Where to Stay in Sicily, Italy: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Sicily and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

Sicily is home to historic cities and charming beach towns, and picking the right base can really shape your trip. We’ve enjoyed many trips to Sicily over the years, and we’ve found out firsthand that picking the right base can really shape your trip. That’s why we’ve compiled our ultimate guide on where to stay. 

Whether you’re after ancient ruins, sandy coastlines, or a lively city break, we’ll help you find your perfect spot. We’ve also got hotel recommendations in each place. Let’s dive in! 

Where To Stay In Sicily Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Sicily, Italy

Some Sicilian towns boast historic sights and ancient ruins, while others feature pretty beaches, and several of them have both! Palermo is the island’s capital and its main transport hub. There’s a major airport here, as well as a ferry dock and Sicily’s largest train station, so this is where most visitors arrive. It’s a popular area for first-time visitors thanks to its central location and because it offers ample opportunities for day trips, plus a great food scene to boot!

Meanwhile, Sicily’s other major cities are well connected by trains. Buses are a solid option, too, especially for small inland towns. You can also rent a car if you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace. 

• Palermo – The capital of Sicily, packed with history, buzzing markets, and day trip options that make it a great all-around base. Hotel Giardino Inglese offers a peaceful stay just outside the historic center.

• Catania – A gritty but energetic city on the east coast, famous for its Black Baroque architecture and easy access to Mount Etna. Palace Catania offers a touch of modern glamor in the heart of town.

• Cefalù – A postcard-perfect seaside town with sandy beaches, charming old streets, and a relaxed pace of life. Villa Totò Resort offers vacation vibes and beautiful sea views!

• Taormina – A scenic hilltop town close to Mount Etna that’s known for ancient ruins, boutique shopping, and lovely beaches. Hotel Villa Paradiso is an elegant property with amazing volcano views.

• Syracuse – A historic gem with Greek and Roman ruins, especially around the island of Ortigia, where most visitors choose to stay. Ortea Palace Hotel offers a grand waterfront experience in Ortigia.

• Trapani – This city is more residential than touristy, and lots of Sicilians live and work here, but it still boasts plenty of charm, history, and beaches. Azzoli Trapani is a chic and affordable adults-only hotel.

• Agrigento – Located on Sicily’s southern coast, this hilltop city is best known for the Valley of the Temples and its historic architecture. Villa Athena Resort is actually set right within the archaeological park for a truly unique stay!

Where to Stay in Sicily, Italy

Palermo 

Palermo is Sicily’s bustling capital and one of the most vibrant cities on the island. It’s a fantastic base for first-time visitors who want a mix of culture, history, food, and easy access to day trips. You’ll find grand piazzas, ornate churches, and fun street markets. We also just can’t get enough of the architecture here, which blends Norman, Arabic, and Baroque influences.

Palermo is a walkable city, full of character and color, with something happening around every corner. Some of the top sights here include the stunning Palermo Cathedral, the mosaics of the Palatine Chapel, and the lively Ballarò and Vucciria street markets. And that’s just off the top of my head! 

For culture lovers, there are museums, theaters, and plenty of historic landmarks to explore. The food scene is another big highlight. If food is one of the main reasons you’re excited to visit Sicily, you’ll be in absolute heaven among Palermo’s wealth of wine bars, classic trattorias, and fine dining spots.

Palermo is also very convenient if you’re planning to visit places like Monreale, Cefalù, or even the ancient ruins in Segesta. If you enjoy being in the thick of things and want a true taste of Sicilian life, Palermo is a lively and memorable place to stay.

Pros

• Great base for sightseeing and day trips
• Loads of history, culture, and authentic food

Cons

• Can be loud and chaotic in the city center
• Not a “beachy” destination

Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes – $$$

Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes is an elegant, historic property that blends Belle Époque charm with modern luxury. The interiors are full of beautiful details, from chandeliers and marble floors to stained glass and antique furnishings. The rooms are spacious and refined, and the hotel’s bar and restaurant make a great spot for an aperitivo or dinner.

The location is right in the heart of the city, so it’s perfect for exploring on foot, and just a short walk to many major attractions. If you’re after five-star style with a strong sense of place, this one’s a standout. 

Rates here range from €375 to €1,000+ per night, depending on the season and the room you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Giardino Inglese – $$

Hotel Giardino Inglese is a peaceful retreat just outside Palermo’s busy historic center, set in the upscale Politeama area. It’s a refined boutique hotel in a 19th-century building, featuring a lovely garden, rooftop terrace, and comfortable rooms with a classic feel.

This is a great option if you want to be close to everything but prefer a quieter, more residential vibe. You’ll still be within walking distance of shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural spots. It’s the perfect place to rest and unwind after a day of exploring.

Double rooms generally go for €245 per night, while suites typically cost €505 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Massimo Plaza Hotel – $

Massimo Plaza Hotel offers an affordable and friendly stay in a prime central location, directly opposite Teatro Massimo. It’s a small hotel with warm service, comfy rooms, and a cozy, classic style that feels very Italian!

The hotel puts you just steps away from major attractions and street markets, which makes it super convenient for sightseeing. A continental breakfast is also included, so you can fuel up on pastries before heading out to explore! If you want a lovely stay that won’t break the bank, we think this is the perfect pick. 

Rooms typically cost between €150 and €250 per night.

Book this hotel in advance to get the best prices!

Catania

Catania is a gritty and energetic city at the foot of Mount Etna on Sicily’s east coast. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in unique architecture, urban energy, and volcanic landscapes. The city is known for its dramatic Black Baroque buildings made from lava stone, giving it a look that’s totally unlike anywhere else in Italy! 

We think that this lively, walkable city is perfect for travelers who enjoy an authentic city with plenty of personality and a bit of edge. The top sights here include the Piazza del Duomo with the impressive Catania Cathedral, the ancient Roman Theater, and bustling fish markets like La Pescheria. One of Catania’s biggest draws is its proximity to Mount Etna. In fact, you can easily arrange day trips or guided hikes from here!

Catania is also a handy base for exploring the east coast, with direct train and bus connections to Taormina, Syracuse, and beyond. This city is a little rough around the edges, and it’s certainly not a polished resort town, but that’s what makes it feel so real. It has a strong local vibe, great food (especially seafood), and a younger energy thanks to its large university. If you’re into urban travel with a touch of chaos and lots of character, Catania delivers.

Pros

• Great access to Mount Etna and eastern Sicily
• Unique architecture and authentic local culture

Cons

• Can feel gritty and chaotic in parts
• Not as polished or scenic as other Sicilian towns
  

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

Palazzo Sangiorgio – $$$

Palazzo Sangiorgio is a luxurious boutique hotel in a beautifully restored palazzo just steps from Catania’s main attractions. The design is elegant and refined, with high ceilings, curated artwork, and stylish rooms that blend classic architecture with modern comfort.

There’s a tranquil courtyard and a sophisticated bar here, so this place really does feel like a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Catania. It’s ideal for couples or travelers seeking a more upscale experience in this authentic Sicilian city. 

Stays here generally range between €270 and €500 per night, depending on the date and room category you choose.

Find the best rates on Booking.com!

Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze – $$

Palace Catania is a centrally located hotel featuring classic Sicilian decor and a rooftop terrace offering sweeping views of Mount Etna. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, and there’s a wellness area with a Turkish bath for those who want to unwind after a day of sightseeing. So you can have your fill of Catania’s gritty urban vibes and then come back and treat yourself to some well-deserved rest and relaxation. 

Plus, this place is just a short walk from the Duomo and Via Etnea shopping street, so the location is hard to beat! The staff are super friendly, too, and will make you feel right at home. 

Double rooms here range between €150 and €300 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Habitat Boutique Hotel – $

You’ll be walking distance from key sights like the cathedral and fish market, and the staff are friendly and helpful when it comes to planning your stay. A very generous continental breakfast buffet is included each morning, which only delivers even more value for money!

Double rooms generally range between €175 and €200 per night.

Rooms tend to book up fast, so secure your stay ASAP to get the best price!

Cefalù

Cefalù is one of Sicily’s prettiest coastal towns, known for its postcard-perfect blend of beaches, historic charm, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice if you want a mix of sun, sea, and sightseeing without the hustle of a big city! 

The historic center is full of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional restaurants, and artisan boutiques. It’s overlooked by the dramatic Rocca di Cefalù, a giant rock formation that offers panoramic views accessible by hiking. If you’re traveling to Sicily for beauty and charm, then you’ll fall head over heels for Celafù – I know we did!

One of the town’s biggest draws is its beautiful sandy beach right next to the old town, perfect for lazy afternoons and sunset strolls. The Norman Cathedral of Cefalù is a major highlight, with its striking mosaics and UNESCO World Heritage status. Cefalù is also well-connected by train, so it’s easy to get here from Palermo or use it as a scenic base for exploring northern Sicily.

While it’s become more popular over the years, Cefalù has held onto its charm. It’s especially great for couples or families looking for a relaxing escape with plenty of character and seaside views. Just note that accommodation can book out quickly in summer, so it’s smart to plan ahead.

Pros

• Gorgeous beach right next to the old town
• Great mix of history, scenery, and relaxation
  

Cons

• Gets crowded in peak season
• Limited nightlife and shopping compared to bigger cities

Le Calette N.5 – $$$

Le Calette N.5 is a boutique luxury hotel perched just outside the town center, offering stunning sea views and a peaceful, upscale vibe. The hotel has its own private coves for swimming, plus a chic pool area, a spa, and beautiful design throughout, from the minimalist rooms to the lush gardens!

It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a romantic seaside escape. The service is top-notch, and you’re only a 10-minute walk or quick shuttle ride from the center of Cefalù. 

Expect to pay between €800 and €2,900 per night here during peak season, depending on the room type you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Villa Totò Resort – $$

Villa Totò Resort is a modern, family-run hotel just outside Cefalù’s old town. It offers a relaxing setting and a lovely outdoor pool with sweeping sea views. The rooms are clean and spacious, and offer either garden or sea views. We love staying here because there’s such a chilled-out, resort feel. If you’re looking for proper vacation vibes, this is the place to stay! 

We think that this hotel is especially good for couples or families who want a quieter base that’s still close to the action. It’s a 15-minute walk from Cefalu Beach, so if you don’t mind trading a beachfront location for lower prices, this is the ideal spot.

Double sea view rooms here typically cost around €450 per night.

This place books up fast, so book your stay ASAP!

Hotel La Plumeria – $

Hotel La Plumeria is a cozy and traditional hotel right in the heart of Cefalù’s historic center. It’s housed in a charming old building, and it feels like a real home from home. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the beach and the cathedral, so the location really couldn’t be better! 

We also love the blue and white tiled rooftop terrace here. It’s super cute and offers lovely views of the town. Plus, all rooms come with a balcony so you can enjoy your morning coffee (or an evening aperitivo) overlooking the quaint streets below.

Rooms here usually cost between €200 and €300 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Taormina

Taormina is one of Sicily’s most iconic destinations. It’s perched on a hillside with sweeping views over the Ionian Sea, so it’s not difficult to see why! 

The town’s crown jewel is the ancient Greek Theatre, which still hosts concerts and performances today, and Mount Etna provides a jaw-dropping backdrop to everything that goes on here. We also love exploring the boutiques, cafes, and gelato shops along Corso Umberto, which is Taormina’s main shopping street. The vibe here definitely feels more polished and upscale than in other Sicilian towns!

Taormina is also a great base for day trips to Mt. Etna, Isola Bella, or even nearby towns like Castelmola. While the town itself sits above the coast, a cable car links the center with the beach area below, so you can easily switch between sightseeing and sunbathing. 

It’s a popular spot for honeymooners, couples, and anyone after a romantic, scenic escape. That said, it can get quite busy, especially during summer, and accommodation prices reflect that. Still, there’s a reason Taormina has charmed travelers for centuries! It’s definitely one of our favorite places on the island.

Pros

• Gorgeous views and beautifully preserved historic sights
• Great for couples and romantic getaways

Cons

• One of the pricier places to stay in Sicily
• Gets very crowded in peak season

NH Collection Taormina – $$$

NH Collection Taormina offers a sleek stay right in the heart of town. The rooms are bright and stylish, and many offer city or sea views. There’s also a rooftop terrace with an amazing infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, so if you’re looking to relax in the lap of luxury, this place really has you covered. 

The on-site restaurant is one of the best in town, and there’s a full spa on site so that guests can relax in style without having to leave the property. In fact, the only downside to staying here might just be that you won’t want to leave, but with Corso Umberto just steps away and the Greek Theatre right nearby, there’s plenty to explore on your doorstep. 

Prices range from around €650 to €1000+ per night depending on the season and room you choose.

Check out all the options and book your stay here!

Hotel Villa Paradiso – $$

Hotel Villa Paradiso is a charming and traditional hotel with some of the best views in town. It’s perched just above the city center, so you get great views of the coast and the majestic Mount Etna when you stay here. Inside, the property has a classic, slightly vintage feel with lots of space and big bathtubs in many rooms and suites.

It’s just a short stroll to Corso Umberto from here and you’ve got a ton of great restaurants right on your doorstep. However, the rooms are soundproofed so you won’t be disturbed by any noise when you’re trying to get a good night’s rest!

Rooms range from standard city view rooms to suites with private pools, and you can expect to pay between €300 and €650 per night during peak season, depending on the level of luxury you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Soleado – $

Hotel Soleado is a friendly, family-run spot in a quiet residential area of Taormina, just a short walk from the historic center and the cable car to the beach. It’s a solid budget option for travelers who want easy access to town without staying right in the middle of the action. The hotel has a casual, laid-back vibe and offers great value for money, especially if you’re visiting in high season when prices in Taormina can really spike.

Rooms are simple and clean, with air-conditioning and either pool or sea views. Breakfast is served with a view, and there’s also a small bar on-site. What more could you want from a wallet-friendly stay?

Rates here usually fall between €200 and €235 per night for a double room during peak summer season.

Check availability and snap up this budget-friendly stay here!

Syracuse

Syracuse is one of Sicily’s most historic and atmospheric cities. If you want to deep dive into ancient history, this is your place! 

The heart of the city is Ortigia, a small island connected to the mainland by two short bridges. Ortigia is full of baroque buildings, elegant piazzas, and hidden alleyways that lead to the sea, making it a dream to explore on foot. It’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants and boutique hotels.

Back on the mainland, you’ll find the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which is home to the impressive Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius cave, and ancient Roman ruins. The mix of ancient Greek, Roman, and Baroque architecture across the city tells the story of Syracuse’s long and layered history.

Syracuse is definitely better suited to history lovers than beach goers, as it only has a few very small beaches dotted around the center. The more idyllic options, like the beautiful Fontane Bianche, are at least a 20-minute drive away. There’s not a ton of nightlife here, either, but if you’re most excited to soak in Silicily’s ancient history then there’s really no better base on the island.

Pros

• Rich history and stunning architecture
• Ortigia is walkable, romantic, and full of great food

Cons

• Limited sandy beaches nearby
• Can feel sleepy in the evenings, especially outside summer

Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection – $$$

If you’re looking to splurge, Ortea Palace Hotel is one of Syracuse’s most luxurious stays. It’s housed in a restored 1920s post office building right on Ortigia’s harbor. The decor is grand and glamorous, with marble floors and plush furniture. We definitely think it’s paying extra for a room with a view, too, because those big windows really allow you to make the most of the property’s scenic harbourfront location. 

There’s a full spa on-site with Turkish baths and a sauna, plus an indoor pool, gym, and an upscale restaurant that serves both Sicilian and international dishes. This hotel is right in the heart of Ortigia, steps from all the sights, and yet it still manages to feel like a peaceful escape.

Rates generally start around €400 during peak season and reach up to around €1,200 per night, depending on the room type.

Check all the positive reviews and book your stay here!

Palazzo Artemide – $$

Palazzo Artemide is a charming boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of Ortigia Island. In fact, it’s right next to the cathedral, so it really doesn’t get much better than this! 

The style here is modern but still respects the building’s original character, with high ceilings and stone details. It’s the perfect balance of old and new. The decor has a fresh, contemporary feel but this place still captures that authentic Sicilian spirit. 

Rooms at this beautiful hotel cost between €220 and €850 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Grande Albergo Alfeo – $

Grande Albergo Alfeo offers solid value just a short walk from Ortigia. It’s got a charming facade with cute little balconies and although the rooms are simple, they are spacious with high ceilings and comfy beds.

The hotel is located near the bridge to Ortigia and also close to Syracuse’s train station, which is handy if you’re traveling around by public transport. It’s a little on the old school side but if you’re looking for comfort and convenience without a hefty price tag attached, you can’t go wrong here.

Rooms range from around €100 to €260 per night depending on the season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Trapani

Trapani is a laid-back coastal city on Sicily’s western edge. We love it because it offers a refreshingly local vibe compared to more touristy parts of the island. If you’ve already ticked off some more touristy places in Sicily in the past – or just prefer to get off the beaten track – this is the perfect base. 

Trapani is a more residential city where Sicilians live and work – and I’m talking about “regular” jobs, not just catering to tourists. Some places in Sicily feel like pure tourist destinations rather than functioning cities in their own right, but Trapani certainly isn’t one of them. 

At the same time, it’s quaint and charming, with more than its fair share of historic sights. The old town is filled with winding streets, baroque churches, and lively piazzas, while the waterfront promenade is perfect for sunset strolls. There are plenty of beaches within walking distance, too.

From Trapani, you can easily hop on a ferry to the stunning Egadi Islands, take a day trip to the hilltop town of Erice, or explore the nearby salt pans. All in all, this is a smart pick for independent travelers, couples, or families looking to explore the west of Sicily without blowing the budget.

Pros

• Excellent base for day trips to islands and historic towns
• Local, authentic feel with fewer crowds

Cons

• Not as polished or upscale as other Sicilian cities
• Beaches are nice, but not the best on the island

Fiveplace Design Suites & Apartments – $$$

For a chic stay in the heart of Trapani, Fiveplace Design Suites & Apartments is the clear choice. It’s set in a historic building, but the interior feels like a brand new apartment building with its sleek, minimalist decor. The suites include kitchenettes, which are ideal if you like to take a break from dining out all the time while on vacation. 

The location is perfect for exploring the old town on foot, with restaurants, shops, and the ferry port all nearby. This place works really well for couples or families looking for a stylish base with plenty of space. Suites range between €165 and €300 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Azzoli Trapani – $$

Azzoli Trapani offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful rooftop pool, and a central location that’s close to both the beach and the city’s top historic sights. The decor here is modern with a few funky design touches, as well as the occasional nod to the building’s heritage. 

Breakfast is included with your stay and it’s served up on the sun terrace each morning, so days here certainly start on a high note with sunshine and sea views! This place offers the perfect blend of style, affordability, and great amenities. No wonder it’s our go-to in Trapani! 

Standard suites cost between €140 and €180 per night during peak season.

Secure the best prices by booking in advance!

Room of Andrea Hotel – $$

Room of Andrea Hotel offers affordable elegance in a beautifully restored historic building. The rooms here have that classic Italian vibe, with parquet floors and maybe a chandelier if you’re lucky! Meanwhile, there’s a rooftop pool and terrace with views over the city and harbor, with a nice bar area to boot. 

And location-wise, this property sits just on the edge of Trapani’s historic center, between the port and the old town. It’s ideal for exploring and taking day trips, while providing a quiet base where you can enjoy a good night’s rest between adventures.

Double rooms here cost between €140 and €280 per night during peak season.

Get the best prices over at Booking.com!

Agrigento

Agrigento is one of Sicily’s most famous historic destinations! It’s best known for the breathtaking Valley of the Temples, which is an extraordinary archaeological park filled with ancient Greek ruins. These include the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek ruins in the world! 

What’s really cool about staying in Agrigento is that some of the resorts here are even within the ruins sites, so you might even find yourself waking up in the Valley of the Temples. Talk about a unique stay! 

Meanwhile, the modern city of Agrigento sits on a hill above the archaeological area, with narrow streets, old churches, and authentic restaurants serving up hearty Sicilian fare. There are plenty of museums to check out and walking tours to enjoy. Nearby, you’ll also find stunning coastal spots like Scala dei Turchi, a natural white limestone cliff that drops dramatically into the sea.

Agrigento makes an excellent base for sightseeing and exploring the cultural heart of Sicily, but it’s not the best pick if you’re looking for beach days or buzzy nightlife. Still, if you’re looking for history, culture, and beautiful views, we suggest making a beeline for this southern city!

Pros

• Home to the iconic Valley of the Temples
• Peaceful vibe with impressive views and historical charm

Cons

• Not ideal if you’re after nightlife or beaches
• Limited public transport

Villa Athena Resort – $$$

Villa Athena Resort is THE standout luxury stay in Agrigento. It’s the only 5-star hotel located directly inside the Valley of the Temples park, so you can live in luxury and wake up to temple views right outside your window. It’s a true bucket list stay! 

There’s a gorgeous pool with views of the ruins, a fine-dining restaurant on-site, and lush gardens perfect for unwinding after sightseeing. Rooms are refined and spacious, and many offer direct views of the Temple of Concordia. Villa Athena is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of stay for anyone looking to splurge on something truly special.

Prices here range from €300 to €2,000+ per night during peak season, depending on the dates and level of luxury you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Colleverde Park Hotel – $$

Colleverde Park Hotel is a charming mid-range hotel that offers both value and a prime location. It’s set in a peaceful area just outside the city center and close to the Valley of the Temples.

You can enjoy the complimentary breakfast out on the terrace each morning with lovely city views, and there’s a lovely restaurant on-site serving traditional Sicilian dishes. There’s free parking here too, so this place is a smart trip if you’re road tripping around Sicily!

They offer king or double rooms, with city views or panoramic sea views – you can’t go wrong either way! Prices range from about €100 to €185.

Read all the positive reviews and book your room here!

Hotel Della Valle – $

Hotel Della Valle is a pleasant and budget-friendly base with a fantastic location. It’s just a short 5-minute drive or taxi ride up to the Temple of Concordia from here, or you can walk up yourself in about 25 minutes if you prefer. The same goes for Agrigento’s city center, too, so you’ve got easy access to everything this city has to offer.

Rooms here are fairly simple, but they’re clean, spacious, and comfortable. Meanwhile, the big pool area and leafy gardens give this place a resort-style feel without the high price tag. If you want to explore Agrigento on a budget, you can’t beat this place!

Expect to pay between €100 and €150 per night for a room here.

This hotel books up fast, so secure your stay ASAP!

Top Activities to do in Sicily

Even if you only base yourself in one town throughout your Sicily travels, you can still get around the island easily. That’s a relief, as there are some seriously epic things to do and you don’t want to miss a single one! Here are a few of the top activities in Sicily to add to your agenda:

• Hike Mt Etna – As Europe’s tallest active volcano, you can’t miss this hike on Mt Etna! Leaving from Catania, this guided tour takes care of all the logistics and takes an easy enough route that it’s doable for most travelers.

• Take a cooking class – This cooking class in Taormina was one of our favorite experiences. Led by Chef Mimmo, we visited a local market and learned how to cook pasta, cannoli, and local Sicilian fare. The best part was eating it, though!

• Visit the Aegadian Islands – Ready to relax? This boat cruise to Favignana and Levanzo was the perfect way to explore Sicily’s crystal-clear waters and hidden coves. The snorkeling was unreal, and we loved lounging in the sun, all while learning some history, too!

• Street food tour – 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.

• Go wine tasting – A trip to Italy isn’t complete without wine, so this wine tasting in the Etna Wine Region was a must! We enjoyed Etna’s iconic wines, landscape, and food on this private tour, and learned about the process and region along the way. It was the perfect day out!

Related Read: Check out our 10 Best Things to do in Sicily guide for even more bucket list-worthy activities!

Renting a Car 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!

Thanks for reading!

Sicily is a dream travel destination – no matter where you go! We love how diverse each city is, so you can move around easily and have a totally different experience. If these hotels are still available when you are ready to book, they will be a fantastic choice for a relaxing stay in Sicily.

If you need help planning more of your travels, see the rest of our Italy blogs here. We’ve put together guides on the top things to do, city itineraries, and where to stay. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan – cheers!

8 Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Catania, Sicily: 3-Day Itinerary

3 Best Cooking Classes in Taormina: Which One to Choose