Sicily Backpacking Highlights

Sicily is known for it’s crowded beaches, delicious food and vulcano but, it has so much more! If you’re looking for an trip that had nature, culture, food, adventure and relaxation? Sicily should be on your list!

The Island in the middle of the mediterranean sea is super accessible by plane, train, boat or bus. You don’t need a car on the island because public transport is good and cheap! Only if you want to visit the remote spots, it would be nice to rent a car but do it OUTSIDE the cities. Italians drive like crazy so you don’t want to have to parallel park in a busy city with heaps of people honking at you! 

Must sees as Backpacker in Sicily:

  • Palermo. The Capital and an easy spot to start your journey. The airport is close by and the city has a lot to offer. Do a free walking tour or wander around the main roads of the old historical center. With 4 markets, a cute harbor and heaps of churches, you can easily spend 3 till 4 days in this city. Go to Mondello beach if you want to experience to true local beach vibe or visit the monastery up on the hill.

     

  • Cefalu. A beachholiday town that is perfect for a day trip from Palermo. It’s only 1 hour by train and it’s amazing for a chill beach day. the town isn’t that special but very cute to wander around during the evening when all the restaurant are full. Tip, order a take a way pizza and enjoy it on the beach during sunset!
  • Taormina. if you’re into cute little streets with fancy shops, this is your place to go! Go by train from Catania or stay in one of the hostels nearby. The town is up the cliff and has amazing views of the Sicilian coast. Check out the Amfiteather and all the little streets that show you cute little restaurants. Taormina is more an Highclass travel destination but it’s cute to see for a day!
  • Etna. Ofcourse you got to climb the Etna! There are heaps of tours but I suggest you do one where you can really hike up to krater. In june the weather at the top isn’t good but it’s still an experience you don’t want to miss! Take a bus up to the base station and than take the cablecart (€50!!) to go up to the main krater. If you’re lucky you get stunning view of the whole island and the main land. Or you can have a magical, mystical experience like me. Walking around through the clouds, feeling like you’re on the moon!

     

  • Catania. Busy city with a easy vibe. This city is influenced by the Vulcano but the locals don’t care. ‘’Everyday without an eruption is a gift’’ a great way to really focus on the present and enjoy life. Catania is popular for the cute little street with heaps of restaurants and for the mainroad with all the shops. 
  • Syracuse. My favorite town on the island. The vibe is just so easy going, with little swimming spots, cute local shops and heaps of delicious food all around town. Go for a boat tour to one of the caves, wander around town or join in with locals who are dancing salsa.

Travel-tips for exploring Sicily

  1. Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Unlike the north of Italy, where hostel prices can start at €40 for a dorm bed, Sicily offers affordable options, often around €20. Even the pricier hostels like Ostello Degli Elefanti in Catania, which includes breakfast, dinner, and reliable Wi-Fi, can be found for just €25.

  2. Deliciously Affordable Dining: Sicily’s culinary delights won’t break the bank. Sip on an Aperol Spritz for €4-5, savor a slice of pizza for €4, or indulge in a generous plate of pasta for €7. Dining in Sicily is a treat for your taste buds and your wallet.

  3. Convenient and Affordable Transportation: Navigating Sicily is a breeze with budget-friendly buses, most costing less than €10 and featuring clean, air-conditioned interiors. Download the Omio app to easily schedule various modes of transportation.

  4. Dietary Freedom: Traveling with dietary restrictions? Sicily has you covered. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant, vegan, or lactose intolerant, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to suit your needs.

  5. Learn Basic Italian: While English is commonly spoken in big cities, learning some Italian basics can enhance your experience, especially when visiting local markets. Simple phrases like “Buongiorno” (Good morning), “Grazie” (Thank you), “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?), and numbers one to ten can go a long way and earn you smiles from the locals.

  6. Safety and Respect: Sicily is a safe destination for travelers. You’ll generally feel comfortable, and most people will respect your space. While you might receive some comments as a tall, blond traveler, they are typically harmless and not negative or strange in nature.

  7. Dress the Part: Italians have a reputation for dressing stylishly, even for casual outings. As a backpacker, you might feel like a tourist, but don’t worry, locals won’t treat you differently. Still, it’s a good idea to pack at least one chic shirt or dress for those nights out to blend in and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Sicily offers a blend of affordability, culinary delights, and cultural experiences that make it an ideal destination for travelers of all budgets and backgrounds. Embrace the local culture, savor the cuisine, and soak in the Mediterranean charm while exploring this beautiful island.