When to Go to Sicily
By Rick Steves
Sicily is one of the few European destinations that is open year-round. April, May, June and October are ideal, with few crowds, lots of festivals, and mild weather. The days leading up to Easter are full of celebrations, and worth planning around.
July and August are hot and can be crowded — especially at beaches and resorts as Italians and other Europeans descend on the island (especially in August). September is the busiest (and most expensive) month. But even at its liveliest, the island is less crowded than the big, mainland Italian cities.
In the off-season (roughly November through March), Sicily can be chilly (low temperatures in the 40s and snow at high altitudes), but you'll have the island to yourself. Bring plenty of layers, and be prepared for cooler inside temperatures, as Sicilians don't heat their houses the way Americans do. Expect shorter hours, more lunchtime breaks at sights, and fewer activities (but some raucus carnival celegrations leading up to Lent). In the dead of winter, stick to bigger cities, as remote areas shut down.