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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Sicily, Italy

Air Travel

Closest Airports

Your choice for Modica travel typically comes down to two main airports.

Comiso Airport CIY

  • Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Modica.
  • A smaller airport, mainly serving domestic flights and low-cost carriers (e.g., Ryanair).
  • Routes connect to Milan Bergamo, Rome Fiumicino, London Stansted.

Major Hub Airport

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) is Sicily's largest and busiest airport. It handles a wider range of international and domestic flights.

Catania Airport CTA

  • Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Modica.
  • A major gateway to eastern Sicily, with extensive international connections.
  • Offers more flight options for international travelers.

Seasonal Flight Fluctuations

Flight frequency and prices vary by season. High season (June-August) has peak prices. Shoulder seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct) offer a good balance. Low season (Nov-March) has the lowest prices.

Direct Flight Options

Direct flights from North America or other major global hubs outside Europe are rare to Sicily. Most require at least one connection, typically in a major European city.

Airport Facilities

Both Comiso and Catania airports have car rental services from major companies, ATMs, cafes, and basic shops. Catania, being larger, has more extensive facilities.

Transfer Options to Modica

From Comiso Airport CIY

  • Bus (Interbus): 50-60 min, €5-€8. Direct service, check schedules.
  • Taxi: 40-50 min, €60-€80. Most convenient, agree on fare.
  • Car Rental (DiscoverCars.com): 40-50 min, from €30/day. Great for exploring.
  • Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

From Catania Airport CTA

  • Bus (Interbus): 2-2.5 hours, €10-€15. Cost-effective, check schedules.
  • Taxi/Private Transfer: 1.5-2 hours, €150-€200+. Comfortable, direct.
  • Car Rental (DiscoverCars.com): 1.5-2 hours, from €30/day. Recommended for wider exploration.
  • Be aware of ZTLs in city centers if driving.

Land Transportation Overview

Train Connections

Modica has a train station (Stazione di Modica). Routes are mainly regional, linking to Ragusa and Syracuse. Frequency can be limited, especially on Sundays. Check Trenitalia schedules in advance.

Long-Distance Buses

Buses offer an efficient way to travel between towns. Interbus is the main company, with connections from Modica to Catania, Syracuse, Noto, and Pozzallo. Services are generally more frequent than trains. Buy tickets at the bus station or tabaccherie.

Self-Driving

Renting a car (from DiscoverCars.com) offers flexibility. Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Be aware of ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones) in city centers. Modica's streets are narrow and steep.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services Pozzallo

Modica is an inland city, so direct sea or river arrivals are not possible. However, the nearby port of Pozzallo offers important ferry connections. Pozzallo is approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) southeast of Modica.

Pozzallo Ferry Details

  • Operator: Virtu Ferries.
  • Route: Pozzallo to Valletta, Malta (popular for combining visits).
  • Duration: High-speed catamaran journey takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Immigration & Connections

For international ferry services (like the one to Malta), standard passport control procedures apply upon arrival and departure. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents. Buses and taxis are available at the Pozzallo ferry terminal to connect travelers to Modica. Interbus operates regular bus services between Pozzallo and Modica.

Connecting to Modica from Pozzallo

  • Standard passport control for international ferries.
  • Interbus service connects Pozzallo ferry terminal to Modica.
  • Taxis are available at the terminal.

Airport Departure Times

For international flights, arrive at Catania or Comiso airport 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic/Schengen flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually enough.

Station Departure Times

For train or bus departures, arrive at least 15-20 minutes before. This provides ample time to locate your platform or bus stand, especially with luggage.

Exit Fees/Taxes

No specific exit fees or taxes apply to departing travelers from Italian airports or ports. These costs are usually included in your airfare or ferry ticket.

Departure Information

Transport Planning Tip

Careful transport planning maximizes your time exploring Modica and its beautiful surroundings. Knowing your travel logistics are well managed lets you focus on discovery.