The best time to visit Sicily
The best time to visit Sicily for warm, sunny weather is May to August, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 87/100 with daytime highs around 28°C / 82°F. April and September are quieter shoulder-season alternatives with still-reliable sun. The sea is swimmable (21°C+) about 6 months a year, warmest in August at 29°C.
Sicily by month, averaged across 3 destinations from long-term climate normals — the best stretch is highlighted.
| Month | Sunshine Score | Avg day high | Rain | Sea | For a trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 13° / 55°F | 78 mm | 16° | Mixed |
| February | 34 | 13° / 55°F | 70 mm | 15° | Mixed |
| March | 53 | 16° / 61°F | 60 mm | 16° | Good |
| April | 74 | 18° / 64°F | 45 mm | 17° | Excellent |
| May | 90 | 22° / 72°F | 24 mm | 20° | Excellent |
| June | 91 | 28° / 82°F | 15 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| July | 84 | 31° / 88°F | 7 mm | 27° | Excellent |
| August | 82 | 31° / 88°F | 13 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| September | 83 | 27° / 81°F | 58 mm | 26° | Excellent |
| October | 79 | 23° / 73°F | 80 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| November | 68 | 18° / 64°F | 82 mm | 21° | Very good |
| December | 44 | 15° / 59°F | 84 mm | 18° | Good |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: May to August — Sicily's warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 87/100, ~28°C / 82°F days). Shoulder season: April and September — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: July, ~31°C / 88°F. Wettest: December (84 mm) — pack for showers.
Where to base yourself for sunshine: Trapani (TP) (2,584 h/yr), Catania (2,540 h/yr), Palermo (2,540 h/yr). Open any of its destinations: Trapani (TP) · Catania · Palermo.