Things To Do
in Comiso

Comiso is a historic Sicilian town in the southeastern part of the island, set on gentle hills in the Ragusa province. Its compact center features Baroque-influenced architecture and venerable churches that invite easy wandering on foot. The area serves as a convenient hub for day trips to Ragusa, Modica, and the nearby coast.

Modern conveniences, including the Comiso Airport, sit beside centuries-old curiosities, giving visitors both accessibility and charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a warm cappuccino at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere of Comiso's historic center. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the beautiful baroque architecture and the intricate details of the churches such as Santa Maria delle Grazie. Don't forget to visit the lively local market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a traditional trattoria, dedicate your afternoon to exploring the impressive Castello dei Naselli d'Aragona, where you can learn about the rich history of Comiso. Wander through the surrounding gardens and take in the stunning views of the town. As you continue your exploration, visit the Museo Civico, where you can delve into the local art and culture.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a quaint piazza and enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the outdoor restaurants. Savor authentic Sicilian dishes while listening to the sounds of live music drifting through the air. Cap off your evening with a gelato from a local gelateria, watching the locals go about their evening routines.

day 2
Venture to the Nearby Beaches
morning
:

Begin your day with a short drive to the stunning beaches of Pozzallo, where soft sands and clear blue waters await. Spend your morning lounging under the sun, swimming in the inviting sea, or trying your hand at beach volleyball with locals. For those looking for a little adventure, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline.

afternoon
:

After a morning of sun and fun, enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the daily catch. Post-lunch, take a stroll along the beach, collecting seashells or simply enjoying the picturesque scenery. You might also want to visit the nearby town of Pozzallo, where you can explore quaint shops and cafes.

evening
:

Return to Comiso for a relaxed evening, perhaps starting with a visit to a local wine bar to taste some of Sicily's finest wines. Enjoy dinner at a rustic trattoria, where you can experience traditional flavors and warm hospitality. As night falls, take a peaceful walk through the historic streets, illuminated by soft lights.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$1.5-3
🚕Taxi ride (short trip)$6-15
🛍️Groceries (basic items)$5-12
🧀Local cheese or specialty product$4-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact historic center easy to explore on foot
  • Excellent gateway to Ragusa, Modica, and the coast
  • Warm Sicilian hospitality and authentic local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife within Comiso itself
  • Some attractions require driving to nearby towns
  • Smaller selection of international amenities compared to bigger cities
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Buonasera" - Good evening
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
  • "Può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?

Places to Visit in Comiso

Visit one of these nice places.

Castello di Donnafugata (nearby)

A picturesque castle with formal gardens and scenic viewpoints, especially photogenic at golden hour.

Piazza del Popolo, Comiso

An atmospheric central square framed by historic buildings and arcades; great for street photography and people-watching.

Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria della Misericordia

A church with a distinctive façade and a focal point in the historic core; ideal for architectural shots.

Rural countryside around Comiso

Rolling hills, olive groves, and farmhouses offer wide-angle landscape photography opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Comiso

Sicilian cuisine blends coastal flavors with mountain herbs and agricultural specialties. In Comiso and the surrounding area, expect fresh produce, olive oil, cheese, seafood when possible, and colorful markets that celebrate seasonal ingredients.

Comiso Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Caponata Siciliana

A sweet-sour eggplant relish with capers, olives, and tomatoes—great with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Pasta con le Sarde

Pasta tossed with sardines, fennel, pine nuts, and raisins for a distinctly Sicilian flavor.

Scaccia Ragusa

A layered, baked flatbread stuffed with tomato, onion, and cheese—crispy edges and soft interior.

Ragusano Cheese

A aged, semi-hard cheese from the Ragusa area, delicious with bread or in baked dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Comiso

Weekly market stalls where locals buy produce, cheeses, olives, and bakery items; try fresh fruit and regional snacks.

Piazza del Popolo stalls

Street-side vendors offering quick bites, arancini, panelle, and other Sicilian street foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Comiso experiences a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers with sea breezes and mild, wetter winters. Summer highs commonly reach the upper 20s to mid-30s Celsius, while winter daytime temperatures hover in the teens. Spring and autumn are pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities, with cooler evenings. The area can see occasional rain throughout the year, especially in autumn and winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; a polite hello goes a long way in shops and cafés.

Church and modesty

Dress modestly when visiting churches; quiet conversation is appreciated inside sacred spaces.

Noise and courtesies

Keep voices down in residential areas late at night; public displays of affection are normal but consider local norms.

Dining etiquette

Meals are often leisurely; expect to linger over courses and beverages during dinners.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good for travelers; standard precautions apply: watch belongings in crowded areas and be aware of pickpockets in markets. Road safety is important in rural areas and on coastal roads; drive carefully in narrow lanes. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police, medical, or fire services. Insurance and local advice can help with travel health needs and confirmations of pharmacy hours.

Tipping in Comiso

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service is often included; rounding up and small tips for exceptional service are appreciated in informal settings.

Payment Methods

Cash and card are widely accepted; most shops and restaurants take credit/debit cards and contactless payments, though some small vendors may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming valleys make it perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring the countryside.

Summer

Hot days (often 30–38°C) with sea breezes nearby; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan coastal visits for relief.

Autumn

Pleasant temps and harvest festivals; ideal for food markets and scenic drives through the Iblean countryside.

Winter

Milder winters with occasional rain; sightlines into architecture and museums are comfortable, though some coastal beaches are off-season.

Nightlife Guide

Comiso at Night

Comiso’s nightlife is typically low-key, centered around café bars and piazza evenings. In the surrounding towns, you’ll find small wine bars and casual eateries where locals chat and enjoy relaxed evenings. For a livelier scene, travelers often head to Ragusa or Modica for bars and live music, usually after 9 or 10 pm. Late-night dining is common, with many places serving light snacks and pastries until late.

Hiking in Comiso

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cava d'Ispica Trail

A valley with ancient ruins and varied terrain; moderate walking routes with archaeological and natural highlights.

Ragusa Ibla hillside paths

Panoramic paths around the historic hill towns offering sweeping views of the valley and architecture.

Donnafugata Nature Reserve trails

Gentle loops through parkland near the historic Donnafugata Castle, suitable for easy hikes.

Airports

How to reach Comiso by plane.

Comiso Airport (CIY)

Regional airport serving southeastern Sicily; convenient for travel to Comiso and the surrounding area.

Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

Major international gateway in Sicily; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Comiso, with extensive connections and car rental on-site.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable with narrow lanes and pedestrian-friendly squares. Some streets are hilly, so a light, comfortable pair of shoes helps. For countryside and nearby towns, a car or reliable public transit makes day trips easier.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Aging population combined with families and a growing number of visitors drawn to the region's history and cuisine.

Students and professionals

Smaller in number; many residents commute to larger towns for work or study, bringing a mix of traditional and modern influences.

Tourists

Visitors attracted by Baroque towns, markets, and Sicilian cuisine; most come for day trips from Ragusa, Modica, or Catania.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Calcio (Soccer)

A dominant sport across Sicily with local clubs and informal play in parks and public pitches.

Cycling

Flat to rolling rural routes and scenic hills attract recreational cyclists.

Basketball

Common in local gyms and schools; casual leagues and pickup games are popular.

Tennis

Public and private courts are available; a good way to enjoy outdoor exercise year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually modest in the town center; parking can be limited near popular squares. For regional travel, roads to Ragusa, Modica, and the coast are generally reliable, with occasional congestion during peak tourist periods. Public transportation includes buses and regional services to nearby towns; car rental provides the most flexibility.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Comiso.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Sicilian dishes can be vegetarian with cheese, vegetables, and legumes. Request seafood-free options, and ask for pasta or baked dishes without meat stock or broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via local clinics and hospitals in Ragusa; emergencies can be directed to the regional emergency number 112. Pharmacies are common in town and carry standard medications. If you require specialized care, plan ahead to visit larger facilities in Ragusa or Catania.

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