sicily weather around the year

As a northerner, I'm inclined to say that in Sicily weather is always good - except in the middle of summer, when it's too hot for my taste. Many people like that too, though, as summer months are the peak season in Sicily.

In the middle of winter the weather is mostly just fine. Unless, of course, you want to swim and sunbathe. Then the mid-winter is not the best time to go to Sicily. For that, you should consider summer or early autumn. (I prefer the latter.)

General Information about the Weather in Sicily

Sicily is on the southernmost edge of Europe. Many of its cities are at the same latitude as the northern parts of Africa.

In Sicily, the weather is sunny all year round. This is especially true in summer when there is virtually no rain. But even in winter, the weather is mostly clear.

Colder periods are experienced in winter, especially in the north-west of the island. There the mistral wind brings cool air from the north. Mostly, however, the weather in winter is mild, to say the least.

In the south of Sicily, the sirocco wind warms the air in winter. Temperatures reach around 20°C (68°F). In summer temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) are common.

Winter also has colder periods, but these do not usually last very long. This is particularly true in the interior of the island where even frosts are not uncommon.

On the coast, the weather rarely goes below freezing.

Does It Snow in Sicily?

Apart from location, differences in altitude also affect the weather. Snow can sometimes fall on the hills and above 1,000 meters in the mountains snowfall is common.

On the coast, the weather is completely different. There it is typical Mediterranean: a little rain in winter, hot and sunny in summer.

Rainfall is mostly concentrated in autumn and winter. The average annual rainfall in lowland areas is between 400 and 600 mm (15-23 in).

There may also be light rainfall in spring but rarely in summer.

Cefalu in January.

What Is a Good Time to Visit Sicily?

The best time to travel to Sicily is either in early autumn or late spring. However, if you like high temperatures and big crowds, the summertime might be the right time for you.

August in particular is when Italians take their holidays. This is when beaches are most crowded and prices are high.

As I said, winter is not too harsh either. Sometimes you may have to wear a light jacket, but on other days you manage with a short-sleeved shirt.

Springtime in Sicily

Spring has some rain, and the sea is still chilly in May. So the time is not so good for beach holidays. At least not for swimming. It might be warm enough to lay on the beach, though.

But spring is a good time for a cultural trip. Many villages celebrate local festivals.

The weather is nice and warm, though it can still get chilly, especially in the evenings. Nature is in bloom, and it's nice to be outside.

Summer's Here and... It's Hot

Summers in Sicily are hot and dry. Temperatures can reach close to forty degrees Celsius (104°F).

Prepare with very light clothing and plenty of drinking water. On the west coast, sirocco winds make the weather even hotter.

In summer, popular resorts are also at their busiest and prices are high. On the bright side, there are many events and a party atmosphere.

The mountains and hills are less hot. (And less crowded.)

Cefalu in summer.

Sicily Weather in September, October and November

The air slowly cools down the later autumn gets. The sea is still warm well into September, sometimes even into October.

The beaches are less crowded, as well as other places. If you want quiet, go in November. That's when the weather starts to cool down and the rainfall increases.

All in all, autumn is a great time to visit Sicily. Especially if you're not aiming for sunbathing on the beach.

The weather is still warm even in October. At times you can even manage with summer clothes.

If you're traveling to Sicily in autumn, it's a good idea to pack long-sleeved clothes for the evenings. A raincoat and umbrella may also be a good idea.

The average lowest temperature in October is 16°C (60°F) and on November 14°C (57°F). In September, the lowest temperature stays over 20°C (68°F). The Mediterranean sun makes it feel even hotter in the daytime.

Winter in Sicily

In Sicily, the weather can get chilly in winter, especially in the mountains. On the coast, however, temperatures rarely drop below 10 degrees C (50°F).

If you want snow, go to Mt. Etna. There, winter is the skiing season. The rest of Sicily is damp and cool. On a sunny day, it can still be quite warm, though.

If you're traveling to Sicily in winter, it's a good idea to bring short-sleeved shirts as well as a light jacket. Nights can feel chilly when the weather is damp.

As elsewhere in southern Europe, houses don't have central heating systems. You have to depend on electric radiators. Which in most cases is quite enough.

Winter weather in Syracuse.

Temperatures in Sicily

Average temperatures by month across Sicily are as follows:

January: 12°C - 53°F

February: 12°C - 53°F

March: 13°C - 55°F

April: 14°C - 57°F

May: 19°C - 66°F

June: 23°C - 73°F

July: 25°C - 77°F

August: 28°C - 82°F

September: 24°C - 75°F

October: 21°C - 70°F

November: 17°C - 62°F

December: 13°C - 55°F

There are large variations between different parts of the island. As well as between sea level and the mountain range. For example, when visiting Etna, you should expect much cooler air than on the beach.

For local weather conditions right now, check for example Weather Underground.

A turtle enjoying winter sunshine in Palermo.

Conclusion

As far as the weather goes, you can travel to Sicily at any time of year. Even the worst rainy seasons are not so bad. In winter, the weather is mild, even warm.

The sun shines all year round. Except for a little rain in autumn and winter. Stock up on seasonal clothing and you shouldn't have any problems.

And then there's the effect of altitude differences on temperatures. No matter what the season is, it is always cooler in the mountains than on the seashore.

Especially for those going to Etna, this is something to take into consideration. It is unpleasant to have to hurry back down from the mountain because you were not dressed well enough.

The best time for swimming and sunbathing is summer and early autumn.