Sicily packing list for families
Sicily packs beaches, ruins, volcano hikes, and baroque towns into one island trip. That range is exactly why it pays to pack carefully when you are traveling with kids.
Photo by Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Sicily
- Sicily is bigger than people expect, and drives take longer than the map suggests. I suggest two bases, like Taormina in the east and Palermo or Cefalù in the west, rather than moving every night.
- Etna is a hit with kids, but it can be cold and windy up top even when the beach is hot. Pack closed-toe shoes and a warm layer for that day.
- Many beaches are rocky or pebbly, and the sea stays warm into October. September is my favorite month for families, with warm water and fewer crowds.
Sicily
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Carry-on8
Clothing5
Shoes3
Beach & pool8
Mountain1
Little ones4
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech3
Riviera blues
White, Riviera blue, cream, lemon
For the grown-ups
- Striped linen and white denim
- A breezy midi dress
- Espadrilles you can walk stairs in
For the kids
- Blue-and-white stripes
- A lemon-print dress or shirt
- Sandals with a back strap
For photos
- Blue, white, and one lemon accent
- Early morning, before the crowds
Sicily weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 59°F 15°C | Mild and the rainiest season, snow on Etna | Snow on Etna, with skiing on its slopes some winters |
| February | 60°F 16°C | Mild and the rainiest season, snow on Etna | Almond blossoms around the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Snow on Etna, with skiing on its slopes some winters |
| March | 63°F 17°C | Warm spring, wildflowers, sea still cool | Holy Week processions, including the Misteri in Trapani Snow on Etna, with skiing on its slopes some winters |
| April | 67°F 19°C | Warm spring, wildflowers, sea still cool | Holy Week processions, including the Misteri in Trapani |
| May | 74°F 23°C | Warm spring, wildflowers, sea still cool | Infiorata flower carpets in Noto in May |
| June | 81°F 27°C | Hot and dry; the sea is warmest Aug–Sep | |
| July | 86°F 30°C | Hot and dry; the sea is warmest Aug–Sep | |
| August | 87°F 31°C | Hot and dry; the sea is warmest Aug–Sep | |
| September | 82°F 28°C | Hot and dry; the sea is warmest Aug–Sep | Couscous festival in San Vito Lo Capo in September |
| October | 75°F 24°C | Warm October, more rain by November | |
| November | 68°F 20°C | Warm October, more rain by November | |
| December | 62°F 17°C | Mild and the rainiest season, snow on Etna |
Sicily with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Sicily with kids?
The best time is May–Jun, Sep–Oct. Warm October, more rain by November
What's the weather like in Sicily?
Typical daytime highs range from about 59°F (15°C) in January to about 87°F (31°C) in August. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Sicily?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Sicily?
Type L, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Sicily with kids?
Sicily is bigger than people expect, and drives take longer than the map suggests. I suggest two bases, like Taormina in the east and Palermo or Cefalù in the west, rather than moving every night.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.