Sun-kissed Sicily captures the hearts of its visitors with its warm hospitality and fascinating history. From the fiery Mount Etna to the Valley of the Temples, Sicily offers a variety of impressive sights, natural wonders, and beautiful beaches. The island's coastal towns, such as Taormina, provide breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, while Noto and Syracuse enchant with their baroque splendor. Whether it's the allure of crystal-clear beaches or the rich aromas of Sicilian street markets, Sicily promises an wonderful vacation.
Top 10 Highlights of Sicily
Travel Information
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May)
Spring is perfect for a vacation in Sicily. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The island is in full bloom, making the landscape particularly attractive. March and April are great for avoiding large tourist crowds, while the holiday season really kicks off in May.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Sicily is hot and dry, ideal for beach lovers. July and August are the hottest months, often with temperatures over 30°C. Popular beaches and tourist spots can be crowded, so it's advisable to visit early in the day or choose more secluded places.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn continues to offer warm weather, perfect for beach visits and sightseeing. September and October are particularly pleasant, with temperatures around 20°C, occasionally reaching 30°C (in September). It's a less crowded time, and the prices for accommodation and flights start to become more affordable again.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Sicily is mild compared to the rest of Italy, but it can be rainy and cool. Temperatures usually range between 10-15°C. This season is especially suitable for a cultural trip to Palermo, as there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy the sights in peace.
Getting there
By Air
The easiest way to get to Sicily is by plane. The main airports are Palermo-Punta Raisi in the north and Catania-Fontanarossa in the southeast. There are numerous direct flights from many European cities to both airports. For a round trip, a multi-city flight is particularly suitable.
Additionally, there is also an airport in Trapani-Birgi.
By Train
There are direct train connections from the Italian mainland (especially from Rome) to Sicily. The trains are loaded onto a ferry in Villa San Giovanni to cross the Strait of Messina. The main train stations in Sicily are in Palermo, Catania, and Messina. The night train from Rome Termini to Palermo Centrale takes about 13.5 hours.
Car
You can also reach Sicily by car by taking a ferry from the Italian mainland. The main ferry ports are in Villa San Giovanni and Reggio Calabria, with regular ferries to Messina.
How to travel around Sicily?
By Car
A car is the most convenient way to explore Sicily. The island has a well-developed road network that connects most cities and attractions. The highways are mostly well-maintained, with the A19 Palermo-Catania and the A29 Palermo-Mazara del Vallo being the main arteries. Renting a car is especially practical for reaching remote places and rural areas that are harder to access by public transportation. However, it should be noted that traffic in larger cities like Palermo and Catania can be hectic, and parking can sometimes be hard to find.
By Train
The train network in Sicily is operated by Trenitalia and connects the major cities and some smaller towns. The main routes include connections from Palermo to Messina, Catania, and Syracuse. Trains are a convenient option for traveling between the larger cities and offer a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery. However, train connections to more rural areas are often less frequent and less reliable. Regional trains are generally punctual, but delays can occur on longer routes.
By Bus
Without a rental car, buses are the primary way to get around locally. Buses are a widespread and cost-effective option for traveling within Sicily. Numerous private bus companies offer a dense network of connections between the island's cities and villages. AST (Azienda Siciliana Trasporti) is one of the largest bus companies and covers many routes. Reliability can vary by region, and they are often crowded during peak season.
Fancy a roadtrip?
Be inspired by our hand-picked road trips.