Storybook beaches, hissing volcanoes, and granita in spades—Sicily offers what every kid dreams of. Mountains of adventures on this swashbuckling island in Italy ignite young imaginations and keep all ages busy for days. Sicily’s coastline alone stretches an extraordinary 1,500km (930 miles) around secret coves, pirate-esque sea caves, and stretches of powder-white sand, not to mention volcanic-black beaches. The sun-spangled salt pans and craggy headlands are awash with ancient ruins waiting to be explored.
When the mainland of Sicily exhausts, boats of all shapes and sizes transport families to 15 more go-slow, action-packed islands. The only dilemma? Choosing which nugget of paradise to explore.
Is Sicily Good for Kids?
In a country where bambini (children) are treated like royalty, families can anticipate an overwhelmingly warm reception throughout Sicily. Such hospitality goes a long way in making up for the limited facilities that those traveling with babies and toddlers may encounter.
Even in major cities like Palermo and Catania, changing facilities in museums, highchairs in restaurants, and cafes are often scarce. It’s advisable to bring your own hook-on table seat and a portable mat for diaper changes. Thankfully, locals are entirely unbothered by breastfeeding or changing babies in public spaces.
Though few trattorias offer dedicated children’s menus, pasta is typically available on most primi menus. Families can request a mezza porzione (half portion) or order simple dishes like pasta al pomodoro (pasta in tomato sauce) or pasta in bianco (pasta with olive oil). For dessert, a typical Sicilian cannolo filled with creamy ricotta or a sweet brioche bun dipped in mulberry or mint granita is a must-try.
While navigating towns, cobbled streets, heavy traffic, parked cars blocking poorly maintained pavements, and countless staircases can prove challenging with a pram, baby carriers or front slings are highly recommended.
On Trenitalia trains, children under 15 travel free with an adult. Additionally, bus fares remain consistent regardless of age, meaning that babies and toddlers can travel for free on laps. Reduced fares are available for children aged 4 to 11 years on Liberty Lines ferries and hydrofoils; children three years and under travel free.
Where is Best in Sicily for Kids?
Families with teenagers will thrive in Palermo, a city buzzing with souk-like markets like Mercato del Ballarò, where street performances and vibrant street art create a lively atmosphere. The proximity of Palermo to the port town of Trapani, just a one-hour train ride away, enhances its appeal. From Trapani, hydrofoils transport you to the beach-laden Egadi Islands, offering a fantastic family adventure.
For families with younger children, three stunning coastlines present ideal seaside bases: the northern Tyrrhenian Coast with the enchanting resort town of Cefalù, the scenic Ionian Coast beneath the iconic Mt. Etna, and the Mediterranean shores, where the Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa preserves beautiful isolated beaches and the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples invites exploration in true Indiana Jones style. The laid-back vibe, light traffic, and picture-perfect beaches of Sicily’s Egadi and Aeolian Islands are family-friendly sanctuaries.
Best Things to Do in Sicily with Babies and Toddlers
Laze in Taormina
Sicilian dolce vita comes alive in the chic resort town of Taormina, where families can relax on terrace cafes while little ones play on the black-and-white checkerboard of the car-free Piazza IX Aprile. Enjoy the peaceful settings of the Villa Comunale gardens, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Etna, or thrill older tots with boat trips to the dazzling Grotta Azzurra sea cave and dolphin-watching cruises.
Hit the Beach
Sicily’s beaches cater to every age and mood throughout the year. Lifeguards ensure safety on many larger beaches during the official summer season, running from June to September.
Best Things to Do in Sicily with Young Kids
Explore Sicilian Puppetry
Magical sorcerers, knights, and fierce Saracen warriors enchante visitors of all ages at Palermo’s puppet museum, housed in the historical Palazzo Branciforte. Families can pair their visit with a puppet show at Teatro dei Pupi di Mimmo Cuticchio, where traditional puppetry comes to life.
Track Down a Grattatella Cart
After enjoying a puppet show, treat the kids to a refreshing grattatella—shaved ice topped with fruit syrup—from a street vendor. Seek out popular spots like Grattatella all’Antica no Zu’Vicé at Mercato del Capo for this sweet delight.
Harvest Salt Near Trapani
Some of Italy’s finest salt comes from the beautiful pink saline fields between Trapani and Marsala in western Sicily, where families can enjoy guided salt pan walks and learn the art of salt harvesting at Saline e Infersa.
Best Things to Do in Sicily with Tweens and Teens
Summit Mt Etna
Experiencing Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, is a must. Whether by 4WD, on foot, or cable car, the awe-inspiring views and volcanic activity make for an unforgettable adventure. Families can also rent mountain bikes and explore or book guided hiking tours.
Delve into Ancient Greek History
Sicily boasts some of Europe’s most dramatic ancient Greek temples and amphitheaters. Introduce your tweens and teens to history at Selinunte and Segesta or at the astounding Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. An outdoor theater performance beneath the stars in an ancient Greek amphitheater adds to the immersive experience.
Unearth Contemporary Art on a Farm
Drive north from Agrigento to discover the dazzling murals and sculptures at Farm Cultural Park, where contemporary art revitalizes a semi-abandoned village.
Dare to Taste New Flavors
Encourage the kids to step out of their culinary comfort zones by trying local specialties like pani câ meusa (a sandwich filled with calf spleen and lung) or grilled octopus at a bustling street market.
Planning Tips
April to June and September to October are ideal months for climbing Mt. Etna, avoiding both snow-covered trails and the summer crowds. Proper hiking shoes or boots are essential.
Away from the coast, consider staying in an agriturismo (farm stay), where children can interact with farm animals, harvest fresh produce, and enjoy expansive green spaces.
Lastly, packing water shoes is advisable for kids, ensuring comfortable transitions across pebbly beaches.
