Where a rental car makes sense

Cloudless satellite view of Sicily and the surrounding sea
Cloudless satellite view of Sicily and the surrounding seaPhoto: NASA Johnson Space Center · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

If you want to combine several areas in one holiday, a car is almost always the easiest option. On the east coast in particular, you can stay in one base and drive to Taormina, Etna and smaller coastal towns. Public transport in Sicily is often limited, so a rental car normally gives you the most freedom.

How to book the right car

  • Book the car when you book the flights for a better price and choice.
  • Collect it at the airport where you arrive.
  • Check what the price includes before paying.

Important points before payment

  • Book directly with Sicily By Car.
  • Compare prices at Holiday Autos.
  • Check the deposit, fuel rules, mileage and driver requirements.

Which insurance should you choose?

Insurance terms and excess can be difficult to compare because companies package them differently. Check whether your own travel or car insurance already covers rentals. Many travellers are fully or partly covered and do not need every extra sold at the desk.

Driving in Sicily: what to expect

Mount Etna rising above an eastern Sicilian town beneath a clear sky
Mount Etna rising above an eastern Sicilian town beneath a clear skyPhoto: Mehtap Kurekci · Pexels · Pexels License

Traffic can feel livelier than in northern Europe, especially in towns. Keep your distance, pay attention at roundabouts and park before you reach the centre if you want to avoid unnecessary stress. Longer drives are often calm and enjoyable.

Parking in practice

Piazza del Duomo in Catania with the cathedral and elephant fountain
Piazza del Duomo in Catania with the cathedral and elephant fountainPhoto: Daniele2399 · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized for responsive web variants and cropped in the display

Parking is one of the biggest annoyances when it has not been considered before the trip. Choose accommodation with private parking or ask for clear information about safe alternatives. Casa Parisi has free parking behind a gate, which is especially helpful in high season.

From Catania Airport to Casa Parisi

Catania with Mount Etna visible above the city
Catania with Mount Etna visible above the cityPhoto: Oscar M · Pexels · Pexels License

The drive from Catania Airport to Casa Parisi takes about 35 minutes. The motorway toll is about €0.70.

Common rental-car mistakes

  1. Booking too late during busy periods.
  2. Not understanding the insurance cover.
  3. Having no parking plan at the accommodation.
  4. Choosing a car that is too large for small towns.
  5. Not photographing the car at collection.

Rental-car checklist

  • Take photos or video when collecting and returning the car.
  • Keep the contract, receipt and insurance documents together.
  • Plan the first stop so you do not drive while tired.
  • Download offline maps for areas with a weak signal.

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FAQ

Is an automatic necessary?

No, but many travellers prefer one for comfort in busy traffic.

Can you manage without a car?

Yes, but you lose flexibility. A car lets you see more in less time.

Is parking a problem?

It can be in popular towns, which is why accommodation with parking is a major advantage.