Is September and October a good time to visit Sicily?
With temperatures soaring in Sicily and other Mediterranean destinations during the hottest months of July and August, a sunshine holiday in September and October is becoming increasingly appealing. Of course it’s not an option for everyone, but even if you’re tied by school holidays, a week of Sicilian sunshine at October half-term might still be possible.
In fact, September is often regarded as one of the best months to visit Sicily. Quite apart from the weather, you’ll find quieter resorts, excellent deals on flights and accommodation, and plenty going on locally.
Is it still hot in Sicily in the autumn?
The warm weather hangs around in Sicily a lot longer than in mainland Italy and you can still expect plenty of sunshine in September. However, the fierce heat of the summer months is cooling down, leaving mild sunny days with little rainfall. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C which is ideal for sightseeing but also good for days on the beach or by the pool. After sunset, temperatures drop to around 19°C but during the evening, it’s generally still warm enough to eat out. Temperatures in October drop to average lows of 16°C, and average highs of around 25°C on the coast but you can still expect up to 8 hours of daily sunshine.
How much rain is there in Sicily in the autumn?
Rainfall during September and October is light although you might encounter the odd shower on several days. You can expect around 17mm of rain in September and while this might increase slightly towards the end of the month and as you move into October, days are still generally bright and sunny.
How cold is the sea?
The good news is that the sea is beautiful in Sicily in the autumn – after at least 4 solid months of sunshine, it has heated up to perfection! In September, the water is a balmy 24-25°C, and is still warm enough for swimming in October, particularly in the south of the island. Escape to a villa on the beach such as Dimora Pietra Nica and start each day with a dip followed by a luxuriating soak in the hot tub.
Packing for Sicily in the autumn
Long sunshine-filled days and warm temperatures in September mean you’ll still be wearing summer clothes although you may need a sweater or light jacket for the evening. If you’re visiting in October, layers are your best bet to cover all eventualities. Bear in mind that if you’re planning a trip to Mount Etna or inland into the Madonie mountains or Nebrodi National Park, you’ll need some comfortable walking shoes and temperatures will be lower.
Is Sicily much cheaper in September and October?
There’s no question that you can make considerable savings by visiting Sicily in September and October. Firstly, your flights to Palermo or Catania will be lower than during July and August. You can also save on your Sicily villa rental with the price of a week’s holiday at the end of September costing less than half the same week in August. There are also savings to be made on the cost of your car hire and once you’re on holiday in Sicily, you’ll find prices are more affordable than in some of the more popular resorts on the Italian mainland.
Where should I stay in Sicily in the autumn?
For anyone looking to combine sightseeing with beach time, Syracuse is a great all-rounder. You can easily fill a week in the city with visits to the extraordinary ancient Greek sights and the atmospheric streets in the historic centre on the island of Ortigia. But find time too to soak up the sun on one of Ortigia’s sun decks or head south to the beaches at Fontane Bianche or along the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Stay in the heart of the historic centre at Stella in Ortigia, a duplex apartment with stunning roof terrace.
Alternatively, choose from a selection of villas on the beach near Cefalù. Just moments from the beach at Finale di Pollina, Aqua Turchina has its own private pool and garden. The villa is perfectly located for exploring the sights of Cefalù and Palermo, and for day trips into the Madonie mountains.
Are there any festivals or special events in Sicily in the autumn?
Yes, and most of them are connected to food! The end of September sees the arrival of the internationally acclaimed Couscous Fest at San Vito lo Capo.
On the other side of the island, the Bronte Pistachio Festival celebrates Sicily’s prized green pistachios over two weekends, at the end of September and the beginning of October. This is a chance to try everything pistachio-flavoured – from ice creams, cakes, pasta and more – and to join in the fun of a local festival.
Other food-related festivities include Ottobrata Zafferanese. Set on the slopes of Mount Etna, the town of Zafferana Etnea celebrates autumn with one of southern Italy’s most important gastronomic events, providing a chance to mingle with locals and experience a more authentic side of Sicily. Each Sunday, the town celebrates a different product – wine, honey, chestnuts, pistachios, porcini mushrooms – with market stalls, tastings and events. Stay nearby at Terrazza sul Mare, a 2-bedroom villa close to Acireale with a stunning terrace and steps down to the sea.
Finally, Iblabuskers is a festival of street artists that takes place this year from 11-13 October 2024. A fixture on the streets of Ragusa Ibla since 1995, the festival offers magic shows, improvisation, juggling and much more, turning the streets of the extraordinary city into an open-air stage. Get the best views of the action from Piazza Duomo 36, a 4-bedroom apartment overlooking the main piazza in Ragusa Ibla.
