Things to Do in Sicily in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Sicily
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Lowest accommodation prices of the year - hotels cost 40-60% less than summer peak season, with luxury properties offering December-only packages
- Authentic local atmosphere - experience how Sicilians actually live, shop at neighborhood markets, join locals in cozy trattorias without tourist crowds
- Perfect hiking weather in the mountains - Etna's lower slopes (up to 1,500m/4,920ft) are ideal with crisp air and clear views, no summer heat exhaustion
- Christmas season brings unique cultural experiences - elaborate presepi (nativity scenes) in every town, traditional sweets like cuddura and buccellato available only December-January
Considerations
- Many coastal restaurants and beach clubs close entirely - about 70% of seaside establishments shut down from mid-November through February
- Unpredictable ferry schedules to smaller islands - services to Lampedusa, Pantelleria reduced by 50%, weather-dependent cancellations common
- Limited daylight for sightseeing - sunset at 4:45pm means outdoor exploration effectively ends by 5pm, compressed sightseeing window
Best Activities in December
Mount Etna Winter Exploration
December offers the best Etna experience with snow-capped peaks, clear visibility, and comfortable hiking temperatures up to 1,500m (4,920ft). The cable car operates weather permitting, and you can explore lava caves without summer's oppressive heat. Morning departures (8-9am) maximize clear weather windows before afternoon clouds roll in.
Palermo Street Food and Market Tours
December brings seasonal specialties like stigghiola (grilled intestines) served hot - perfect comfort food for cool weather. The Ballarò and Vucciria markets bustle with locals buying ingredients for Christmas preparations. Morning tours (9-11am) avoid afternoon rain and catch vendors at peak energy.
Valley of the Temples Archaeological Exploration
Cool December temperatures make this UNESCO site infinitely more pleasant than blazing summer visits. Golden hour lighting at 4pm creates spectacular photographs of ancient Greek temples. Rain occasionally enhances the mystical atmosphere, and you'll have iconic shots without crowds blocking views.
Taormina Indoor Cultural Experiences
December is perfect for Taormina's museums, historic churches, and covered shopping areas when coastal weather turns rough. The ancient Greek theatre offers dramatic winter views of snow-dusted Etna. Cozy wine bars and traditional ceramic workshops provide authentic warmth during cool evenings.
Western Sicily Wine Estate Visits
December is harvest completion season - perfect timing to taste new wines and see traditional pressing methods. The Marsala region offers cozy cellar tastings while rain patters outside. Cool weather makes vineyard walks comfortable, and you'll experience the contemplative winter mood of wine country.
Syracuse and Ortigia Historic Walking
The ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Syracuse are magnificent in cool December weather, while Ortigia island's narrow medieval streets provide wind protection and cozy exploration. The archaeological park empties of crowds, creating an intimate experience with 2,500-year-old history.
December Events & Festivals
Presepi Viventi (Living Nativity Scenes)
Dozens of towns create elaborate living nativity scenes throughout December. Monterosso Almo, Custonaci, and Caltagirone host the most spectacular displays with entire neighborhoods transformed into ancient Bethlehem. Local residents dress in period costumes, traditional crafts are demonstrated, and regional foods are prepared using historical methods.
Festa di Santa Lucia
Syracuse celebrates its patron saint on December 13th with processions, traditional cuccìa (wheat berry pudding), and illuminated streets. The silver statue of Santa Lucia is carried from the cathedral to the church bearing her name. Locals abstain from bread and pasta, eating rice and cuccìa instead - restaurants offer special menus.
Christmas Markets in Historic Centers
Catania, Palermo, and Taormina host atmospheric Christmas markets selling traditional handicrafts, regional specialties, and handmade decorations. Unlike northern European markets, these focus on Sicilian traditions - ceramics from Caltagirone, cannoli-making demonstrations, and mulled wine made with local Marsala.