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Sicily

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As the largest Island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is almost a nation unto itself. It may be part of Italy but this islands' individual cultural style sets it apart from the rest of the country and has a lot to bring in terms of art, intrigue, gastronomy and fantastically warm weather. This island has been inhabited by Sicilians for a number of millennia so the historical treats here come thick and fast. Along with a great number of picturesque beaches, the astounding Mount Etna and a great number of Roman and Greek Architectural structures and ruins, this island is packed with culture and things to do. Additionally, much of Sicily’s economy is driven by the production of oranges and lemons (often used in the Italian aperitif "Limoncello") which drives the islands' great food industry.

To be part of Sicily's great sense of community even if only for a week is a great experience. Many visitors plan their trips so that they coincide with the many festivals that occur during the year, or so that they can make the best of the hot weather during the months of May to September.

Areas

Messina

At the Easternmost point of Sicily, closest to Italy is the province of Messina. This coastal region's capital City Messina is well known for stunning architecture in the form of churches, cathedrals, fountains and museums. Also this is where the Messina Straight lies; the stretch of water connecting Sicily and the rest of Italy.

Palermo

Palermo is the biggest of all nine provinces in Sicily. While the economy here is largely driven by agriculture, farming and trade industries, the tourist industry is booming here and it's an exciting place to visit.

Catania

The province of Catania lies just underneath that of Messina. Along with a huge number of Roman architectural structures and Baroque churches/cathedrals Catania has a great sense of music and sport, having won 15 years of European Champion Cup Water Polo titles.

Syracuse

Being almost 3 millennia old, Syracuse has a huge amount of historical intrigue to offer its visitors. This is apparent from both the architecture and the strongly established way of life in this City which is located in the Province of Syracuse. With Cathedrals, Castles, Palaces and Amphitheaters you will never be short of a sight to see in Syracuse.

Weather

The weather in Sicily is very different to that in North Italy where the winters can get very cold. The maximum temperature for the summer is between 25-35ºC (May to September) and the best time to visit would be during late May to June so as to avoid the hottest weather, yet still catch lots of warm sun.

Average Temperatures

F/C	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
F	55	55	57	60	66	73	79	80	76	70	62	58
C	13	13	14	16	19	23	26	27	24	21	17	14

Average Precipitation/Rain

In./CM	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
In.	3.6	2.3	2.2	1.5	0.7	0.2	0.2	0.5	1.6	3.7	3.6	4
CM	9.1	5.8	5.6	3.8	1.8	0.5	0.5	1.3	4.1	9.4	9.1	10.2

Getting There

There are a huge variety of ways to choose from when traveling to Sicily and depending on your family’s individual needs and preferences there should be a mode of transport suitable for you.

By Plane

Flying is probably the most direct and easiest way to get to Sicily. Airports are in the island's two main towns; Catania (East) and Palermo (West) and provide regular flights to both Italy and the rest of Europe.

By Train

Intercity and Eurostar are the companies responsible for the train service which runs through Milan, Rome, Naples, Messina, Catania, Siracuse and Palermo. A train from Rome to Messina takes around 9 hours and travel at all times of day.

By Ferry

Ferries to Sicily can be boarded from Italy, Tunisia, Egypt, Sardinia or even Malta. Taking a ferry can be a quick and cheaper way to travel to the island as the journey only takes around half an hour to cross the Messina Straight.

By Car

Despite the fact that Sicily is an island; it is still accessible by car via the Messina Straight which connects the very southern tip of Italy. Similarly you can catch a bus if you do not want to drive.

Getting Around

By Car

The standard driving rules for Italy apply in Sicily (drive on the right, speed limit of 30mph in Cities) and any driver must have an International driver's license. There are three main motorways, the first of which connects Messina with Palermo, the second Palermo with Catania and the third connects Messina with Catania. Hiring a car in Sicily is simple with companies in every major Town and City including "Hertz" and "Auto Europe".

By Train

Of course travel by car isn't for everyone, and this is where traveling by train might be best. Train services via Trenitalia take visitors to Siracuse, Palermo, Messina and Catania, whereas there is a separate train service called "Circumetnea" which takes visitors around the area of Mount Etna.

By Bus

There are several bus companies offering their services to visitors of Sicily. All of which operate on either Linee Urbane (within city centers, "urban" areas) or Linee Extraurbane (the areas between towns and cities, mainly motorways). Possibly the most useful bus company for tourists is the AST which travels to Sicily's main towns (Palermo, Modica, Trapani, Catania and Messina).

Sights & Activities

On holiday in Sicily you can choose anything from visiting a nature reserve to sunbathing on the beach, or trekking up Mount Etna to watching plays carried out in ancient Roman amphitheaters. The best idea would be to make an itinerary of where you plan to go and how you are to get there, so that you don’t miss out on something special!

Mount Etna (for activity)

Skiing and hiking enthusiasts will love Mount Etna; the second most active Volcano on the planet. There are several guided excursions which can be taken right to the top and around the surrounding area.

Taormina

Taormina provides visitors a great way to sit back and be entertained at the Greek theatre which has fantastic views of Etna and Sicily's Eastern shores.

Palermo

If you’re simply looking to sample some of Sicily's finest food, typical town life and to do some shopping then look to the North Western City of Palermo; one of the Island's biggest towns. Here you can find markets, restaurants and cafés lining the streets.

Cefalu

Relaxation is a key part to any holiday and Sicily's beaches at Cefalu provide the ideal setting for just such an activity. Additionally there are museums, the Temple of Diana and a cathedral to see here. Cefalu is a few miles east of the City of Palermo; North Sicily.

Nebrodi Park

In the middle of Catania and Messina lies the Nebrodi natural park, not far from Mount Etna. This is the ideal place for a relaxing family walk and a picnic in the forest.