Sicily travel information

Airports in Sicily

Sicily’s airport infrastructure has significantly improved in recent years, making travel more accessible. The island’s main international hubs are Palermo Falcone-Borsellino (Punta Raisi) Airport and Catania Fontanarossa (Bellini) Airport. Additionally, there has been an increase in flights to regional airports such as Trapani Birgi (west Sicily) and Comiso Magliocco (southeast Sicily), providing more travel options.

Given the high number of tourists year-round, combined with limited road infrastructure and inefficient public transport, using a private Sicily airport transfer service can be a comfortable and reliable way to reach your destination.

Business Hours in Sicily

Banks

• Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Some branches reopen in the afternoon from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
• The official currency is the Euro (€). Exchange rates vary, but major banks offer better rates than airports and hotels.

Churches

• Most are Catholic and open only for services, usually in the morning and between 5:00 – 7:00 PM.
• Church-museums follow official opening hours.

Museums

• Open daily: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, then 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM.
• Many close on Sunday afternoons.

Post Offices

• Open Monday to Friday, 8:15 AM – 1:15 PM.
• Saturdays and end-of-month days: 8:15 AM – 12:30 PM.
• Closed on Sundays. Stamps are available in post offices and authorized tobacco shops.

Restaurants & Cafés

• Sicilians eat later than in other countries.
• Lunch: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Dinner: 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
• Bars and cafés generally close earlier than restaurants.
• Most accept credit cards.

Shops & Boutiques

• Typical hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
• Many close on Sundays, although some remain open during siesta time.

City Tax in Sicily

Some Italian municipalities apply a city tax for visitors. This must be paid directly by guests upon arrival at their accommodation.

Useful Travel Tips for Sicily

Time Zone

• Sicily follows Central European Time (CET).
• It is one hour ahead of London, six hours ahead of New York, and nine hours ahead of Los Angeles.

Electricity & Plugs

• Sicily uses 220V electrical current.
• Visitors should bring a universal adapter for appliances like hairdryers and irons.

Language & Communication

• Many hotels and restaurants have English-speaking staff.
• Young people are more likely to speak English and enjoy practicing it.
• Trying to speak Italian is appreciated and considered a sign of respect.

Tipping Etiquette

• Bars & Cafés: Tipping is optional, but small change is appreciated.
• Restaurants: A service charge is often included in the bill. If not, 10-15% is customary but not obligatory.
• Hotels: Porters and doormen expect small tips for services like calling a taxi.
• Taxis & Tours: It is common to round up the fare and tip guides, drivers, and tour leaders.