Trips to Sicily

Situated just 90 kilometers south of the Sicilian coast, Malta shares a deep historical, cultural, and geographical connection with Italy's largest island. For locals and expats in Malta, Sicily isn't just a holiday destination; it's practically an extension of the local environment.

Top Reasons Locals & Expats Travel to Sicily:

• Bulk Shopping: Driving over with an empty van or SUV to shop at large European retail outlets (like IKEA, Centro Sicilia, or Decathlon) in Catania, as many of these mega-stores do not exist in Malta.
• Agriturismo Escapes: Escaping the dense urban environment of Malta for quiet weekends at Sicilian farmhouse retreats (agriturismos), enjoying authentic, highly affordable Italian food and wine.
• Skiing and Nature: Taking a winter trip to Mount Etna for skiing, or exploring the vast nature reserves, forests, and winding mountain roads that small Malta lacks.
• Road Trips: Taking the family car on the ferry allows for expansive road trips to historic towns like Taormina, Syracuse, and Noto without the hassle and cost of renting a vehicle abroad.

Because both Malta and Italy are part of the Schengen Area, traveling between the two countries is technically borderless. However, you must still carry proper identification, as spot checks at ferry terminals and airport gates are standard practice.

• For EU/EEA Citizens: A valid National ID Card or a valid Passport. (A driving license is NOT a valid travel document).
• For Third-Country Nationals (TCNs): You must carry your valid Passport AND your Maltese e-Residence Card. This residency card acts as your Schengen visa, allowing you to legally enter and travel within Italy for up to 90 days.
• Taking your Car: If you are driving your Maltese-registered car onto the Virtu Ferry, you must bring the vehicle's original Logbook (Registration Certificate), a valid motor insurance certificate (ensure your policy covers EU travel/Schengen area), and your driving license.

The most popular, practical, and traditional way to reach Sicily is by sea. Fast catamarans operate daily year-round, carrying thousands of foot passengers, cars, and commercial freight trucks across the channel.

Why take the ferry?

• Taking your car: Renting a car in Sicily can be expensive. Many prefer to drive their own Maltese-registered car onto the ferry to explore the Sicilian countryside freely.
• Heavy Shopping: Passengers frequently take their cars or vans to stock up at the Centro Sicilia mall or IKEA in Catania, bringing back large furniture items that are unavailable or more expensive in Malta.
• Pet Travel: It is significantly easier and less stressful to bring dogs and cats on the ferry (they can stay in your car or in designated pet cabins) than flying them in cargo.

If you don't need a car and simply want a quick city break, flying is incredibly efficient. The flight time from Malta International Airport (MLA) to Sicily is often less than 45 minutes—you barely reach cruising altitude before beginning your descent.

Airlines and Arrival Airports:

• Catania (CTA) - Fontanarossa Airport

  The most frequent and popular route. Located on the east coast, right under Mount Etna. It is heavily serviced by both KM Malta Airlines (the national carrier) and Ryanair.

• Palermo (PMO) - Falcone Borsellino Airport

  Located in the northwest, serving Sicily's historic capital. Perfect for cultural trips and exploring the western side of the island. Typically serviced by low-cost carriers like Ryanair.

• Trapani (TPS)

  A smaller airport on the extreme west coast, highly dependent on seasonal Ryanair schedules. Great for visiting the salt pans, Erice, and Marsala.

Prices fluctuate heavily depending on the season (summer and public holiday weekends are much more expensive) and how far in advance you book.