If you're planning a trip to Sicily and you want to visit Trapani, you've come to the right place! Here's a guide to the best things to do and see in Trapani and its surroundings. From monuments and churches to explore to markets to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a Sicilian city, there's something for everyone. Here are the top 10 attractions to check out:
1. Ligny Tower at the tip of Trapani
2. Agostino Pepoli Regional Museum
3. Basilica of St. Lawrence
4. Church of the souls in purgatory
5. Contemporary Art Museum
6. Saturn Fountain
7. Twin Clock Tower
8. Fish Market
9. Villa Margherita Park
10. Via Giovanni Battista Fardella shopping street
For those looking to plan their trip, here are some suggested itineraries for 1, 2, 3, or 4 days. As a bonus, we've provided our top recommendations for accommodations and restaurants to make your stay a truly unforgettable experience!
2. Erice Village
Visiting Erice village while in Trapani is an absolute must! Perched on a rocky cliff more than 750 meters above sea level, Erice offers a stunning view of Trapani, the Aegadian Islands and San Vito Lo Capo.
There are two main ways to get to Erice: by car, which takes about 30 minutes, or by cable car, which takes about 10 minutes and costs 9€ for a round trip. If you choose to drive, be sure to park on one of the official paid car parks at the village entrance (2€ for the first hour and 1€ for the following hours).
For the best experience, take the signposted walk around the village, as it will show you all the must-see attractions. Don't miss the castle at the top of the cliff – the view of the valley of Trapani and the sea is breathtaking!
End your Erice experience by visiting the famous Maria Grammatico’s, where you can try delicious marzipan, cannoli and other Sicilian pastries at a very reasonable price. While Erice can get quite busy with tourists, you can find some peace and quiet by walking around the cobbled streets away from the main street.
2. Favignana
Favignana is one of the three islands that make up the Aegadian Islands archipelago, alongside Levanzo and Maretimo. It is the largest, most visited, and best served by ferryboat from Trapani. A round-trip ticket with Liberty Lines cost 45€ for two, and the journey takes around half an hour.
Once on the island, it is best to rent a bike to explore since the pathways are too small for a car. They cost 5€ a day and are mostly flat, so even amateur cyclists can manage the tour. Maps are provided to ensure you don't miss the ferry back.
Two buildings of historical interest can be found on the island: the Palazzo Florio, host to the town hall, and the Tonnara, an old tuna processing factory. The main attractions, however, are the beaches and coves, boasting breathtaking blue waters and white sand. Cala Rossa, Lido Burrone, Cala Azzurra, Cala Rotonda and many more are all worth a visit.
For diving enthusiasts, the clear waters of Favignana provide an excellent opportunity to explore the depths and observe groupers, lobsters, and barracudas.
2. Levanzo
If you're looking for a tranquil escape from Trapani, Levanzo is the place to be. The smallest of the Aegadian Islands, it covers only six kilometers squared and is accessible via a 25-minute ferry ride for 20 euros per person, or a 10-minute taxi boat ride from Favignana.
The main attraction of Levanzo is the Genovese Prehistoric Cave, which contains artwork dating back almost 10,000 years ago. You can get to this archaeological marvel either by boat or by foot on a path along the mountain side.
Apart from exploring the cave, visitors to the island can also enjoy a seaside walk, swimming, sunbathing, diving, and a refreshing aperitif. With no roads on the island, there is no noise pollution from cars, so you can truly relax and take in the beauty of Levanzo.
2. Marettimo
If you plan to visit every island in the Aegadian archipelago, make sure to include Marettimo, the most remote and least touristy of the three. It's a one hour and twenty minute hydrofoil ride from Trapani.
Marettimo is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, or take a dip in one of the stunning coves. You can also take a boat tour to explore the many limestone caves. Hikers can also find great trails with gorgeous views, and a visit to Punta Troia Castle is a must.
It's the perfect place to enjoy a day away from civilization before heading home after your tour of Sicily.
2. Trapani and paceco salt pans.
Take a trip along the Salt Road from Trapani to Marsala and enjoy the stunning views of the salt pans, windmills and old mills reflected in the water.
The salt harvested from this area is now considered a luxury product and is used in fine cuisine. You can purchase some to take home with you! The area is also a nature reserve, so you can observe the restoration of some of the mills, although most are no longer used for production. The experience is truly magnificent.
2. Marsala.
Travelers who take the via del sale from Trapani to Marsala will be able to reach their destination in about 45 minutes by car. Once you get there, why not enjoy a glass (or two) of the local specialty, Marsala wine?
Many stores offer tastings of this unique beverage, so don't miss out on the opportunity.
When you are done sampling the wine, take a stroll in the old town and visit some of the places top attractions. These include the Baroque Cathedral dedicated to St. Thomas, the Republic Square, the Palace April VII, the Saint Joseph’s Church, the “Baglio Anselmi” archaeological museum, the Saint Peter’s Monastery, and the Carmine church and convent.