From the movies to the mafia, there's a stereotype that Sicily isn't exactly the best place for families. It's a great destination, sure. There are lots to see, lots to do, and lots to eat. But can you bring your kids here? Is it a suitable place for a family vacation? The answer is yes, it is! Regardless of what you may have heard about the island, Sicily has a lot to offer families. There are fun beaches, an exciting waterpark, scenic train rides, and a famous puppet show, to name a few. With so much to look forward to, there's no doubt that you and your kids will have the time of your lives here!
Have Fun at The Beach
Admit it! You took your family to Sicily to enjoy its many beautiful beaches, right? Though the island is known for its
popular towns and charming villages, the coasts are also pretty spectacular. They're not the most popular shorelines in the Mediterranean, but they're great nonetheless. Especially if you plan on spending a lot of beach days with your kids. Especailly Cefalù beach. This town is known for its incredible coast, complete with a white sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters. It may get crowded at times but the beach is big enough for you to find a spot that's all your own!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The beach is all well and good, but what if your kids want something more exciting? Like a big slide, perhaps? Or something to climb on? Sounds like they want to have fun in a water park, doesn't it? Fortunately, there's actually one in Sicily! Also in Cefalù is Acqua Verde Park, the main water park on the island. It has everything you'd expect in such a place—big slides, giant sprinklers, and spacious pools. It's not exactly the Mediterranean getaway that you planned for your family when you took them to Sicily, but it's exciting nonetheless!
Source: Acqua Verde Park
Go On Scenic Train Rides
What's a great way to see the sights? Go on a scenic train ride.
European train journeys are famous for letting you see the region's sweeping landscapes and natural wonders. Sicily is no different. You and your family can hop aboard, sit back, and relax as you bask in the scenic glory of the island. Even your kids, who might not care all that much about nature and the like, won't help but get excited after seeing such beautiful sights. You may even have to calm them down when they get too excited and start disturbing the other passengers.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Go Hiking Together
What if your family is more active? They're the kind who doesn't like sitting still for long periods of time. So that automatically means that going on train rides is a no-go! Fortunately, you can always go hiking instead. Sicily offers a treasure trove of hills, mountains, cliffs, and more that are definitely worth exploring. And if your kids love going on adventures, they'd enjoy hiking up these incredible natural wonders. You can even go camping while you're at it too! That'll definitely make for great memories that they won't soon forget.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Watch a Puppet Show
While you're on the island, get to know the
unique culture of Sicily. It goes beyond visiting museums and learning the language. It's also about immersing yourselves in their traditions. One of which is the “
Opera dei Pupi,” a special puppet theater that Sicily is famous for. Making use of intricate marionettes, these puppet shows highlight the craftsmanship of Sicilian artisans while also celebrating its performative art. And considering the nature of the craft, your little ones are sure to fall in love with it too. They might even ask you to watch the show again and again!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Enjoy Sicilian Sweets
Speaking of Sicily's unique culture, don't forget to enjoy its delicious cuisine too! Eating a place's traditional food is one of the best parts about traveling too, after all, and you definitely can't miss what this famous island has to offer. Your kids will likely go gaga over their sweets. Whether it's the cream-filled cannoli or the fruit-topped Buccellato, they'll want some again and again. Before you know it, these treats will be their favorite desserts! Just make sure to teach them all about moderation. Eating too many sweets isn't good for them!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Can families have a good time in Sicily? Yes, they can! From fun days at the beach to the island's traditional treats, parents and kids have a lot to look forward to on this island. It's such a family-friendly destination!
