Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, sits off the southern coast of Italy. It’s home to about 5 million people and enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with an average annual temperature around 18°C (64°F). This makes it an attractive spot for tourists throughout the year, with millions visiting annually.
The island is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re into ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, or charming towns, Sicily has something for everyone.
The best time to visit is during spring or fall when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the island isn’t too crowded. This way, you can enjoy all the incredible sights and experiences Sicily has to offer without the peak summer rush.
Syracuse Cathedral
Castelmola, a traditional Sicilian hill top village above Taormina, Sicily
Arriving to Sicily
Getting to Sicily is pretty easy. If you’re flying in, you’ll likely land at one of its main airports: Catania-Fontanarossa, Palermo Falcone-Borsellino, or Trapani-Birgi. From these airports, you can grab a rental car, hop on a bus, or take a train to get around. Ferries from mainland Italy also bring visitors to the island if you prefer a scenic route.
When it comes to where to stay, Palermo, the island’s capital, is a great choice for its bustling city life and historical sites. Catania, near Mount Etna, offers a mix of history and adventure, while Taormina provides stunning coastal views and a more relaxed vibe. For a quieter retreat, consider staying in smaller towns like Cefalù or Modica.
Getting around Sicily is a mix of driving and public transport. Renting a car is super handy if you want to explore the island at your own pace. The train and bus networks are also decent for getting between major towns and cities. If you’re in the mood for a more scenic route, consider taking a ferry to explore nearby islands like the Aeolian Islands.
Sicilian food is a highlight. You’ll definitely want to try some authentic arancini (fried rice balls), caponata (a sweet and sour eggplant dish), and of course, cannoli for dessert. Sicilian cuisine is rich with flavors and local ingredients, so don’t miss out on the seafood, fresh fruits, and local wines.
There’s so much to see and do in Sicily. Explore the ancient ruins of Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or wander through the historical streets of Palermo. A visit to Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, is a must for nature lovers. Check out the beautiful beaches of Cefalù and San Vito Lo Capo, and don’t miss the charming town of Taormina, known for its ancient Greek theatre and stunning views.
For experiences, hiking around Mount Etna is a thrilling adventure. Exploring the Etna Wine Region can be a unique treat for wine enthusiasts. Also, wandering through the markets in Palermo or taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Sicilian dishes can be super fun and enriching. Sicily offers a blend of culture, history, and relaxation, making it a fantastic place to explore.
Accomodation
Looking for a unique hotel experience?
Local Secrets has selected a variety of unique hotels that make lodging a special experience. These hotels share the vision of quality and service that we want for our travelers.
Want to feel like home?
Local Secrets has developed a network of professional experts in tourist accommodations committed to quality and service to guarantee a unique experience to our travelers.
Members of Hospitality Privilege Program
Members of Hospitality Privilege Program
Currency: The official currency of Sicily is the Euro (EUR). 1 € is equivalent to 1.09 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Sicily
Sicily is full of amazing festivals all year long. One of the top events is the Festa di Sant’Agata in Catania, held in February, where the city comes alive with processions and celebrations in honor of its patron saint. In April, Festa dei Giganti in Messina features massive puppets and lively parades.
Come summer, the Sagra del Nero d’Avola in Avola, usually in August, celebrates Sicily’s famous red wine with tastings and music. Then there’s Il Palio dei Normanni in Piazza Armerina in August, a historical reenactment with knights and medieval festivities.
In October, Sagra del Pesce in Cefalù showcases delicious seafood in a festive atmosphere. Festa della Madonna della Luce in Modica, held in September, combines religious processions with local food and music. Finally, La Notte della Taranta in August, held in various towns, is a celebration of traditional Pizzica music and dance.
For day trips, you can visit Taormina for its stunning views and ancient theatre, explore the ancient ruins at Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, check out Mount Etna for a volcanic adventure, chill on the beaches of Cefalù, stroll through the charming streets of Palermo, or visit Trapani for its historic sites and coastal scenery.
Tips to visit Sicily
In Sicily, locals are called Sicilians. When greeting someone, you’ll often hear “Ciao” for a casual hello or “Buongiorno” if you’re being a bit more formal. Italian is the main language, but Sicilian dialect is also widely spoken.
Meals typically start with breakfast around 7-9 AM, lunch from 1-2 PM, and dinner from 8 PM onwards. Most businesses open from 9 AM to 1 PM and then again from 3-7 PM. Tipping isn’t a must, but leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is appreciated.
The healthcare system in Sicily is part of Italy’s public health system, which is generally well-regarded. Dress code is usually smart casual, especially if you’re dining out or visiting historic sites. Locals often use expressions like “Che bellezza!” to comment on something beautiful and “Andiamo!” to suggest going somewhere.
