Sicily Holidays by Rail

T he island of Sicily is just a short hop across the Straits of Messina from mainland Italy (one of the last European rail journeys where the train actually rolls onto a boat). Those who make the journey are rewarded with lovely Mediterranean vistas, mouth-watering food and some breathtaking Roman remains, including the Concordia Temple at Agrigento and the Greco-Roman theatre overlooking Taormina and distant Mount Etna.

Recommended Holiday Ideas

Tailor Made Rail
Sicily and the Amalfi Coast by Rail
Sicily and the Amalfi Coast by Rail From £1,249 per person // 14 days Combine two sizzling hot regions in the south of Italy - the stunning Amalfi Coast and the fascinating and historical island of Sicily. Then return via overnight train and beautiful Alpine scenery.
Sorrento, Sicily and Malta
Sorrento, Sicily and Malta From £1,099 per person // 10 days Make tracks for sea and sunshine on a fantastic holiday combining Sorrento, Taormina in Sicily and Maltese capital Valletta.
Grand Tour of Italy
Grand Tour of Italy From £2,149 per person // 21 days This epic exploration of Italy's finest cities and most beautiful countryside takes you from Venice down to Sicily and back. En route, visit the elegant cities of Rome and Florence, relax on the Amalfi Coast and cruise on Lake Como.

Our Recommended Hotels in Sicily

Palermo, Sicily
Quintocanto Hotel

Right in the heart of Palermo’s old centre, the Quintocanto Hotel is housed in a building which dates back to the 16th-century, and has been lovingly restored. After a day of sightseeing, unwind in the spa, which features saunas, whirlpools and Turkish baths.

Catania, Sicily
Romano House Hotel

Housed in an 18th-century aristocratic building in Catania’s baroque area, the 50-room Romano House Hotel is a firm favourite with guests who appreciate the culture and history of Sicily. Il Riccio restaurant serves traditional Sicilian dishes and there is an extensive cocktail list at the hotel’s impressive and chic bar.

Taormina
Excelsior Palace Hotel

The Excelsior Palace Hotel occupies a Moorish-style building, with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the hillside village of Castelmola. The hotel boasts a swimming pool and pool bar overlooking the coast, an a la carte restaurant and a concierge service. The famous Greco-Roman Amphitheatre is just 10 minutes’ walk away.

Siracusa
Grand Hotel Villa Politi

The Grand Hotel Villa Politi is located above ancient Sicilian quarries called the Latomie dei Cappuccini, with fantastic views over the Mediterranean. Bedrooms are furnished in a classic style and come with air-conditioning, TV and safety deposit box. There is a bar and a restaurant in the hotel as well as an outdoor terrace, swimming pool and solarium.

Suggested Tours in Sicily

Full Day Aeolian Islands Tour from Taormina

Travel by coach to the port of Milazzo and then take a 2-hour ferry ride to the little island of Panarea. You have plenty of time at leisure here and on the neighbouring island of Stromboli for swimming, exploring and dining before returning to Taormina late in the evening.

from £75 per person
Agrigento and the Valley of the Kings from Palermo

Enjoy an introduction to ancient Sicilian history with a day trip to the incredible UNESCO World Heritage listed Valley of the Kings and Agrigento. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop off.

from £50 per person