Trapani’s bow-shaped bay and beautiful old town are a spectacular vision from Sicily’s towering Mount Erice. On a clear day you can see the Egadi Islands, before taking the cable car down to Trapani Port to relish the sparkling Mediterranean waters.

Things to do

No visit to Trapani is complete without riding the cable car to the historic hilltop town of Erice, boasting stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Wander the charming cobblestone streets and delight in the ancient Elymian walls and mighty Venus Castle.

Resting in the heart of Trapani’s old town amid the atmospheric laneways and whitewashed buildings you will discover the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, featuring a spectacular portico and a detailed gold ceiling. Soak up the honey-hued Baroque Palazzo over antipasto at one of the many sidewalk cafes and family-run wine bars along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, like Enoteca Versi di Rosso.

For a glimpse of Trapino’s colourful past, delve into the historical wonders of Segesta Archaeological Site. Located 30 minutes’ drive from Trapino, it boasts an ancient Doric temple and Greek Theatre, along with sweeping valley views.

A day trip to the Egadi Islands is a fantastic way to escape the crowds. Hire a bike and explore the idyllic beaches on Favignana Island or venture to Levanzo Island to see cave paintings at the Grotta del Genovese.

Getting around

Trapani is compact enough to explore on foot, with local buses running between the port and railway station. Vincenzo Florio Airport is a 20-minute drive or a one hour train ride from the city centre.