Tour difficulty
- Easy
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Duration
3 hoursSicily Walking Tours: City Tours
Modica and Northern Cava Ispica
Discovering Modica: A Baroque Gem
Exploring Modica and Northern Cava Ispica with Your Own Italy offers a unique journey into the heart of Sicily’s baroque beauty and ancient landscapes. This personalized tour combines the architectural splendor of Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning baroque buildings and famous chocolate, with the natural and historical wonders of Northern Cava Ispica, a series of deep limestone gorges rich in archaeological sites and ancient cave dwellings.
Discovering Modica: A Baroque Gem
Baroque Architecture and Historic Churches
Your journey begins in Modica, a city that captivates with its dramatic setting across steep hillsides and its wealth of baroque architecture. Explore the intricate facades and grand interiors of churches like San Giorgio and San Pietro, which stand as testaments to the city’s resilience and artistic spirit following the devastating earthquake of 1693.
Modica’s Chocolate Tradition
No visit to Modica is complete without delving into its centuries-old chocolate-making tradition. Influenced by the Aztecs and brought to Sicily during the Spanish rule, Modica’s chocolate is distinguished by its grainy texture and intense flavor. Visit one of the city’s historic chocolatiers for a tasting and learn how this unique chocolate is made using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
Exploring Northern Cava Ispica: A Journey Through Time
Ancient Cave Dwellings and Tombs
From Modica, venture into the captivating landscape of Northern Cava Ispica, a long and deep gorge that stretches between the towns of Modica and Ispica. This area is a treasure trove of history, home to ancient cave dwellings, catacombs, and rock-cut tombs dating back over 3,000 years. Walk through this remarkable open-air museum, where the remnants of past civilizations reveal the human history of Sicily from the Bronze Age to the early Christian period.
Nature and Hiking Trails
Northern Cava Ispica is not only rich in history but also in natural beauty. The gorge’s lush vegetation, dramatic rock formations, and tranquil streams offer a serene backdrop for hiking and exploration. Follow the trails that wind through the valley, uncovering hidden caves and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Your Own Italy: Unveiling Sicily’s Hidden Treasures
With Your Own Italy, your exploration of Modica and Northern Cava Ispica is designed to provide an immersive experience of Sicily’s cultural richness and ancient heritage. Whether you’re captivated by the baroque splendor of Modica or the archaeological wonders of Cava Ispica, we ensure your journey is both enlightening and unforgettable.
Embark on Your Sicilian Adventure
Are you ready to delve into the baroque beauty of Modica and the ancient landscapes of Northern Cava Ispica? Contact Your Own Italy to plan your personalized tour. Discover the unique charm and history of these Sicilian treasures, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
What's Included
- Expert, licensed English-speaking guide
- Private tour of Modica
Tips for Your Modica and Northern Cava Ispica Tour
– Comfortable Footwear: Be prepared for walking on uneven terrain, especially when exploring Cava Ispica’s archaeological sites.
– Sun Protection: The Sicilian sun can be strong, especially in open areas, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
– Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated and energized with water and snacks, particularly if you’re hiking in Cava Ispica.
– Camera Ready: The scenic beauty of Modica’s baroque architecture and Cava Ispica’s natural landscape offers endless photographic opportunities.
Faq
- Is there a dress code I should know about?
- There is a dress code for churches and basilicas. Shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. It is also recommended that you not take large bags or backpacks on tours that include churches as you may not be permitted to enter and storage accommodations are not usually available.
- What if there is bad weather?
- Our tours operate rain or shine!
- Is tipping customary in Italy?
- Tipping is indeed customary in Italy ! It is considered a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave “a little something extra” depending on the level of service you receive. For a private guide it is suggested to leave 15 – 25 euros for a typical 3-hour tour.
- What happens after I’ve requested a booking through your website?
- Your Own Italy will send a confirmation email within 24 hours of your booking. You will then be invited to make your payment using a link that will be provided.
- Can wheelchair users go on this walking tour?
- Not all walking tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities. However, if anyone in your group requires special accommodation, please let us know when completing the booking and we will work out suitable alternative routes.
- Can tours be modified?
- Yes, we will do our best to adjust any tour to accommodate special requests.
- How far in advance should I book my walking tour?
- Tours should be booked 48 hours in advance. While we cannot guarantee availability if booking occurs in less than 48 hours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
- What are Your Own Italy’s payment terms?
- Full payment is due when the tour confirmation email is sent, within 24 hours of your booking. You will be provided with a link to our payment page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Tours must be canceled by email 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. If cancellation is made in less than this time, Your Own Italy cannot guarantee a full refund.
- How do I amend a reservation?
- Any changes to existing reservations must be requested by email. All efforts will be made to accommodate changes, but they cannot be guaranteed.
- What should I do if I have a larger group than the size suggested on the website?
- Your Own Italy is delighted to accommodate large groups. Please specify the number in your party when booking, and every effort will be made to organize a tour within the time limits provided.
Meeting Point
Duration Of Tour
Tour times are average – some groups prefer a more leisurely pace with fewer sites, with your private guide, this is your option.