Weather in Sicily in September

How September compares

September is the 4th warmest month of the year in Sicily and ranks 60th of 134 destinations we compare for September - see where else is hot in September. Within Italy it is 1st of 16 (Italy in September). Against London's average high of 18.6°C in September, Sicily is 8.9°C warmer by day and 8.8°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in September

The typical September day in Sicily peaks at 27.5°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.3°C or more. About 81% of days top 25°C and 1 in 5 pass 30°C. Nights average 20.0°C; one night in ten drops to 17.5°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest September day here reached 36.8°C (2017-09-02) and the coldest night 13.5°C (2002-09-30).

Rain in September

Some rain (4-8 rainy days): about 7 days with 1 mm or more, 52 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest September was 2003 with 181 mm, the driest 2001 with 0 mm. Humidity averages 70%.

Sea temperature in September

The sea averages 25.2°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 24.1°C to 26.2°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (26.4°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 8.1 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.2 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:42 and sets about 19:08 local time in mid-September. Average cloud cover is 34%.

Is September a good time to visit Sicily?

Yes - it is one of the better months: hot days, manageable rain and long sunny days. The best months for Sicily on our scoring are July, August, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.

Summer-like warmth, with some hotter days

September still feels hot in Sicily rather than like the start of a British autumn. Days reach 25°C on 81% of occasions, so light clothing is a sensible starting point. There is a hotter edge too: 19% of days reach 30°C, making shade and a slower pace useful around midday. Humidity averages 70%, which can make the warmth feel sticky, particularly when you are active. Plan longer walks for the cooler parts of the day rather than assuming September means mild conditions. Evenings are generally warm, though a light layer is sensible for cooler nights, which can fall to around 18°C or below.

A good month for swimming and time outside

The sea is a strong reason to choose September. At an average of 25.2°C, it is warm enough for swimming rather than just a quick, bracing dip. The year-to-year range of 24°C to 26°C also points to reliably warm water, although that does not guarantee calm conditions on any particular day. There is about 8.1 hours of sunshine within 12.2 hours of daylight, leaving plenty of scope for outdoor plans without expecting an entirely cloudless holiday. This combination suits travellers who want regular swims and relaxed days outside. Keep sun protection handy even when the heat feels manageable or there is some cloud.

Allow for rain, but pack mainly for warmth

Rain is the main compromise: September has about 7 rainy days, so it is not a month to choose solely for guaranteed dry weather. That does not mean writing off every day with rain, but it does favour a flexible schedule. Keep swimming and longer outdoor plans movable, and pack a lightweight waterproof alongside your summer clothes. Heavy clothing is unlikely to be useful for typical conditions, while a light evening layer gives you options when temperatures dip. September suits travellers happy to trade a little weather uncertainty for warm days and comfortable sea temperatures; it is less suitable if any rain would spoil the trip.