Plan an amazing trip to Sicily
Located between Italy and Tunisia , Sicily, a region of Italy, is at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilisations. The result of a harmonious mix of Byzantines, Normans, Greeks and Romans, the island boasts an immense cultural wealth which can especially be seen in its architecture. Its impressive historical, artistic and mythological monuments have always proved to be a source of fascination for visitors from far and wide. This mysterious island, where Ulysses once landed, has a unique and unrivalled beauty. Explore Mount Etna, an active volcano, stroll through vineyards and olive groves or simply relax on the beautiful white sandy beaches and enjoy the Sicilian dolce vita.
Best time to go to Sicily
The best seasons to go to Sicily are spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October). The climate is milder during these periods: around 25°C. The pleasant temperatures, and mild climate, mean you can take part in sporting activities but also bask in the warm Sicilian waters.
What to see and what to do in Sicily
Pictures of the country
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![Palerme et les bords de la Méditerranée]()
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![L’Etna et la côte ionienne]()
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![Les îles éoliennes]()
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![Syracuse et les terres baroques]()
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![L’intérieur sauvage]()
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![La plage de sable noir de Stromboli]()
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![La plage de San Vito Lo Capo]()
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![L'île de Vulcano]()
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![La Spiaggia Vallée Muria]()
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![Cefalu]()
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![La Sicile, vue du ciel]()
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![La ville de Palerme]()
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![La ville côtière de Taormine]()
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![Les maisons blanches de Panarea]()
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![Huile d'olive sicilienne]()
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![Pâtisseries à base de ricotta]()
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![Les paysages volcaniques de l'Etna]()
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![La réserve de Vendicari]()
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![Marionnettes de Palerme]()
Answers to your most frequently asked questions
Never beat about the bush when in Sicily. In Palermo enjoy 'pane e panelle' (chickpea fritters accompanied by fried aubergine and lemon), 'involtini di pesce spada' (swordfish rolls with tomatoes, olives and capers), 'pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, flavoured with pine nuts, grapes and fennel). Around Catania, make sure you try the 'pasta alla norma' (you would be missing out if you didn't): aubergine, tomato, basil, ricotta ... The 'suino nero' (black pork from the region) and the 'provola cheese' from the Tyrrhenian coast will not fail to impress! And how can we not mention the delicious granita or local pastries which will tickle even the most refined of palates?
Lipari is famous for its turquoise waters, lush greenery, pretty flowers and scent-filled lemon trees. Vulcano gives you the opportunity to enjoy a unique moisturising mud bath experience in natural pools and the crater hike offers awe-inspiring panoramas. Panarea is reminiscent of Greece with its pristine white houses and crystalline beaches lit up by the sun. The island of Stromboli offers you a surprising black sand beach and a night climb that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
It's important to take into account how difficult the climb is: it's really only suitable for experienced and well-equipped adults, with no history of cardiac, joint or vertigo problems. Fitness is the key! Climbing Etna and Stromboli can be done all year long. Winter should be avoided however, since the climatic conditions can make the climb difficult. Once at the top, beware, the temperatures are much much colder, even in summer!
Make sure you have UV sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking shoes, gloves, a light t-shirt for the start of the ascent and a jumper and anorak for the walk at altitude. Food should be made up of a balance of slow (bread / sandwich / biscuits / cereal bars) and fast-release (sugars, juice fruit) carbohydrates and obviously you need a good supply of water.
On a taste level, you can't leave Sicily without buying a bottle of Marsala (a strong and sweet wine that should be served cold)! Limoncello is also a must as well as the barbary fig and honey liqueur from the Etna region. The puppets, from Palermo and Catania, are also worthy souvenirs and have been made with an exceptional degree of skill. From Syracuse, there are papyrus artefacts, the only place in Europe where it's still available to buy. And probably the most classic souvenir is Sicilian olive oil - the most fragrant of all olive oils...
- Travel is inexpensive and it's easy to get around,
- The stunning ancient cities, including Syracuse, Agrigento, Palermo, Taormina,
- The beautiful beaches,
- The Mount Etna climb hikes and landscapes.
- The tourist surcharge during the summer months: remember to book everything in advance.