All you need to know about Sicily before you book

Booking holidays can be a lengthy process and when time’s at a premium, the temptation is to snap up accommodation and flights and leave the in-depth research closer to your departure date. Sicily’s reputation goes before it – great beaches, sunshine and delicious food and wine for starters – but if you want to plan the perfect holiday in Sicily, it’s worth doing some extra homework before you book.

Why visit Sicily?

Of course, Sicily is just one of many destinations in the Mediterranean offering gorgeous beaches and sunshine. But there are plenty of other reasons for choosing this fascinating island. For a start, Sicily’s climate and amazing landscape – think beaches, mountains, crystal clear seas and stunning nature reserves – are a major plus point.

As are its extraordinary history and architecture. From as far back as the Ancient Greeks and Romans, Sicily captured the attention of rivals who were attracted by the island’s pivotal location and fertile plains. In fact, traces of their control are still very much in evidence in the architecture and in the island’s delicious food and wine. And lastly, you’ll get better value on Sicily than in some areas of mainland Italy such as the Amalfi Coast or Tuscany which have been favourites with tourists for many years.

Climate and when to visit

Sicily’s location means that you can expect higher temperatures here than anywhere else in Italy. In fact, Sicily’s offshore island of Pantelleria is closer geographically to Africa than Europe. Which makes any time between April and October a great time to visit, with mild temperatures and a lower chance of rainfall. However, in July and August, average temperatures can easily pass the 30° mark and sightseeing can be quite uncomfortable. These months are also the busiest on the island, so if you can visit in May, June, September and October, you’ve a much better chance of enjoying Sicily at its best.

How much can I see in one trip?

With Sicily being the largest region of Italy, you’re unlikely to get to see it all in one trip. If it’s your first visit, we’d recommend focusing on one part of the island, taking in one of the main cities of Palermo, Catania or Syracuse, several of the smaller towns and perhaps one of the island’s impressive ancient ruins. That still leaves time for the beach or exploring some of Sicily’s natural attractions. Alternatively, think about splitting your holiday into two centres, with, for example, a week on the north coast and one in the south east.

Is Sicily good for a beach holiday?

With over 1,000 kms of coastline, plus a variety of beaches that range from traditional lidos to wilder, windswept stretches of sand, it’s not surprising that holidaymakers are drawn to Sicily’s beaches. But Sicily offers very much more than a simple beach holiday. Aside from its numerous historic and architectural attractions, its natural landscapes lend themselves to a whole host of energy-busting experiences and activities. Choose an adrenaline-fuelled adventure in the water or on land, a guided walking tour or a food and wine-based experience as the perfect accompaniment to your beach holiday.

Public transport and getting around in Sicily

One decision which will inevitably play a big role in planning your holiday in Sicily is whether to rent a car. Flying to Sicily is simple, with a choice of three airports, in Palermo, Catania and Trapani, and from there you’ll need to pick up a car or rely on public transport or a taxi.

If you’re staying in or around Palermo, Messina or Catania, travel by public transport is relatively simple although timetables can be unreliable. However, most of the pretty hilltop towns and villages and some of the most glorious coastal spots are largely inaccessible by public transport so you’re better off with a car.

If you prefer not to rent a car, a holiday in Finale di Pollina on the north coast is a great option as a small electric train connects the town to Palermo, Cefalù and Messina in the east.

Sicily with kids

Treetop and adventure parks, water parks and a seemingly endless list of thrilling activities including cycling, horse riding, boat tours and safari jeeps are just a few of the things that make Sicily such a great holiday spot for kids. And in between the lazy days on the beach, plan day trips to Norman castles, cable car rides up Mount Etna and puppet shows in Palermo.

Off the beaten track in Sicily

If you’ve holidayed before in Sicily, the chances are you’ll want to get slightly off the beaten track and explore some of the island’s quieter spots. Think about staying on the north coast where you’ll be close to the beach but can also easily access the charming hilltop towns of the Nebrodi and Madonie mountain ranges.

Alternatively, a holiday in the Val di Noto in the south east will leave you plenty of time to explore the magnificent baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica and Noto. However, for anyone with a passion for art, head inland to the famed ceramics town of Caltagirone where a guided tour will lead you through the ceramic filled streets and to local workshops and studies.