Things to do in Sicily

All about Sicily

When to visit

Sicily is a year-round destination. In May, June, September, and October, crowds thin and the water is comfortably warm. Peak season, July–August, is a magnet for Europe’s sun-worshippers—and with near-perfect beaches come high prices and sweltering heat reaching 111˚F (44˚C). Winter is for visiting museums and historic buildings or for heading to the interior for some of Italy’s most affordable skiing—you can even try the slopes of Mount Etna.

Getting around

There are multiple transportation options in Sicily. On main routes along the north and east coasts, between Palermo and Syracuse, trains are fast, affordable, and (mostly) reliable. Slower, limited regional trains connect some remaining parts of the island. Between smaller cities and interior towns, buses can be faster than trains and are sometimes the only public transportation available. Rental cars are ideal for exploring the countryside or taking island road trips. Ferries connect Sicily with Mediterranean ports and offshore islands.

Traveler tips

​​Sicily has some of the Mediterranean’s best beaches, but many become packed elbow-to-elbow when the weather is nice. To find more secluded spots, try visiting the island’s coastal nature reserves. There’s the Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro in the northwest, the Reserve of the Lakes of Marinello in the northeast, and the Vendicari Nature Reserve near Noto in the southeast. Admission is cheap, and you’ll be far more likely to find unspoiled, waterside beauty.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sicily best known for?

Sicily is known as the crossroads of the Mediterranean. The island’s varied architectural heritage runs from Palermo’s Moorish Zisa to the Greek ruins at the Valle dei Templi. Other symbols of Sicilia include Mount Etna’s smoldering volcano, scimitar-shaped beaches, and cannoli, divine pastries brimming with sweet ricotta cheese.

What can you do in Sicily for a day?

Sicily is too large to be seen in one day. However, you can visit Palermo’s historic center; catch an evening performance at Taormina’s ancient, open-air theater; explore Catania’s fish market; or take a plunge in Piscina di Venere, a natural pool at the tip of Capo Milazzo near Messina.

How many days do you need in Sicily?

Sicily is too large to be seen in one day. However, you can visit Palermo’s historic center; catch an evening performance at Taormina’s ancient, open-air theater; explore Catania’s fish market; or take a plunge in Piscina di Venere, a natural pool at the tip of Capo Milazzo near Messina.

What should I not miss in Sicily?

Beaches and ruins are top attractions. No visit to Sicily is complete without swimming near Cefalu, Mondello (in Palermo), or San Vito Lo Capo. The Valle dei Templi has some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world; while the Villa Romana del Casale holds a collection of Roman floor mosaics.

Which part of Sicily is most beautiful?

Where to go for beauty depends on your interests. Mount Etna looms over the east coast, home to seaside gems Taormina and Ortigia. The southeast has baroque Noto and the Vendicari, a coastal nature preserve with migrating flamingos. Beaches ring the island, but the sleepy northwest coast ones are especially nice.

Is Sicily dangerous for tourists?

No. Sicily is generally a safe destination for tourists. The Sicilian Mafia, known as Cosa Nostra among its members, operates out-of-sight and doesn’t typically commit violence against foreigners. Petty crime and theft is more common. Take normal safety precautions in the cities, especially in Palermo near the port.

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