Avis car hire in Sicily
Sicily car hire … the open road lies ahead
We make Sicily car rental stress free because we know you can’t wait to hit the road and begin your journey. The keys are waiting … collect your Avis hire car and have a great trip. Book NowPopular car hire locations in Sicily
Plan your trip to Sicily
Fringed by the enticing waters of the Mediterranean, seductive Sicily is steeped in myth and legend. The landscapes are impressive and diverse; from the smoking mass of Mount Etna to its variety of beaches, Sicily certainly packs a punch. Pick up your Avis rental car from a choice of locations to explore this stunning location.Brimming with cultural treasures, natural wonders and sightseeing options there’s plenty to enjoy on the island that Truman Capote described as “more beautiful than any woman”.
Around Etna are a variety of attractions and the Madonie and Nebrodi natural parks are top of visitors to-do lists. Pantelleria is another volcanic area which elicits attention along with Pertusa di Notaro, a grotto which is famous for the continuous blasts of cold air which pass through.
Sicily has many enthralling cities to explore, including the capital Palermo. There are numerous sights to see including Palazzo dei Normanni, an elaborate 9th-century palace and museum. Palermo Cathedral is also fascinating with its royal tombs and ornate pillared interiors to explore.
Syracuse is another interesting city and was once home to the famous mathematician and engineer Archimedes. The old town is a charming place to wile away a few hours, while history buffs can feast their eyes on Parco Archeologica with its 500BC theatre where live performances are held during the summer months.
Those in search of gastronomy will be in their element; the islands’ colourful past has ensured a cuisine which has dashes of Greek, Spanish and North African influence. Caponata, a slow-cooked dish of aubergines, olives, capers, tomatoes, raisins, olives, pine nuts and vegetables, is a regional speciality.
Road trips in Sicily
MonrealeDrive from the Capital of Palermo via Corso Calatafimi for around 40 minutes to reach the pretty hillside town of Monreale. Attractively situated on the slopes of Monte Caputo this delightful town is most famous for its impressive Norman cathedral Cattedrale di Monreale. It boasts an interior which is partly covered with 6,000 square metres of mosaic and is thought by some to be one of Sicily’s finest cultural gems.
Segesta
Travel from Palermo via the E90 or the A29 and E90 and it’s around a 75-minute drive to the Segesta archeological site. Most famous for the Temple of Segest this is one of Sicily’s most important and best preserved Ancient Greek sites, built by the Elymian people around the fifth century AD. Other points of interest include remains of an amphitheatre and fortress.
Agrigento
From Palermo via the SS121 and Strada Statale 189/SS189 it’s about a two-hour drive to Agrigento, thought to be the most beautiful city on the island. The Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the top attraction here. There are also seven sacred temples within the area, the most impressive being the Temple of Hera which is almost perfectly preserved with 34 columns. Other Agrigento highlights include a Norman Cathedral and the Regional Archaeological Museum.
Your journey starts here
From the moment you arrive, Avis has got your car rental covered for the duration. Whether you fancy a supermini or hot hatch for an urban jaunt, an elegant saloon for a business trip or wedding, or a people carrier for a family holiday – your perfect hire car is standing by on the tarmac.When you join Avis Preferred – you’re our priority. You’ll receive fast-track service at the counter, pre-prepared rental paperwork, and access to free rentals and upgrades. And Avis Preferred sign-up is absolutely free.