Can you Travel to Sicily with ID Card?

A beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily has a rich history, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches. If you plan to visit this stunning island, you may wonder if you can travel to Sicily with your ID card. Additionally, you may be considering travelling by plane or by Catamaran. This article aims to explore these topics and suggest some tips on how to visit Sicily.

Can you Travel to Sicily with an ID card?

Suppose you are a European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) citizen. In that case, you can travel to Sicily with just your ID card. Non-EU or EEA citizens must have a valid passport to enter Italy. If you plan to drive in Sicily or rent a car, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your ID card or passport.

What is the difference between Going by Plane and by Catamaran?

Travelling to Sicily by plane is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the island. The main airport in Sicily is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, located on the island’s eastern coast. Many airlines offer direct flights to Catania from major European cities, including Rome, Paris, and London. Once you arrive in Catania, you can rent a car or take public transportation to explore the island.

Regarding flying between Malta and Sicily, two leading airlines offering this route are Air Malta and Ryanair. Here’s a comparison of the two airlines:

Air Malta:

Air Malta is the national airline of Malta and has been in operation since 1974. The airline operates flights between Malta and Sicily, with services to both Catania and Palermo.

The airline offers several daily flights between Malta and Sicily, with flight times ranging from 30 minutes to just over an hour. Air Malta provides a full-service experience, including complimentary snacks and drinks, checked baggage allowance, and assigned seating. The airline’s fares are higher than Ryanair’s, but they often include added amenities and benefits.

Ryanair:

Ryanair is an Irish low-cost airline that operates flights throughout Europe, including Malta and Sicily. The airline operates flights between Malta and Catania.

Ryanair offers several weekly flights between Malta and Catania, ranging from 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ryanair’s fares tend to be lower than Air Malta’s, but the airline is a no-frills carrier, so you’ll have to pay extra for things like checked baggage, snacks, and seat assignments.

In summary, choosing Air Malta and Ryanair when travelling between Malta and Sicily will depend on your priorities. Air Malta may be your better choice if you value a full-service experience and are okay with paying higher fares. On the other hand, if you’re looking for the lowest possible fares and are willing to forego added amenities, Ryanair may be a more suitable option.

Virtu Ferries:

Alternatively, you can travel to Sicily by Catamaran. Virtu Ferries is a Maltese high-speed ferry company that provides transportation services between Malta and Sicily. The company offers a catamaran service that operates between the ports of Valletta in Malta and Pozzallo in Sicily.

The Virtu Ferries catamaran is a modern vessel carrying up to 800 passengers and 240 cars. It features comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard facilities such as a bar, cafeteria, and duty-free shop. The journey time between Valletta and Pozzallo is approximately 90 minutes, making it a convenient and fast option for travellers.

Virtu Ferries offers frequent departures between Malta and Sicily, with up to four daily crossings during the peak season. The company also operates a shuttle bus service that connects the port of Pozzallo with other destinations in Sicily, including Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse.

Travelling on the Virtu Ferries catamaran is a great way to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy stunning views of the Maltese and Sicilian coastlines. The company’s commitment to safety, comfort, and customer service has earned it a reputation as one of the leading ferry operators in the region.

If you plan to travel between Malta and Sicily, the Virtu Ferries catamaran is a reliable and efficient option. Book your tickets in advance, especially during the high season. Check the company’s website for up-to-date schedules and fares.

Tips when Going to Sicily

Taking a trip to Sicily can be a challenge, but here are some tips to help:

1. Visit in the off-season: Sicily can be very crowded during the summer, so consider visiting in the spring or fall to avoid the crowds.
2. Rent a car: Renting a car is the best way to explore the island and get off the beaten path. Be sure to obtain an International Driving Permit before your trip.
3. Try the local cuisine: Sicilian cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and delicious desserts. Be sure to try the local specialities, such as arancini (fried rice balls) and cannoli (pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese).
4. Visit the historical sites: Sicily has many historical sites, including ancient Greek and Roman ruins, medieval castles, and Baroque churches. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore these fantastic places.

In conclusion, travelling to Sicily with just your ID card is possible if you are a citizen of the EU or EEA. When deciding how to travel to Sicily, consider your budget, travel time, and personal preferences. Whether you travel by plane or Catamaran, take the time to explore this beautiful island and all it has to offer.