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Sicily

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily offers a wide selection of activities and natural charms to enthral its visitors. The gorgeous sandy beaches at Cala Mosche, Sant Vito Lo Capo and Cefalu provide the perfect setting for you to sunbathe, snorkel and windsurf. Visit the bustling capital Palermo for shopping and nightlife, or gaze upon impressive Mount Etna, the bubbling volcano which is the spiritual heart of the island. Alternatively, hire a car and explore the quaint villages in the island’s interior for a slice of authentic Sicilian life, taking time to sample delicious local dishes including arancine, penelle and cannoli. With a culture distinct from mainland Italy, Sicily is also packed with ancient sites, including the Valley of the Temples, where you can witness Greek-style architecture and understand more about the history of one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.

 

What you’ll love most about Sicily

  • Dive into Sicily’s rich history by visiting ancient ruins like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Greek Theatre in Taormina, and the Roman Villa del Casale in Piazza Armerina
  • Delight your taste buds with Sicilian cuisine, featuring dishes like arancini (rice balls), caponata (eggplant stew), pasta alla norma, and cannoli, along with local wines and seafood specialties
  • Unwind on Sicily’s beautiful beaches, such as San Vito Lo Capo, Mondello, and Isola Bella, with their golden sands and crystalline waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
  • Stroll through picturesque towns like Taormina, Siracusa, and Cefalù, with their narrow streets, historic buildings, vibrant markets, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna
  • Explore the island’s diverse landscapes, including Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, the scenic Aeolian Islands, and the stunning nature reserves of Zingaro and Vendicari, offering hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures
  • Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture by attending local festivals, religious processions, and events celebrating music, art, and cuisine, where you can mingle with friendly locals and experience the island’s warm hospitality first-hand

Where to Book

  • Ancient ruins of the ancient Greek Theatre in Sicily

  • Old cobbled lane village scene in Sicily, Italy

  • Castellammare del Golfo village of Sicily

  • View of the beach town of Cefalu, Sicily

  • Palermo's Fountain of Shame on the Piazza Pretoria, Sicily

  • Norman Cathedral of Assumption the Virgin Mary in Palermo, Sicily

  • View of Isola Bella Island near Taormina, Sicily

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 12℃
  • 12℃
  • 13℃
  • 16℃
  • 19℃
  • 23℃
  • 26℃
  • 26℃
  • 24℃
  • 21℃
  • 17℃
  • 13℃
  • 10
  • 8
  • 6
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 9
  • 8
  • 9

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Sicily in January is cool and quiet, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C. It’s the off-season, so there are fewer tourists, and while some coastal areas may feel chilly, it’s a great time to explore historical sites like Agrigento's Valley of the Temples or enjoy winter festivals in Palermo.

February

Similar to January, February remains cool, with temperatures around 9°C to 15°C. The island is still in its off-season, but it’s a great time for cultural exploration, especially in cities like Palermo and Catania. The almond blossom festival in Agrigento is a beautiful sight during this month.

March

Temperatures begin to rise in March, averaging between 12°C and 17°C, and spring starts to bloom. The weather is mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the island’s natural beauty, such as hiking in Mount Etna’s lower slopes or visiting Sicily’s charming villages.

April

April marks the arrival of spring, with temperatures around 15°C to 20°C. It’s a great time to explore Sicily’s beaches, although the sea might still be too cool for swimming. The countryside is lush and green, and it’s a fantastic month for visiting ancient ruins and enjoying Sicily’s Easter celebrations.

May

May is one of the best months to visit Sicily, with warm temperatures around 19°C to 24°C and plenty of sunshine. It’s perfect for beach activities, hiking, and visiting towns like Taormina. The weather is ideal for exploring Sicily’s diverse landscapes, from the coast to the mountains, without the summer crowds.

June

June brings warm, sunny days with temperatures reaching around 26°C. The tourist season starts picking up, but the beaches and attractions are still relatively uncrowded. It’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking in the Madonie Mountains or enjoying Sicily’s beautiful coastline.

July

July is hot, with temperatures often rising to 30°C or higher. This is peak season, and Sicily’s beaches, like those in Cefalù and San Vito Lo Capo, are packed with tourists. It’s a perfect month for beach lovers, though inland areas can get quite hot. Festivals and outdoor concerts add to the island’s lively summer atmosphere.

August

August is the hottest and busiest month in Sicily, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Many Italians take their vacations during this time, so the beaches and resorts are crowded. While it’s a great time for enjoying the Mediterranean Sea, the heat can be intense, especially in inland areas. It’s also a festive month, with celebrations like Ferragosto (August 15th).

September

September is one of the best months to visit Sicily, with warm temperatures around 25°C, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed vibe. The sea is still warm, making it perfect for swimming, and the vineyards are busy with harvest season. It’s a great time for exploring both the beaches and the countryside.

October

October offers mild temperatures ranging from 19°C to 23°C, and the tourist season winds down. The weather is still pleasant for sightseeing and enjoying Sicily’s outdoor attractions, though there’s a chance of rain. It’s also a great month for food lovers, with many harvest festivals celebrating local produce like olives and wine.

November

Temperatures cool down in November, ranging from 14°C to 18°C, and rain becomes more frequent. This is a quieter time to visit, especially for cultural tourism and exploring historical cities like Syracuse. The island’s olive harvest is in full swing, and it's a peaceful time for those seeking tranquility.

December

December in Sicily is cool, with temperatures between 10°C and 16°C. While the coastal areas are quiet, the festive season brings Christmas markets and holiday events, especially in Palermo and Catania. It's a great time to enjoy Sicily’s rich cultural heritage, cosy up in local trattorias, and experience the island’s winter charm.

Our Ratings

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Where to book


Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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“At Just You, we’ve been crafting worldwide touring holidays specifically for solo travellers for over 20 years. There’s so much included in our tours: flights, accommodation (own rooms are guaranteed) and all breakfasts. We pack in amazing experiences, as well as free time to relax and explore. With expert Holiday Directors, we’re there for you throughout your trip.”

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Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

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Touring Highlights help families, couples, and small friendship groups experience the best of Europe, through including the best activities, day trips & excursions in their tours as standard. Tours are self-guided, meaning you don’t have to spend most of your trip on a coach with 20+ strangers.

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For more than 60 years, Travelsphere has been crafting amazing itineraries to destinations around the world. They take care of all the details so you don’t have to. From flights, hotels, the services of an expert Holiday Director, and a range of incredible experiences, each tour is designed to immerse you in local culture, cuisine and take you to explore all the very best sights.

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