Home

Safety

Europe

Italy

Sicily

Being a solo female traveler to Sicily, largely comes with a feeling of safety. Like most places, it generally enjoys a lower crime rate as compared to many international cities. The locals are generally warm, friendly, and willing to help tourists. However, there can be occasional instances of petty theft, primarily related to pickpocketing and purse-snatching, especially in crowded places like markets and public transportation. Also, extra care should be taken late at night in less busy streets or unfamiliar areas. In general, as long as you follow standard safety protocols and stay alert, Sicily offers a relatively safe travel experience.

3.7 /5

Based on 3 experiences

3.8 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety at night:Moderate

Sicily, like many places, varies in safety depending on the area. Tourist-heavy locations and larger cities can potentially be host to petty crime such as pickpocketing, especially during the evening. However, most locals are friendly and the island is generally well-policed. If you practice typical travel safety measures such as avoiding unlit or lonely areas at night, and keeping a close eye on your belongings, you should have a fairly safe experience.

Public transportation: Safe

Public transportation in Sicily is generally safe. Buses and trains are regularly used by locals and tourists alike. However, at peak times they can become overcrowded, and while not common, pick-pocketing incidents can occur. Overall, just maintain a level of awareness of your belongings, as you would when traveling anywhere. Late at night, it is recommended to use reliable taxi services or well-known ride-hailing apps.

Street harassment: Moderate

Sicily, while being a part of Italy with strong character and full of passionate people, generally does not pose significant difficulties when it comes to street harassment. However, it also depends on the particular city and the cultural norms prevalent in that area. You can occasionally encounter catcalling, but the overall attitude towards women is not overly aggressive or problematic. It is still recommended to take the basic precautions such as avoiding poorly lit and isolated areas, particularly at night, and adapting to local dress codes for respect and safety.

Petty crimes:Low

Sicily, like many popular tourist destinations, does have occurrences of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, particularly in crowded areas or public transportation. However, the risk is relatively low if you maintain vigilance over your valuable items. Always remember to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist-heavy regions.

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Sicily is safe to drink. The water quality is high, thanks to rigorous testing and controls. Therefore, there should be no need to buy bottled water from an environmental and health point of view.

Get the Travel Ladies app

Meet new people, find travel buddies, share experiences, discuss travel plans and stay with local women through couch surfing

3.7 /5

based on 3 experiences

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Couple travel experience

I spent 2 weeks in Sicily and it was amazing. We first stationed in Taormina where we checked out that coast, and then bussed it over to Palermo and did day trips to all those towns. Super easy with the trains and busses, each town was amazing.

Posted: November 8, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I was in Sicily this last spring and I absolutely loved it. I stayed at Palermo, Siracusa, and Catania. Lots and lots of history and great architecture and food. I took day trips from Catania to Agrigento which are 4th century BC Greek ruins and Piazza Armerina which is a 4th century Roman Villa w mosaics. Also did day trips to Taormina. I highly recommend Sicily.

Posted: May 24, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

favorite_border 1

mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I did three weeks in Sicily and I loved every minute of it. Palermo wasn't as great as I expected. It's crazy busy, dirty and felt unsafe at times. I don't recommend spending much time there. But worth it for good food and lots of history. Cefalù is great, by the water, amazing little restaurants, fun to walk around. Taormina is awesome but extremely expensive and overly touristic. I did go on a boat excursion at sunset and saw dolphins up close. One of my best travel memories ever. Noto is a must. The small city is absolutely charming and I used it as a base to explore the region. There are really nice beach clubs at Portopalo di Capo Passero. It was really fun just drive in that area through lemon trees and colorful flowers everywhere. I did a quick visit to Modica from there also. Ortigia is also a must. Great food, amazing vibes at night and lots of history. I would recommend avoiding Catania as it's quite unsafe for tourists. I met many other people who regretted adding it to their itinerary.

Posted: November 28, 2022

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5

favorite_border 75

mode_comment 0

Speaking

About Me

Hey!, My name is M. and I'm interested in animals, architecture, art, backpacking, camping, culture, diving, fashion, events & social, food & cuisine, health, languages, live music, nature, photography, nightlife, sightseeing, shopping, sunbathing and van life

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇹 Austria, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇨🇷 Costa Rica, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇮 Gibraltar, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇲🇦 Morocco, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇺🇸 United States

mode_comment 0

Check solo travel in Sicily