A Guide to Magical Modica, Sicily: What to See, Do & Eat!
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One look at a photo of Modica and I knew I just had to go there. That’s honestly all it took for me to spend a blissful five days in this beautiful Baroque town during my recent six-week trip to Sicily, Italy.
If you’ve never heard of Modica before, that’s okay. I hadn’t either. Modica is one of eight incredible UNESCO World Heritage towns that dot the Val di Noto in eastern Sicily. The town is perhaps most famous for its many historic churches (after all, Modica is known as the “City of 100 Churches”) and its unique Aztec-style chocolate. But trust me, there’s more to Modica than churches and chocolate!
If you’re wondering whether or not Modica is worth adding to your Sicily bucket list, then this post is for you. Obviously, I loved my time there and I highly suggest it. Whether you’re on the fence or planning a visit, this little guide will help you understand what to expect in terms of things to do in Modica, as well as what to eat, where to stay, and how to find the town’s hidden gems.
Helpful things to know
Modica Alta vs. Modica Bassa
Modica consists of two main areas. Modica Alta (Upper Modica) is located high on a hill and it takes a bit of effort to get up there. Think a steep 30 to 45-minute walk. This is the oldest part of Modica and it’s where you’ll find some of the top attractions. The views from up here are incredible too.
Modica Bassa (Lower Modica) is at the base of Modica Alta. This is where all the action is. Corso Umberto, the main street, is lined with some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and chocolate shops, as well as historic churches like the Church of St. Peter.
The 1693 Val di Noto earthquake
Modica, and much of the Val di Noto, was leveled by the 1693 earthquake. That’s why so many of the city’s buildings were rebuilt in the Baroque style following the earthquake. It’s these beautiful and historic Baroque gems that landed Modica on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The flood of 1902
In 1902, Modica suffered a horrible flood that killed 112 people. You’ll see this referenced in various attractions during your trip. To get an idea of how bad the flooding was, the Cathedral of St. George has a plaque inside that shows just how high the waters were inside this historic church. The flooding was so bad, the city decided to pave over the city’s river, which is now the main street of Corso Umberto.
Essential things to do in Modica, Sicily
Hike from Modica Bassa to Modica Alta
One of my favorite things to do in Modica is to walk up the steep hill from Modica Bassa to Modica Alta. Yes, the 30 to 45-minute walk takes some effort, but it’s well worth all the huffing and puffing you’ll do on the way up. The views from the top are stunning. Plus, you’ll find some of the oldest Modica attractions scattered around this historic hilltop.
Insider tip: If you don’t want to hike to the top of Modica Alta, there is a cute little tourist train that goes up the hill. It’s called the Trenino Barocco and you’ll find vendors selling tickets all over town. Tickets cost €5.
Take in the views from Castello dei Conti
The iconic Castello dei Conti is perched on a rocky cliff high above Modica Bassa. You’ll recognize this 14th-century castle, fortress, and prison from its clock tower, which you’ll notice the second you arrive in Modica.
Restorations are ongoing and largely stalled, which means there’s currently nothing to see inside. Regardless, it’s well worth wandering around the exterior and taking in the views of Modica from the ramparts.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista
At the highest point of Modica Alta is where you’ll find the stunning Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista. Most of the original church that once stood here was destroyed in the 1693 earthquake. What you’ll see today was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s not the oldest church in town, but it’s spectacular.
Chiesa di Santa Maria del Gesù
Chiesa di Santa Maria del Gesù is a true hidden gem in Modica, Sicily. Located on Piazza del Gesù up in Modica Alta, this building dates back to 1478 and is one of the few structures that was not destroyed by the devastating 1693 earthquake.
It’s not always open to the public. But if you are lucky enough to get inside, be sure to check out the 16th-century fresco of the Virgin Mary. It’s located to your left when you enter the church.
Get the best view in town from Pizzo Belvedere
You can’t miss out on the bird’s-eye views from Pizzo Belvedere (Belvedere Viewpoint). This is easily the best view in all of Modica. This viewpoint is located just a short stroll from the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista in Modica Alta.
Insider tip: I walked back down to Modica Bassa from this viewpoint and I absolutely loved getting lost in the mazelike alleyways on the way down. I highly recommend doing this! This is also a great option if you have not yet checked out the famous Duomo di San Giorgio, which you’ll come across on your way down the hill.
Marvel at the Duomo di San Giorgio
When it comes to the essential things to do in Modica, you simply have to visit the Duomo di San Giorgio. This is the most famous church in the city and it’s absolutely free to enter. With its unique hillside position up a flight of 250 stairs, this cathedral and its towering bell tower facade is absolutely awe-inspiring.
Duomo di San Giorgio was constructed in the 11th century but, like so many of Modica’s buildings, was restored following the earthquake. Be sure to go inside to check out the lavish gilded interior. It’s well worth paying the extra €2 to climb the bell tower and take in the spectacular views from the top.
Insider tip: Be sure to find the plaque inside the church that shows just how high the floodwaters were in the church during the 1902 floods. Considering its hillside location, it’s a pretty sobering sight.
Get a combo ticket to visit these four churches
There are four more notable churches in Modica that are well worth paying to enter. Each will cost €2.50 per person or you can get a combo ticket to all four for €6.00 per person. Tickets are sold at the church entrances.
- Church of St. Peter: This gem is known for its grand staircase and its series of life-sized statues of the Apostles. If you’re wondering what to do in Modica, there are often free candlelit concerts held on the staircase.
- Church of St. Mary of Bethlehem: This place is famous for its nativity scene.
- Church of Carmine: A 15th-century church known for the circular rose window above the portal.
- Church of St. John: A beauty known for its Baroque architecture.
What to eat in Modica
Must-try foods in Modica
Modica chocolate
Sweet and kinda crunchy, Modica chocolate is seriously good. A lot of people don’t like it, but I thought it was awesome! What makes it unique is that it’s made using a “cold” Aztec-influenced technique and is never heated above 45°C. Therefore, the sugar crystals remain whole and the final product has a slight crunch.
You can get Modica chocolate all over town, from tourist shops to grocery stores (the cheapest option). For free chocolate samples, go to Antica Dolceria Bonajuto or Cioccolato di Modica Sabadì, two of the most well-known chocolate shops in town. Serious chocolate addicts should pay a visit to the small but interesting Museo del Cioccolato di Modica on Corso Umberto.
Scaccia
Kind of like a pizza pocket, this thin, layered flatbread is stuffed with everything from meat to cheese to veggies. You’ll find meaty and vegetarian versions served in bakeries and restaurants all over the city. The best I tried was the freshly baked scaccia from Officina dei Sapori in Modica Bassa.
Almond Pastries & Granitas
The almonds in Sicily are amazing. And almond-infused treats are very popular in the Modica area. Trying almond cookies and at least one almond-flavored granita is a must when Modica. I highly suggest going to a bakery, like Giannone Bakery, at the start of your stay and grabbing an assorted box of almond cookies. For an almond granita, Pasticceria Di Lorenzo is a popular spot!
A few must-try restaurants in Modica
Osteria Ricotta & Co.
As a vegetarian, the menu at Osteria Ricotta & Co. was too tempting to pass up. We ordered the Lolli con Fave (handmade pasta with broad beans) and the Ravioli di Ricotta Burro e Salvia (ricotta-stuffed ravioli with butter and sage). Both were sublime.
Everyone around us ordered the scaccia and it looked so good. I had some real FOMO! If you’re craving delicious things to do in Modica, definitely eat here.
Insider tip: Do note this place is only open for breakfast and lunch and they close for the day at 5 pm.
Officina dei Sapori
I mentioned Officina dei Sapori before but this bakery serves some seriously addictive scaccia, arancini, and other baked goods. It’s a great option if you’re looking to grab a quick snack. Their hours are a bit funky, so make sure they’re open before heading there. Try to time your visit for when they serve the freshly made scaccia!
Ristorante Pizzeria La Bella Napoli
This place was recommended by a sweet local couple we met and it did not disappoint. After a long day, we popped into this pizzeria to grab a takeaway pizza. It was so good and it was ready in just a few minutes.
Where to stay in Modica
Budget-Friendly: Palazzo Il Cavaliere B&B De Charme
If you’re looking for a unique, family-run B&B, Palazzo Il Cavaliere B&B De Charme is a very cool option. This historic property is located right on Corso Umberto in the same building as my favorite restaurant Osteria Ricotta & Co.! You’ll be steps away from all of the top attractions in Modica Bassa.
From the rooms to the breakfast area, this place just oozes 19th-century charm. You’ll be treated like family here and that includes starting each day with a lovely buffet breakfast spread.
Mid-Range: Itria Modica
If you’re looking for views, Itria Modica might be just what you’re looking for. Book a stay at this boutique adults-only hotel and you can take in panoramic Modica views from the infinity pool and hot tub, sip wine and get more views from the multiple decks, relax with even more views in the moder rooms and suites, fill up on the gourmet buffet breakfast, and so much more!
High-End: Casa Talia
Casa Talia is an incredible option if you’re looking for jaw-dropping views and a luxury stay. The property is actually an old house that has been revamped into a unique boutique hotel.
The terraced property boasts eight rooms, each with its own terrace or balcony offering unreal views over Modica. The magazine-worthy rooms are all totally unique and outfitted with thoughtful details, like a bottle of red wine. Among the many perks that come with staying here are the homemade breakfasts, the views from the infinity pool, the gorgeous gardens, and the outstanding hospitality.
Insider tip: If you’re wondering what to do in Modica, I suggest joining the Facebook group All Things Modica. It was super helpful for learning about cool events and things that were going on in town during my visit.
