Sicily with Kids

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers an array of family-friendly activities that cater to kids of all ages. From exploring active volcanoes and ancient ruins to relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying thrilling amusement parks, Sicily has it all. This guide provides expert recommendations on top attractions, the best times to visit, accommodation, dining, transportation, and a suggested four-day itinerary to ensure an unforgettable family vacation.

Best Time to Visit Sicily with Kids

The best time to visit Sicily with kids is during the months of May and late September through October. These periods offer pleasant weather without the extreme heat of the summer months. While June to August can also be enjoyable, the temperatures can be quite high, so plan outdoor activities for the cooler mornings.

Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Sicily

Volcano Etna

Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano at 3340 meters, is a must-visit attraction for families. Begin your adventure at Etna Sud, where you can take a cable car up to 2500 meters. From there, you can hike or take a truck and guide to the summit. Alternatively, explore the nearby craters without the cable car. A car is essential for this trip due to limited public transport options.

Family-Friendly Beaches

Sicily is renowned for its stunning beaches, many of which are perfect for families:

• Carratois: Features shallow, clear waters with beach bars and rental options.
• Vendicari Noto: Located in a nature reserve with lush surroundings.
• Mondello Beach: Near Palermo, offering rentals and eateries.
• San Vito lo Capo: Known for its Caribbean-like setting with white sands and palm trees.
• Spiaggia Sampieri: A picturesque, lengthy sandy beach near the quaint village of Sampieri.

Taormina

Taormina is a charming town rich in Roman history, featuring an ancient theater and easy beach access via a cable car. Isola Bella beach offers clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Water shoes are recommended due to the rocky areas.

Palermo

Palermo is a vibrant city with historical sites such as the Cathedral and Palazzo Dei Normanni, as well as the beautiful Piazza Pretoria. The city’s botanical garden and Cathedral Monreale are also worth visiting. Explore the city by hop-on-hop-off bus or a family-friendly bike tour. The Marionette Museum, housing over three thousand Sicilian puppets, is a unique attraction for kids.

Cefalu

Cefalu combines historical charm with beach fun. Visit Piazza Duomo and the beautiful cathedral before heading to the family-friendly beach, which offers snorkeling, playgrounds, and amenities. For older kids, a climb up La Rocca provides stunning views.

Other Fun Activities

Etnaland

A combination amusement and water park at the foot of Mount Etna, Etnaland offers over thirty attractions and a water park with more than twenty slides.

Alcantara Gorge

Explore this stunning gorge created by Mount Etna’s eruptions. A visitor center provides guided tours, or you can enjoy the recreational beach by the river.

Water Park Acqua Verde

Located near Cefalu, this water park features various slides, a wave pool, and a paddling pool for young kids.

Nebrodi Adventure Park

This climbing park offers courses for all ages, including toddlers. Older kids can enjoy more challenging routes high in the trees.

Agrigento

Visit the Valley of Temples to see ancient Greek ruins, including well-preserved temples, roads, catacombs, and a monastery.

Parco Monte Serra Nature Park

Enjoy hiking, donkey tours, a playground, and a butterfly house in this beautiful nature park.

Castello di Donnafugata

Explore this southeastern castle and its large garden, perfect for family walks and picnics.

Cavagrande Del Cassibile

Take a scenic walk to a lake with waterfalls in this nature reserve. Wear sturdy shoes and bring food and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site.

Aeolian Islands

Take a ferry to these islands north of Sicily. Vulcano features mud baths and volcanic craters, while Stromboli has an active volcano and black sand beaches.

Accommodation for Families

Palermo

• Budget: Alba Central City
• Mid-range: Hotel Elite
• Luxury: Hotel Politeama

Catania

• Budget: Stesicorea Palace
• Mid-range: Hotel Agathae
• Luxury: Airone City Hotel

Agrigento

• Budget: Deep Sea Residence
• Mid-range: Hotel Della Valle
• Luxury: Hotel Villa Athena

Cefalu

• Budget: Mareblu B
• Mid-range: Hotel Mediterraneo
• Luxury: Horizon Suites

Dining Options

Sicily offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, with many restaurants providing high chairs and children’s menus. Look for traditional trattorias and pizzerias, which often cater to families and offer delicious, authentic Sicilian cuisine.

Transportation

Having a car is highly recommended for exploring Sicily with kids, as public transportation is limited. Sunny Cars is a reliable option, offering comprehensive insurance and the flexibility to cancel up to an hour before your reservation.

Suggested Four-Day Itinerary for Families

Day 1: Explore Catania and Mount Etna

• Morning: Visit the Catania Fish Market and Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Drive to Etna Sud and take the cable car up Mount Etna.
• Evening: Return to Catania for dinner and explore the city center.

Day 2: Discover Taormina and Isola Bella

• Morning: Explore the ancient theater and Roman ruins in Taormina.
• Afternoon: Take the cable car to Isola Bella beach for snorkeling and relaxation.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Taormina.

Day 3: Palermo and Monreale

• Morning: Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour of Palermo’s main attractions.
• Afternoon: Visit the Cathedral of Monreale.
• Evening: Stroll through Palermo’s city center and enjoy a family-friendly dinner.

Day 4: Beach Day at Cefalu

• Morning: Explore Cefalu’s historic town center and Piazza Duomo.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Cefalu’s family-friendly beach, enjoying snorkeling and the playground.
• Evening: Dine at a beachfront restaurant in Cefalu.

Tips for Tourists

• Hydrate and Protect: Ensure everyone stays hydrated and wears sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
• Plan for the Heat: Schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks and water, particularly when visiting more remote attractions.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many attractions involve walking or hiking.
• Car Seats: If renting a car, ensure you request car seats for younger kids.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs and be aware that many shops and restaurants close during the afternoon for a siesta.