Infiorata di Noto 2023: everything you need to know about one of the most evocative events in Sicily
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The Infiorata di Noto is one of the most unmissable events in Sicily. If you're planning to visit Italy in May, choose Noto as you get ready for the 44th edition of this spectacular tradition, which began in 1980 as a greeting to spring.
From 19 to 23 May 2023, the most famous infiorata [decking of flowers] in Italy will be held along the very central Via Nicolaci, where the 16 designs of the infiorata made by the Master Infiorators [flower arrangers] will alternate one after the other. In these days, the entire city will be celebrating, with parades, markets and an immersive show of colours.
Here's everything you need to know, from the dates to the schedules, from the packed programme to the architectural masterpieces not to be missed during your visit to the "capital of Baroque".
The Infiorata di Noto and the theme of the 2023 edition
The splendour of Noto has attracted many television and film productions over the years, both Italian and from abroad: the theme of the Infiorata di Noto 2023, "Noto is cinema", aims to celebrate precisely this aspect. The Maestri Infioratori [master flower arrangers] will re-propose, in the 16 designs of the Infiorata, scenes from sixteen films and TV series, chosen from the dozens of productions that have been set in Noto and the most evocative places of the area.
This great event is also an opportunity to discover the typical products of the Sicilian territory thanks to the Noto markets that, throughout the duration of the Infiorata, wind through the streets surrounding the historical centre.
Programme, dates and times of the Infiorata di Noto 2023
The dates for 2023 have been set well in advance. The event starts on Saturday 20 May, beginning at nine in the morning, and ends on Tuesday 23 May at two in the afternoon. Among moments you shouldn't miss: the preparation of the flowered frames on Friday 19 May is a must-see for sure.
The programme is very extensive. The floral works will be lined up one after another along the very central Via Corrado Nicolaci, but the entire city centre will be involved in the celebration: from the steps, which will be transformed into true works of art, to the markets, to the highlight events of the day on Sunday 21, such as the Baroque Parade that crosses the historical centre from Piazza Mazzini and the parade of flag-wavers through the streets of the city.
Tickets for the Infiorata di Noto 2023 can be purchased on the official website of the event or on site at the Info Points around Via Nicolaci.
Where to eat out in Noto (for those with a sweet tooth)
Discovering Noto also means letting yourself be captivated by the Mediterranean flavours of typical Sicilian cuisine. In the historical centre you will find many family-run restaurants and trattorias where you can discover the delicacies of the Val di Noto, such as pasta with aubergines or exquisite caponata, as well as fresh fish, recently caught and presented in many different ways, in addition to the typical swordfish.
Noto will also win over lovers of sweet treats: with cannoli, ricotta cassate and artisanal ice cream.
What to see in Noto and its surroundings: treasures and villages that will astound you
The city of Noto is famous throughout the world for its ancient history and baroque architecture. If you choose to visit this treasure chest, there are so many places you just can't miss.
Starting with the elegant Porta Reale that welcomes you to the historical centre. In a few steps you will find yourself in front of the imposing Cathedral of San Nicolò with its facade full of statues, columns and frames, and the beautiful Palazzo Ducezio, the City Hall.
Among the pearls to see in Noto, there are also the Church of San Domenico, one of the most refined buildings in the city, and another Baroque masterpiece, the Palazzo Nicolaci, a splendid urban residence to visit and admire room after room.
A few miles from Noto, you can spend a couple of hours immersed in nature exploring the Vendicari Wildlife Oasis or visit the ancient fishing village of Marzamemi, a little further south.
How to get there and where to park in Noto
There are plenty of parking spaces and they are scattered around the city's historical centre. Starting from the large car park in via Alessio Di Giovanni or from the adjacent one in via Fazello.
If you arrive by car, you can also park in Via Cavour, behind the Velodrome, or in the car park of the Palatucci Stadium. If, on the other hand, you prefer to travel to Noto by train, from the station to the area where the Infiorata will take place, it will only take you 15 minutes on foot.
Are you ready for one of the most evocative shows that you will have the pleasure of telling stories about once you return home? The Infiorata di Noto is a symbol of quintessential Italian culture, which must be seen at least once in a lifetime.
