Delicious food, gorgeous hot summers and picturesque landscapes to make you swoon, Sicily is THE romantic paradise. A perfect choice for a couple’s getaway.
Destination highlights
The largest Mediterranean island
A rich historical hotspot
Family-friendly beach destination
Foodie heaven
What are the best beaches in Sicily?
Beach holidays in Sicily are a dream, no matter how last-minute you're planning your cheeky getaway. With turquoise waters and panoramic views, these gorge beaches are worth checking out:
San Vito Lo Capo – This postcard-worthy beach features powder-white sands, palm trees, crashing waves and is popular with local Italian families, a true stamp of approval.
Mondello – A popular beach close by to the hub of Palermo with plenty of facilities nearby, the perfect spot for families.
Cefalù - Another family hotspot, this beach is central for sightseeing and blessed with dreamy golden sands.
Scala dei Turchi - Also known as ‘Stairs of the Turks’, you can see the rock formation that looks like a staircase right next to shallow waters and small stretches of sands.
Calamosche - Nestled in the Vendicari nature reserve, this secluded beach will cost you a stroll, but that's a small price to pay to reach this gorgeous, natural cove.
Isola Bella - Known as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’, this tiny island packs a big, beachy punch as one of Italy’s most beautiful spots.
What are the top hotels in Sicily?
Sicily holidays are a top-tier choice for families, couples, or groups, basically everyone should hit up this beach hot-spot with plenty to do. Get into these hotels that are gonna ensure you have the ultimate relaxing vacay:
La Playa Blanca - This beachfront property offers gorge sea views for the perfect Sicilian break.
Vecchio Borgo - Set in the heart of Palermo, this hotel’s location is perfect for explorers and city lovers alike looking to discover their new fave gem.
Hotel Avalon Sikani - Kick back for the relaxing jolly of your dreams with a hotel that offers views for days, food for months and vibes for years.
Mangia's Pollina Resort - Sophistication, charm and elegance at this cliffside hotel that has all the bases covered for an Italian escape worth shouting about.
Garibaldi - Experience ultimate comfort, serenity, and non-stop entertainment in this hotel, the perfect spot for families with the whole gang in tow.
Popular Sicily hotels
Weather in Sicily
JAN
16°C
FEB
16°C
MAR
18°C
APR
21°C
MAY
26°C
JUN
31°C
JUL
34°C
AUG
34°C
SEP
30°C
OCT
25°C
NOV
21°C
DEC
17°C
From June to August, Sicily's brings the heat. The sun's out in full force, sending temperatures soaring between 25°C and 35°C. If your idea of a good time involves gelato breaks, sun-kissed beaches of Cefalù, or island hopping around the Aeolians, then this is your season.
But, don't get it twisted, when October rolls around, Sicily still has some tricks up its sleeve. We're not talking 35°C, but autumns here are not like autumns as you know them. The days are still comfortably warm, around 20°C to 25°C, ideal for wandering the historic streets of Palermo or exploring the Valley of the Temples without breaking a sweat.
Let's get into Winter, because Sicily keeps it classy. Think 10°C to 15°C from December to February. A tad cooler, a bit rainier, but we're glass half-full types, and this is perfect for those who prefer exploring without the bustling summer crowds. Maybe even catching a rare glimpse of snow on Mount Etna, if you're lucky.
Exploring Sicily in Spring is a time for mild temps ranging from 13°C to 23°C from March to May. You've got a lil lick of heat on your side, plenty of sunshine, and you can still best the Summer jolly crowds if you book with a strategy in mind. If you're visiting in May you can even snag a chance at seeing the Infiorata flower festival in Noto.
Sun-drenched beach days, crisp exploration-friendly afternoons, or cooler culture-rich escapades – Sicily's got it all lined up like the best playlist queue. So grab your calendar and pencil yourself in with paradise.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Sicily?
It takes about three hours to fly to Sicily from the UK/Ireland, kick the jolly off early with a tipple or crack the spine on your first holiday read.
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Sicily?
Sicily is one hour ahead of the UK/Ireland, no jet lag excuses when you go back to work.
What currency do they use in Sicily?
Eur(g)oing to Sicily in Italy, so the local currency is the Euro - if you didn't catch the pun.
What language do they speak in Sicily?
The official language spoken in Sicily is Italian - Duolingo users unite.
Hike up Mount Etna
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and a must-visit when on holiday's to Sicily. Get the most out of your trek to the top with a guided tour, safety first and all that.
Explore Palermo
It's the island’s capital, it'd be rude not to make a day of Palermo, the prime destination for exploration in Sicily. There’s something for everyone, from incredible beaches to historical landmarks, a great shopping scene, mountainous hikes, and stunning architecture.
Visit Valley of the Temples
The Valley of the Temples sounds as grand as it is, an archaeological park just outside of Agrigento with the remains of eight different temples from the fifth and sixth centuries BCE. It’s the largest archaeological site in the world, dust of your stetson and get exploring.
Take a trip to Golde dell'Alcantara
Located in the Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park, this nature-lovers dream spot is a series of world-famous gorges and is one of the most beautiful sights in all of Italy. Picture a natural habitat of sun-soaked crystal-clear waters running through deep canyons.
Take a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands
A Unesco World Heritage site, the seven Aeolian Islands are a masterclass in mother-natures beauty. Book a boat trip and experience all the different islands and what they offer firsthand such as hiking, incredible views, and snorkelling in clear waters.
Ancient City Living at the Villa Romana del Casale
You'll be up to your eyeballs in UNESCO World Heritage Sites with this preserved representation of the ancient Roman villa architectural genre, we're talking mosaics to make your eyes water just a short drive away from Piazza Armerina.
What events can I go to in Sicily?
Sicily holidays are not only your one-stop shop to the largest island in the Mediterranean, but they're also a chance to soak up some historical sights. Why not make the most of your island paradise and check out some of these varied cultural events and festivals happening throughout the year:
Almond Blossom Festival (February–March) - This annual festival takes place in the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and includes a stunning mix of parades, traditional Sicilian marionettes, concerts, and cultural exhibitions.
Easter week (March–April) - Sicily celebrates Easter the old fashioned way with a tonne of religious processions, shows and traditional costumes to feast your eyes on.
Flower Festival (May) - The city of Noto is transformed with a gorgeous carpet of flowers across roads and courtyards. There’s a different theme each year - hayfever sufferers keep those antiistamines to hand, you don't wanna miss this.
Inycon Wine Festival, Menfi (June) - Calling all wine lovers, this summer event is an opportunity to taste the local Sicilian wines and authentic cuisine - how many tipples is too many? We're the wrong people to ask, keep em coming.
Film Festivals (June–July) - The symbol of summer, with a wide range of movies and celebrity appearances in Taormina. There's also a queer film festival in Palermo for all our LGBTQ+ travellers out there.
Ferragosto (August) - The public holiday akin to our infamous bank holidays, a time for the locals to shut up shop and a time for you to join in on the festivities, from Catania to Cefalu, you'll never be far from feasting, festive atmosphere and fireworks.
Couscous Festival, San Vito Lo Capo (September) - One of the most important festivals in Sicily, and for good reason. A time to taste delicious food, enjoy cooking competitions, take part in workshops and watch concerts.
Feast of San Martino (November) - This celebratory festival is the perfect opportunity to live like a local, sample some local dishes, wines, and sweets across Sicily and feel like you've reached new heights in your Italian dream.
Christmas festivities (December) - The Christmas season is an exciting time in Sicily, every province hails to Kris Kringle in their own traditional ways. The many towns and villages have live nativity plays with the local people dressing up in costumes.
Where are the best nightlife spots in Sicily?
Sicily’s nightlife offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to dance until dawn or enjoy a cocktail on the beach, these are the hotspots to check out:
Bocum, Palermo - Palermo’s first ever multi-level cocktail bar - we love a first - it’s known as one of the best, serving up a selection of the finest cocktails and a vibe you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
Al Kenisa, Enna - Housed in a former chapel, this unique cafe comes alive at night with live music. If you're not looking to dance the night away, then this is the perfect place for a glass of wine and a more chilled vibe.
Anche gli Angeli, Noto - This cool, quirky, and LGBTQ+-friendly bar is everything you need to feel like a local on a night out, with its range of wines and live DJ sets - not one to miss if you're after a clumsy two-step on the dance floor.
La Giara, Taormina - The number one entertainment spot in Sicily, it's more than just a restaurant... it's a lifestyle, offering a rooftop terrace overlooking Mount Etna, La Giara features artists and DJs from all over the world.
Baroque Cafe, Syracuse - A stun spot to enjoy a casual tipple in seats that overlook the historic streets of Syracuse. Looking for a slice of culture? You're in luck, enjoy live music, art exhibitions and literary readings - a casual space to call your own.
Enoteca Solaria, Syracuse - For gourmet cheese, charcuterie and an extensive collection of Sicilian wines. If you're looking to settle down in cosy ambience with a crisp glass of white, then this is your new fave place - we're calling it.
What’s the food like in Sicily?
Italian food is always made from the heart with dishes that’ll leave your mouth watering, and Sicilian cuisine showcases this expertly offering Italian’s best taste with a blend of local flavour. Pop your bib on and grab a fork, you need to dive right into these dishes:
Arancini - This iconic Sicilian dish combines deep fried food with creamy risotto goodness, a ball of deep-fried creamy risotto rice to be precise.
Caponata - Fried aubergine stew with tomatoes, onions and celery, and flavoured with capers, pine nuts, raisins, and olives.
Sfincione - Pizza native to Sicily with thick, fluffy dough topped with tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, breadcrumbs and cheese - grab some on the go and post a pic on your story while you're at it.
Pasta alla Norma - Sicily’s most famous pasta dish - no easy feat to achieve - consists of a fresh sauce of local tomatoes, aubergine, garlic, basil, and ricotta salata.
Pasta con le sarde - This heavenly fish dish includes fresh sardines, anchovies, wild fennel, and a sauce made of raisins, saffron, and pine nuts.
Cannoli - Deep fried pastry tubes filled with creamy ricotta - an authentic Sicilian sweet-treat.
Granita con Brioche - a semi-frozen dessert that mixes water, sugar and fruit juice and is paired with a sweet brioche bun, chow down on this for breakfast or a refreshing Summertime snack.
Places to visit
Savoca
Treat yourself to a cliffside sanctuary with proper old town vibes while you wander around the narrow cobbled streets of Savoca. If you're a bit of a film buff, then you'll probably notice some familiar sights on your strolls beacuse... this lil town was used to shoot all three Godfather films! That makes the place feel a confusing blend of epic and picturesque. Don't even get us started on the stunning views and tranquil quiet away from all the usual tourist traps.
Madonie Regional Natural Park
If you're an avid explorer, or just love being at one with nature, then this is the place to be. A lush mix of flora and vegetation spanning thousands of species is perhaps the only info you need to believe that this natural park is host to Sicily's richest biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for rare flowers, mammoth trees and naturally carved stone including Sicily's largest cave, Abisso del vento cave (Abyss of the Wind). There are also quaint towns dotted around the Madonie mountains that all share a common history rooted in architecture and local tradition, what better way to discover Sicily than here?
Marsala
If you're after a trip to a small town that's jam packed with historical sights and stunning architecture, then Marsala is the place. Small enough to explore on foot in a couple hours, but filled with plenty to keep you busy from local eateries to historic wineries. Once you've wined and dined you'll be able to stroll down the narrow streets and soak in the scenery from the Baroque centre to the salt pans to the heart of town in the Piazza della Repubblica where you can crane your neck and marvel at the stunning mother church dedicated to St. Thomas of Canterbury.
Key facts about Sicily
Flight Time
3 hrs
Time Difference
+1 hr
Currency
Euro
Language
Italian
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Sicily?
We're experts in Jollies, so this one might be best to check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Sicily?
There is currently no tax payable in Sicily, however this is subject to change.
