Claire, a traveller known as Claire's Footsteps, successfully journeyed from London to Sicily without boarding a single flight, and she says it was easier than she anticipated. She documented her entire trip on TikTok, revealing that the total cost averaged around £389, based on typical prices at the time. This alternative to flying offers a scenic and unique way to reach the Mediterranean's largest island.
The Journey Breakdown: Trains and a Ferry
Claire's route involved several train segments and an overnight stay. She explained to her followers: "You can easily travel from London to Sicily by train and this is exactly how much it costs. So it's on average £100 on the Eurostar from London to Paris and then it's about £80 for a high speed train from Paris to Milan."
She continued: "You'll need to stay in Milan for a night and the best deal I found is £107 then it's £102 for a sleeper train all the way to Sicily and this includes your own private cabin. The craziest part is that this train goes straight onto a ferry, you don't even need to get off the train, although I definitely would recommend to see the views."
Arrival in Sicily: Palermo and Syracuse
Upon reaching Sicily, Claire noted that it takes approximately three hours to reach the capital city of Palermo, or two hours to reach Syracuse. Palermo is a popular tourist destination, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, rich Arab-Norman architecture, bustling street food markets, and historic landmarks. Syracuse, on the other hand, is famed for its ancient Greek ruins and has a population of about 115,000 people. Visitors can explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park, the Syracuse Cathedral, and the Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest Doric Greek temples in Sicily.
Cost Comparison and Public Reaction
Claire estimated the total journey cost at approximately £389, which includes the Eurostar, high-speed trains, a night in Milan, and the sleeper train with a private cabin. This is significantly more expensive than typical low-budget flights, which can start as low as £18 for short-haul return fares from London to European destinations. However, Claire's journey offers a more environmentally friendly and scenic alternative.
Despite the success of her trip, social media users were not entirely convinced. One commentator remarked, "Or £50 on Ryanair," while another questioned, "I don't know why anyone would do this trip over a cheap flight! Just why?!"
Time and Practical Considerations
Travelling from London to Sicily by train is not a quick endeavour. The journey can take anywhere from 28 to 48 hours, involving multiple train changes and a ferry crossing. This is a stark contrast to a direct flight, which typically takes around three hours. However, for those who enjoy train travel and want to reduce their carbon footprint, this route offers a viable option.
Sicily: A Destination Worth the Journey
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and a favoured destination for many travellers. Located just off the "toe" of Italy's "boot," it boasts a rich heritage visible in sites like the Valley of the Temples. On the eastern edge of the island lies Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano. The volcano last erupted on July 30, with intensive Strombolian activity and ash plumes reaching 7 kilometres high. Despite this, Mount Etna is generally safe to visit and live near because it is heavily monitored, with strict safety rules and professional guides in place.
