Shopping Therapy in Ortigia Island

Ortigia Island is one of my favourite places to hang out. One of the best selections of bars and restaurants, some history and culture, a swim in the sea and a touch of shopping therapy.

It's only a 30-minute drive from Noto, so it’s easy to pop over and enjoy some shopping. As always, I share my personal biases and favourites.

‍

Gibi

Gibi is a unique Italian Men’s boutique with high-quality clothes curated by its owner, Sergio. He has excellent taste and an eye for what suits you, so I recommend trusting his recommendations.

Location: Via della Marstranzo 69-71

Instagram: Gibi‍

‍

Ecru

Ecru is a high-quality vintage clothes store for women. Owner Claudia will happily help you discover something for you and any occasion.

Location: Via del Consiglio Reginale 30

Instagram: Ecru‍

‍

Caffe Minerva

Caffe Minerva is more than a cafe. It is a treasure trove of antique plates, bowls and other items. Tina, who owns the caffe with her husband, collects La formella, which are ancient sweetie moulds. You should ask her to introduce you and suggest what little gems you might buy to take home.

Location: Via Roma / Piazza Minerva 15

‍

Malamore

Malamore serves beer and vinyl records —what a combination! I’m not a beer drinker, so I can't comment on their beer selection, but I can attest to their fabulous array of new and vintage vinyl records.

Location: Resalibre 2

Instagram: Malamore‍

‍

Laghetti

Laghetti describes itself as a store of ‘Objects with an eye for sustainability’. Owner Chiara has hand-selected a truly eclectic range of products which are great gifts to treat a friend or why not yourself!

Location: Via Pompeo Picherali 10/B

Instagram: Laghetti

‍

Street Market

Ortigia Street Market is the best in the region. Given its proximity to the sea, it specialises in fresh fish. It is also the place to go for dried herbs and spices and the source of my Sicilian Kitchen selection. Of course, there are fruit and vegetables from local farms and cheese and fresh ricotta.

Location: Vicolo Bagnara and surrounding streets