Car Rental Sicily

Renting a car is the perfect way to get around Sicily, allowing you to explore the big cities as well as those quieter destinations around the coast. If you’re arriving by air, you’ll start your journey at one of the island’s two main airports. The larger of the two, Catania-Fontanarossa, is located on the east coast just a short drive from the port city of Catania.

If you’re collecting your rental car at Catania-Fontanarossa, it’s a short drive south to Syracuse along the A18 highway, part of the European E45 route. You can also follow this route north of Catania to reach Taormina and the port city of Messina, in the north-east. The A18 is a toll road, so you’ll need to collect a ticket when entering the freeway and pay as you exit.

Sicily’s other main airport is Palermo, just north-west of the island’s capital. From here it’s easy to travel along the north coast using the A20 highway - a toll road running all the way to Messina in the west. Alternatively, take the A19 inland, following it south to Agrigento, home to the world-famous Valley of the Temples. This is also a useful route for visiting inland destinations such as Caltanissetta, home to picturesque olive groves and vineyards.

 If you’re planning to drive your rental car into Sicily’s historic towns and cities, be aware that many central areas are designated ZTL - Zona Traffico Limitato – so cars cannot enter. This includes the capital, Palermo, as well as Catania and Taormina. Luckily, you’ll usually be able to find a conveniently located parking lot where you can leave your vehicle and continue to explore these historic attractions on foot.

Renting a car in Sicily allows you to explore all the wonders of this Mediterranean island, from volcanic landscapes to ancient ruins. We’ve rounded up just a few ideas to get your adventure started.

Ancient treasures

Just a short drive from Agrigento on Sicily’s south-west coast lies the island’s most famous historical attraction - the Valley of the Temples. An essential stop on any Sicilian road trip, this site contains the remains of several well-preserved Greek temples built between the 5^th and 6^th centuries BC.

This valley – which is in fact not in a valley, but high on a ridge – stretches over several square miles. If you are short on time, park your rental car at the north-east entrance and head straight for the Temple of Concordia. The best preserved of all the temples, it was built around 430 BC and its six-column edifice is still a staggering sight today.

Island city

If you’re looking for a destination where you can sample delicious Sicilian cuisine, explore ancient ruins and enjoy stunning sunset views, put Syracuse at the top of your travel itinerary.

The city’s old town, Ortygia, lies on its own island just a short walk from the mainland. This UNESCO World Heritage site is packed with baroque palaces and ornate churches alongside modern-day souvenir stores, lively restaurants and laidback trattorias. Don’t miss the daily market, packed with vendors selling everything from delicious fresh Mediterranean seafood to cannoli and other sweet Sicilian delicacies. 

With a rental car you’ll also be able to take the short drive outside the city where you’ll find a renowned archaeological site, home to ruins including the Teatro Greco. This Ancient Greek theater was built on a hill overlooking the city in the 5^th century BC.

Volcanic views

If you want a break from beaches and bustling cities, visit Sicily’s most famous natural landmark, Mount Etna. The highest volcano in Europe, it’s a popular attraction all year round thanks to its stunning scenic hiking routes in the summer and ski facilities in the winter. Leave your car at Rifugio Sapienza, on the south side of the volcano, and continue on foot or by cable car to explore the active craters at the summit. 

With a car, it’s easy to drive north of Catania to Milazzo or Messina and catch a boat tour of the Aeolian Islands. A real highlight is Stromboli, a small island that’s home to another of Italy’s active volcanoes.

The organized hikes that run from the town to the top of the volcano are not the easiest of walks, but those who make it to the top will be rewarded with truly unforgettable views. These tours are timed to coincide with the sunset, but that’s not all. As night falls, you’ll often be able to see the eruptions – often described as fireworks - as the volcano shoots lava into the darkening sky.

With a rental car, this and many other unforgettable experiences are within easy reach during your time in Sicily.