Sicily
The thing about Sicily is… it’s not just one place, its many.
You have to go there to truly understand.
Rich in history and character, it’s a mosaic of landscapes and every corner of Sicily holds its own magic.
The warmth of the people, the food is unforgettable, and the atmosphere is next level!
It didn’t just leave an impression—it stole my heart!
May 2023, July 2024, February 2025, June-August 2025, Nov 2025-Feb 2026
Sicily at a glance
Best time to visit
- Mt Etna gets a lot of snow in winter, as you can expect its super cold so dress accordingly. Even in summer, its a few degrees cooler than Catania.
- The local beaches are spruced up and beach club ready from late May. Most beaches have free spots but there are also a lot of beach clubs where you can hire a chair and an umbrella. Look out for the non standard umbrellas and you know you are on a free section of the beach. Don't forget to take an umbrella as it can get pretty hot!
- It gets super hot in summer - temperatures can sit around 30-35 degrees. It can stay around 27 degrees right through to 9 or 10pm at night.
- The 'summer season' extends from mid April through to late October but honestly, I'd recommend going ANY time you like!
Weather-Ready Wardrobe
- Feb - Technically winter but I didn't find it too harsh. I wore jeans or dresses with tights and boots, layered with a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves (I’m not great with the cold!). Some days, a long-sleeve tee and jeans were enough; other days called for a puffer-style jacket. Dress for cooler temperatures—but it’s far from Antarctic.
- May - A transitional month—not quite summer, but edging closer. The days could be surprisingly warm, while evenings stayed cool. I found two spring layers worked well: jeans and a light jacket were my go-to.
- June / July / August - July and August were intensely hot. Daytime temperatures hovered in the mid-30s, and even at 9pm it could still be just under 30°C. Fans were essential, shade was sought after, and hydration is a must. I avoided the midday heat and leaned into breezy fabrics and comfortable sandals.
- November thru to Jan - I'll let you know soon ;-)
Driving
- I haven't driven (yet) but my experience of the roads is that long distance driving on the highways are fantastic.
- The roads are in great condition, and when they are not, repairs happen quickly and efficiently. Great signage, and frequent exits.
- Sicily is a place that knows how to move a lot of people. There are plenty of rest stations, grab a café and a panini.
- Driving in the cities and smaller towns can get a bit crazy. The roads are busy, lanes are fluid, I call it organised chaos, but they make it work.
- Don't worry if you get tooted at, its more than likely just a gentle nudge rather than an aggressive move along.
- Some streets are barely wide enough for one car, yet the locals navigate them with millimeters to spare. Its an eye-opener!
The culture
- Be prepared to slow down. Say buongiorno or buonasera to people you pass. Smile. My experience has been that connection comes easily when you lean into these small gestures.
- English is widely spoken in Sicily’s larger centres, but in smaller towns, not so much. That’s where Google Translate becomes your best friend. Still, I’d encourage anyone to make an effort—try the food, compliment it warmly, thank people with genuine appreciation, and offer a fond arrivederci when you leave.
- One of the most beautiful things I observed on my first trip was how Italians greet each other—with hugs and kisses, men included. It's something I’ll hold dear about the culture.
And the style—oh, the style. I loved being able to dress with a bit more flair, putting thought into what I wore every time I went out, to accessorise boldly, to leave the athletic wear behind.
Sicily invites you to show up fully, with colour, grace, and a touch of style.
La dolce vita non è un lusso, è un’arte.
The sweet life isn't a luxury, its an art.
