Health & Safety
Sicily is a safe travel destination — violent crimes against tourists are extremely rare, medical care is good, and the Mafia is absolutely irrelevant to visitors. The biggest risks: sunburn, heat exhaustion, and the creative driving style of the Sicilians.
Medical Care
- Hospitals: Well-equipped hospitals are available in Palermo (Policlinico), Catania (Policlinico Universitario), Messina, Syracuse, and Agrigento. English-speaking doctors are available in tourist areas.
- Pharmacies (Farmacia): Green cross, in every city and many villages. Opening hours usually 9:00 AM–1:00 PM and 4:30 PM–8:00 PM. Night and Sunday service is displayed on a notice.
- EHIC: Accepted in public facilities. Travel health insurance is still recommended.
Sun & Heat
Sicily's sun is relentless — UV index 9–11 in summer, temperatures up to 45°C in the Catania plain during the Scirocco. Sunscreen with SPF 50 is mandatory, as well as a hat and sunglasses. Stay out of the sun between 12:00 and 4:00 PM — Sicilians take a siesta for good reason. At least 2–3 liters of water per day, significantly more during Etna hikes.
Safety
- Pickpocketing: Usual caution is advised in Palermo (Ballarò market, train station) and Catania (fish market, Stazione Centrale) — keep valuables close to your body, do not carry an open handbag.
- Car theft: Do not leave valuables visible in the car in Palermo and Catania. Use guarded parking lots (2–5€).
- Road traffic: The biggest risk. Sicilian drivers interpret traffic rules as suggestions. Red lights in Palermo and Catania are considered optional. Drive carefully, react defensively, do not let yourself be provoked.
- Etna: Only with a certified mountain guide above 2,900 m. Weather can deteriorate quickly. Eruptions are possible — always check the current status with INGV (Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia).
