusa stretches from the Sicilian south coast, with its often flat beaches, into the hilly hinterland. The Iblean plateau lies at an altitude of 400–600 m above sea level, with the highest elevations, at around 1,000 m above sea level, in the north, where the province borders the province of Catania.

In the southwest of Ragusa (toward Gel), intensive agriculture is practiced in the hinterland, often extending almost to the coast. Vegetables are grown in winter and spring under kilometres of simple greenhouses covered with plastic sheeting; the tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants, as well as table grapes and flowers, are shipped by truck to Central Europe. These cultivation areas, as well as remnants of plastic sheeting from abandoned farms and debris washed into the sea during autumn storms, tarnish the image of the region from the tourist perspective, especially in the southwest.

The Province of Ragusa was replaced in 2015 by the Free Municipal Consortium of Ragusa.

The region has an arid Mediterranean climate, with unbearable heat in midsummer (swimming can be enjoyed to the fullest, but city sightseeing and shopping should be postponed to the morning or early evening; it's not for nothing that the siesta is "sacred" in Sicily). Temperatures are often pleasant in spring and autumn, and freezing temperatures rarely reach the winter (Sicilian houses are generally not very well heated, so you can freeze in winter).

From the Messina–Syracuse motorway, which ends at Rosolini and is planned to be extended to Gela, Ragusa can be reached via the Sud Occidentale Sicula, which heads away from the coast via Modica-Ragusa-Comiso-Vittoria and then, from Gela, heads west along the south coast via Agrigento. Partly built as a dual carriageway, it connects Ragusa with the coastal town of Marina di Ragusa.

Connections to the north include the SS194 via Francofonte-Lentini to Catania, and further west, the SS514, which heads north. To the west, the SS514 branches off to Caltagirone, and to the east, it also joins the Sicilian coast.

Railway connections exist only via Syracuse; the Siracusa-Gela-Canicatti line runs via Ragusa.

The Aeroporto Civile di Comiso is near Comiso, approximately 15 km from Ragusa. It has some low-cost carrier flights.

The baroque towns can be reached by the Siracusa–Gela railway line; for all other connections, you have to rely on regional buses; the easiest way to get around is by car or scooter.

While better known for Baroque splendour, Ragusa province also contains important archaeological traces from the Bronze Age to classical antiquity.

• Cava d'Ispica (Modica/Ispica area) — A long gorge dotted with prehistoric cave dwellings, early Christian catacombs, necropolises, and rock-cut churches.
• Kamarina (Scoglitti area) — Ruins of a Greek city founded in the 6th century BCE, with defensive walls, public buildings, and the nearby archaeological museum.
• Akrillai (near Giarratana) — Remains of a Greek and later Roman settlement, including paved roads, cisterns, and scattered structural foundations.
• Monte Casasia (Monterosso Almo) — An Iron Age fortified site with defensive walls and hut foundations overlooking the valley below.

Ragusa province is renowned for its exceptional concentration of Sicilian Baroque architecture, the result of rebuilding after the devastating 1693 earthquake. The towns of Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto". Built inland to avoid pirate attacks and malaria, these towns offer some of the most theatrical and harmonious townscapes in southern Italy.

• Ragusa Ibla — The historic lower town is a masterpiece of Baroque town planning, with winding streets, grand palazzi, and the spectacular Duomo di San Giorgio.
• Modica — Known for its dramatic topography and elegant churches such as San Giorgio and San Pietro, rising in tiers up the hillside.
• Scicli — Another UNESCO-listed town with flamboyant palaces, churches, and urban scenes frequently used in the Inspector Montalbano series.
• Ispica — Features elegant civic buildings and the 18th-century Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore with its ornate portico.
• Comiso — Home to Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, thermal springs, and the 16th-century Castello Naselli d’Aragona.
• Vittoria — A Baroque city with a large central piazza and 18th-century architecture influenced by Spanish planning ideals.
• Castello di Donnafugata (near Ragusa) — A 19th-century neo-Gothic country palace with formal gardens, legends, and historic furnishings.

Borghi are historic small towns and villages — often medieval or Baroque, always full of character. Several in Ragusa are celebrated for their unique charm and cultural vibrancy.

• Ragusa Ibla — Atmospheric and scenic, this district of Ragusa is considered a "borgo" in its own right due to its distinct layout and historical continuity.
• Monterosso Almo — A quiet highland village with stone architecture and religious festivals; part of "I Borghi più belli d’Italia".
• Chiaramonte Gulfi — Known as the "Balcony of Sicily" for its sweeping views, this hill town has museums, olive groves, and charming piazzas.
• Giarratana — A small inland town with archaeological remains and a notable culinary tradition (particularly onions).

• Museo Archeologico Ibleo (Ragusa) — Features artefacts from prehistoric, Greek, and Roman periods, mainly excavated locally.
• Museo Civico di Modica (Modica) — Displays include archaeological finds, religious art, and local history collections.
• Museo del Costume (Scicli) — Dedicated to traditional clothing and fashion, with reconstructions and original pieces.
• Museo Civico di Chiaramonte Gulfi (Chiaramonte Gulfi) — A multi-museum complex covering olive oil, painting, weapons, and rural life.

Though Ragusa province is best known for its Baroque architecture and scenic landscapes, its towns also feature charming green retreats that offer shade, views, and welcome tranquillity in urban settings.

• Giardino Ibleo (Ragusa Ibla) — A formal 19th-century garden perched on the edge of a ridge, with palm-lined avenues, fountains, and panoramic overlooks of the Irminio Valley. It includes three historic churches and is one of the most scenic greenspaces in southern Sicily.
• Villa Comunale (Modica) — A well-maintained town park with mature trees, flower beds, and paths popular with families and local walkers. The garden sits near the town’s central district, offering a quiet escape from Modica’s steep Baroque streets.
• Giardino Pubblico (Comiso) — The main green space in Comiso, filled with palms, pines, and decorative plantings. Includes a small amphitheatre, fountains, and seasonal events.
• Villa Comunale (Scicli) — A compact but pleasant garden space with benches and shaded walkways, located near the historic centre. A nice pause point while exploring the town’s Baroque treasures.

During the warmer months, the coastal towns are bustling with bathing activity, and hiking and cycling are best planned for spring or autumn.

Ragusa province offers tranquil and scenic hikes through limestone gorges (cave), river valleys, and coastal nature reserves. Hikes here often combine nature, archaeology, and traditional rural landscapes.

• Cava d’Ispica – A long, narrow limestone gorge stretching over 13 km between Modica and Ispica. Trails run alongside rock-cut tombs, hermitages, and ancient dwellings carved into the cliffs. Multiple access points allow for shorter loops or longer one-way hikes. This is one of the most atmospheric walks in southeast Sicily.
• Riserva Naturale Orientata Pino d’Aleppo – This inland reserve protects rare stands of Aleppo pine along the Irminio River. Gentle trails lead through scrub, woodlands, and rural fields, good for spring wildflowers and birdwatching. Access is typically via Comiso or Vittoria.
• Riserva Naturale Foce del Fiume Irminio – A short but peaceful riverside trail near Marina di Ragusa. It follows the final stretch of the Irminio River where it meets the sea, passing through reed beds and dunes. Ideal for easy coastal walks, especially at sunset.
• Coastal trails near Punta Secca and Sampieri – Informal paths along the low limestone coast offer sea views, old tuna factories (tonnare), and access to quiet coves. Best in spring and autumn when temperatures are pleasant.
• Rural walking near Chiaramonte Gulfi – The hilltop town of Chiaramonte Gulfi is surrounded by olive groves, dry-stone walls, and panoramic ridges. There are several unmarked walking routes in the area, popular with local hikers and cycling groups.

Most trails in Ragusa are low-altitude and relatively easy, but shade can be limited and paths may be unmarked. Offline maps and sturdy footwear are recommended.

The coast near Marina di Ragusa and Donnalucata is used for small-scale fishing, with some informal boat or shore-based options. Most visitors enjoy the seafood rather than the fishing itself.

Ragusa province is ideal for scenic countryside and coastal cycling. With low-traffic roads, rolling hills, and charming baroque towns, it’s well-suited for touring cyclists, gravel riders, and those exploring at a slower pace.

• Iblean countryside loops – Roads around Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli wind through olive groves, dry-stone walls, and terraced fields. Routes between these towns are scenic and manageable, with occasional hills and panoramic views. Gravel riders will find unpaved farm tracks and heritage paths.
• Coastal routes: Marina di Ragusa to Donnalucata – This flat coastal stretch is ideal for casual cyclists, with seaside views, beach access, and local cafés. The route continues east toward Punta Secca and west toward Sampieri, passing through quiet fishing villages.
• Val di Noto connections – Cyclists based in Ragusa can easily connect to longer rides through the southeastern interior, including loops toward Ispica and the upper reaches of the Cava d’Ispica gorge. Elevation gains are gentle, and traffic is light.
• Cava d’Ispica area – For gravel or hybrid bikes, paths along the upper rim of this limestone gorge offer unique landscapes and a mix of archaeology and nature. Surfaces vary, so preparation is key.
• Chiaramonte Gulfi to Giarratana – A hilly inland route with switchbacks and wide views over forests and valleys. This is one of the more challenging options in the province, best tackled in spring or autumn.

Bike rental is available in Marina di Ragusa, Scicli, and occasionally in Ragusa Ibla. E-bikes are increasingly popular for handling the province’s rolling hills.

Ragusa’s southern coastline offers long sandy beaches, calm waters, and a relaxed pace. The area is less crowded than other parts of Sicily and is ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a quieter seaside escape with easy access to nearby baroque towns.

• Marina di Ragusa – The province’s main resort town, with a lively promenade, golden sandy beach, and full amenities including beach clubs, restaurants, and rentals. Very popular in summer but spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded.
• Donnalucata – A charming fishing village with a long, family-friendly beach. Known for its soft sand and calm waves, it’s a great spot for relaxing swims and evening walks. Good local food options nearby.
• Punta Secca – A small seaside town made famous as the fictional home of Inspector Montalbano. The beach is sandy and peaceful, with a lighthouse and scenic views. Ideal for fans of the TV series or a quiet afternoon by the sea.
• Sampieri – Backed by dunes and old stone kilns, this long and less-developed beach feels wilder and more remote. Good for long walks and low-key beach days. There’s a small beach bar, but few other facilities.
• Cava d’Aliga & Marina di Modica – Smaller beach towns with sandy coves and clear water. They offer a mix of public beach and serviced lido options and are popular with locals during the summer.
• Pozzallo – A larger seaside town with Blue Flag beaches and a ferry port to Malta. The beaches are sandy, accessible, and well-served, though more urban in feel.

Ragusa’s beaches are mostly flat and safe for swimming, with few rocky areas. They’re best visited in late spring or early autumn for quieter stays and ideal conditions.

Ragusa province offers a variety of active experiences, combining nature, culture, and outdoor thrill:

• Horse riding (Santa Maria del Focallo) – Ride along the beach or through coastal dunes near Santa Maria del Focallo. Suitable for beginners and families, with guided tours lasting 1–2 hours. Ideal for combining seaside scenery with horseback adventure.
• Canyoning / Body‑rafting (Irminio River) – Some providers offer guided canyoning-style adventures along the Irminio River and in the Rifriscolaro gorge, including wading, sliding through pools, and navigating simple rapids.
• Horseback, mountain bike & farm tours (Baglio Occhipinti) – Near Vittoria, this agriturismo offers guided horseback rides or mountain bike loops through olive groves and rolling Iblei hills, paired with local food and wine tasting.
• Quad & buggy off-road experiences – Local adventure operators around Ragusa Ibla provide guided quad/buggy tours through scenic countryside and upland trails — family-friendly and suitable for beginners.

Adventure activities here run mainly from spring through autumn. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for groups. Most providers supply gear and guidance, but be sure to ask about fitness requirements and what to bring.

Ragusa province is ideal for slow, restorative wellness. With its tranquil countryside, Baroque townscapes, and a stretch of southern coast, it's a natural setting for relaxation, light exercise, and spa experiences.

• Seaside resorts & spas – Along the coast near Marina di Ragusa and Donnalucata, several upscale hotels and beach resorts offer spa facilities including hydrotherapy, sea-view pools, saunas, and massage services.
• Yoga and holistic retreats – Rural estates near Scicli, Modica, and Ragusa Ibla occasionally host yoga retreats and wellness weekends, blending mindfulness with local food, nature walks, and relaxation in historic surroundings.
• Cycling & walking paths – Light cycling routes and walking trails weave through the Hyblaean countryside, ideal for scenic exercise among olive trees and dry-stone walls. Some trails link to archaeological sites and nature reserves.
• Thermal wellness (Bagni di Soleto area) – While not a major thermal hub, inland areas near Chiaramonte Gulfi and Giarratana have been used for centuries for rest and recovery, with some accommodations offering massage and hot-stone treatments.
• Urban wellness centres – Ragusa and Modica both have modern wellness spas and gyms offering treatments ranging from facials to full hammam experiences, useful for city-based visitors.

Wellness activities here are accessible year-round, though rural retreats and coastal spas are most active from spring to autumn.

Sicilian cuisine near the sea relies on fish and seafood, while in the mountain regions dried meat, sausages, cheese and dairy products are also served.