Car Hire Sicily

Here's some information about driving in Sicily, the roads, best types of vehicle to hire, the airports, and main resorts:

Road Quality: Sicily has a network of well-maintained roads, including modern highways, coastal roads, and mountainous routes. Major highways like the A18 and A19 connect the island's cities and regions.  Some rural or less-traveled roads in Sicily may be narrower and winding, especially in mountainous areas. Exercise caution when driving on these roads.

Traffic: Traffic in Sicily can vary. Cities like Palermo and Catania may experience congestion during peak hours, while rural areas and smaller towns generally have lighter traffic.

Best Type of Hire Vehicle:

The choice of the best vehicle depends on your travel plans and preferences:

Car: A compact or midsize car is suitable for most travelers. It provides the flexibility to explore both cities and rural areas comfortably.

SUV: If you plan to visit mountainous regions or explore off-road areas, consider renting an SUV for added traction and clearance.

Convertible: Sicily's pleasant climate makes a convertible a fun option for enjoying scenic drives along the coast.

Airports:

Sicily has several airports, with the two main international airports being:

Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO): Located near Palermo, on the northwest coast, this airport serves the western part of Sicily.

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA): Situated near Catania on the eastern coast, this airport serves the eastern part of Sicily, including Mount Etna.

Other airports include Trapani Airport (TPS), Comiso Airport (CIY), and Pantelleria Airport (PNL), offering connections to various destinations on the island.

Main Resorts and Places of Interest:

Palermo: Sicily's capital, Palermo, offers a rich history, architecture, and vibrant street markets. Don't miss the historic Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace.

Taormina: This charming hilltop town overlooking the Ionian Sea is known for its ancient Greek theater and beautiful views of Mount Etna.

Siracusa (Syracuse): Explore the historic center of Siracusa, visit the ancient Greek Theater, and stroll through the picturesque Ortigia island.

Agrigento: Home to the Valley of the Temples, Agrigento showcases ancient Greek ruins and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cefalù: This coastal town is famous for its stunning beaches, medieval architecture, and the Cefalù Cathedral.

Mount Etna: If you're adventurous, consider a visit to Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano. Guided tours are available for hiking and exploration.

While driving in Sicily can be enjoyable and convenient, be prepared for the occasional narrow or winding road and follow local traffic rules. Additionally, Sicilian drivers can be assertive, so exercise caution, especially in busy urban areas. Enjoy your exploration of this stunning island!