6 Best Sights in Sicily, Italy

This long-abandoned palazzo (originally built in the 18th century) has recently been restored by French journalist and filmmaker Jean-Louis Remileux. If you want an idea of what life was like for the nobility of Noto in days long gone by, call ahead to book a guided tour.

Designed by architect Vincenzo Sinatra in the 17th century, Palazzo Ducezio is still a sight to behold. You can visit both of its two floors, with the top floor offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The best time to visit is in the afternoon or evening when the local buildings take on a golden hue in the fading light.

Set on a steep hill above the main Corso, the mythical monsters supporting the palaces magnificent balconies are one of the most iconic—and photographed—sights in Sicily. For a rare insight into the lifestyle of social climbers in the 18th century, it is well worth taking a tour of the interior to see some of 90 rooms belonging to the noble Nicolaci family, including a splendid frescoed ballroom.

While the whole of Noto can make you feel that you are on a film set, its central plaza will really do it. The Palazzo Municipo is home to three of the grandest buildings in Noto, including Palazzo Ducezio, now home to the local town hall, that forms the plaza's main part. If you climb to the top of the ornate staircase to the north you will find Basilica Cattedrale di San Nicolo while on the western side of the palazzo is Palazzo Landolina, which was once home to one of the most powerful families in Noto, the Sant'Alfano family.

This still working theater from the 19th century offers guided tours of its small, ornate interior. Check ahead as it often presents programs of classic and contemporary theater in Italian. It was named for silent film actress Tina Di Lorenzo.