Modica...
Modica – A Baroque Gem in the Heart of Sicily
Modica is one of those cities you never forget. With its baroque facades, sun-warmed stone houses, and labyrinth of narrow alleys winding through valleys and hillsides, it offers one of Sicily’s most atmospheric experiences. In April 2025, we stayed in Modica Alta – a part of the city that both challenged us and completely took our breath away. Here we share our experiences, our tips, and why we believe this is a place you need to see with your own eyes.
Why Everyone Talks About Modica
The baroque town that everyone falls for. Modica snakes its way through the valley and climbs high into the hills, where you’re instantly captivated by its architecture, majestic churches, sun-bleached houses, and breathtaking views from Modica Alta. It’s hard not to be seduced by the city’s charm. Walking here feels like stepping back in time, daydreaming about what it must have been like to live in these grand aristocratic homes… until you start climbing the stairs and reality sets in.
Modica’s History – From Antiquity to the Baroque
Modica has a long and fascinating history. Founded in antiquity, it was once part of the Roman Empire before being conquered by the Arabs in the Middle Ages. Later, it became the capital of a powerful county and entered a golden age. When the devastating earthquake of 1693 destroyed much of the city, it was rebuilt in the baroque style we see today. This is the Modica that continues to attract visitors from all over the world – a place where history and beauty live side by side.
Our Stay: Living in Modica Alta with a View
In April 2025, we rented a beautiful apartment in Modica Alta. When we first saw the balcony view overlooking the city, we thought: this is where we have to stay! What we didn’t fully realize was how challenging it would be to get there with three suitcases and two bags. You can only drive a short part of the way – after that, it’s all on foot. The streets are narrow, steep, and often interrupted by staircases.
Modica Alta is a real maze of alleys, the kind of place where Google Street View has never been. Many streets even share almost the same name, which made finding our hidden apartment in a little courtyard feel like solving a puzzle. But we wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. The streets are packed with charm and history, and the apartment itself turned out to be one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever rented – stylish, cozy, and with a breathtaking view.
Sunset from the Balcony – Modica from Above
Modica Alta and Modica Bassa – the upper and lower parts of the city – each tell a different story. Modica Alta, where we stayed, carries much of the city’s old history and feels quieter and more authentic than the bustling lower town. It’s true that it was a bit of a hike to the nearest grocery store, but to our delight, we discovered that the upper town has its own little hub of shops, wine stores, and even restaurants.
Life here is slower and calmer than in Modica Bassa. And the best part? Sitting on the balcony in the evenings, watching the sun turn the sky and the baroque facades golden. When the sun dipped below the hills, we would head down into town for dinner at one of the many restaurants, wine bars, and cafés.
Even though we visited Modica in April – not exactly peak season – we could still feel the contrast between the two parts of town. In Modica Bassa, the main streets were lively with day-trippers visiting souvenir shops and tasting Modica’s famous chocolate, while fewer ventured further up towards the dramatic steps of the Duomo di San Giorgio.
And yes, we tried the chocolate. Glenn loved it. Else… not so much. But we both loved exploring Modica – a true baroque gem of Sicily.
Tips for Visiting Modica: Explore on Foot
Staying in Modica Alta is like living inside a historic postcard – but it takes some effort. The streets are steep, filled with staircases and alleys where cars simply can’t go. Google Maps doesn’t always help much here, so bring good shoes and be ready to trust both your map and your intuition. If you’re planning to stay in the upper part of town, pack light – it makes the journey much easier.
Tips for Visiting Modica: Choose Where to Stay Wisely
Your choice of neighborhood will shape your stay in Modica.
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Modica Alta gives you magical views and calmer surroundings, perfect for sunset evenings on your balcony with a glass of local wine. Accommodation here is mostly private apartments.
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Modica Bassa is where you’ll find hotels, cafés, and restaurants just steps away. If you prefer easy access to the bustling streets and don’t mind the crowds, this is the place for you.
READ MORE ABOUT MODICA, AND OUR EXPERIENCES IN THE NEARBY AREAS:
