Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
Sicily
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
City Guide
Table of Contents
IN A NUTSHELL
Visit Sicily with Kids
Visiting Sicily with kids on your mind? Go for it! Sicily is the perfect place to spend a carefree and fun holiday with family and children. This is truly a family-friendly land. Welcoming, full of activities and experiences to do together, delicious food influenced by different cultures, with sweet treats acclaimed all over the world. In Sicily, families can travel and walk with their children in total comfort and safety, discovering beautiful and unexpected natural settings. Getting around Sicily is easy. You can travel on foot, by bicycle or on the back of friendly donkeys. There are many ways to discover a land rich in hidden treasures, observing fauna and flora of rare beauty. With so many things to see and do in Sicily as a family, you will surely have the time of your lives!
The Best Time to Visit Sicily with Kids
With its mild climate Sicily is an irresistible destination all year round. Each season has something to offer with various activities and experiences. However, keep in mind that August may be too hot especially for families travelling with younger kids.
How to Get to Sicily with Kids
Getting to Sicily with kids is easy as the island can be reached by car, train, ship and, of course, by plane.
The main international and intercontinental airports are ‘Fontanarossa‘ (Catania) and Puntaraisi (Palermo). However, international flights arrive at almost all of the island’s smaller airports. There are many airlines, both traditional and low cost, that travel to Sicily connecting it with the major European countries and with the rest of the world.
Airports websites provide additional information on routes, flight times, prices and availability. More or less all airports are connected to a network of taxis, buses and trains that allow you to reach your final destination.
Must Dos When in Sicily with Kids
When in Sicily with kids, don’t miss out on a fantastic adventure at the Alcantara River Park. Here you’ll discover gorges and the most beautiful volcanic canyons in the world, with basalt walls up to 50 metres high crossed by the Alcantara river.
LOCATION
Family-friendly Recommended Areas to Stay at in Sicily
When planning your travels to Sicily with kids, you would definitely be seeking for a place to stay at. Sicily offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets, including hotels, villas, and agriturismos. Many of these places cater specifically to families, with amenities and activities designed to keep kids entertained and parents relaxed. When it comes to choosing an area to stay in Sicily, there are many family-friendly options that provide the perfect base for exploring this beautiful island.
Our Top Recommended Areas to Stay in Sicily for Families
- Taormina – This picturesque hilltop town is known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea. Families can enjoy visiting the ancient Greek amphitheater, taking a cable car to the beach, or strolling around the town’s pedestrianized streets.
- Cefalù – This charming coastal town is a great option for families who love the beach. Cefalù boasts a long stretch of golden sand and shallow waters, perfect for young children to play in. The town itself is also very picturesque, with narrow streets, medieval architecture, and a stunning Norman cathedral.
- Palermo – Sicily’s capital city is a vibrant and bustling destination that offers plenty of family-friendly attractions. Kids will love visiting the puppet museum, exploring the colourful markets, and sampling the delicious street food. There are also several parks and gardens where families can relax and enjoy the sunshine.
- Agrigento – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the stunning Valley of the Temples, an ancient Greek archaeological site that is sure to impress both parents and children alike. The area around Agrigento also has some beautiful beaches, perfect for a day trip.
- Siracusa – This historic city is located on the eastern coast of Sicily and is famous for its ancient Greek ruins and stunning waterfront. Families can enjoy visiting the Archaeological Park, taking a boat trip around the harbour, or simply wandering around the charming old town.
With so many family-friendly areas to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Italy.
PLAY
Activities for children ages 0-5
Tiring our babies and toddlers whilst they absorb all that is around them.
There is plenty to do when visiting Sicily with younger kids. We’re listing all activities here!
Beaches in Sicily
Sicily is known for its beautiful beaches, and taking your little ones to play in the sand and paddle in the shallow waters is a great way to spend a day. Many of the beaches in Sicily are family-friendly and offer plenty of amenities like sun loungers, showers, and snack bars. Enjoy the wonderful Sicilian sea and spend a holiday among sandcastles, velvet seabeds and curious little fish.
Kid-friendly Beaches in Sicily
Agrigento – Menfi, Porto Palo di Menfi
Catania – Plaja
Messina – Giardini Naxos , Marina di Lipari, Acquacalda e Canneto, Lipari
Palermo – Balestrate, Cefalù, Mondello
Ragusa – Casuzze, Punta Secca, Caucana, Ispica, Santa Maria del Focallo , Marina di Ragusa, Pozzallo – Pietre Nere, Scoglitti, Raganzino, Vittoria, Sampieri, Santa Croce Camerina, Scicli
Siracusa – Noto, Vendicari
Trapani – Campobello di Mazara, Tre Fontane, Torretta Granitola, Marsala, Signorino, Mazzara del Vallo – Tonnarella, San Vito Lo Capo
Agrigento, Sicily
The Valley of the Temples – Children can become little archaeologists. They will be provided with the right equipment and guided by experts in discovering ancient remains.
San Leone – In the seaside area of Agrigento, you will find rides and games for young and old.
Catania, Sicily
Ludum – In Catania you cannot miss to visit the Ludum, the first science museum in Sicily where children can learn what laws regulate the Universe. At Ludum, you will find an exhibition area hosting “La Casetta di Bea”, a place dedicated to educational and entertainment activities for children. This also includes a nursery school and early childhood centre. It is also a space equipped to host birthday parties and entertainment workshops for children and adolescents aged 0 to 14.
Etnaland – There are several areas that are well-suited for families with younger children, including the Pirates Bay and the Mini Park. These areas have smaller slides, splash pools, and other activities that are perfect for younger kids.
Castello Ursino – This is a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers guided tours.
Casa delle Farfalle – A large, enchanting tropical greenhouse where you can find hundreds of butterflies in all shapes, sizes and colours flying freely.
Casolare delle Balze – Located in the town of Bronte, Catania. This is a beautiful farm in Sicily that’s perfect for families with kids. Kids will love meeting the cows, horses, and other animals that call the farm home, and may even have the chance to help with tasks like feeding and grooming them. In addition to the animals, there’s plenty of space for kds to run and play on the farm’s grounds. The farm has a large outdoor area with games and activities like ping pong and volleyball, as well as a swimming pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Enna, Sicily
Castello di Lombardia – Enjoy its stunning views. You will also find a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history here.
Palermo, Sicily
Museo Internazionale delle Marionette Antonio Pasqualino – Sicily has a rich tradition of puppetry, and attending a puppet show is a fun and unique experience for children. In Palermo, you can visit the Museo Internazionale delle Marionette to see a collection of puppets from around the world.
Another unforgettable experience is driving along the writers’ road. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Von on a historical route.
Cefalù and Messina, Sicily
Have fun with the children by flying colourful kites and tasting Aztec chocolate.
Siracusa, Sicily
Compagnia dei Pupari di Vaccaro e Mauceri – This is another puppet company on the island.
PLAY
Activities for older kids
Keeping the older kids happy, entertained, and reducing the amount of times they ask for a screen or complain about being bored.
If you’re on the look out for some amazing activities for older kids when visiting Sicily, check out the list below!
Catania, Sicily
Etnaland – Guaranteed fun for young and old in Etnaland near Belpasso (Catania). This is a real island of leisure. This water theme park has something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping rides to relaxing pools and everything in between. One of the most popular areas for older kids is the Adventure Land, which features a variety of rides and activities that are sure to get their hearts racing.
Mount Etna – For adventurous families, a trip to Mount Etna is a must-do activity. Children will love hiking to the summit, taking a cable car ride, or even going on a guided jeep tour. The views from the top are truly breathtaking and will be a highlight of any Sicilian holiday.
Parco Avventura Etna – Located in Milo. This is a fantastic destination for families with kids who love adventure and the great outdoors. With zip lines, suspension bridges, and other exciting challenges set among the stunning landscapes of Mount Etna, this park offers a unique and exhilarating experience.
Planetarium – Located in Zafferana. Here, children can discover all about the stars and planets.
Puppet Theatre by E. Macrì – There’s an interesting exhibition, which can be visited for free, with a collection of 40 puppets and various sets. Orlando and Angelica and the puppets by the Ruggiero company are the most famous.
Agrigento, Sicily
The Valley of the Temples – Sicily is rich in history, and older children will enjoy exploring the ancient ruins that are scattered throughout the island. Learn about the history and culture of ancient Greece while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Sciacca and its Enchanted Garden – It’s definitely worth paying a visit to the vast garden, which is adorned with intricate stone-carved faces.
Taormina, Sicily
The Greek Theatre – It offers fascinating glimpses into the island’s past and it can spark an interest in history in your kids.
Palermo, Sicily
Parco Avventura Madonie – Located in Petralia Soprana. This adventure park is great for kids who love to climb, go on zip lines, and swings.
Siracusa, Sicily
Archimedes Technopark – Kids can learn can learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way. Children can enjoy hands-on exhibits, interactive workshops, and even attend science shows and events.
Pietro Piraino Toy and Waxwork Museum – Get to see various porcelain dolls, and old mechanical toys.
Parcallario – An adventure park, located in Buccheri, with ropes, nets, zip lines, footbridges and routes that are entirely safe for children.
Enna, Sicily
Lago Pozzillo – Children can enjoy swimming in the lake, exploring the surrounding forests, and even trying their hand at fishing.
PLAY
Parks & Playgrounds
When visiting Sicily with kids, you surely can’t miss out on some of the parks there!
Adventure Parks – For those who want to have fun in the open air, experiencing the thrill of climbing and defying gravity, adventure parks are a recent reality in Sicily’s countryside. You can enjoy suspended trails among tall trees or rocks, with levels suitable for young and old and routes where you can move freely under the careful supervision and assistance of qualified staff. These parks have everything you need, harnesses, experts, etc., to reduce the risk of injury to zero. Many parks also offer organized mountain biking and other sports.
Adventure Parks in Sicily:
- Bosco D’Alcamo – Alcamo (Trapani)
- Parcallario – Buccheri (Siracusa)
- Pozzillo Avventura – Regalbuto (Enna)
- Eco-campus Casaboli – Pioppo (Palermo)
- Nebrodi Adventure Park – Longi (Messina)
- Parco Avventura Etna – Etna Milo (Catania)
- Monti Rossi Adventure Park – Etna Nicolosi (Catania)
- Etna Avventura Serra La Nave – Etna Nicolosi (Catania)
- Parco Avventura Madonie– Petralia Sottana (Palermo)
- Parco Naturavventura Finestrelle – Santa Ninfa (Trapani)
- Parco Avventura Antiche Solfare – San Cataldo (Caltanissetta)
Bioparco di Sicilia – Families can discover the rare botanical wonders hidden around the island and explore slices of Heaven such as the Bioparco di Sicilia located in Villagrazia di Carini, a few kilometers from Palermo. It is a wonderful place for adults and children with many attractions such as: the Land of Dinosaurs, with over 20 life-size reconstructed dinosaur models; the Madeira Greenhouse filled with tropical plants and the fascinating Terrarium with various species of living reptiles. There is also the Aquarium with fresh and salt water fish; Primitive Man, the study of fossils and minerals, the Italian Farm, the Journey to discover the continents and finally the Zoo. Outdoor fun is provided in the three play areas equipped with swings, slides, see-saws, a giant chess set and small merry-go-rounds. There are also several picnic areas in the park where you can have a packed lunch in peace under the shade of the trees.
Walks & Trails in Sicily
Explore Sicily with kids, by going on a hike.
Family-friendly Hiking Trails in Sicily
- The trail to the top of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano.
- The Vendicari Nature Reserve is another great spot for families, with trails that wind through coastal wetlands and past ancient ruins.
- The Madonie Regional Natural Park is another popular destination for families, with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- The Riserva dello Zingaro Nature Reserve is a great option for families who want to combine hiking with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
- The Nebrodi Mountains offer a range of hiking trails for families with kids, with opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
FOOD
The Sicilian Cuisine
When in Sicily with kids, you must try the Sicilian cuisine. The traditional island’s cuisine is known for its rich and varied flavours, influenced by the island’s history and geography. Family dining is a central aspect of Sicilian culture, with many dishes meant to be shared and enjoyed together.
Here are some must-try dishes for families visiting Sicily:
- Arancini – Fried rice balls stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas.
- Pasta alla Norma – A classic Sicilian pasta dish made with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese.
- Caponata – A sweet and sour vegetable stew made with eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers.
- Cassata – A traditional Sicilian cake made with ricotta cheese, marzipan, and candied fruit.
- Cannoli – Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and often dipped in chocolate or pistachios.
- Granita – A must try for anyone visiting the island, with its refreshing and delicious blend of ice and fruit flavours.
These dishes, along with many others, are an essential part of Sicilian cuisine and are sure to delight families looking to experience the island’s rich culinary heritage.
TRANSPORTATION
How to Get Around Sicily with Kids
Getting around Sicily with kids is fairly easy. There are various methods of transportation you can opt for. Take a look below.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular way for families to get around Sicily, as it provides the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and on your own schedule. However, keep in mind that traffic can be congested in some areas, and driving in cities can be challenging.
Public Transportation
Sicily has an extensive network of buses and trains that connect the island’s towns and cities. This can be a cost-effective option for families, but keep in mind that schedules can be limited and not always reliable.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in Sicily, and can be a convenient option for families who need to travel shorter distances. However, fares can be expensive, especially for longer trips.
Private Tours
For families who want a more personalized experience, private tours can be a great option. Many tour operators offer private tours that are tailored to families with children, and can include transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
Bike Rentals
For families who enjoy cycling, renting bikes can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Sicily. Many towns and cities have dedicated bike lanes, and there are also many scenic cycling routes that offer stunning views of the island’s landscapes.
TOYS
Toy Shops & Clothing Stores in Sicily for Kids
When in Sicily with kids, visit Catania. Catania has plenty of shops that cater specifically to kids, offering a range of toys, games, and clothing that will keep them entertained and happy during your visit.
Toy Stores in Sicily
La Bottega dei Balocchi – This toy shop is located in the historic city of Taormina and is known for its high quality, handmade toys. They specialize in traditional Sicilian toys, such as marionettes and puppets, as well as modern toys from around the world.
Toys Center – Located in Catania. This is a popular toy store for families in the area, offering a wide variety of toys, games, and other children’s products.
Kids Clothing Shops in Sicily
Chicco – This well-known Italian brand has several locations throughout Sicily and specializes in clothing and accessories for babies and young children. They offer a range of styles and designs, from practical everyday wear to special occasion outfits.
Original Marines – This popular clothing brand has a number of stores throughout Sicily and offers a range of clothing for babies, children, and teenagers. Their collection features a mix of classic and modern styles, with a focus on comfortable and durable materials.
Insider Tips
Take a Cooking Class
Sicilian cuisine is famous for its delicious and unique flavours, and taking a cooking class with your kids is a fun and educational way to experience it. Many cooking schools in Sicily offer classes specifically designed for families, where you can learn to make traditional dishes like pizza, pasta, and cannoli. Your kids will love getting their hands dirty in the kitchen and you'll get to enjoy a tasty meal at the end of the class. It's a win-win!
TRAVEL TO SICILY
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Booking With Kids gives you family travel tips to inspiration on the best places to travel with kids, we’re here to help you make your next trip a positive one.
Booking With Kids gives you family travel tips to inspiration on the best places to travel with kids, we’re here to help you make your next trip a positive one.
