Family Holidays to Sicily
Italy’s most famous island destination is also one of the best places in the Mediterranean for family values. More than just sunshine and seaside, a holiday here offers good food and lots to do, from trips to Mount Etna to the Madonie Adventure Park.
Best family friendly beaches in Sicily
Sicily has beaches for all kinds of family holidays, from long stretches of golden sand to little coves with clear blue water.
- Cefalù Beach is a family favourite, with soft sand, gently sloping shallows and sunloungers and parasols available to hire. It’s close to the town centre, so you can easily break up a beach day with lunch or an ice cream.
- Mondello Beach, near Palermo, has pale sand, turquoise water and beach facilities during the summer. There are also places to eat nearby, making it a handy choice for a full day by the sea.
- Isola Bella Beach, near Taormina, is a beautiful spot for families who enjoy exploring the coastline, with clear water and a small pebbly shore. The surrounding scenery makes it a memorable place to visit, although the beach can be rocky underfoot.
- San Vito Lo Capo Beach is known for its long stretch of pale sand and clear, shallow water. The beach is backed by the town, with places to grab a bite and space for children to play.
Best family activities in Sicily
If you’re a family that loves more than just the beach, Sicily has everything from thrilling waterpark rides to volcanic landscapes and fascinating history, so it’s easy to mix up your days out.
- Explore Mount Etna and discover one of Europe’s most famous volcanoes. Depending on conditions and the route you choose, you can enjoy family-friendly walks and incredible views across the dramatic volcanic landscape.
- Make a splash at Etnaland, a large amusement park with a waterpark, theme park rides and a prehistoric park. It’s a great option for a full day of family fun.
- Discover Syracuse’s puppet theatre traditions, where colourful characters bring classic Sicilian stories to life. It’s a fun way to introduce children to the island’s culture.
- Step back in time at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, where you can explore impressive ancient Greek ruins and enjoy a change of scenery from the coast.
- Take a boat trip along the coast to admire Sicily from the water, discover hidden coves and enjoy a swim stop when conditions allow.
Frequently asked questions about family holidays to Sicily
Cefalù is a great all-round choice for families, with a sandy beach, shallow water in many areas and a charming old town full of places to eat and enjoy a delicious gelato.
Giardini Naxos is ideal for a classic beach holiday, with a long coastline, beach facilities, family-friendly restaurants and easy access to Taormina for a day out.
Campofelice di Roccella makes for a good option for a relaxed beach holiday, with a long beach and a good selection of family-focused resorts. It’s also well placed for exploring Cefalù and the northern coast.
Marina di Ragusa is a lovely choice for families who enjoy laid-back beach days, with sandy shores, a seafront promenade and plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby.
Taormina Mare is best for families who want to be close to the beach while enjoying the sights of Taormina. The coastal area has beaches and clear water, with a cable car linking it to the hilltop town for sightseeing and dining.
Popular family hotels in Sicily
Looking for inspiration for your family holiday in Sicily? Here’s some of our most popular family hotels: