Travel to and around Sicily
Flights, car hire and travel information
Sicily is easily reached by air, sea, and rail, making it a well-connected destination whether you're flying in from abroad, island-hopping by ferry, or arriving overland from mainland Italy. With multiple airports serving different regions, plus year-round ferry and train services, it's simple to access villas across the island—from Palermo and Cefalù to Syracuse, Taormina, and the Val di Noto.
Flying into Sicily
Nearest Airport
Sicily has four main airports, each providing convenient access to different parts of the island:
- Palermo Airport (PMO) – Falcone–Borsellino Airport, best for the north and northwest, including Palermo, Cefalù, and the Madonie.
- Catania Airport (CTA) – Fontanarossa Airport, Sicily’s busiest, ideal for the east coast: Taormina, Syracuse, Mount Etna, and the Val di Noto.
- Trapani Airport (TPS) – Vincenzo Florio Airport, serves the west, including Trapani, Erice, Marsala, and the Egadi Islands.
- Comiso Airport (CIY) – Best for the southeast, including Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, and nearby beaches.
Most major European cities offer seasonal or year-round direct flights, and travelers from further afield can connect via hubs like Rome, Milan, Munich, Paris, or London.
Helicopter Transfers
Helicopter transfers offer a quicker journey than traditional methods, while also providing breathtaking aerial views. A helicopter will pick you up from a helipad near Taormina and fly you directly to your island destination, perhaps flying over the smouldering craters of Etna or Stromboli on the way.
Our helicopters can take up to 5 passengers. Contact your Specialist to learn more.
Airport Transfers
After a long journey, you may prefer to skip the hassle of driving to your villa. Our private transfer service is a smooth and stress-free alternative. One of our experienced chauffeurs will take you directly to your villa, knowing exactly where to go.
Get in touch to learn more or to arrange your transfer.
Flexible Arrivals
For villas with more complex travel logistics, we recommend taking extra care when booking your flights to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. In some cases, arriving a day early or leaving a day later can help avoid delays or missed connections.
Mid-week arrivals may be possible at select villas outside the peak season. To make the most of more convenient flight options or tailor your travel plans, simply speak with your Villa Specialist before confirming your stay. We're here to offer expert advice and support every step of the way.
Travel to Sicily by sea
Ferries and Hydrofoils
You can reach Sicily by ferry or hydrofoil from mainland Italy and nearby islands. Major ferry routes include:
- Naples, Salerno, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Genoa to Palermo or Termini Imerese (north coast)
- Reggio Calabria or Villa San Giovanni to Messina (northeast corner) – very frequent, short crossings (~20 minutes)
- Malta to Pozzallo or Catania via high-speed catamaran
Hydrofoils also connect Sicily with the Aeolian, Egadi, and Pelagie Islands, departing from ports such as Milazzo, Trapani, and Porto Empedocle. Ferries are ideal for those bringing a car or enjoying a scenic arrival by sea.
Boat Transfers
Travel effortlessly between islands or directly to your villa by private sea taxi. A refined alternative to crowded ferries and rigid timetables, perfect for those seeking comfort, privacy, and flexibility. Ask your Specialist about sea transfers.
Explore Sicily by Land
Train via Mainland Italy
You can travel to Sicily by train from anywhere in Italy—Rome, Naples, Florence, or even Milan. Trains arrive in Messina, where they are loaded onto a ferry across the Strait of Messina, then continue on to Catania, Palermo, Syracuse, and other cities. It’s a slower but scenic and direct route, especially convenient for those already exploring mainland Italy.
Chauffeur
Whether you're heading out for a day trip, dinner reservation, or simply exploring the local area, our chauffeur service offers a relaxed and reliable way to get around. Sit back, enjoy the journey, and let us take care of the driving. Ask your Specialist to find out more.
Car Hire
Hiring a car is often the best way to explore your destination, and we’re here to make the process effortless. Through our trusted local partners, we can arrange your rental in advance, saving you time and ensuring peace of mind.
We’ll help you choose the right vehicle for the terrain around your villa and can coordinate any additional services to suit your plans.
Villa Matchmaking service
Because our local experts have personally visited each of our destinations, we know exactly what makes them special. Tell us what your ultimate villa holiday looks like, and allow us take care of the rest
