Which airport should you choose?
Sicily's main gateways are Catania (CTA), Palermo (PMO) and Trapani (TPS). If you are staying on the east coast and want to visit Taormina, Etna and Giarre, Catania is normally the easiest choice. In the 2026 summer schedule, SAS and Norwegian both operate direct Copenhagen–Catania services, while Palermo also appears as a seasonal route. These flights do not necessarily run every day or throughout the year, so verify your dates with the airline and the current Copenhagen Airport destination page.
Quick choice
- Staying on the east coast: choose Catania.
- Staying in the north-west: look at Palermo.
- Driving across the island: choose according to both price and arrival time.
Direct flight or connection?
A scheduled nonstop Copenhagen–Catania flight normally takes about 3 hours 5–20 minutes; Palermo is in a similar range. The exact duration varies with routing, wind and the day's schedule. A direct flight means fewer things can go wrong, especially with children or a late arrival. A connection may be cheaper, but the complete journey often takes 5–8 hours or more. Include the wait, a possible terminal change and the risk of a delay on the first flight instead of comparing airborne time alone.
When should you book?
During popular holiday periods, it pays to book earlier than you might expect, especially if you travel at weekends. Choose your dates first, then the accommodation, and finally adjust the flight and car booking so arrival and check-in fit together.
- Book early in high season for a better choice.
- Arrive during the day if you are collecting a car.
- Do not make the departure-day schedule too tight.
From Catania Airport to Giarre
The drive from Catania Airport to Casa Parisi takes about 35 minutes, and the motorway toll is about €0.70. Public transport in Sicily is often less reliable, so a rental car is normally the easiest option.
Car-booking tip
- Book directly with Sicily By Car.
- Compare prices at Holiday Autos.
- Check whether your own insurance already covers rental cars before buying extra cover.
Five common mistakes when flying to Sicily
- Choosing the cheapest ticket without checking the arrival time.
- Collecting a rental car very late at night.
- Planning too much for the arrival day.
- Forgetting to plan the transfer from the airport.
- Booking a very early departure for the journey home.
Practical flight checklist
- Choose the airport according to where you are staying.
- Check the baggage rules before buying.
- Choose an arrival time that works with check-in.
- Plan the airport transfer when you buy the ticket.
- Remember that parking at Casa Parisi is behind a gate.
- Keep all reservations together in one note on your phone.
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FAQ
Is Catania always the best choice?
No, but for an east-coast stay it is usually the simplest option.
Should you land early?
It often helps because you have more time for transport and check-in.
Can you take the train from the airport?
Yes, but many travellers choose a car for more freedom during the holiday.