The Best Time to Visit Sicily

See Also

• Where to Stay in Sicily
• Where travelers can rest along the beautiful Amalfi Coast

When is the best time to go to Sicily?

The latter parts of spring and early fall present the best times of the year to visit Sicily. Crowds will be lesser on streets, beaches, and attractions than in summer and temperatures usually pleasant, in the low to mid-20s °C.

• Best Season for Exploring Attractions: The most enjoyable time to experience the sights of Sicily is from April through mid-June or mid-September through October. During these periods, there will be plentiful sunshine without being uncomfortably hot, and fewer tourists than the peak summer months of July and August. If avoiding rain is a priority, travel in the springtime. No matter when travel plans are made, on the first Sunday of each month throughout the year all state-operated museums, galleries, parks, gardens, and ruins offer complimentary admission.
• Preferred Period to Explore Sicily Beaches: Officially, the beach season in Sicily starts in June, the time when the bulk of tourists begin arriving. However, the sea is usually warm enough for swimming in May, so those seeking to enjoy it without large crowds may want to come then, especially in the latter portion of the month. September, and occasionally October, can also be ideal as the sea won’t have cooled much yet many of the visitors will be gone.
• Best Time to Visit Mount Etna: Mount Etna can be visited and hiked throughout the whole year, but the most favorable months are when temperatures are agreeably warm, and crowds will not be excessive: May or late September and October. More significant, however, is the time of day you plan to arrive. Coming early in the morning not just means a more peaceful encounter, but better perspectives as mists tend to form later in the day.
• Best Time For Day Trips to the Aegadian Islands: The Aegadian Islands, positioned just a few miles off the coast of Sicily, provide the chance to discover a more relaxed pace of life along with beautiful beaches. The prime time to enjoy Aegadian Island beaches is during the summer, from June through August, although the water temperature will still be warm in September. April, May, and the second half of September are more suitable for hiking as the summer can be too uncomfortably hot. While October temperatures are mild, it can be rainy and windy.

Sicily Travel Seasons

• High Season (June through August, Easter week, and mid-December through early January):
  The peak season in Sicily generally includes the summer months, but visitation also reaches its zenith during Holy Week as well as the Christmas holidays extending from mid-December through Epiphany on January 6th. During these intervals, anticipate large crowds and airfares and lodging rates at their maximum for the year. The summer additionally implies hot temperatures that may necessitate indoor time throughout the hottest parts of the day.
• Shoulder Season (April and May, except Easter; September and October):
  Shoulder season presents the chance to visit Sicily without navigating crowded groups while still enjoying mostly pleasant weather and sometimes some discounted airfare and lodging rates too.
• Low Season (November through March except mid-December through early January):
  In the later portions of autumn and winter excluding the period surrounding Christmas through Epiphany, Sicily is generally a less crowded time to visit other than during those winter holidays. While the weather may be cooler and sometimes wet during this late fall/winter season, visitors experience a more authentic Sicily as hotels and restaurants can provide improved service with smaller numbers of patrons. One is also likely to find discounted room rates and lower airfare during this season. Although swimming at beaches isn`t possible, temperatures remain fairly mild in winter, averaging around 10°C, allowing travelers to comfortably experience the sights by dressing appropriately for the conditions.

Sicily Weather by Month

• Conditions on Sicily in January: January falls within winter on the island of Sicily, and despite potential dampness and coolness, the climate is relatively mild in comparison to locations farther north. Average high temperatures are 12°C, though nights can feel rather chillier with lows near 5°C. Some mornings may exhibit frost as well, so come prepared for colder weather by bringing a warm, waterproof outer layer for occasional rain – typically falling over 18 days this month, averaging 66mm. It could require bundling up, yet crowds tend to be sparse, allowing one to stroll peaceful streets and immerse in a more serene experience at attractions across the land. January can make for ideal sightseeing if you accept some cold.
• Weather Conditions in Sicily During February: Apart from a decrease in rainfall falling to 40mm in February, this month generally isn`t very different from January, with the average maximum temperature staying at 12°C and the minimum remaining at 5°C. There are usually a few more sunny days than overcast ones now, meaning it`s wise to bring attire that can be worn in layers, such as a combination of long- and short-sleeved tops together with a warm jacket. You will have more daylight hours for sightseeing this month – in early January there are about 9 hours of light, but by late February the sun rises at 6:37 a.m. and doesn`t set until nearly 6 p.m. (Common Highest Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Sicily During March: While temperatures are beginning to rise at this time, March, especially early within the month, can still feel fairly cold, but as it progresses further, the mercury often climbs as high as 16° in the afternoon hours. This period brings unpredictable weather to Sicily with some warmer and some cooler days, although rainfall is minimal with an average of just 34mm spread over 18 days. Provided settling in Sicily during March without expectations of enjoying the beaches where sea temperatures hover around only 15°C, this can truly be a fine month for taking in the various sights while avoiding large crowds. Simply plan on packing an assortment of clothing to be ready for any weather that may occur. (Average Maximum Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 34mm.)
• Sicily Weather in April: During April in Sicily the sun will shine more often and it will become warmer and drier as spring officially arrives. Sunglasses and lightweight clothing will definitely be needed with afternoon high temperatures reaching 18°C, though early mornings and evenings are likely to remain rather cool with lows around 8°C. Unless your lodging includes an indoor heated pool, swimming probably won`t be an option yet as the sea temperature is still on the cooler side, creeping up just one degree to 16°C. It remains prudent to pack a variety of garments including perhaps a sweater or jacket. You could experience some drizzle or light rain, but usually nothing that should interfere with outdoor plans. (Average Max Temperature: 18°C. Average Precipitation: 35mm.)
• Sicily Weather in May: May offers a superb time to explore Sicily when temperatures are warm enough for summer enjoyment without excessive heat. The typical maximum settles at 21°C, and this is among the driest months with anticipated rain over only five days accumulating to a mean of 22mm – you`ll also escape peak tourist volumes. Apparel for the season concentrates on garments that facilitate cooling like loose lightweight pieces, a broad-brimmed hat, and plentiful sunscreen. While the sea remains too chilly for some at 19°C, taking an occasional dip is possible so pack a bathing suit also. Evenings bring cooler 12°C lows, so a sweatshirt or wool jumper proves wise to have on hand. (Average Max Temperature: 21°C. Average Precipitation: 22mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Sicily during June: If you visit during this month, you can anticipate an abundance of sunshine and transparent skies, with the temperatures noticeably warmer now, increasing by four degrees to average highs of 25°C, although it won’t be as sweltering as July and August. It’s an ideal time to enjoy swimming in the sea which is now up to 22°C, perfect for staying cool from the heat. Regions located further inland on the island tend to be cooler, so this remains a good month for exploring interior sites. Evenings will bring chillier weather with overnight lows of 15°C, so you might still require a sweater if planning to be out late at night. With just 11mm of precipitation this month, you won’t have to worry about rain, but you will want to focus on protection from the sun and keeping cool. (Average Max Temperature: 25°C. Average Precipitation: 11mm.)
• Weather Conditions on the Island of Sicily in July: The month of July typically brings hot, sunny weather to the island along with lengthy wait times at popular attractions and crowded beaches due to the high volume of visitors. Afternoon highs average around 26°C, though temperatures often climb to 30°C or higher with virtually no rainfall averaging a mere 2mm. Be certain to protect yourself from the sun`s rays, as spending the hottest hours in shaded or indoor areas is wise. Also note that not all lodging comes equipped with air conditioning, so nights may remain fairly warm despite the later hour – selecting accommodations with cooling capabilities allows for more restful rest. (Average Maximum Temperature: 26°C. Average Precipitation: 2mm.)
• Sicily Weather in August: Similar to last month, but even hotter, especially on days when humidity is high, afternoon temperatures are 30°C or above now. With the locals enjoying their holidays this month the beaches are usually as crowded as they’ll get all year. You may want to enjoy early morning swims at the beach – the sea temperature is an especially pleasant 27°C now, and then plan the hottest parts of the day inside cool art galleries and museums. While precipitation increases slightly it’s still only an average of 15mm, so you’re unlikely to experience wet weather. (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 15mm.)

• Weather Conditions in Sicily during September: While the first part of September will continue with relatively high temperatures, they will start to decline gradually with the average maximum dropping by three degrees to 27°C later in the month. Possibilities of rainfall increase slightly with totals reaching 37mm over five days, but this amount should not cause concern and the sea temperature will remain pleasantly warm at 25°C. Later in September provides preferable conditions with smaller crowds as seen throughout most of the year and temperatures that are quite suitable. Bring your summer attire including swimwear along with perhaps a sweater for early mornings or evenings if you get chilly easily easily. (Average High Temperature: 27°C. Average Rainfall: 37mm.)
• Weather in Sicily in October: The warm conditions of summer continue into October even though autumn has officially started. Typical high temperatures are around 22°C during this time and swimming may still be possible with sea water at about 23°C. Some wind and rain are more probable if you visit this month, particularly in the latter portion, with on average 84mm of precipitation spread over eight days. Pack clothes for both warm and cool conditions now, including a waterproof outer layer. (Average Maximum Temperature: 22°C. Average Rainfall: 84mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Sicily During November: November brings notably cooler temperatures but conditions remain relatively mild. Afternoon highs typically reach 17°C with the island`s mountainous areas helping to inhibit winds, keeping it comfortable. Swimming is less likely at this time, with land experiencing comparatively cooler weather and ocean temperatures around 21°C. Rainfall is a reasonable possibility but projected amounts are marginally lower than the prior month at 76mm over 11 days. Packing layerable garments and bringing a jacket or sweater is advised. (Average Maximum Temperature: 17°C. Average Precipitation: 76mm.)
• Weather in Sicily during December: The temperature begins decreasing significantly at this point, averaging 10°C though it can reach 13°C when the afternoon sun is out. While it is one of the colder months to visit, it can be opportune for sightseeing or hiking in the mountains. Warmer clothing is highly recommended now instead of last month, but layers and a waterproof jacket for rain can be beneficial, as precipitation averages 79mm over 17 days. (Average Maximum Temperature: 13°C. Average Rainfall: 79mm.)

Sicily Events and Festivals

Sicily in January

• New Year`s Day – January 1st is a national holiday across Italy, including Sicily. Many establishments may close, such as historic sites, museums, shops, and some restaurants as locals often take time to rest and recover after New Year`s Eve festivities. However, some eateries will remain open for lunch and dinner.
• Epiphany – January 6th is also a nationally recognized holiday. Epiphany signifies the twelfth day of Christmas and is the main celebration of the holiday season. This is when Sicilians will exchange gifts and children’s stockings will be filled. While many locations will be closed, festivities are held in various cities like Bordonaro where a tall pole decorated with leaves, branches and food, is erected and local youths attempt to climb it.
• Festival of San Mauro Abate – Annually on January 15 in Viagrande there is a magnificent procession of the city’s patron saint with a spectacular fireworks show.
• Festival of Saint Anthony – The feast of Saint Anthony is celebrated annually on January 17 throughout Italy. In Macerata Campania, there is a musical festival complete with percussion instruments such as washtubs, sickles, barrels, and other agricultural tools used to drive demons away.

Sicily in February

• Feast of Saint Agatha – One of the largest religious festivals globally is hosted in Catania over three days around February 5th each year. Around a million people gather here to enjoy a grand procession that travels to Piazza Duomo followed by fireworks.
• One of the most festive celebrations on the island of Sicily takes place in the city of Sciacca, as well as in Termini Imerese and Acrireale, on the Tuesday before Lent (usually in February). These carnivals bring out wild parties, with Acrireale hosting the wildest of all.

Sicily in March

• Almond Blossom Festival (Sagra del Mandorlo) – Held over the course of a week in early March in Agrigento, this celebration coincides with the almond trees being in full bloom. Events like awarding “Miss Spring” and judging the most beautifully decorated balcony with flowers take place. The grandest event is saved for the closing. It is then that folk groups from around the globe parade to the Valley of the Temples accompanied by musical bands and Sicilian carts.
• Festa della Donna – March 8 is Women’s Day, celebrated in many countries around the world. It honors all women, and men often give yellow mimosa flowers to those who are in their lives. There are sometimes live music concerts and other local events, and restaurants may host special dinners.
• Saint Joseph’s Day – March 19th honors San Giuseppe who is credited with saving people from famine in Sicily. This special feast day includes special breads, pastries, and other meals. The day is also Father’s Day, when fathers are given gifts and families often consume zeppole which is similar to a doughnut.

Sicily in April

• Holy Week and Easter – In Christian-majority nations such as Italy, Holy Week occurs spanning Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday, sometimes falling in late March or early April. On Holy Thursday in Trapani, an emotive processional featuring 18 figurative groups depicting Christ`s passion is held. Originally constructed in the 17th-18th centuries, it conveys biblical scenes. In Prizzi, a folkloric-religious tradition tied to Easter events known as the Devils` dance also takes place. Numerous additional celebrations fill the intervening days, and Easter Mass is celebrated across Sicily in local churches.
• Ricotta Festival – On the twenty-fifth day of April each year, the town of Vizzini hosts the Sagra della Ricotta celebration honoring Ricotta cheese. Famous throughout Sicily, there will be abundant cheese along with various local dishes, music, and cultural exhibits.
• Freedom Day – April 25th is also marked as Freedom Day, a nationwide holiday. It commemorates the fall of the Italian Social Republic under Mussolini and the conclusion of the Nazi occupation in Italy during World War II. It`s also a day to honor those who sacrificed their lives fighting to liberate their nation. Government offices and schools will be closed as well as some tourist shops. Museums, attractions, and public transportation may have a reduced schedule.

Sicily in May

• Labor Day – May 1st, Labor Day, is a national holiday. Virtually all businesses will be closed, including restaurants, museums, and other attractions. Public transportation may be limited or nonexistent. Political demonstrations are sometimes held in major cities.
• On the first and second Sundays in May in Siracusa, Saint Lucy is honored for saving the city from famine in the mid-17th-century. Her silver sculpture is carried around Piazza Duomo to music and festivities are enjoyed.
• Infiorata: Infiorata means “decorated with flowers”. During the third week of May in the Baroque city of Noto, this festival covers an entire street with flower petal designs to celebrate spring. The primary place to view these spectacular formations are on Via Nicolaci.
• Festa di St. George – Held on the last Saturday in May in the town of Ragusa, the Festival of St. George incorporates a reenactment of the saint`s martyrdom along with traditional foods and one of Sicily`s most spectacular fireworks shows for the year.

Sicily in June

• Day of the Republic – June 2nd is a national holiday for Italy that commemorates when the country became a republic in 1946. Parades, festivals, and concerts honoring the occasion are often held in cities across Italy as well as on the island of Sicily. Government offices and schools will be closed, as will some businesses catering to visitors. Museums, attractions, and public transportation may have reduced hours of operation on this day.
• Taormina Film Fest – This festival opens the summer season of the Greco-Roman amphitheater during the second week of June. It commences with a premiere screening and presents some of the latest films in the open air among the breathtaking scenery of the old theater with panoramas extending to Mount Etna and the Mediterranean sea.
• Taormina Arte – Starting in June and running through September, the ancient theater in Taormina will also host classical, rock, pop, opera, and dance performances featuring international and domestic stars.

Sicily in July

• Calatafimi-Segesta Festival – Taking place mainly in July through the first of September, this occasion brings 60 artistic events to the Greek Theater of Segesta. The theatrical, jazz, and classical performances take on a surreal ambiance in the ancient site.
• U Fistinu of Saint Rosalia – The annual commemoration of Saint Rosalia occurs in Palermo in the middle of July, celebrating the patron protector of the city believed to have spared inhabitants from a devastating epidemic. A procession is held including a fresh, elaborate carriage built each year to transport the statue of Saint Rosalia, pulled by oxen down streets full of customary local fare such as watermelon, sardine-laced pasta, boiled octopus, and thick Sicilian pizza known as sfincione alongside live music.
• Ortigia Film Festival – For 8 days in mid-July, the historical center of Syracuse comes alive with films. There will be a number of al fresco screenings throughout the area, along with more traditional indoor screenings. It includes a short film competition, vintage classics, tributes to great directors and actors, and additional offerings.
• La Scala Illuminata – Each year from July 24-25 in Caltagirone, the 142 steps of the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte are lit up with hundreds of small oil lamps, creating a multicolored spectacular beauty.

Sicily in August

• Festa del Santo Salvatore – Over five days in early August, this event in Cefalu celebrates Santo Salvatore, the patron saint of the city, with parades, music, foods, and mass, climaxing with locals hastily climbing a greased pole to touch a statue of the saint and fireworks on the seafront.
• Ypsigrock Music Festival – This annual four-day independent rock event in mid-August includes artists from worldwide in the spectacular surroundings of the castle in Castelbuono. It features camping and music on multiple stages.
• Il Palio dei Normanni (Palio of the Normans) – Over three days at Piazza Armerina in mid-August every year, horsemanship, knightly combat, and partying celebrates the defeat by Norman invaders over ruling Arabs in the 11th-century.
• Ferragosto – August 15th is the officially designated start of the Italian summer holidays, which also commemorates the religious occasion celebrating the Assumption of the Virgin Mary rising to heaven. In Sicily, activities will primarily revolve around beaches, with many towns organizing festivals, parades, and/or fireworks. At Siracusa Grand Harbour, there will be a yacht race followed by a traditional Sicilian longboat competition. It’s the largest holiday of the year after Christmas and Easter, resulting in many banks and government buildings being closed, but most cultural sites and museums remain open.

Sicily in September

• San Vito Ciminna – This holy person is celebrated in the town of Ciminna in Palermo on the first Sunday of September. It involves a massive parade that recalls the saint’s life with people wearing period attires. There is also a livestock fair coinciding with the festivities.
• ViniMilo – Over two weeks from late August into September in Milo, this wine festival will occur along the slopes of Mount Etna, including winery tours, guided tastings, workshops, and themed dinners with an emphasis on quality and the Slow Food movement.
• Feast of the Madonna of the Light – Annually on September 7-8 in Mistretta, this religious occasion includes a parade with floats and two massive warriors carried by townspeople to “safeguard” the statue of the Madonna around town. Plays and costumed participants will also be showcased.
• Couscous Fest – In late September of each year, San Vito Lo Capo is host to this gastronomical exposition allowing for sampling of a variety of North African fare, including couscous prepared by chefs from worldwide. There will also be music and dances as well as an opportunity to learn how to prepare it yourself.

Sicily in October

• Sagra del Miele, the Honey Festival – This festival that takes place over the initial 10 days in October in Sortino near Pantalica National Park honors the famed “honey of Hyblea” highly valued by Romans and Greeks. It includes many varieties of honey as well as specialty foods and entertainment.
• Celebration of Street Performers – Formally called the Festival of Street Artists Ibla Buskers, this event brings 4 days of different types of performances like theater, music, circus arts, puppet shows, aerial acrobatics, and fireworks to the town of Ragusa in Ibla.
• Agrimontana – This 3 day festival in mid-October in Palazzolo Acreide in the Syracuse province of Sicily highlights the region through a culinary journey including their famous Palazzolo sausage, prized truffle mushrooms, and honey in addition to exhibitions, guided tours, and local crafts.
• Feast of All Souls – Literally meaning ‘festivals of the day,’ this event is typically hosted from October 29 through November 2 throughout Sicily as part of the feast honoring All Saints. Traditionally it is believed that on the night of November 1st the deceased would visit loved ones still living to bring gifts to their children. Now parents purchase these gifts at colorful stalls selling all sorts of items from clothing to crafts and toys as well as traditional sweets unique to the festival.

Sicily in November

• All Saints Day – November 1 is commemorated as All Saints Day, a national holiday where many Italians, including Sicilians, pay tribute to departed loved ones by visiting cemeteries and placing flowers and other items on graves.
• Festival di Morgana – Over five days in early November in Palermo, this festival presents the opportunity to watch famous Sicilian puppets in action at the Antonio Pasqualino Puppet Museum.
• Festa di San Martino – Saint Martin’s Day is celebrated throughout Sicily on November 11. There will be all kinds of events that provide the chance to enjoy wine, bread specialties, sweets and classic roasted chestnuts.

Sicily in December

• Modica Chocolate Festival – ‘Chocobarocco,’ is held in Sicily for approximately a week in early December, dedicated to the delectable chocolate that’s made in Modica, developed with the same process introduced centuries ago by Spaniards. You’ll have the ability to taste the wide range of flavors, like vanilla chocolate and chili pepper chocolate; sea salt, nutmeg, orange chocolate, and much more.
• Festival of the Immaculate Conception – On December 8th, Italy commemorates the conception of Jesus by the Virgin Mary. This national holiday results in closed public offices, schools, banks, and more, though most shops and eateries remain open. Festivities throughout Sicily include processions and singing. In Syracuse, a novena is held in observance, while the evening prior sees a band take to the streets of Ortigia. Large bonfires also light up the night in Canicatti.
• Santa Lucia’s Day – The feast day commemorating Saint Lucia, a Christian martyr, is marked in numerous villages and towns across Italy on December 13th. The largest celebration occurs in Sicily within the city of her birth, Syracuse. It hosts an immense parade transporting a silvery statue of the saint who assisted fishermen navigate the sea during winter`s dark nights, to be shown at the Church of Santa Lucia prior to being returned seven nights thereafter with an additional procession.
• Christmas – Throughout December there will be scenes depicting the birth of Jesus and traditional markets centered on Sicily`s culture. In Palermo, the city center will be brightened by festive lights and thriving markets where handcrafted Sicilian toys and gifts originating on the island can be bought. On Christmas Eve, most Sicilians attend Midnight Mass. Christmas Day, December 25, is a national holiday and a time when many Sicilians congregate together with family and friends for an expansive midday meal; most businesses are closed but a few restaurants remain open. December 26 is the national holiday honoring Saint Stephen.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st, like most places throughout the world, celebrates the new year with fireworks and parties. Every town in Sicily will have fireworks, music, and dance, often until sunrise. Private events are also organized by many restaurants and hotels.