Italy, Europe
Sicily in May
Arguably the best month for sightseeing, with Greek plays starting in the ancient theater at Siracusa.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Sicily. Arguably the best month for sightseeing, with Greek plays starting in the ancient theater at Siracusa.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 74F (23C), mostly dry
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Sicily
May is arguably Sicily's best month for sightseeing. Highs are around 74F (23C), days are mostly dry, and the island is green and flowered. Classical Greek plays begin in the ancient theater at Siracusa, a tradition running for over a century. Crowds and prices are mid-range, and beach towns start opening late in the month.
It suits nearly everyone: couples, families, history lovers, and food travelers. The sea is still cool for most swimmers, so beach-first travelers should aim for June or September. If you love theater, a night at the Greek plays in Siracusa is one of the island's great experiences.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Sicily this month.
Greek plays in Siracusa
Ancient Greek dramas are staged in the original theater from roughly May to early July. Book tickets ahead.
Comfortable Taormina
The Teatro Antico with Etna and the sea behind it is best on a clear May morning before the cruise crowds.
Beach towns reopening
Seaside hotels and beach clubs start opening late in the month, with quiet sand and fresh sea air.
What to pack for May
- Light layers and a sweater for evenings
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Walking shoes
- A light jacket for evening theater
Our timing tip
Book the Siracusa plays for an evening show, when the heat is gone and the light over the theater is soft.
Book Sicily for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in SicilyOpens a hotel search for Sicily in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in SicilyWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in SicilyTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Sicily for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Classical plays at the Greek Theater, Siracusa
Roughly May to early July
Ancient Greek dramas performed in the original theater, a tradition running for over a century.
Things to do in Sicily
Valley of the Temples, Agrigento
Go at opening or late afternoon; the site is exposed and brutal at midday in summer. Some evening openings run in season.
Mount Etna
Cable car and 4x4 access on the south side; summit crater hikes need a licensed guide. Activity sometimes closes the upper zones.
Ortigia and the Neapolis park, Siracusa
The island old town for evenings, and the ancient Greek theater that still hosts classical plays in spring and early summer.
Teatro Antico, Taormina
A Greco-Roman theater with Etna and the sea behind it. Mornings beat the midday cruise crowds.
Palermo and Monreale
Street markets, Arab-Norman chapels, and the golden mosaics of Monreale Cathedral a short drive above the city.
Teatro Massimo, Palermo
One of Europe's largest opera houses. Guided tours run most days and the season runs roughly autumn to spring.
Beat the crowds
- Time the Valley of the Temples for opening or the last two hours; you avoid both the tour buses and the worst of the sun.
- Visit Taormina in the evening or early morning. Cruise and bus day-trippers fill it from late morning through mid afternoon.
- Base yourself in two or three towns rather than driving a loop every day; Sicily is bigger than it looks and the roads are slower than maps suggest.
- Swap August for September. The sea is warmer, the Italian holiday crowds have gone home, and prices ease.
Know before you go
- Major archaeological parks and city museums stay open all year, with shorter winter hours. Some offer longer evening hours in summer.
- Beach resorts, beach clubs, and many small seaside hotels close from about late October to April.
- Ferries and hydrofoils to the Aeolian and Egadi islands run far fewer routes in winter, and rough seas can cancel sailings any time of year.
- Etna summit access depends on volcanic activity and weather. Upper zones can close with short notice, and flights at Catania are occasionally disrupted by ash.
Sicily in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Sicily?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Sicily. Arguably the best month for sightseeing, with Greek plays starting in the ancient theater at Siracusa.
What is the weather like in Sicily in May?
Warm, highs near 74F (23C), mostly dry.
Is Sicily crowded in May?
Crowds in Sicily are moderate in May; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Sicily in May?
Classical plays at the Greek Theater, Siracusa (roughly may to early july).
Keep planning Sicily.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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