How to plan your trip to Sicily successfully?

Sicily benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate, making it possible to organize events throughout the year.

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November): These periods allow you to avoid too much influence on tourist sites while still enjoying warm, summer-like temperatures! Plus, there are good flight connections from France.

• April 🌸: 14-22°C during the day, around 12°C at night

• May 🍃: 18-26°C during the day, around 15°C at night

• June ☀️: 22-30°C during the day, around 18°C at night

• September 🦋: 22-30°C during the day, around 20°C at night

• October 🍂: 18-26°C during the day, around 16°C at night

• November 🍁: 14-20°C during the day, around 12°C at night
  Yes, you can still swim in October and November ;)

Winter (December - March): Mild weather, ideal for escaping grayness without traveling too far. 

• December 🧑‍🎄: 10-16°C during the day, around 8°C at night

• January ⛄: 8-15°C during the day, around 6°C at night

• February ❄️: 10-16°C during the day, around 7°C at night
  Have you ever seen Europe’s largest volcano covered in snow facing the sea?

Summer (July to August): Beware of the intense heat! It can get very hot (very hot)! It is also a very touristy period. Sicily is highly popular with Italians for their summer vacations. There will be many people, and prices will rise!

• July 🌞: 25-35°C during the day, around 22°C at night

• August 🥵: 26-36°C during the day, around 24°C at night

⚠️ A lot of people, intense heat, especially in cities and inland areas

Sicily is accessible with direct flights to our 3 international airports : Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA): Ideal for accessing Eastern destinations like Catania, Etna, and the Aeolian Islands.
Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO): Convenient for Western destinations like Palermo, Cefalù, Agrigento, and Marsala.
Trapani Airport (TPS): Close to destinations like Marsala and the western part of the island.

In Sicily, the quality of hotel services varies depending on the establishment. The star rating exists, but it may differ slightly from some other countries standards. For example, a 4-star hotel in Sicily may not have the same criteria as a 4-star hotel in France or England, particularly regarding infrastructure or included services.
At Terra di Sicilia, we carefully select our hotel partners to guarantee our clients optimal comfort and service levels. We favor charming and character-filled establishments, combining authenticity, quality, and professionalism, to offer an experience that meets your expectations.

Absolutely! Forget the clichés of The Godfather; you won't run into anyone in a suit whispering threats under a lemon tree.
Today, Sicily is a safe and welcoming destination, where mafia influence belongs more to movies than to daily life.
Of course, like in any major European city, keep an eye on your bag in very touristy places in Palermo or Catania – but not more than in Rome, Barcelona, or Paris. Apart from that, the island is a true haven of peace, where you feel safe, whether strolling through picturesque alleys, enjoying a granita by the sea, or exploring volcanic landscapes.
In short, the biggest risk you’ll take coming to Sicily… is not wanting to leave!

• For French and EU citizens: A valid ID card or passport is sufficient. No visa, no paperwork, just the pleasure of landing in Sicily and enjoying the sun (and the arancini!).

• For travelers outside the EU: A valid passport is required, and depending on your country of origin, a Schengen visa may be necessary. We strongly recommend checking entry conditions with the Italian embassy before packing your bags… to avoid a quick trip back to the border.

A small tip for everyone: Check the expiration date of your travel document before leaving! Yes, it seems obvious, but how many have found themselves at the airport with an expired ID card and a suitcase full of useless swimsuits?
So, everything's in order? Benvenuti in Sicilia!

• Do I need vaccinations?
  No specific vaccinations are required to enter Sicily. If you're up to date on your routine vaccinations (DT-Polio, Hepatitis B...), you're ready to face the dolce vita without worry.

• What if I have a small health issue while there?
  No panic! Medical facilities in Sicily are of good quality, and both public hospitals and private clinics will take care of you if needed. If you're an EU citizen, make sure to request your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving: it will allow you to be treated at public establishments without advancing all costs. 

• Can I drink tap water?
  Technically yes, but in Sicily, everyone drinks bottled water. Why? Because the tap water sometimes has a… shall we say, "rich mineral" taste (translation: not great). To avoid any digestive mishaps, it's better to follow the locals’ example and opt for a bottle of acqua naturale or frizzante.

• The Sicilian sun: friend or foe?
  Ah, the Sicilian sun… It's beautiful, but it's no joke! 🌞 A tip: high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and regular hydration. Otherwise, you risk ending up with a lobster-red sunburn and a painful memory of your stay.

• And the famous Italian digestion?
  Let's be honest: you're going to eat. A lot. And well. But Sicilian cuisine is generous (very generous), so it’s better to prepare a little digestive remedy if you’re indulging in arancini, pasta alla norma, and cassata without moderation. A good espresso can often work wonders, but a little antacid in your suitcase won’t hurt.

First of all, tipping in Italy is neither mandatory nor systematic, but if you choose to leave one, know that it's appreciated and clearly indicates that you were satisfied with the service.
Generally, a tip of 5 to 10% of the bill is welcome in restaurants, and for taxis or drivers, 1 to 2 euros will suffice. For guides, a tip of 5 to 10 euros per person is common, depending on the duration and quality of the tour. It’s a personal choice, but it’s a nice way to show your appreciation.