Sicily with your family: a practical guide

• Capital: Palermo
• Currency: Euro
• Language: Italian
• Climate: Mediterranean
• Transportation: Plane, boat
• Main airports: Palermo, Comiso, Trapani and Catania
• Flight times: Paris (2:30 hours), Brussels (2:40 hours), Geneva (2 hours), London (3:10 hours)

Looking for the ideal getaway for a family holiday in Europe? Italy is the place to be! With its picturesque landscapes, rich culture and delicious cuisine, Italy offers a host of exciting activities for children. Find out how to create unforgettable memories on a family holiday in Italy, where every day is a new adventure for young and old alike.

The best times to visit Sicily are between March and May, as well as between September and November. Spring and autumn are the ideal times to enjoy the mild temperatures, perfect for hiking or visiting various sites. July, August and September are ideal for a refreshing dip in the sea.

As the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily offers numerous possibilities for sightseeing, each more sublime than the last. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most important cities and sites not to be missed on your visit to the island.

Taormina is a charming town on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Known for its spectacular scenery, cobbled streets and rich historical heritage, it has attracted many visitors and artists over the centuries. Among its major attractions are the Ancient Greek Theatre, offering breathtaking views of Mount Etna, as well as magnificent beaches and lush gardens. Taormina embodies a perfect blend of culture, history and natural beauty.

Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city, situated on the island’s east coast at the foot of majestic Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Founded in the 8th century BC, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage, visible in its Baroque monuments and buildings, including the famous Palazzo Biscari and the Piazza del Duomo with its Elephant Fountain. Catania is also renowned for its lively nightlife and typical markets, such as the Pescheria market. The city combines modernity and tradition, with a unique charm that attracts travellers from all over the world.

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a vibrant city that combines a rich history, dynamic culture and fascinating architecture. Situated on the north-west coast of the island, Palermo has been influenced by many civilisations, from the Phoenicians to the Normans, and this is reflected in its iconic monuments. Highlights include Palermo Cathedral, the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel, as well as traditional markets such as Ballarò. The city is also famous for its tasty cuisine, lively streets and nearby beaches. Palermo embodies the crossroads of Mediterranean cultures, with a unique atmosphere and unrivalled beauty.

Agrigento is a historic town on the south coast of Sicily, famous for its impressive archaeological site, the Valley of the Temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the ancient ruins of majestic Greek temples dating back to the 5th century BC, such as the Temple of Concord, one of the best preserved in ancient Greece. Agrigento itself is a picturesque town, with narrow streets and ancient buildings that reflect its rich past. The surrounding area is also renowned for its spectacular scenery, with rolling green hills and Mediterranean beaches. Agrigento is a true journey through time, combining history, culture and natural beauty.

Syracuse, on the south-east coast of Sicily, is a fascinating and historic city founded by the Greeks in the eighth century BC. An ancient Mediterranean power, it was the birthplace of famous philosophers and scientists such as Archimedes. Syracuse’s historic centre, particularly the island of Ortigia, is packed with impressive monuments, including the Duomo, a cathedral built on an ancient Greek temple, and the magnificent Greek Theatre. The city is also home to a renowned archaeological museum and a large archaeological park. Surrounded by splendid natural landscapes, Syracuse offers a perfect blend of culture, history and Mediterranean beauty.