Things to Do in Sicily

About Sicily

Sicily has Greek temples, Arab markets, Norman castles, and an active volcano shaping its landscape. Mount Etna's presence defines the island as much as the turquoise coast or the ancient cobblestones underfoot. This isn't your typical Mediterranean stop. The island collected influences from everyone who invaded it—Greeks, Arabs, Byzantines, Normans—and kept the best parts. You'll find Arab spices in the markets and Byzantine mosaics catching light in old chapels. Hilltop villages look frozen in time. The real Sicily appears in small moments. Café cups clatter at dawn. Fishermen mend nets in harbor shadows, and the Sicilian dialect drifts through narrow alleyways with its own musical rhythm. Don't expect grand gestures here. The island works differently—independent, stubborn, generous with strangers. An arancini isn't just fried rice; it is layers of cultural invasion turned into lunch. Sunsets over the Ionian Sea hit harder than expected. The place stays with you. That warm hospitality mixed with fierce local pride creates something you can't shake after you leave.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Rent a car for maximum flexibility, but book automatic transmission well in advance. Avoid driving in Palermo's historic center—use the efficient Amat buses instead. Train connections between major cities are reliable, but buses (AST company) are essential for reaching hilltop towns and archaeological sites.

Money: Carry cash for small establishments, markets, and rural areas where cards aren't accepted. ATMs are widespread in cities but scarce in villages. Tipping isn't mandatory—round up bills or leave 5-10% at restaurants. Many family-run trattorias operate cash-only.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees required). Avoid pointing with your index finger—use an open hand instead. Greet shopkeepers with 'buongiorno' upon entering. Sunday afternoons are sacred family time; many businesses close and streets quiet significantly.

Food Safety: Street food from established vendors is generally safe—look for high turnover and local crowds. Avoid seafood on Mondays when it's least fresh. Tap water is safe but often heavily chlorinated; bottled water tastes better. Granita for breakfast is traditional—don't miss this Sicilian custom.

When to Visit

Sicily's Mediterranean climate offers distinct seasonal experiences, each with unique advantages. Spring (April-May) brings perfect weather with temperatures of 68-77°F, minimal rainfall (2-3 inches monthly), and wildflower-carpeted landscapes. Accommodation costs are 20-30% below peak season, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers and photographers. Summer (June-August) delivers classic Mediterranean heat (77-86°F) with virtually no rain, perfect for beach lovers and festival ensoiasts. However, expect 40-50% higher prices and crowded attractions. The well-known Taormina Arte festival runs June-September, while Palermo's Santa Rosalia celebration peaks July 10-15th. Autumn (September-October) offers Sicily's sweet spot: warm seas (still 72°F), harvest season charm, and 25-35% lower costs than summer. October averages just 3 inches of rain with comfortable 73-79°F temperatures. Winter (November-March) sees cooler weather (54-64°F) and increased rainfall (4-6 inches monthly), but brings dramatic advantages: 50% lower accommodation costs, authentic local life without tourist crowds, and perfect conditions for exploring museums and archaeological sites. Cultural ensoiasts should visit during Carnival season (February-March) or the atmospheric Christmas markets. Mount Etna is accessible year-round, though winter offers dramatic snow-capped crater views.