Why you should choose Sicily for your next family holiday
Officially referred to as Regione Siciliana, Sicily is resolutely Italian - but is set apart, both geographically and, to a certain extent, culturally. Divided from the Italian mainland by the Strait of Messina to the north east, the island is undeniably huge at 9,927 square miles. For context, Wales measures just over 8000 square miles. With 5 million inhabitants, Sicily has a strong identity, history and atmosphere of its very own. It’s also famously welcoming to tourists and especially to families with young kids (although it’s probably best not to delve too deeply into the tales of the fabled and much feared Cosa Nostra…).
History buffs will be wowed by the island’s complicated past - it has both Ancient Greek and Roman heritage. To get a real sense of the island’s history, a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valley of the Temples is a must. The area houses a jaw dropping cluster of ancient classical architecture including the necropolis and temples of the gods. Elsewhere on the island of Sicily you’ll find the well preserved sites of the Roman Amphitheatre of Catania and the Greek Theatre of Syracuse along with a multitude of centuries old cathedrals, piazzas and other relics.
Food wise, if you love Italian cooking, you’ll be happy here. Sicily offers the sort of staple pasta dishes you and your kids will recognise such as lasagne and tomato penne with prawns and meatballs. The island is also home to other culinary delights such as creamy cannoli pastries, artichokes, Gambero red prawns and chocolate made in the town of Modica.
Sunseekers will find their spiritual home on this island of stunning beaches and will love exploring the rugged terrain of the northern coastline and the soft sands of the southern ‘spiagge’ (that’s beaches in Italian fyi).
Where is good for a family holiday in Sicily?
The island of Sicily is so large and wide-ranging in sights and activities, there’s no simple answer to this question. But going by Mumsnetter tips and advice on our talk forums, Hotel Kalura in the northern coastal destination of Cefalù is ideal. The hotel offers a private beach, on-site bar and restaurant and panoramic views along with easy access to the city’s culture and historic sites including its 12 century Norman cathedral.
Where should I stay in Sicily with kids?
A great place to add to your Sicily list of holiday destinations is the capital city of Palermo. You and your kids will be kept busy visiting busy street markets and historial sights.
Mamamia al Teatro Biondo is located conveniently centrally within the city so you and your children can walk - or travel by buggy - to most tourist hot spots with ease.
Where can kids go in Sicily?
Kids are welcome throughout Sicily. A great budget hotel for families with kids is Palazzo Il Cavaliere B&B De Charme, located in the centre of the vibrant Modica beside the town’s cathedral.
Is Sicily family friendly?
Like much of Italy, Sicily is a good family holiday destination. The island offers many options for families with babies and toddlers. Little ones are genuinely welcomed in hotels, restaurants and shops and there’s also enough culture and history to interest older kids.
Is Sicily a good family holiday destination?
Sicily is a great destination for families. Mumsnetters praise San Vito lo Copo as a lovely beach side town which is located within a nature reserve. Hotel Achibea - five miles from San Vito lo Copo - offers a swimming pool, table tennis and beautiful views for families who want to get away from it all during their Sicily adventure.
Where in Sicily is best for a family holiday?
The best overall place for a family holiday in Sicily, according to Mumsnetter recommendations, is the pretty village of Giardini Naxos overlooking the Mediterranean. A few miles from Taormina with its history and culture is UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia, which offers family-friendly accomodation and entertainment along with its own private beach.
Do I need to hire a car in Sicily?
As Sicily is such a large island, and you’re likely to want to travel around during your trip in order to pack in your sightseeing and beach visits, you’ll need to factor in transport. It’s not necessary to hire a care because public transport is good across the island, especially by bus. However, it’s important to plan your itinerary with care and work out how you’ll travel from one location to the next, especially if you are planning on staying in more than one hotel in Sicily.
When is the best time to go to Sicily?
The summer months in Sicily are perfect for sunbathing but popular tourist destinations and sightseeing spots can get hot and overcrowded, especially in September which is the busiest month.
If you’re not confined to school holidays, think about booking between March and June or in October. These times of year are less crowded and the weather is mild for sightseeing and travelling around. By travelling out of peak season you may also nab yourself a cheap deal on flights and hotels.