Visit Sicily
Introduction
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a dream destination for travellers seeking a mix of rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. From the ancient ruins of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples to the bustling markets of Palermo, Sicily offers something for everyone.
Enjoy great international connections with two main airports, Catania International Airport on the east coast and Palermo Falcone Airport on the north coast.
What is the weather like in Sicily?
Sicily enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it the perfect year-round destination. Summer temperatures range from 30°C to 35 °C, making it the ideal place for beach lovers. In autumn, there are regular highs of 25 °C. This season also coincides with the harvest, making it the perfect time to enjoy the fresh produce and local wines. Rainfall is extremely limited during the summer months and even in December, the wettest month, it only rains on average twelve days.
Top things to do in Sicily
With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sicily is steeped in history. Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, where some of the best-preserved Greek temples are set against a backdrop of olive groves and rolling hills. Or discover Syracuse, the most beautiful and greatest Greek city according to Cicero. Sit on the stone steps of the theatre and watch a Greek tragedy performed to celebrate the classic culture.
Other things to do include visiting Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. You can hike up its slopes, take a cable car, or join a guided tour to explore its craters and lava fields. Or stroll through Palermo, Sicily’s capital, with a vibrant mix of cultures, stunning architecture and an incredible food scene. Sicily has numerous stunning beaches, particularly in the picturesque town of Taormina. Spend a day unwinding on the shores of Isola Bella, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
Best restaurants in Sicily
Sicily’s cuisine reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped its history, including Arabia, Africa, Spain and of course Italy. The island is famous for its fresh, local ingredients, especially its Sicilian lemons, enhancing everything from seafood dishes to the popular liqueur, limoncello. With Sicily being Italy’s largest wine region, holding 242,000 vineyard acres, don’t miss out on taking part in a wine tasting and sampling some of Sicily’s top wines.
Street food is a popular choice throughout the island, offering a taste of Sicily’s vibrant food culture. Try iconic Sicilian snacks like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and sfincione (a spongy pizza topped with tomato, onion and anchovies). Palermo’s street markets, such as Vucciria and Ballaro, are the perfect place to sample these and immerse yourself in the island’s culinary traditions.
For fine dining, visit the Michelin-starred restaurant Gagini in the heart of Palermo. This restaurant does not disappoint by serving contrasting, rich flavours prepared from locally sourced ingredients.
What’s nearby?
The Aeolian Islands can be discovered by a short boat ride from the northern coast. These volcanic islands offer crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and the chance to experience island life. Lipari and Vulcano are particularly popular.
Cefalù, found on the northern coast an hour from Palermo, is a seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, old town and Norman cathedral. A two-mile hike up Rocca di Cefalù shows exceptional views of the town and coastline below. This is the perfect day-trip for those who enjoy a hiking adventure.
Where to stay:
- Palermo: For a taste of city life, Palermo offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Rocca Forte Villa Igeia to charming boutique options like the Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel.
- Taormina: Taormina is the place to stay for its stunning views and easy access to beaches. Consider the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, set in a prime location near the Greek theatre or for a budget-friendly choice choose the Hotel Villa Schuler for breathtaking views over Naxos Bay and Mount Etna.
- Agrigento: If you are planning to explore the Valley of the Temples, stay nearby at Villa Athena, a luxurious hotel with direct views of the ancient ruins, or choose a bed and breakfast like Colleverde Park Hotel.
Ready to embark on your Sicilian adventure? Don’t forget to secure your car hire excess insurance with Questor Insurance today! Safe travels!
For more information, visit Sicily's Tourism' website.
Insurance you should consider if you are travelling to Sicily and renting a car Car Hire Excess Insurance and Travel Insurance from Questor Insurance.