Sicily is not only typically warmer than mainland Italy, but also boasts some of the hottest summer temperatures in all of Europe. In fact, one of the hottest recorded temperature in Europe’s history was recorded in the middle of summer in 1999. However, like elsewhere in the Mediterranean, summers here are typically dry with low humidity. Catania is typically the hottest city.
Tourists wishing to escape both Sicily’s searing summer temperatures and teeming crowds may prefer spring or autumn vacations when the weather remains warm enough to comfortably lie on the beach or tour the island’s numerous archaeological sites. Growing numbers of visitors have decided to visit during the shoulder months of May and September.
Sicilian winters are usually mild and wet, but several island hotels, restaurants, and shops close their doors during its coldest months. Mount Etna, however, remains just as busy as ever in winter, when Sicily’s largest volcano transforms into the island’s most popular skiing destination.
Best Time to Visit Sicily
Summer is Sicily’s prime tourist season when visitors from across Italy and Europe flock to the island’s Ionian Coast resorts, which are especially packed with European vacationers during July and August. Advance hotel and flight reservations are musts for any visitor planning a summer holiday here.
Although winters may be too cold for sunbathing or swimming, visitors may still comfortably enjoy most other Sicily activities while taking advantage of the island’s much lower winter hotel, airfare, and shopping prices. Winter visitors can also savor seafood and other Sicilian dishes not typically served at warmer times of the year and daytime winter weather is usually even mild enough to enjoy a round of golf.