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10 Best Things to do in Sicily

10 Best Things to do in Sicily

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Planning a trip to Sicily? You’ve come to the right place!

We’ve spent plenty of time exploring this sun-soaked island, from its ancient ruins to its vibrant street food scene. But what really makes Sicily unique is its sheer variety—you can be snorkeling in crystal-clear waters one day and hiking an active volcano the next. 

Whether you’re here for the history, the beaches, or the food (trust us, you’ll want all three), we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Sicily to help you make the most of your time. These are experiences we’d do again in a heartbeat, and after reading them, we’re sure you’ll want to add them to your itinerary, too!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Bailey-on-Mt-Etna-on-a-tour-to-Mt-Etna-from-Sicily-Italy

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Sicily was this guided hiking tour on Mt Etna! Hiking on lava beds, through caves, and to the top of Europe’s tallest active volcano was a bucket list experience. Plus, our guide made this day easy, safe, and super fun!

Check out the 850+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in Sicily

1. Take a boat tour to the stunning Aegadian Islands from Trapani

Bailey-swims-on-a-boat-tour-in the Aegadian Islands on a tour from Sicily Italy
The water was perfect!
Daniel-sits-on-a-boat-on-a-boat-tour-from Sicily Italy
Don’t forget the sunscreen!
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Time: 10 am
  • Highlights: Visit the islands of Favignana and Levanzo on a small-group boat tour from Trapani, learn about historic battles, sunbathe and snorkel at your leisure
  • Inclusions: Local guide, use of snorkeling equipment, soda, bottled water, wine, restroom on board
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Spend a day island-hopping off Trapani? Count us in! This small-group boat tour to Favignana and Levanzo was the perfect way to explore Sicily’s crystal-clear waters and hidden coves.

From the moment we set off, our guide, Nico, made sure we had a great time—sharing stories, cracking jokes, and diving into the island’s history. His passion made the ride between stops just as exciting as the time in the water!

Our first stop at Cala Azzurra set the tone for the day. Snorkeling here was next-level! The water was so clear that it felt like we were floating through glass, and as soon as we jumped in, schools of colorful damselfish surrounded us. Then, at Grotta del Bue Marino, we discovered one of the most striking swimming spots we’ve ever seen. The mix of turquoise and deep blue was unreal!

But Cala Rossa stole the show! Often called one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches, it didn’t just live up to the hype—it surpassed it. Watching the sunlight ripple across the surface was like staring into a giant, ever-changing gemstone!

We took a break in Favignana, wandering its streets before heading to Levanzo. The last two snorkeling stops, Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola, were the perfect way to end the day, floating in the calm water and soaking it all in.

This tour was the ideal mix of history, adventure, and island vibes. But don’t just take our word for it—read enthusiastic reviews here and see why travelers love this experience!

2. Hike Europe’s tallest active volcano – Mt Etna

Bailey-stands-by-a-crater-on-Mt-Etna-on-a-tour-to-Mt-Etna-from-Sicily-Italy
So cool!
Mt-Etna-seen on a tour from Sicily Italy
Look at how big it is!
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Time: 9 am
  • Highlights: Full-day guided tour of Mount Etna from Catania, hike up to the inner craters and visit a lava cave, learn about local geology and history, admire views of eastern Sicily
  • Inclusions: Professional guided tour in English, French, or Italian, driver, use of headlamp and helmet for exploring a lava cave, hotel pickup and drop-off (in Catania except ZTL areas), transport by A/C minivan/jeep/minibus
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

We’ve hiked in many places, but nowhere else has made us feel like we were walking on the moon—except Mount Etna. This full-day volcano tour from Catania was easily one of the best ways to experience Europe’s highest active volcano, taking us across hardened lava fields, up to craters, and even inside a lava cave.

Our day started early with a hotel pickup in Catania, and before we knew it, we were winding up the slopes of Etna. Our guide, Leonardo, was a legend! He was super knowledgeable and always happy to answer questions. 

Along the way, we stopped to check out lava flows from past eruptions and were amazed to learn how life slowly returns to volcanic rock over time.

Then came the real challenge—hiking up to the inner craters at 2,000 meters (6,500 feet)! The black, rocky terrain stretched for miles, and with the crisp mountain air and panoramic views over eastern Sicily, it was worth every step. 

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we strapped on helmets and headlamps to explore a lava cave. Stepping into a tunnel shaped by molten lava was nothing like we expected. It was cool, dark, and eerily silent. Crawling through narrow passages and seeing firsthand how lava had carved its way through the earth was unlike anything we’d experienced before.

Without a doubt, this was one of the most incredible adventures we’ve had. You don’t want to miss this unforgettable Mount Etna experience!

Related Read: If you’re staying in Catania, make sure you check out our detailed 3-day itinerary to make the most of your time!

3. Take a cooking class in Taormina

People at a market during a cooking class in Taormina Italy
Chef Mimmo helping us buy fresh ingredients at the local market
Bailey-drinks-wine-during-a-cooking-class-in-Sicily-Italy
Enjoying our fresh meal with an amazing view and a glass of wine
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Time: 10 am 
  • Highlights: Local market visit, seafront restaurant, amazing hosts, cooking a wide range of Sicilian dishes, lots of wine, snack and coffee break
  • Inclusions: Transport, ingredients, equipment, antipasti, big family-style lunch, coffee, wine
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

While in Sicily, you can’t miss Chef Mimmo’s cooking class in Taormina! It was hands down the best thing we did here, and we would book it again in a heartbeat. 

The experience was fantastic from start to finish. In the morning, Chef Mimmo met us in town and took us to a local market, where we got to choose our own produce and ingredients. Lots of cooking classes actually skip this step, which is such a shame because it gave us real insight into the local culture, so this is just another great reason to book Mimmo’s class! 

Then, Chef Mimmo whisked us off to his seafront restaurant where we met his mother, Francesca. She’s an amazing, kind lady who showed us true Sicilian hospitality! Together, the two of them taught us how to make all kinds of Sicilian dishes, like swordfish rolls, eggplant caponata, and five different types of pasta, with accompanying sauces. It was a hands-on experience, and we got to eat it all, family-style, at the end, which made it even better! 

In addition to the amazing meal, we also got local cheese and salami to snack on while we cooked, a coffee break, and lots of wine to sip on! We felt like it was incredible value for money, given the price, as we would have paid at least as much—if not more—to dine like this at a local restaurant. 

We’ve done cooking classes all over the world, but Chef Mimmo’s tour will always stand out as one of the best. It’s no wonder that it has hundreds of positive reviews! Honestly, if you don’t book this tour while you’re in Taormina, you will well and truly be missing out.

4. Visit the Valley of the Temples

Temple of Concordia, Agrigento, Valley of the Temples in Sicily Italy
The Temple of Concordia
villa romana del casale seen on a tour from Sicily Italy
Villa Romana del Casale had some interesting murals!
  • Duration: 10 hours
  • Time: 8:30 am
  • Highlights: Explore the history and architecture of Sicily, see several popular landmarks in one day, including the Greek ruins of Agrigento and the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina
  • Inclusions: Driver guide (not a touristic guide and cannot enter inside the historical places), hotel pickup and drop-off or meeting point close to your accommodation in Catania, transport by air-conditioned minivan, snack with typical Sicilian street food, bottled water, Etna wine, small group tour
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Sicily’s history is written in its ruins, and this full-day tour to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina brings it to life. With a small group and a comfortable ride, there’s no need to stress about logistics—just sit back and soak in the views as you explore the famous Valle dei Templi and Villa Romana del Casale.

Arriving in Agrigento, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the sheer scale of the Valley of the Temples. Walking through this UNESCO-listed site, we were struck by how well-preserved the ruins are, especially the Temple of Concordia. It’s still standing tall after more than 2,000 years! No wonder ancient Greek poets described it as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. 

While the driver stays outside the archaeological areas, you’ll get a paper guide to help you navigate the sites, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Just keep in mind that the Valley of the Temples entrance ticket isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

Next, we made our way to Piazza Armerina to visit Villa Romana del Casale—home to some of the most impressive Roman mosaics we’ve ever seen. Covering nearly every inch of the villa’s floors, these intricate scenes depict everything from hunting expeditions to everyday Roman life.

This tour made it easy to explore Sicily’s ancient past by skipping the hassle of renting a car! It combines remarkable ruins, fascinating history, and the freedom to explore at our own pace.

5. See all eight UNESCO Sites in Palermo

The-Cattedrale-di-Palermo-seen-on-a-tour-in-Palermo-from Sicily-Italy
The Cattedrale di Palermo
The piazza pretoria and fountain seen on a tour from Palermo Sicily Italy
Piazza Pretoria, aka the “Square of Shame”
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: 9 am
  • Highlights: Walking tour discovering Palermo’s baroque and Norman-Arabic architecture, stop outside the Palatine Chapel and learn about its mosaics, hear the history of Piazza Pretoria and its marble statues
  • Inclusions: Licensed English-speaking guide, marvel (from outside) at the city’s main monuments, entrance to the Cathedral
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Palermo’s chaotic charm makes it easy to get lost in its streets and history. That’s why this walking tour with a passionate local is the best way to get oriented!

Our tour began at Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house. Standing in its shadow, we learned how this grand building became famous not just for its acoustics but also for its role in The Godfather Part III.

From there, we wandered through Palermo’s maze of streets, uncovering centuries of history. One of our favorite stops was Piazza Pretoria, dubbed the “Square of Shame.” Its marble statues were once deemed too revealing for modest eyes. Now, it’s one of Palermo’s most stunning Renaissance landmarks!

A short walk brought us to Quattro Canti, the crossroads of the historic center. Each facade represents a season, and the square is perfectly symmetrical—like stepping into a baroque masterpiece! Then, we reached the Cattedrale di Palermo, built in 1184 to rival Monreale’s cathedral. Blending Norman, Gothic, and Arabic influences, one column even still bears a Quran passage!

Our guide, Simon, was incredibly knowledgeable, pointing out details we never would have noticed, like Arabic inscriptions hidden in the stonework. And just when we thought the tour couldn’t get better, we ended with a Sicilian cannolo—crunchy, creamy, and just sweet enough!

Looking back, we can’t imagine a better way to start a trip to Palermo. This is the tour to take if you want to connect with the city beyond its busy streets!

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

6. See Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse

ear of dionysius in Syracuse seen on a tour from Sicily Italy
The Ear of Dionysius Limestone Cave
An ancient Roman theatre in Syracuse seen on a tour from Sicily Italy
This ancient Roman theatre was so cool!
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Time: 8:45 am (only available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)
  • Highlights: Small group tour to Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto from Catania, explore the historic city of Syracuse, visit its Roman and Greek ruins, wander the streets of Ortygia Island, marvel at Noto’s baroque architecture
  • Inclusions: Professional multilingual guide, entrance ticket to the Archeological Park of Syracuse, authorized tourist guide in Syracuse, return shuttle bus, pick up and drop off at your hotel in Catania
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

This full-day tour felt like flipping through the pages of Sicilian history—only instead of reading about ancient civilizations, we were walking through them. We had a small group, which made it easy to soak in every moment of our trip to the historic cities of Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto.

We kicked things off at Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, home to some of the best-preserved ruins in Sicily. The Greek amphitheater was massive, and learning that it still hosts performances made it feel even more alive. 

Then there was the Roman amphitheater—standing where gladiators once fought to the death gave us chills. But the real highlight was the “Ear of Dionysius,” a cave with unbelievable acoustics. Our guide, Nando, demonstrated by speaking at one end, and we heard him perfectly from the other.

As soon as we arrived in Ortygia, we were hooked! This tiny island is the historic heart of Syracuse, packed with charming streets, stunning piazzas, and sea views that made us want to stay forever. The Cathedral of Syracuse was breathtaking, but we loved the quiet beauty of the Fountain of Arethusa and learning how it was tied to Greek mythology. 

Finally, we reached Noto, which left me in awe! The baroque architecture, golden buildings, and sweeping views from the top of Noto Cathedral were the perfect way to wrap up the day.

By the end, we were exhausted in the best way possible! For an unforgettable dive into Sicily’s history and architecture, this tour is a must.

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    7. Taste Sicily’s famous street food in Palermo

    Bailey-holds-food-on-a-food-tour-in-Palermo Sicily-Italy
    We tried all sorts of delicious street food
    Bailey-drinks-wine-on-a-food-wine-history-tour-in-Palermo Sicily-Italy
    And wine!
    • Duration: 3 hours
    • Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 12 pm and 5:30-7 pm
    • Highlights: Small-group street food tour around Palermo with a foodie guide, visit Sicily’s open-air markets, taste authentic Sicilian street foods and local beverages
    • Inclusions: Licensed local guide, snacks, (7+) various street food treats, 3 alcoholic beverages, seasonal dessert
    • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,700+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: No
    • Price: Check price here!

    Nothing beats eating your way through a city, and Palermo is the perfect place to do just that. From crispy panelle to creamy cannoli, this guided street food tour dives into the heart of Sicily’s best flavors.

    Between fresh food stalls, lively markets, and a few unexpected bites (yes, I’m looking at you, spleen sandwich), this was one of our favorite ways to experience the city!

    We started at Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house and a scene-stealer in The Godfather: Part III. From there, we headed to Capo Market, where vendors shouted over piles of fresh seafood and produce. It was sensory overload in the best way!

    First up? A crunchy panelle hot off the fryer, followed by crisp arancini stuffed with gooey cheese and rich meat sauce. Each stop came with a side of history as our amazing guide, Vince, explained how Palermo’s food scene has been shaped by Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences.

    At Ballarò Market, the energy cranks up! Between sips of Sicilian wine, we decide to be brave and go for pane ca meusa—Palermo’s famous spleen sandwich. It was rich, salty, and surprisingly good! The grand finale was ice cream at the best gelateria downtown to end the day on the sweetest note!

    This food tour delivers an unforgettable taste of Palermo, but you don’t want to wait—it’s likely to sell out. Read hundreds of rave reviews here and find out why this tour is so popular!

    8. Go wine tasting in the Etna Wine Region

    Bailey-tastes-wine-in the Etna Wine Region on a tour from Sicily Italy
    Yay wine!
    Grape-vine-in-the-Etna wine Region from Sicily Italy
    Wandering through the vineyard
    • Duration: 6 hours
    • Time: 9 am or 10 am (depending on start location)
    • Highlights: Guided wine and food tasting tour at three top Etna wineries, scenic drive through authentic mountain villages with views of citrus groves, olive trees, and historic lava stone buildings, learn about the wine production process from expert sommeliers, views of Mount Etna 
    • Inclusions: Driver/guide, a progressive tasting of Etna DOC and regional wines, each paired with traditional Sicilian bites, bottled water, hotel/port pickup and drop-off in Taormina, Catania, or Messina, transportation between sights by air-conditioned private car or mini-van
    • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    We’ve done our fair share of wine tastings, but drinking wine from volcanic soil? That was a first! This private tour through Etna’s wineries wasn’t just about the drinks—it was about the landscape, people, and stories behind every glass.

    From the moment our guide, Alessandro, picked us up, he made us feel like we were being let in on a Sicilian secret. We cruised through tiny mountain villages, past lemon orchards bursting with fruit and lava-stone churches that looked like they belonged in another century.

    The first winery was a family-run gem, where a sommelier walked us through the winemaking process before pouring three Etna DOC wines. Each sip came with crunchy bruschetta topped with rich local pâtés, and honestly, we could have stayed there all day!

    The second stop featured homemade pasta, a spread of Sicilian meats and cheeses, and four more wines to sample—no complaints from us! But the pasta stole the show, perfectly cooked and paired with a bold red.

    By the time we reached the last winery, a rustic spot with views of Etna, we had fully embraced the slow, indulgent pace of Sicilian wine country. Sipping crisp whites and smooth reds with fresh bread, olives, and olive oil, we finally got it—this is what Etna wine is all about!

    This tour made it effortless to drink our way through one of Italy’s most unique wine regions. But don’t just take our word for it—check out hundreds of glowing reviews here!

    9. Discover the Mafia history of Palermo

    Addiopizzo Travel mural of victims of the mafia in Palermo Sicily Italy
    The Wall of Legality is a mural of some of the mafia’s most well-known victims. Photo credit: Addiopizzo Travel
    Addiopizzo Travel an anti mafia sign in Palermo Sicily Italy
    These Addiopizzo stickers are on the windows of businesses that don’t pay for mafia “protection”. Photo credit: Addiopizzo Travel
    • Duration: 3 hours
    • Time: 9 am, 10 am, 5 pm
    • Highlights: Explore Palermo’s key sights on this small group walking tour, visit popular landmarks like the Palermo Cathedral, Palazzo Pretorio, and Massimo Theater, learn about Palermo’s mafia-related history
    • Inclusions: Local guide, solidarity quote: a small contribution to Addiopizzo local NGO
    • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 800+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    Palermo’s history with the mafia is no secret, but this walking tour reveals a side of the story that often goes untold. Strolling through the city’s historic streets, we got a firsthand look at how the mafia shaped Palermo and how locals are still fighting back today.

    Our guide wasted no time diving into the city’s complex past, starting at Teatro Massimo, the grand opera house made famous by The Godfather III. But beyond the Hollywood connection, we learned how this landmark became a symbol of Palermo’s rebirth after years of mafia control. 

    From there, we stopped at the Wall of Legality, a 70-meter (230-foot) long mural depicting some of the mafia’s most well-known victims. Seeing their faces up close put real weight behind their stories. 

    Winding through the noisy stalls of Capo Street Market, we learned how the mafia once controlled businesses there through a system of extortion known as pizzo. But today, shopkeepers are fighting back —those with bright orange Addiopizzo stickers on their windows have refused to pay protection money. Even our gelato stop at Cappadonia Gelati felt like an act of resistance!

    This tour was eye-opening in the best way possible! It’s one thing to hear about the mafia’s influence, but walking these streets and meeting those changing Palermo’s future made it unforgettable. If you want to see Palermo’s past and present collide, this is the tour to take.

    10. Visit Isola Bella’s famous Blue Grotto

    Escursioni in barca Giardini Naxos Taormina Isola Bella
    The Blue Grotto! Photo credit: Kristal Boat
    Daniel-snorklels-in-the-water-on-a-tour-from-Sicily Italy
    Daniel loves to snorkel!
    • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
    • Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 6 pm
    • Highlights: Explore Sicily’s east coast by sea on this small group tour, stop for swimming and photos, admire top attractions such as the Grotta dell’Amore, taste famous Sicilian delicacies, search for dolphins at sunset
    • Inclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, private tour with fish lunch (if selected), use of snorkeling equipment (if selected), aperitif (if selected)
    • Rating: 4.6 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    Sailing along Sicily’s east coast with Mount Etna in the background and Taormina’s dramatic cliffs rising from the sea was the perfect way to experience this part of the island. This small-group boat tour from Giardini Naxos combines stunning coastal views, hidden caves, and plenty of chances to swim in the clear blue waters.

    Our guide, Luca, was fantastic! He made sure we didn’t just see the sights but understood the history behind them, from the legends of the Grotta dell’Amore to the unique rock formations like Scoglio dell’Elefante, aptly named for its resemblance to an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. Once we saw it, we couldn’t unsee it.

    Swimming off Isola Bella was our favorite part! This tiny island is a nature reserve, and diving into its crystal-clear waters felt surreal. Daniel decided to snorkel, but I liked floating in the calm sea, surrounded by the beauty of the Sicilian coast, which was just right for me. We even spotted dolphins in the distance!

    Between stops, we sipped Prosecco and nibbled on Sicilian almond paste treats, a sweet touch that made the trip even better! For an even more exclusive experience, you can upgrade to a sunset tour and search for dolphins or take a private excursion.

    For us, it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re visiting Taormina, this boat tour is a must! Swim, snorkel, or just relax—either way, you won’t want it to end.

    Where to Stay in Sicily

    A hotel room at the Grand Hotel Wagner in Palermo Sicily
    Photo Credit: Grand Hotel Wagner

    Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Sicily, you need somewhere perfect to stay! The three major hubs travelers usually base themselves out of are Palermo, Catania, and Taormina. Here is a quick overview of the best hotels in each city:

    Palermo

    Luxury – $$$ The Grand Hotel Wagner

    Mid-range – $$ Addimora Boutique Suites

    Budget – $ Alba Central City 

    Catania 

    Luxury – $$$ Asmundo di Gisira 

    Mid-range – $$ B&B Palazzo Bruca Catania

    Budget – $ San Demetrio

    Taormina 

    Luxury – $$$ UNAHOTELS Capotaormina 

    Mid-range – $$ Hotel Bel Soggiorno

    Budget – $ Hotel Pensione Cundari

    Related Read: If you want more detailed reviews and hotel recommendations, check out our complete guide on where to stay in Sicily!

    Renting a Car in Italy

    Driving our rental car along the Amalfi Coast in Italy

    Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

    We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

    Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

    • Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
    • Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
    • Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
    • Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
    • Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

    What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

    • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
    • If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
    • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
    • You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

    Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

    Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

    If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

    SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

    SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

    Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

    Thanks for reading!

    Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-boat-tour-in-Sicily
    Thanks for reading!

    Sicily is a dream destination for a reason – I couldn’t get enough of the scenery, history, incredible food, and lively locals! We loved exploring the whole island, and these top activities showed us the best of each area. Follow this list, and you’re sure to fall in love with Sicily just as we did!

    Before you take off, check out our other travel blogs! We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow adventurers. Here are a few related reads to help you plan your next getaway:

    8 Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily

    3 Best Cooking Classes in Taormina: Which One to Choose

    10 Best Things to do in Naples, Italy