Sicily
Sicily covers about 25,832 km² and lies across the Strait of Messina from the mainland. Etna, Greek temples and the Aeolian Islands are among its main sights.
- Region
- Italy, island in the Mediterranean
- Highest peak
- Etna: about 3,403 m
- UNESCO
- 7 sites
- Best season
- Spring and autumn
Before you go
- Messina is the main crossing point to the mainland. Ferries run from there to Villa San Giovanni, and there are routes to Salerno.
- Mount Etna was last given as about 3,403 m high (2024) and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Check current access and safety notices before any trip on the mountain.
- Check ferry rules on vehicle length and height with the operator, and look up local rules before overnight stays outside campsites.
Planning
Sicily is separated from Calabria by the Strait of Messina, about 3 km wide at its narrowest in the north. Messina is described as the busiest passenger port in Italy. Sights include the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento and the volcanic Aeolian Islands, with Vulcano, Stromboli and Lipari. The island's Baroque towns and Greek ruins include several UNESCO entries.
Camping and getting around
Rules for overnight stays outside campsites are set locally in Italy, so check with the municipality and prefer campsites or designated motorhome areas. Historic centres often have limited traffic zones (ZTL). Park outside and follow the signs. On Etna, access and safety rules can change with volcanic activity, so rely on current notices from the authorities.
FAQs
How do I get to Sicily with a motorhome?
Mainly by ferry across the Strait of Messina, for example between Messina and Villa San Giovanni, or by longer routes such as from Salerno. Check vehicle length and height limits and booking rules with the ferry operator.
How high is Mount Etna?
Last given as about 3,403 m (2024). The height changes with eruptions. It is one of the tallest active volcanoes in Europe, so check official notices on access before planning a visit.
Are there sights beyond the main island?
Yes. The Aeolian Islands lie north-east of Sicily and include the volcanic islands Vulcano, Stromboli and Lipari. Reaching them needs separate boat connections, so check vehicle rules with the operators.
Places to see
Piano Battaglia
A high upland in the Madonie mountains at about 1,600 m, with beech woods, walks and a small ski area. The…
Villa Romana del Casale
A late Roman villa with some of the richest floor mosaics in the world, from hunting scenes to the ‘bikini…
Morgantina
The quiet ruins of a Greek and Sikel town on a ridge, with an agora and a theatre. Its famous goddess…
Valle dei Templi
A ridge of Greek temples among almond and olive trees, among the best preserved outside Greece.
Scala dei Turchi
A white marl cliff that steps down into the sea like a staircase. Go late in the day, when it glows against…
Santa Maria del Monte staircase
A staircase of 142 steps, each riser faced with painted majolica, climbing through Sicily’s ceramics town.…
Cathedral of San Giorgio, Modica
A tall Baroque church façade at the top of a monumental staircase of some 250 steps in Modica Alta. The…
Etna – Rifugio Sapienza
Europe’s most active volcano. Drive to about 1,900 m, then take the cable car or walk among old craters.
Campsites nearby
- GuastaferroMotorhome stopover11 km fromMotorhomesDrinking waterWaste disposalFree
- Motorhome stopover · LicataMotorhome stopover18 km fromMotorhomes
All campsites in Italy · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026