Trapani and Erice sightseeing
Western Sicily is a land of contrasts — from the salt flats and fishing harbours of **Trapani** to the misty medieval heights of **Erice**. Together, they offer a glimpse into the region’s maritime past, ancient heritage, and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.
- Visit Sicily
- 3 min read
Trapani and Erice Sightseeing
🌊 Overview
Trapani, a port city on Sicily’s western tip, is known for its elegant old town, salt pans, and access to the Egadi Islands. Just above it, perched on a mountain at 750 meters, lies Erice, a fairy-tale medieval village surrounded by ancient stone walls and misty vistas. Visiting both in one day gives travelers a perfect mix of coastal and hilltop Sicily.
⚓ Top Attractions in Trapani
1. Historic Center (Centro Storico)
Trapani’s old town is compact and full of charm — a mix of Baroque churches, narrow lanes, and seafront promenades. Key spots include Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Piazza Lucatelli, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
2. Trapani Salt Pans (Saline di Trapani e Paceco)
South of the city lies a surreal landscape of salt flats and windmills, dating back to Phoenician times. The salt museum at Nubia explains traditional salt extraction methods, and sunset views here are unforgettable.
3. Torre di Ligny
A 17th-century coastal tower turned maritime museum, offering panoramic views of the sea and Egadi Islands.
4. Egadi Islands (Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo)
Accessible by hydrofoil in under an hour. These islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and great snorkeling or diving opportunities.
5. Marsala and Mozia (nearby)
A short drive south, Marsala is famous for its fortified wine and elegant town center, while the island of Mozia hosts fascinating Phoenician archaeological remains.
🏰 Erice — The Hilltop Medieval Gem
1. How to Get There
- From Trapani, take the funivia (cable car) up to Erice (10–15 minutes), offering spectacular views over the coast and salt pans.
- By car, it’s a scenic but winding 30-minute drive.
2. Top Sights in Erice
- Castello di Venere (Castle of Venus): built on ancient temple ruins dedicated to the goddess of love; panoramic views of the coastline.
- Torretta Pepoli: a romantic lookout tower offering postcard-perfect scenery.
- Piazza Umberto I: the heart of the village with stone streets and artisan shops.
- Chiesa Madre (Mother Church): a Gothic masterpiece built from pale limestone.
3. Atmosphere and Experience
Erice feels frozen in time — cobblestone alleys, stone houses, and fog rolling through the mountains. It’s cooler than the coast, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
4. Local Treats
- Try Genovesi Erice, small pastries filled with warm custard and dusted with sugar.
- Buy ceramics and handwoven textiles from local artisans.
🚗 Getting Around
- Trapani’s city center is walkable.
- Cable car to Erice runs regularly from morning to evening (check seasonal hours).
- Parking available near both the funivia and Erice’s town gate.
- Buses connect Trapani with Marsala and Palermo.
🧭 Summary
Trapani and Erice capture two faces of Sicily — one maritime and sunlit, the other medieval and mystical. From salt-scented breezes at the shore to ancient castle views above the clouds, this duo offers some of the island’s most photogenic and atmospheric experiences. A visit here reveals the true magic of western Sicily — timeless, tranquil, and unforgettable.