FAQs

Question

Do I need a visa to go to Italy?

Answer

As an American Citizen or American passport, you do not need a visa to visit Sicily for tourism purposes if your stay is 90 days or less. Sicily is part of Italy, which is a member of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. This means you can enter without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). However, make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. If you're planning to stay longer or for other purposes (like work or study), you would need to apply for the appropriate visa.

Question

Which airport can we fly into?

Answer

Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), officially known as Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa "Vincenzo Bellini," is the busiest airport in Sicily and one of the main gateways to the island. It is located about 75 miles (120 km) from the wedding destination and serves as a key hub for both domestic and international flights. Key Details About Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA): Location: About 4.3 km (2.7 miles) southwest of Catania city center. Terminals: The airport has a modern terminal that handles both Schengen and non-Schengen flights. Airlines & Destinations: Serves a variety of airlines, including ITA Airways, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet, with flights to major Italian cities (Rome, Milan, Naples) and international destinations across Europe. Facilities: Offers car rental services, duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and ATMs. Transportation to Your Destination: Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport for convenient access to the rest of Sicily. Private Transfers: Many companies offer direct transfers from CTA to locations across the island. Public Transport: Buses connect the airport to Catania’s central train station, where you can find connections to other Sicilian towns. Since the wedding city is Portopalo di Capo Passero, the most convenient way to get there from CTA is by rental car or private transfer, as public transport options are limited for direct routes. The drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, mostly along the E45 highway. Please continue reading below for further information on transportation options, including car rentals, private transfers, and public transport connections from Catania–Fontanarossa Airport to your destination. www.aeroporto.catania.it

Question

Public Transportation

Answer

In Sicily, public transportation options are widely available, including buses, trains, and taxis. Here’s a breakdown: 1. Car Rentals: If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car at Catania airport. Sicily’s roads are not easy to drive, so use strong caution if choosing to rent a car. 2. Buses: There are intercity buses that connect major cities and towns. From Catania, you can take a bus to down the Southern Coast to Pozzallo. You can check schedules and routes on websites like www.interbus.it (for Catania) and www.aziendasicilianatrasporti.it (for local routes). 3. Trains: The train network in Sicily is operated by Trenitalia and connects most of the main cities and towns. The nearest major station to Portopalo is in Noto (SR). You can check train schedules and tickets on www.trenitalia.com. 4. Taxis and Ride-sharing: Taxis are available in most cities, though their availability may vary.

Question

How much does renting a car cost on average?

Answer

Renting a car in Sicily for one week in June 2025 can vary in cost depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental company, and booking time. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $300 for a week's rental. For instance, data indicates that the average cost to rent a car in Sicily is approximately $254 per week, which breaks down to about $36 per day. KAYAK.COM It's important to note that rental prices can fluctuate based on demand, availability, and how far in advance you book. To secure the best rates, it's advisable to compare offers from multiple rental companies and consider booking at least two weeks in advance. SKYSCANNER.COM Additionally, rental costs can vary by location within Sicily. For example, renting a car in Catania has been found to be more affordable compared to other cities on the island. CHEAPFLIGHTS.COM Please keep in mind that these figures are averages, and actual prices may vary based on specific rental conditions and market fluctuations.

Question

What currency should I bring?

Answer

In Sicily, the currency used is the Euro (€). You can exchange currency at exchange offices, banks, or ATMs in Italy. Many places in larger cities also accept credit or debit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses or rural areas. We recommend always having a minimum of 200-250 euros on hand. Here are some helpful tips: 2,50€ can get you a delicious arrancini. Locals prefer cash over cards in many situations. Train tickets are cheaper when purchased online. Tipping is not necessary in Sicily, but it can be a nice gesture. Leaving €1 is considered very generous and appreciated for good service. Having cash will help you navigate small towns and venues more smoothly!