Malta: Ragusa Ibla, Modica, & Scicli Daytrip with Guide

If you’re considering a day trip from Malta to Sicily, this guided tour to Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli offers a chance to tick off some of Sicily’s most picturesque towns without overextending your schedule. It’s marketed as an immersive experience, with plenty of sightseeing, local stories, and stunning views—all wrapped into a 10-hour package. That sounds appealing, especially if you’re craving a taste of Sicily’s charming streets and baroque architecture while based on Malta.

We really like the fact that this trip combines a scenic ferry ride with guided visits in each town—meaning you get both comfort and insight. Plus, the tour’s focus on delicious regional food and authentic local atmosphere makes it more than just a quick photo op. But, on the flip side, some might find the long hours and variable schedules a bit tiring, especially if you’re not keen on big group outings or sightseeing during siesta hours.

This tour is probably best suited for travelers who want to see multiple towns in one go and don’t mind a bit of a rushed schedule. If you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or traveling with small kids, it might be worth considering whether the pace matches your style. Still, for a broad overview of southeastern Sicily, this trip offers a pretty solid introduction.

Key Points

• Scenic ferry ride adds excitement and a sense of adventure to the journey.
• Guided tours provide context and highlight local stories, making each stop more meaningful.
• Beautiful towns packed with baroque architecture, historic sites, and regional charm.
• Flexible free time allows for personal exploration or relaxing at cafés.
• Long day—be prepared for a full 10-hour experience with some long travel stretches.
• Mixed reviews about timing and accessibility, so read carefully to see if it suits your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting in Malta — The Ferry Experience

Your day begins at the Virtu Ferries Passenger Terminal, where you’ll check in at least an hour before departure. The boat ride to Sicily is about 105 minutes—sailing across the Mediterranean, you’ll enjoy the sea breeze and, hopefully, some good onboard views. Many reviews mention the ferry as comfortable, with a smooth ride that helps set a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Some travelers, like one who said, “The ferry journey was comfortable,” found this part of the trip pleasant and even enjoyable. It’s a nice way to transition from Malta’s coastline to the Sicilian scenery, which you’ll get glimpses of on the way.

Arrival in Sicily & Transfer to Ragusa Ibla

Once in Sicily, a coach takes you on about a 50-minute drive to Ragusa Ibla. The scenic ride offers glimpses of the Sicilian landscape, and the guide often shares tidbits about the towns you’ll visit. It’s during this part that you’ll get your first hints of what makes each town unique.

Ragusa Ibla — Charm and Culture

Ragusa Ibla is the first stop, and it’s truly a highlight. You’ll walk through the leisurely streets, starting at a cozy café at the foot of the Duomo, one of Sicily’s finest buildings. The guide will lead you through the winding piazzas and alleys, pointing out notable sights like the Gagliaridi church of San Giuseppe and the exquisite Giardino Ibleo, a peaceful garden with views over the valley.

What makes Ragusa Ibla special is its blend of baroque architecture and authentic local vibe. We loved the way the guide narrates stories about the towns, making the history come alive. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was very knowledgeable,” which adds real value to the experience.

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Short Stop at the Portale San Giorgio

Just outside the garden, you’ll see the remains of the Portale San Giorgio, a Gothic gate from the early 13th century. The earthquake of 1693 damaged much of Ragusa’s older structures, but what remains gives a sense of the town’s medieval roots.

Drive to Modica — The Chocolate Capital

Next, about a 30-minute drive takes you to Modica, famous for its baroque churches and innovative chocolate. The main street, Corso Umberto, is lively and lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. You’ll have about two hours here, which is enough for a quick exploration, a visit to Antica Dolceria Bonajuto (a renowned chocolate factory), and perhaps a snack.

One traveler raved about the regional food and scenic views on the way, noting that the stops felt well-paced for a day trip. However, some also pointed out that during certain times—like siesta hours—many shops and attractions are closed, which can limit your options.

Landmarks & Local Flavor

Apart from the chocolate, you’ll see the unfinished church of San Matteo, Palazzo Benventano, and the Chiarafura Cave Dwellings. These sites give you a glimpse into Modica’s layered history, from its religious architecture to its rural cave dwellings.

Scicli — The Sunlit Town

After lunch, the tour takes about 20 minutes to reach Scicli, another beautiful town known for its dramatic streets and Baroque facades. You’ll have about an hour here, with options for a guided walk, some free time, and the chance to enjoy the sunset. This town, like the others, features historic architecture, but it’s also praised for its authentic local atmosphere.

One review noted: “Most places were closed for siesta, but the town opened before we left,” suggesting that timing is crucial if you want to see the sights open.

Return to Malta

Then, after a full day of sightseeing, you’ll head back to the coach for the 105-minute ferry ride back to Malta, arriving around late evening. Some travelers comment on the long day, but most enjoy it as a comprehensive snapshot of southeastern Sicily.

The Experience: What Worked Well

Guide’s Knowledge & Local Insights

Multiple reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides who shared engaging stories about each town. It makes a significant difference when the guide can weave history and culture into the walking tours, rather than just giving basic facts.

Views & Photogenic Spots

The overall scenery, especially from the gardens and viewpoints in Ragusa Ibla, is stunning. If you enjoy scenic stops for photos, you’ll appreciate the carefully chosen viewpoints.

Food & Regional Flavor

While the tour itself doesn’t include a formal meal, many stop at local cafes and shops. The visit to the chocolate factory in Modica stands out as a delicious highlight, with rave reviews about the regional specialties.

Value for Money

Considering the ferry, guided tours, and visits to three towns, many find the price reasonable for a full-day excursion. It’s a practical way to cover a lot of ground without having to organize transportation and guides yourself.

The Challenges & Considerations

Length of Day & Pace

Several reviews mention how long the day feels—around 10 hours total, with some travelers saying it’s “much more than 10 hours.” The long travel stretches and tight schedule may be tiring, especially if you’re not used to full days on the go.

Timing & Accessibility

Some towns are uphill, which could be challenging if you have mobility issues. Also, during siesta hours, many shops and attractions are closed, limiting your sightseeing options. One traveler noted that most places were closed for siesta, and that could be disappointing if you’re hoping to explore freely.

Confusing Arrival Instructions

A common theme from reviewers is the need for clearer instructions upon arrival. You’re required to exit the terminal and walk to the parking area where the coach meets you. While the coach is well signposted, knowing this beforehand could avoid initial confusion.

Not for In-Depth Exploration

If you’re someone who loves to linger and explore in detail, this tour might feel rushed. The free time is limited, and the focus is on seeing multiple sites rather than immersing yourself deeply in each place.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers looking for a broad overview of southeastern Sicily in a single day. It’s especially good if you want to see historic towns, enjoy scenic views, and get a taste of local culture and food. The guided element adds value for those who prefer learning from an expert rather than wandering aimlessly.

However, if you’re after a leisurely exploration or traveling with mobility concerns, the long hours and uphill routes might be less ideal. It’s also less suited for people who want to explore towns at their own pace or visit during the busy summer season when shops and attractions might be crowded or closed during siesta.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour doesn’t specify children’s activities, but given the long day and walking involved, it may be better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with walking and long hours.

What should I bring?
You’ll need your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection. It’s also wise to bring water and perhaps a snack, especially if you’re sensitive to long hours on the move.

Is the ferry ride comfortable?
Most reviews mention the ferry as being comfortable with a smooth sailing experience, making it a pleasant part of the day.

What kind of guide will I have?
The guide speaks English and is described as friendly and knowledgeable, providing engaging narratives about each town.

How long are the free periods in each town?
You’ll generally have about 2 hours in Ragusa Ibla, 2 hours in Modica, and 1 hour in Scicli, enough for a quick look or some personal exploration.

Are the towns accessible for people with mobility issues?
Some towns are uphill and may pose challenges for those with mobility concerns. It’s best to assess your comfort with walking and altitude.

Can I modify or cancel my booking?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, reviews highlight that visiting on days with shops open and avoiding siesta hours enhances the experience. Spring and early fall might be more comfortable to avoid peak heat and crowds.

Is this tour a good value?
Considering the ferry, guided visits, and overall itinerary, many travelers find it a good deal for seeing multiple towns in one day. It offers a comprehensive snapshot of the region, albeit with some long hours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to see a handful of Sicily’s most photogenic towns without too much hassle, this day trip from Malta has a lot to offer. The ferry ride adds a sense of adventure, and the guided tours provide meaningful context that makes the scenery and architecture come alive. The chocolate stop in Modica, in particular, is a tasty highlight that many travelers remember fondly.

That said, this is definitely a full-on day. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a packed schedule, enjoy guided experiences, and want the convenience of transportation included. If you prefer more relaxed, unstructured days, or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options or plan additional days to explore at your own pace.

In all, this tour delivers a solid taste of southeastern Sicily—perfect for first-timers or those short on time. It’s a neat way to combine scenic views, cultural sights, and regional flavors into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: