Sicily

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Sicily Holidays

Discover the captivating crossroads of the Mediterranean on a holiday to Sicily.

Holidays to Sicily

From golden beaches and majestic mountains to vibrant cities and rustic villages, Sicily dazzles with endless possibilities. This Mediterranean jewel offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, from Greek temples in Agrigento and Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina to the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna. Palermo, the island’s lively capital, adds its own magic with Arab-Norman architecture, bustling street markets, and golden mosaics, while baroque towns like Noto and Ragusa showcase Sicily’s artistic flair. Beyond the cities, sun-soaked coves, rustic countryside, and authentic cuisine — think arancini, fresh seafood, and sweet cannoli — create a feast for the senses. Sicily holidays promise sunshine, flavour, and unforgettable adventures across Italy’s most diverse and enchanting region.

Why Visit Sicily?

From Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, to golden beaches and rugged coastlines, Sicily offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.
Explore Greek temples in Agrigento, Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina, and Norman cathedrals in Palermo — Sicily is a living museum of civilizations.
Savour arancini, cannoli, and fresh seafood, paired with world-class wines like Nero d’Avola. Sicilian food is bold, rustic, and unforgettable.
Colourful religious processions, lively markets, and open-air theatres showcase Sicily’s vibrant traditions and warm hospitality.

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Places to stay in Sicily

Palermo

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Explore Sicily’s Historical Treasures

Begin your journey through time at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. These well-preserved ancient Greek temples, dating back to the 5th century BC, stand as a testament to Sicily’s rich history. Stroll through this vast site and marvel at the grandeur of the Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Juno, set against a backdrop of olive trees and the glittering Mediterranean Sea. Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city of contrasts where Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences intertwine. Visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral, with its eclectic mix of architectural styles, and the Palatine Chapel, renowned for its exquisite mosaics. Or head to the historic markets of Ballarò and Vucciria, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and savour the island’s culinary delights. Perched high above the Ionian Sea, the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coastline. This well-preserved amphitheatre is still used today for performances and festivals. Wander through the charming streets of Taormina, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and gardens, and soak in the town’s timeless beauty.

Experience Natural Wonders

Sicily holidays offer plenty of unique natural wonders. The Scala dei Turchi, or “Stair of the Turks,” is a striking white limestone cliff on the southern coast of Sicily, near Agrigento. This stunning spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and capturing unforgettable photographs. Embark on a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands and discover a volcanic paradise for hiking, swimming, and diving. Visit Lipari, the largest island, with its picturesque town and archaeological museum. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Stromboli, home to an active volcano, and relax in the thermal waters of Vulcano. No holiday to Sicily is complete without exploring Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Whether you choose to hike its rugged slopes, take a guided tour through its otherworldly landscapes, or ride the cable car for panoramic views, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.

Embrace the Sicilian Spirit & Festivities

Sicily’s vibrant festivals and warm hospitality are an integral part of its charm. Time your Sicilian holiday to coincide with one of the island’s many celebrations to experience its lively spirit firsthand. Held in the historic heart of Syracuse, the Ortigia Festival is a celebration of performing arts, featuring theatre, music, and dance performances in stunning open-air venues. Book a holiday to Sicily in May to see the baroque town of Noto transform its streets into a colourful blanket of flower petals for the Infiorata festival. Or plan a winter Sicilian holiday to experience one of Sicily’s most important religious festivals, the Feast of Saint Agatha in Catania. This grand event welcomes processions, fireworks, and traditional music every February, as the city honours its patron saint.

Food & Drink

Sicilian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours, shaped by centuries of cultural influences. From fresh seafood and vibrant vegetables to rich pastries and robust wines, the island’s culinary offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Sample the island’s famous arancini, deep-fried rice balls filled with ragù, cheese, or other delicious ingredients. Explore the bustling street food markets of Palermo and Catania, where you can try local specialities like panelle (chickpea fritters), sfincione (Sicilian pizza), and cannoli (sweet ricotta-filled pastries). Or take a tour of the local Marsala vineyards and wineries, where you can learn about the winemaking process and enjoy tastings of Marsala wine, Nero d’Avola, and Grillo.

Travel guide

Whether you're planning a pocket-friendly package holiday to Sicily or seeking the perfect Italian villa, our inclusive deals offer something for everyone.

Currency: Euro
Average flight time: 3 Hours
Time Difference: +1 Hours
Most suited for: Couples, Groups
Best time to visit: April-June

All Hotels - Sicily

Weather

Average monthly temperature in Sicily (°C)

Jan 9^°C
Feb 9^°C
Mar 10^°C
Apr 12^°C
May 15^°C
Jun 19^°C
Jul 22^°C
Aug 22^°C
Sep 21^°C
Oct 17^°C
Nov 13^°C
Dec 10^°C

Before you travel - Sicily: Frequently asked questions‎

Sicily uses the euro (€), as it is part of Italy. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, although it is useful to carry some cash for smaller cafés, local markets and traditional businesses.

1. Explore Mount Etna.

One of Sicily's most famous natural attractions, Mount Etna is an active volcano on the eastern side of the island. Visitors can take guided excursions, explore volcanic landscapes and enjoy spectacular views across the surrounding countryside. Depending on conditions, there are opportunities for hiking and cable-car excursions, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. Visit the ancient Valley of the Temples.

Located near Agrigento, this remarkable archaeological site features impressive Greek temples dating back thousands of years. Visitors can walk among the ancient ruins, admire the Temple of Concordia and discover the history of one of the most important archaeological areas in the Mediterranean.

3. Discover the beautiful town of Taormina.

Taormina is famous for its picturesque streets, boutique shops and breathtaking coastal views. Visit the ancient Greek Theatre, explore the historic centre and take in the scenery overlooking Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Enjoy Sicily's beaches.

Sicily offers a wide variety of beaches, from sandy stretches to secluded coves and dramatic rocky coastlines. Popular destinations include San Vito Lo Capo, Isola Bella near Taormina and the beautiful beaches of the Egadi Islands. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, snorkel and enjoy boat trips during the warmer months.

5. Explore Palermo's markets and historic streets.

Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a lively city filled with historic architecture, colourful markets and traditional food. Wander through the streets of the old town, visit Palermo Cathedral and the Palatine Chapel, and sample local street food such as arancini, panelle and cannoli.

6. Visit Syracuse and the island of Ortigia.

Syracuse is one of Sicily's most fascinating historic destinations, with ancient Greek ruins, impressive architecture and a beautiful waterfront. Explore the archaeological park, discover the historic island of Ortigia and enjoy its charming squares, restaurants and sea views.

7. Take a trip to the Aeolian Islands.
Located off Sicily's northern coast, the Aeolian Islands are known for their volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages. Visit Lipari for its historic centre, explore the volcanic scenery of Vulcano or experience the dramatic landscape of Stromboli. Ferry services and excursions vary by season and weather.

8. Sample traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Sicily is a fantastic destination for food lovers, with a culinary heritage influenced by Italian, Arab and Mediterranean traditions. Try arancini, cannoli, cassata and pasta alla Norma, alongside fresh seafood and locally produced wines. Traditional cafés and markets are also excellent places to discover regional specialities.

The best time to visit Sicily is generally spring and early autumn, particularly from April to June and September to October. During these months, temperatures are usually pleasant for sightseeing, exploring archaeological sites and enjoying the island's beaches without the peak summer crowds.

Summer, from June to August, is ideal for visitors looking for hot weather, swimming and relaxing by the sea. However, temperatures can become very high, particularly inland, and popular destinations such as Taormina and Palermo can be busy during the main holiday season.

Spring is especially attractive for exploring Sicily's countryside, gardens and historic towns, while September and early October often provide warm conditions for coastal holidays and boat trips.

Winter is generally milder along the coast than in many parts of northern Europe, although rain is more likely and some seasonal hotels, restaurants and boat services may operate reduced schedules. Mount Etna can experience snow during winter, creating a very different landscape from the beaches below.

Sicily is a large island with varied landscapes and regional climates, so the best time to visit also depends on whether you are planning a beach holiday, cultural city break or outdoor adventure.

Taormina

Taormina is one of Sicily's most popular holiday destinations, renowned for its dramatic coastal views, elegant streets and historic attractions. The ancient Greek Theatre is a major highlight, offering impressive views across the coastline towards Mount Etna. Visitors can wander along Corso Umberto, browse boutique shops and enjoy traditional Italian food at restaurants overlooking the sea. Below the town, Isola Bella is a beautiful coastal spot known for its small island, clear water and picturesque setting. Taormina is particularly popular with couples and travellers looking for a combination of culture, scenery and relaxation.

Palermo

Palermo is Sicily's lively capital and an excellent destination for visitors interested in history, architecture and local food. The city features a fascinating mix of Arab, Norman and Baroque influences, visible in its churches, palaces and historic streets.

Popular attractions include Palermo Cathedral, the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel. Visitors can also explore the bustling Ballarò and Capo markets, where traditional Sicilian street food and local produce are widely available. Palermo is an excellent place to experience the island's culture and vibrant everyday life.

Catania

Situated on Sicily's eastern coast, Catania is a lively city known for its Baroque architecture and proximity to Mount Etna. Its historic centre features impressive buildings constructed using volcanic stone, giving the city a distinctive appearance.

Visitors can explore Piazza del Duomo, admire the Elephant Fountain and browse the traditional fish market. Catania also offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés and nightlife, making it a good base for exploring eastern Sicily, including Mount Etna, Taormina and the surrounding coastline.

Syracuse and Ortigia

Syracuse is a historic coastal city with a rich Greek and Roman heritage. Its archaeological park contains ancient ruins, including a Greek Theatre and the famous Ear of Dionysius, a large limestone cave. Nearby, the island of Ortigia is known for its elegant piazzas, narrow streets, waterfront restaurants and beautiful architecture. Visitors can admire Syracuse Cathedral, explore local shops and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere beside the sea. It is an excellent destination for history enthusiasts and travellers looking for a charming coastal setting.

Agrigento

Agrigento is best known for the Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily's most important archaeological attractions. The site features remarkably preserved Greek temples set against a landscape of olive trees and Mediterranean scenery. Visitors can explore the Temple of Concordia and other ancient structures while learning about the history of the Greek settlement of Akragas. The nearby historic town also offers traditional streets, churches and restaurants serving Sicilian specialities. Agrigento is an excellent destination for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology.

Cefalu

Cefalù is a picturesque coastal town on Sicily's northern shore, famous for its sandy beach, medieval streets and impressive Norman cathedral. Its combination of historic architecture and seaside scenery makes it a popular destination for couples and families. Visitors can explore the old town, enjoy a meal in a traditional restaurant or relax on the beach with views of the historic buildings. Those looking for panoramic scenery can also hike up La Rocca, the rocky hill overlooking the town, subject to trail conditions and access.

Noto

Noto is one of the most beautiful towns in southeastern Sicily and is celebrated for its elegant Baroque architecture. Rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1693, the town features ornate churches, grand palaces and attractive limestone buildings. Visitors can stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, admire Noto Cathedral and enjoy cafés serving traditional Sicilian pastries. The surrounding region also offers opportunities to explore countryside landscapes, vineyards and nearby beaches.

San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito Lo Capo is a popular seaside resort in northwestern Sicily, known for its long sandy beach and clear turquoise waters. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying a traditional beach holiday.

The town has a variety of restaurants and cafés, with a strong emphasis on seafood and local couscous dishes. Nearby nature reserves offer opportunities for walking and discovering Sicily's coastal scenery. San Vito Lo Capo is particularly popular during the summer months, so booking accommodation in advance is recommended.

*Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, so it is worth planning your itinerary around one or two areas rather than trying to see everything in a short stay. Palermo is a convenient base for exploring the west, while Catania is well placed for Mount Etna, Taormina and the eastern coast. Public transport connects many major towns, but hiring a car can offer greater flexibility for visiting smaller villages and remote beaches. Check ferry schedules and volcanic activity updates before planning excursions.

Room only – ideal for independent travellers who want to explore Sicily's traditional restaurants, cafés, food markets and local nightlife.

Bed and Breakfast (B&B) – perfect for visitors who want breakfast included before heading out on sightseeing trips, beach excursions or guided tours.

Half board – includes breakfast and dinner, making it a convenient choice for holidaymakers who want to explore during the day and return to their accommodation for an evening meal.

Full board – includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, which can suit visitors who prefer to have their main meals arranged at their accommodation.

All Inclusive – a convenient option for those who want meals, drinks and selected hotel facilities included in one package. This can be particularly suitable for families and visitors looking for a relaxing resort holiday. Availability and inclusions vary by hotel, with all-inclusive options more commonly found at certain beach resorts than in historic city centres.

Learn more about holiday board basis options.

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