Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
- Home
- Destinations
- Italy Sicily
Sicily holidays: Enjoy a memorable holiday on a budget
Are you planning a family holiday in Italy? Holidays to Sicily offer a mesmerising blend of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. With frequent flights to Sicily, you can easily get to your destination from the UK. From exploring ancient Greek ruins in Agrigento to basking on sun-kissed beaches, Sicily is the ideal destination for everyone.
Indulge in world-famous Sicilian cuisine and wander through charming towns such as Taormina and Palermo. With cheap holidays to Sicily, it’s easier than ever to enjoy its stunning coastlines and vibrant local markets. If you’re craving relaxation or an adventurous escape, check out our offers on cheap hotels and flights to Sicily. Start planning your Italian holiday today.
Sicily at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 3 hours 5 minutes
Main airport: Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Population: 4.79 million
Language: Sicilian and Italian
Currency: Euro
Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
Getting to Sicily from the UK
Whether you’re heading for its golden beaches or charming towns, Sicily is just a few hours away from the UK. Direct flights are available from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Manchester to major airports like Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport and Catania Fontanarossa Airport. These flights last about three hours and are the fastest way to immerse yourself in Sicilian charm. Budget airlines often offer affordable airfare, making holidays to Sicily even more accessible.
If you land at Palermo Airport, it’s roughly 22 miles to the city centre, a journey easily covered by train, bus or taxi. However, Catania Airport is only four miles from the centre, offering quick transfers to Sicily hotels by shuttle or taxi. With stunning landscapes and rich culture awaiting you, your Sicilian escape begins the moment you land.
The best time to visit Sicily
Sicily is one of the few European holiday destinations with great weather all year round. That means it’s a top tourist destination that attracts crowds for summer beach holidays. The best time for a holiday in Sicily is from April to June and in October. During these months, you can enjoy mild weather and explore the attractions without the crowds. For fun celebrations and festivals, visit in April or May to experience the local culture.
The peak season for summer holidays arrives in July and August. You’ll have to wait in crowds at various attractions, and the weather can be hot. August and September are the busiest months in Sicily and the most expensive time to visit Sicily. You will have to pay more for hotels and tours.
November to March is off-season and when Sicilian winter begins. Sicily is usually chilly in winter, with snow at high altitudes, but if you don’t mind the cold, you’ll have the island to yourself. Remember to pack for winter and stick to city attractions.
Best places to visit in Sicily
Discover the enchanting Aeolian Islands
Are you up for a beach and island-hopping adventure? Then, head to the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mesmerising archipelago, located off Sicily’s northern coast, is famous for its crystal-clear waters, volcanic landscapes and charming villages.
Must-sees include:
Visit Lipari, the largest island, for its historic castle and vibrant atmosphere.
Explore Stromboli, home to an active volcano offering thrilling hikes and fiery views.
Relax in Salina, known for lush greenery and delicious Malvasia wine.
All the islands are accessible by ferry or boat tour from Sicily.
Go on a family expedition to Mount Etna
Embark on a thrilling family adventure to Mount Etna, one of Sicily’s top attractions. Located near Catania, this majestic site offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Hike along its lava trails, or take a cable car for spectacular views of craters and the surrounding landscape.
Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the volcano’s history and geology, keeping kids and adults engaged. Don’t miss the chance to discover the lava caves or enjoy a family picnic amidst its surreal terrain.
Take a coastal walk at Reserva Naturale della Zingaro
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, Sicily’s first nature reserve, with a stunning coastal walk. This unspoiled paradise stretches along the rugged coastline between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo. As you hike, you’ll find hidden coves, pristine beaches and panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. The trails are dotted with wildflowers, olive trees and unique fauna, making it perfect for nature lovers. Pack a picnic and go for a swim at secluded spots like Cala Capreria.
Explore nature at Parco Naturale Regionale delle Madonie
Immerse yourself in the FAQs about Sicily holidays
, a haven for nature lovers in Sicily. Located just an hour from Palermo, this park is home to picturesque villages, dense woodlands and dramatic mountain peaks. Explore well-marked hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints or discover rare flora, including the endemic Madonie fir.
The park is a must-visit if you want to see wildlife, with opportunities to spot eagles, foxes and wild boars. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking or simply soaking in the scenery, the Madonie Mountains promise an unforgettable experience.
FAQs about Sicily holidays
Q: What is the most beautiful part of Sicily?
A: The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is often considered one of Sicily’s most beautiful places. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases awe-inspiring ancient Greek ruins set against rolling hills and olive groves. For natural beauty, the Aeolian Islands offer stunning volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Another picture-perfect destination is Taormina, enchanting visitors with its pristine beaches and sweeping views of Mount Etna.
Q: Is Sicily cheap or expensive?
A: Sicily is generally more affordable than mainland Italy, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers. Local cuisine, such as arancini and pasta alla Norma, is delicious and inexpensive, and accommodations range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. However, costs can vary, especially in tourist hotspots like Taormina.
Q: Which side of Sicily should you stay?
A: The eastern side of Sicily is ideal for its proximity to Mount Etna, Taormina and Catania’s vibrant city life. If you prefer historical charm, the western side offers gems like Palermo, Trapani and the picturesque Egadi Islands. Both sides feature beautiful beaches and unique cultural experiences, so your choice depends on whether you’re drawn to ancient ruins, nature or bustling towns.
Q: How many days do you need in Sicily?
A: To fully enjoy Sicily’s highlights, plan for at least a week. This allows time to explore key attractions like Mount Etna and Palermo. If you’re short on time, spend a few days covering one region, such as the east for Taormina and Etna or the west for Palermo and coastal gems.
- Packing list for every type of breakPacking list for a city breakPacking list for a beach holidayPacking list for a winter holidayPacking list for a hiking trip
We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All" you accept this and consent that we share this information with third parties and that your data may be processed in the USA. For more information, please read our .
You can adjust your preferences at any time. If you deny, we will use only the essential cookies and unfortunately, you will not receive any personalised content. To deny, .