Sicily holidays: an island that rewards a proper trip.
Sicily is not a quick add-on to a mainland holiday. It is a destination in its own right, with history, food, beaches and landscapes that deserve a trip built around them.
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and one of the most rewarding parts of Italy. Greek temples, baroque towns, dramatic coastline, Mount Etna and some of the best food in the country all sit within a few hours of each other. It is also large, so trying to see all of it in a few days is a mistake.
The best Sicilian holidays either settle in one area or follow a relaxed route around part of the island.
Where to base yourself
Different corners of Sicily suit different trips.
The south east, around Taormina, Siracusa and the baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa, is the classic first visit, with beauty, history and good bases. The west, around Palermo, Trapani and the temples of Agrigento, is wilder and less visited. Taormina is the glamorous coastal base, beautiful but busy in summer. For a first trip, the south east offers the easiest mix.
Planning Sicily?
We help you choose a base or a route that suits your time.
Seeing the island
Sicily rewards either a single base with day trips or a gentle loop between two or three areas. A common route takes in Palermo, the south east and Taormina over a week or more. You will want a car for the countryside, the temples and the smaller towns, though the cities themselves are walkable. Distances are real, so build in time and do not over-plan.
When to go
Late spring and early autumn are ideal, with warm weather, the sea still swimmable and fewer crowds. High summer is hot, especially inland, and the most popular coastal towns get very busy. Winter is mild and quiet, good for cities, food and history, though some coastal resorts wind down.
Settle in, or loop slowly. Do not rush it.
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• Questions
Good to know
Where should you stay in Sicily?
The south east around Taormina, Siracusa and the baroque towns is the classic first visit. The west around Palermo and Trapani is wilder and less visited.
Do you need a car in Sicily?
For the countryside, temples and smaller towns, yes. The main cities are walkable, but a car opens up the island.
How many days do you need in Sicily?
A week or more lets you settle in one area or loop between two or three. A few days is only enough for a single base.
When is the best time to visit Sicily?
Late spring and early autumn offer warm weather and fewer crowds. High summer is hot and busy, especially on the coast.