Sightseeing Sicily

Timetable

The opening hours of museums and tourist offices are similar to those in France. The same applies to churches and cathedrals. Many cultural institutions are closed on Mondays.

To be booked

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the archaeological park of Neapolis in Syracuse are the two historical sites that should be booked online in advance to avoid waiting in line for the entrance. It is strongly advised to book a guided climb or excursion to Mount Etna and Mount Stromboli, especially in high season, as the guides are very busy.

Budget & Tips

Entrance fees generally range from €2 to €10. Discounts are available for under-18s from all over the European Union, for over-65s and for students. In addition, since October 2015, most museums have been gradually taking part in the ministerial initiative #DomenicalMuseo, which offers free access to museums (but also to archaeological parks, monuments, galleries and gardens) every first Sunday of the month. An initiative that is intended to be extended to the whole of the country (and, it is hoped, to private foundations and museums).

Main events

The Heritage Days, an event on a European scale, which opens the usually closed doors of monuments and historical buildings to the public, are called in Italy "Giornata FAI di Primavera" in June and "Giornata FAI d'Autunno", in October. In Sicily 17 places open their doors all over the island. The complete list on : www.fondoambiente.it/il-fai

Guided tours

Etna and the Aeolian Islands are the main destinations for treks that require a guide and logistic organization. Indispensable for volcano ascents.