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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SICILY?

 

Similar to where should you visit Sicily, the best time of the year to visit Sicily depends on your interests and the activities you would like to participate in.  You can see what the average temperature and rainfall is in Sicily all year round by clicking here.  Note that there are many micro-climates in Sicily which will be more unpredictable during the winter months.  While the higher elevations tend to be cooler and more rainy during  the winter, do not be surprised if you go a few kilometers in any direction and have sunny skies.

A few things to keep in mind.  High tourist season is June through August with August being especially busy as many European nations have the entire month off for holiday.  You can expect large crowds at the beaches and popular tourist destinations and attractions.  Should you choose to visit Sicily December through February (great times to visit museums and historical sites with plenty of room to yourself), note that many family-owned restaurants and boutiques may be closed during this time. There are wonderful holiday markets through New Years; however, on January 6th, the Epiphany, many of the family owned businesses will close for several weeks.  Expect things to open in March and Easter typically marks the beginning of the new season. 

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WHEN SHOULD I PLAN MY TRIP TO SICILY?

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We recommend that you at least book flights, lodging, and a car (if you are renting a car) in as far in advance as possible.  This will not only save you on total costs, but it will also insure that you are not stressed trying to find accommodations or a car at a reasonable price.  Too often we read about tourists who visit thinking they will get accommodations or a rental car at the last minute, even though they booked their flights months in advance, only to realize that the accommodations they were hoping for are not available or that car rental prices are beyond their budget.

Booking tours and activities should be booked in advance as well.  The more popular the experience and/or guide, the farther out you should book the experience.

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DO I NEED TO RENT A CAR?

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While public transportation is widely available throughout the island, the frequency of service increases during popular months like July and August; however, outside of large towns or cities like Palermo, Catania, and Trapani, you can expect intermittent service that revolves primarily around commuting times and many visitors find the limitations restrictive to their exploration.

Should you decide to rent a car, if you are a U.S. citizen, you will need an international drivers permit to rent a car or provide to the police if you are pulled over.  You can obtain an international drivers permit by going to your closest AAA office where they will take your picture, review your U.S. drivers license, and provide you with the permit.  The process only takes about 10 minutes, the fee is $30, and the permit is good for a year. 

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CAN I USE CREDIT CARDS IN SICILY?

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While many places in Sicily accept credit cards, always ask prior to ordering food when you go to a restaurant.  In family-owned restaurants and shops, and especially outdoor markets, they will typically prefer cash, especially for smaller transactions.  Be sure to call your credit card company prior to visiting Sicily to alert them to the fact that you will be in Sicily so the card issuer does not deny a transaction.

Note that American Express is not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard in Sicily.

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WHERE SHOULD I CONVERT MY CURRENCY TO EURO?

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The answer here is, "it depends."  Some credit card companies do not charge foreign transaction fees and offer market exchange rates, so this is your best option for larger purchases.  For carrying around money, we recommend that you call your bank to alert them to the fact that you will be using foreign ATMs otherwise the ATM transaction will likely be denied.  Many find the rates with the ATM to be most cost-effective.  Exchanging currencies at the airport or hotels typically carry the highest fees.

CAUTION:  If you are paying by credit card and they offer you the "convenience" to charge in dollars instead of euro, do not take them up on the offer.  There is usually a hidden fee or markup for this "convenience" that goes directly to the merchant.  It's basically an easy way for them to overcharge you for your purchase.  Your credit card will automatically make the conversion for billing purposes, so this is not something that you should request or approve with the merchant.

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DO I NEED TO TIP IN SICILY?

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Sicily is not a tipping culture; however, as a tourist, should you decide to show some appreciation to your local hosts, this is a very loose guideline you can follow:

•  When purchasing a coffee and some snacks, rounding up or leaving one euro will be appreciated.

•  For larger tabs on a nice lunch or dinner, it is at your discretion as to whether or not you will leave a tip.   We recommend 5% cash as a nice gesture.

•  For taxis, bellmen, or those who may go out of their way to help you, again, a euro or two is always appreciated. 

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WILL MY CELL PHONE WORK IN SICILY?

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The simple answer is yes, but call your cell provider prior to leaving to check on their policy.  There may be an overage on data or call minutes that will be quite expensive, while some providers have international packages that you can buy which are more economical.  You may also consider purchasing a pre-paid SIM card for your phone if it is unlocked to save even more money.

We also have free WiFi at Villa Felice for our guests, so you can connect to WiFi and use WiFi calling on your cell phone to avoid additional fees from your carrier.

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A FINAL NOTE REGARDING HAIR DRYERS, CURLING IRONS, ELECTRIC SHAVERS...

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If you are visiting Sicily from the U.S., know that Italy and other European countries have different electric currents.  Your cell phone and tablet has a built in converter, but most other electronics do not.  Do not bring a hair dryer, curling iron, or a plug-in, electric shaver unless they are dual-voltage as most of them will short out and be ruined as soon as you plug them in, even with an adapter.  They run on totally different circuits and will be ruined as soon as you plug them in.

NOTE:  We provide a hair dryer and a clothes iron at Villa Felice for your convenience.

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