Things To Do
in Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a captivating blend of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Known for its ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and idyllic beaches, Sicily offers visitors a chance to explore its layered past and indulge in its culinary delights. The island's unique position has attracted various cultures over centuries, including the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs, all of which have left their mark.

With its active volcanoes, including Mount Etna, and picturesque towns like Taormina and Cefalù, Sicily is a destination that promises adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Palermo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Palermo Cathedral, an architectural marvel. Enjoy a traditional Sicilian breakfast of 'cannoli' and cappuccino at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant markets of Ballarò and Vucciria, sampling street food like arancini and panelle. Visit the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel to admire stunning mosaics.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant overlooking the sea, savoring fresh seafood dishes. End your night with a stroll through the historic center, enjoying local gelato.

day 2
Day 2: Taormina and Mount Etna
morning
:

Travel to Taormina and visit the ancient Greek Theatre, which offers breathtaking views of the coast and Mount Etna. Take in the beautiful gardens of Villa Comunale.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, then take a guided tour to Mount Etna, where you can hike around the craters and learn about the volcano's geological features.

evening
:

Return to Taormina for dinner at a rooftop restaurant with sunset views. Enjoy a glass of local wine as you soak in the atmosphere of this charming town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
🍷Glass of Wine$5
Coffee$2
🥗Meal at a Restaurant$20
🚕Taxi Ride$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Stunning landscapes and natural beauty
  • Delicious and diverse cuisine
  • Some areas can be overcrowded in summer
  • Public transportation may be limited in rural areas
  • Language barrier may exist in less touristy regions
  • "Ciao" - Hello
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sicily

Visit one of these nice places.

Valley of the Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage site in Agrigento featuring well-preserved ancient Greek temples.

Mount Etna

The highest volcano in Europe, providing stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.

Cefalù Beach

A picturesque beach with a backdrop of the medieval town and its iconic Norman Cathedral.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sicily

Sicilian cuisine is a delightful medley of flavors, influenced by its diverse history and abundant local produce. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to indulge in the island's culinary treasures.

Sicily Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Caponata

A sweet and sour eggplant stew, typically served as an appetizer.

Must-Try!

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings, usually meat or cheese.

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese.

Cannoli

Fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ballarò Market

A bustling market in Palermo offering fresh produce, street food, and local specialties.

Vucciria Market

Another famous market in Palermo known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sicily has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F). Rain is more common in autumn and winter, while spring offers mild and pleasant conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid asking for modifications to dishes.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sicily is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. It’s recommended to avoid displaying valuables and to use reputable transportation options. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Sicily

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and crowded, ideal for beach lovers but best to book accommodations in advance.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring cities and vineyards.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is mild but can be rainy; some attractions may have reduced hours.

Nightlife Guide

Sicily at Night

Sicily's nightlife varies by city; Palermo boasts a vibrant scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Taormina offers a more relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and seaside dining. Expect late nights, with many locals heading out after dinner and enjoying the warm Mediterranean nights.

Hiking in Sicily

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Viadotto

A scenic trail near the Alcantara Gorges, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Etna Park Trails

Various trails around Mount Etna offer stunning views and diverse ecosystems, suitable for different skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Sicily by plane.

Falcone-Borsellino Airport

Located near Palermo, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a key entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sicily's cities, especially Palermo and Taormina, are quite walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, though it's advisable to be cautious of traffic in busy areas. Exploring on foot allows visitors to fully appreciate the local architecture and vibrant street life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Sicilian Locals

Predominantly Italian, the locals take great pride in their cultural heritage and traditions.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience Sicily's history, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Sicily, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Cycling

The diverse landscapes make Sicily a great destination for cycling, whether on coastal roads or through rural areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested in larger cities like Palermo, especially during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and trains, but services may be limited in rural areas. Renting a car can be beneficial for exploring the island's attractions at your own pace.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sicily.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many Sicilian dishes are naturally vegetarian, such as caponata and pasta alla Norma.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional pasta contains gluten, many restaurants offer gluten-free pasta and alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sicily is generally good, with public hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 118. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers health care costs, especially for non-EU visitors.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide