Campervan & Motorhome Hire in Sicily | Catania and Palermo

1. How much does it cost to hire a campervan in Sicily?

The cost of hiring a campervan in Sicily varies depending on the time of year, the model of the campervan and the length of the hire. Expect prices to range from £70 to £150 per day. Early booking is recommended to secure the best price.

2. What is the most popular model of campervan to hire in Sicily?

The most hired campervan in Sicily is usually a medium-sized model that can comfortably accommodate a family of four, due to the island's popularity with family holidaymakers. These vehicles offer a good balance between offering ample space and being manageable to drive on Sicily's narrow, winding roads.

3. What are the most popular places to hire a campervan in Sicily?

The capital city, Palermo, and Catania, near Catania Airport, are two of the most popular places to hire a campervan in Sicily due to their accessibility.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service?

Most campervan hire companies in Sicily offer 24-hour pick-up and drop-off services. It's advisable to confirm this with the provider at the time of booking.

5. Is there a minimum hire period?

Yes, there's usually a minimum hire period which can range from 3 to 7 days, depending on the campervan hire company's policy.

6. What is the minimum age required to hire a campervan in Sicily?

The minimum age to hire a campervan in Sicily is generally 21, with a full driving licence held for at least one year. Certain high specification vehicles or larger models may require the driver to be over 25, however.

7. What documents do I need to hire or drive a campervan in Sicily?

You will need a full valid driving licence, identification (such as a passport), and a credit card in the main driver's name. Non-European Union renters may also require an International Driving Permit.

8. When is the best time of year to visit Sicily by campervan?

The best time to visit Sicily by campervan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) periods when the weather is pleasant and tourist areas are less crowded.

9. What are the main airports in Sicily?

The main airports in Sicily are Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport, Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and Trapani Birgi Airport.

10. Can I pick-up my campervan in one Sicilian city and drop it off in another?

Yes, many campervan hire companies in Sicily offer one-way hires for an additional fee. However, this service is subject to availability and should be agreed upon at the time of booking.

1. Palermo: The vibrant capital of Sicily, renowned for its palaces, churches and delicious street food.
2. Catania: A city that exemplifies the resilience of Sicily, filled with stunning Baroque architecture and a busy fish market.
3. Messina: Home to a beautiful cathedral, impressive fountains and an ideal spot to hire a motorhome for a Sicilian road trip.
4. Syracuse: An ancient city that boasts a rich Greek and Roman history, including a magnificent Greek theatre.
5. Marsala: Known for its sweet wines, Marsala also offers Roman ruins and access to the unique Aegadian Islands.
6. Trapani: A seaside town with a medieval heart, offering sea salt pans and windmills.
7. Agrigento: Renowned for the Valley of the Temples, it offers one of the most outstanding examples of Greater Greece art and architecture.

1. Palermo - Mount Etna: A prominent 276 Km journey with a driving time of approximately 2 hours 50 minutes. Main roads include the A19 and A18. Road conditions are typically good.
2. Catania - Taormina: This 52 Km route takes around 40 minutes via the A18 motorway. Scenic coastal roads are a part of this journey.
3. Palermo - Agrigento: Approximately 128 Km and typically takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, primarily using the A19 and SS189 roads. Agrigento is famous for its well-preserved Greek temples.
4. Trapani - Marzamemi: A 365 Km journey taking about 4-hour drive via the A29 and A18 highways. Marzamemi is a delightful fishing village filled with captivating history.
5. Messina - Cefalu: A 176 Km trip generally undertaken in around 2 hours on the A20 road. The route typically offers beautiful coastal views.
6. Syracuse - Noto: A short 31 Km drive taking approximately 30 minutes via the SS115, leading to Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
7. Catania - Ragusa: A 97 Km route primarily on the A18 and SS194 roads, typically takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, offering picturesque landscapes of Sicilian countryside.

1. Which side of the road should I drive on in Sicily?

In Sicily, as in the rest of Italy, you will drive on the right-hand side of the road.

2. What's the speed limit for driving in Sicily?

In urban areas, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h, on non-urban roads it's 90 km/h, and on motorways it's 130 km/h.

3. Can I use my domestic driving licence in Sicily?

Yes, most foreign driving licences are accepted. However, it's advisable to also bring an International Driving Permit if your licence is not in English.

4. Are there any specific rules of the road to follow in Sicily?

Seat belts must be worn by all passengers in a campervan, and you must always give way to buses and trains.

5. Are there many radar speed traps in Sicily?

Yes, and fines can be high, so it's best to stick to the speed limits which are clearly posted.

6. Do I need to pay any tolls when driving in Sicily?

There are some tolls on the motorways in Sicily, usually payable by cash or credit card at the toll booth.

7. Can I park my campervan anywhere in Sicily?

Parking restrictions apply in many parts of Sicily, especially in towns and cities. It's best to look for designated parking areas, campsites or roadside rest areas.

8. Are service stations abundant in Sicily?

Yes, there are many service stations throughout Sicily, although it's always a good idea to fill your tank when you can, especially before a long journey or if you'll be driving in remote areas.

9. Is there any additional driving safety regulations that I should be aware of in Sicily?

Yes, it is mandatory to keep a reflective safety vest and a warning triangle in your campervan at all times, in case of breakdown or accident.

10. Is it required to use headlights during daytime in Sicily?

It is required to use dipped headlights at all times outside urban areas, even during the day, particularly on motorways and four-lane roads.

11. Is it common to find double lines on Sicilian roads?

Yes, and just as in other places, they indicate that no overtaking is allowed. You have to respect this signage at all times.

12. Can I use my campervan to sleep by the side of rural roads?

While this practice is generally tolerated as long as you're not causing an obstruction or on privately owned land, it's always best to seek out authorised parking areas or campgrounds.

13. How are road conditions in Sicily?

Road conditions in Sicily can vary. Major roads and motorways are generally good, but minor rural roads may be less well maintained and could have potholes.

14. What is the alcohol limit for driving in Sicily?

The legal blood alcohol limit in Italy including Sicily is 0.5 grams per litre. Penalties can be severe so it's often best to avoid drinking and driving entirely.

15. Are roundabouts common in Sicily?

Yes, in roundabouts, vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way.

1. Mount Etna: Europe's highest active volcano offers impressive landscapes and hiking trails. A must-visit for motorhome travellers as it offers overnight parking areas.
2. Valley of the Temples: Ancient Greek temples found in the city of Agrigento-an archaeological treasure.
3. Taormina: This small town houses the ancient Greek theatre, offering stunning views of Mount Etna and the sea.
4. Scala dei Turchi: A dazzling white, rocky cliff on the coast of Realmonte, perfect for the seaside lovers.
5. Blue Grotto: In Capo Zafferano, this beautiful sea cave is accessible only by boat.
6. Aeolian Islands: An archipelago of seven islands, each with their unique character and attractions, known for volcanic activity and beautiful beaches.
7. Cefalù: A coastal city known for its stunning Norman cathedral and beautiful beaches.
8. Nebrodi Park: Sicily's largest natural park, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

1. Palermo to Agrigento: This 130km drive offers multiple cultural sites such as the Temple of Segesta, medieval town of Erice and Selinunte archeological park.
2. Catania to Syracuse: Covering 80km, this route takes you alongside the Ionian Sea with stops at picturesque towns like Avola, known for its architecture and wine.
3. The Sicilian Baroque Route: At 300km, this route highlights the Baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, and Noto, all UNESCO World Heritage sites.
4. Taormina to Messina: This coastal drive of 55km is known for its stunning views. Highlights include the beautiful beach of Giardini Naxos and the village of Savoca.
5. Sicilian Natural Parks Route: This 200km route including multiple stops at natural reserves like Oriented Nature Reserve Cavagrande, Vendicari Nature Reserve, and Etna Park.
6. The Etna and Alcantara Route: A 90km round trip route taking in the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna and the spectacular Alcantara Gorges.
7. Around Sicily: For those with time, the grand 1000km tour around the island offers it all, from Palermo to Marsala to Syracuse.