Vacation Packages and Tours to Trapani, Sicily

Discover Trapani's Wonders

Surrounded by fishing villages and sandy beaches, the city of Trapani promises plenty of delights for any vacation to Sicily. Take a tour through the cobblestone streets to the medieval castle of Mount Erice. Plus, discover the origin of the ancient Sicilian tradition of catching blue fin tuna or take a trip to nearby Marsala which offers world-famous wine.

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Description

Situated on western coast of Sicily, Trapani - even if it is a little city - has a lot to offer, so take your time to explore this breath-taking part of the island. Its strategic position on the Mediterranean coast made it a pivotal commercial harbour in the past, but today it is known as the town of the salt and the sailboats, indeed among its main attractions it is necessary to mention the salt mines and the sail boat competitions. But more than that, Trapani shows to travellers the most elegant face of Sicily through its boutiques and chic restaurants nestled in the ancient buildings of the century city. The centre of the town fully represents Sicily, a land of conquers and a coloured chest of cultures. Each historical period left its trace in this place, where any corner of the town displays architectural beauties and artworks from different centuries. Any monument, cathedral, building, fountain and square narrate the rich past of Trapani. Furthermore, another beating heart of the town is its beautiful harbour where the well-known fish market takes place every morning. And obviously you cannot miss to taste all the Sicilian specialties!

Useful information

Population:

67,531

Currency:

Euro, €1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Police: 112
Medical: 118
Firemen: 115

Opening Hours:

Shops usually open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am until 1pm, reopening again at 4pm through to 8pm latest; on Monday, shops are generally open only in the morning and they are closed all day on Sunday. Also during summer some shops are closed in the afternoon. There is no national rule for bank opening hours, but times tend to be 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3pm to around 5pm Monday to Friday. Some open Saturday morning with times at their discretion.

Do & See

Basilica-Sanctuary of Maria Santissima Annunziata

This Basilica houses an impressive collection from both medieval and modern periods. Here visitors can admire paintings by world-famous artists, marble sculptures, a splendid assortment of gold and silver fine art objects, as well as memorabilia connected with Trapani’s history. The entire cathedral expresses the typical Sicilian Renascent-Baroque style through its marble naves magnificently frescoed.

Chiesa Santa Maria di Gesu'

Located in the historic centre, this beautiful Gothic style church is well worth seeking out. Inside it is possible to admire a very interesting group of artworks created by the most valuable local artists, as the marble baldachin and all the stunning sacred frescoes and paintings exposed on the walls of the side aisles.

Church of Saint Augustine

The Church of Saint Augustine is the oldest building in Trapani, dated back to the Templars’ period. Milestone of Gothic style, the church is recognisable thanks to the big rose window on its facade. In the little square adjacent to the church is situated the famous Saturn Fountain, from the 14th century, as a representation of the mythological founder of Trapani: the god Saturn.

Erice

The historic town of Erice is located on the top of Mount Erice, just outside Trapani. The view is stunning from here, and the location is reachable in various ways: by car, bus; by the cable car connecting Trapani to Erice; or for hike enthusiasts it is possible to get there through a path of almost 2 hours. Erice's relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend the day exploring.

Favignana

Favignana Island is part of the Aegadian Archipelago, famous for its glorious beaches. It is located just 17 km southwest of Trapani, and it is easily reachable by frequent ferries. Visitors can take boat trips to the entire group of islands so to discover the natural magnificence of the deep southern Italy. In the numerous small ports, you cannot miss the daily fish markets, where you will have the possibility to taste raw sea urchins, typical dish of the Mediterranean coast.

Grotta Mangiapane

Grotta Mangiapane is the biggest cave of the group Scurati's Caverns. Scurati is a little village with very ancient origins, as the numerous finds happened here can demonstrate. The cave takes its name from the family Mangiapane, who lived here for more than a century, indeed it hosts a very peculiar rural agglomeration composed of little squared houses. Totally different epochs merge together in this unique place. During Christmas period, Grotta Mangiapane hosts a big event called “Living Nativity”, an event where the agro-pastoral life comes alive with some 160 performers, including artists and craftsmen from all over Sicily.

Marsala

Marsala is the biggest town in Trapani's district, and it is generally known because from its harbour Garibaldi started his travel to unify Italy. But above all, Marsala is an important gastronomic destination. In this part of the region the Italian tradition meets the Arabic, creating incredibly tasty dishes. It was also here the Marsala wine was born, a sweet wine famous all over the world.

Processione dei Misteri

Trapani is a treasure chest of tradition. One of the most ancient and still followed ritual is the annual Procession of Mysteries (Provessione dei Misteri). Each Good Friday almost twenty sculptures are carried across the roads of the city centre. This is one of the longest religious festival in Sicily and in Italy. Italian religion folklore is one of the most coloured and observed in Europe, and this procession fully represents it.

Dining

Agriturismo Fratelli Sanacore

If you are an adventurous eater and you want to experience authentic rustic Sicilian dinner, this agritourism in Trapani´s countryside is the ideal place for you. The raw materials are directly produced on the spot in the ample farm of the family Sanacore. The atmosphere is rustic and genuine as well as elegant and cordial. Perfect for both a romantic dinner or a meal with the family. For the greediest, varied menus are available according to the season or the festivity.

Ai lumi

This is the ideal place to start your journey in the traditional Sicilian cuisine. Sit in one of the rustic benches or in a typical wicker chair and enjoy dishes made exclusively with the best genuine materials. Very recommended are the specialties of the house: couscous with fish and cassatelle with broth. Each dish can be accompanied by local wines chosen from the extensive list of the restaurant. If you are looking for an elegant and refined restaurant, Ai lumi will not disappoint you.

Ardigna

Ardigna is the main restaurant in the little village of Salemi, located on your way up the mountain, but do not let the location scare you off. The place is quite big but still reservation is recommended to make sure to get a table. The menu is typical Italian and waiters will guide you through the fresh dishes on offer. As in the Sicilian tradition dishes are abundant, so be prepared for a great meal! Strongly suggested is the mixed grill.

I Grilli

If it is a steak that you are craving for, then you should visit I Grilli. The menu is creative and modern and from the wine list, pick a tasteful wine that will perfectly accompanied your meal. With the open grill you can see how the chef prepares your scrumptious meat. It is also very easy to find, being in the very centre of the city.

La Muraglia

For those who love Asian cuisine, this is the perfect place. This Japanese and Chinese restaurant is particularly well-known in Trapani for its sushi. Being located in a coastal city, the fish is always daily fresh. Also offers Chines food like dumplings, noodle and rice dishes and other flavoured dishes. Takeaway service is also available.

New Albatros

New Albatros on Favignana Island, serves Italian cuisine but what it is most known for is the drinks that complement its dishes. Whether you take a beer, which is served in a ceramic mug, or a cooling drink you will not get disappointed. A good idea is to come quite early if you would like a seat on their outdoor terrace. Perfect for an aperitif with friends.

Osteria di Venere

A tiny rustic tavern away from the main throng of tourists and visitors in Erice. Its cuisine mirrors so much local tradition that it will seem to be run by a Sicilian grandma. Osteria di Venere has an easy-going atmosphere where the polite and smiling staff serves quality food, only prepared with fresh seasonal produce.

Osteria La Bettolaccia

Osteria La Bettolaccia is a small cosy restaurant with amazing typical Italian food. The menu changes depending on the season, the portions are good sized and there is also a varied wine list to go with your meal. If you are curious about traditional dishes as pasta alla norma or busiate al pesto trapanese, this is the right place for you!

Cafés

Antico Laboratorio La Rinascente

This “pasticceria” (bakery) is one of the favourites among the locals. Everybody in Trapani knows it but it is not easy to find, it has no sign or seats, but it is definitively worthy seeking out among Trapani's alleys. La Rinascente is considered the heaven of Sicilian pastry, here you can find any dessert the region has on offer: cannoli, cassatelle, geli, cialdoni... and much more!

Bar Du Marinaru

On Favignana Island, right in front of the dock, a little and rustic bar will offer you a typical Sicilian coffee break, thanks to its "Caffè al pistacchio" (Pistachio nut coffee). It is a real specialty of this beautiful island, and it was Bar du Marinaru that made it so famous. So, if you are visiting Favignana or Trapani this tiny café can't be missed.

Bar Europa

If you are looking for an abundant but not too expensive aperitif, breakfast or brunch, Bar Europa in San Vito Lo Capo is the right place for you. Besides being one of the few places, open also off-tourist season, this familiar bar offer rich meals and breaks without charging an arm and a leg for it.

Bar Incontro

Bar and diner, perfect for a break at any time of the day. Here the signature dish is arancine, the typical Sicilian fried croquettes filled with rice, meat and tomato sauce, but also various vegan dishes is served. Its wide menu makes Bar Incontro perfect for some aperitif with friends!

Bar Pasticceria Vultaggio

Before going back home from Sicily you should take with you some cannolis to share with your friends and family. At the Pasticceria Vultaggio, a small pastry-shop just outside Trapani, you will find the biggest cannolis in the city, this it is the ideal place where to stock up!

BeCool

BeCool is one of the most popular cafés in Trapani. In the morning, it offers a wide choice of sweet breakfast like classic brioche paired with cappuccino or with slush. Whereas in the late afternoon you can enjoy the varied appetizers composing the aperitif, together with a spritz or a refreshing drink.

Caffè Savoia

The elegant Cafè Savoia is situated in the central square of San Vito Lo Capo. Its professional and cordial staff will affably welcome you for breakfast, brunch and aperitif. Each meal is composed by all the specialties of Sicilian cuisine, both sweet and salty.

Efri Bar

If you crave for Italian treats but suffer from celiac disease, do not worry! You can still enjoy a Sicilian cannoli at the Efri Bar. To find gluten free products in Sicily can be a challenge, since here gluten plays an important part of the traditional cuisine, but the owner to this bar thought about it. A real Sicilian cannoli is one of the thing that must be tasted at least once in a life time!

Bars & Nightlife

Baia Tre Torri

This club on the beach is one of the newest in Trapani's region. It is located on Marausa Beach, and it gains its momentum on Thursdays during summer season, when tourists and travellers join local youngsters in amazing aperitif and parties on the beach. The location is modern and the staff is professional, if you want to have great time during your holidays, then do not miss this club!

Caloma Sea Club

Being the only club located in the Trapani city centre, Caloma Sea Club is a favourite place for all party-goers in town. During summer it is frequented mostly on Tuesday night, when aperi-dinners are organised, followed by DJ set and theme parties all night long. So if you cannot wait until the weekend, this is the place to start your week.

Cortile Ripa

In this pub located in the city centre you can find whatever you like to drink: beers, wines, cocktails and soft-drinks. Besides aperitif and appetizers, here you can also taste Ripa's crostoni, the perfect snack to accompany a refreshing beer. A place where to spend a quite evening among friends while listing to music.

Frida's Bar

Bar/club in the historical centre of Trapani. Start your evening with a late afternoon aperitif, and enjoy an entire night of good music, cocktails, beers and wines. Each night offers a different vibe since different DJs play here every night. But what never change is the inspiration to Frida Kahlo, that is so obviously shown on the bar name and its décor.

I Corti

Located near to the harbour, I Corti is perfect from the aperitif time until late evening. After an aperi-dinner accompanied by local wines and beers, the romantic pub turns into a loud pub with live music and DJ set. If craving for something fresh, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic cocktails with lots of fresh fruit are served by the experienced bartenders.

Isla Blanca

Think loud music, a young party crowd and long sweaty dance nights in a stylish environment and you're there! The beach area and skybar Isla Blanca in Erice is open from the middle of May until the middle of September, it offers dance nights twice a week, but music and cocktails every night!

Juparanà Drink Cafè

Juparanà is one of the main bars in Marsala. Open all day long, here it is possible to enjoy every meal, from breakfast to dinner. But, in the evening it becomes a lounge bar with happy hours, serving bubbles, wines, spritz and mojitos. Enjoy a pleasant night while listening to live music or to DJ remix.

Lido Marausa

Lido Marausa is a beach resort located in Marsala. It is the perfect place where to spend a fun night out with your family. During summer, it is open everyday and host plenty of theme nights and events, such as the country and Latino night. Whereas during the rest of the year parties for festivities are set up, as on New Year's Eve and Halloween.

Shopping

Coral Point

The processing of coral has ancient roots in the Sicilian region. This boutique in the city centre offers all kinds of goods and crafts in coral: from little sculptures to splendid jewels. Prices are affordable for everyone, even so, the beauty of these pieces of art is unquestionable.

Corso Vittorio Emanuele

Corso Vittorio Emanuele is one of the main pedestrian road in Trapani, here you can find plenty of small shops specialised in local crafts. If you are looking for a ceramic or leather souvenir to remember your holiday in Trapani, here you will certainly find it.

Fish Market

Even if you are not much of a seafood lover Trapani's fish market - Mercato del Pesce- is still worth a visit. Early in the mornings, local fishermen take their daily catch to sell it on the market. Each one of them shout creative jingle to convince customers to buy their merchandise. This is one of the best places to get a glimpse of everyday life in Trapani and should not be missed.

L’artigianato di Dorotea “Ceramica”

Erice is famous for its traditional craftsmanship, moreover ceramics, and this tiny shop perfectly represents the skill and experience of Sicilian artists. Sicilian ceramics reflect the people of this amazing region: coloured, joyous and humorous. This shop presents such a range of crafts that you will surely find the perfect souvenir to remember your Sicilian holiday.

Luisa Spagnoli

"Class is an innate quality, elegance accentuates it" The key words for Luisa Spagnoli's collections are "Elegant, unique, unforgettable". It is possible to find an entire outfit in her boutiques, as well as the accessories and the perfume to go with it. Designed by a career woman for career women.

PassItaly

Pantelleria is part of the Aegadi archipelago. It is particularly well-known in Italy and in the rest of the world for its Passito di Pantelleria, a sweet-flavoured wine perfect to accompany desserts. To taste - or buy - all the best varieties of this and other specialties of the island, you cannot miss PassItaly: a fair entirely dedicated to the island’s local products. The fair is held once a year, normally during the first week of September, and lasts five days.

Pina Parisi by Vario Francesca

Trapani's region has another very typical product, which deserves to be mentioned: the frazzate canvas, or rather multi-coloured canvas and carpets hand-woven on specific looms. This timeless tradition landed in Sicily in former times. Pina Parisi's laboratory in Erice is one of the few places left that maintains this tradition alive.

Sicilia Bedda

This shop is the ideal place for those who are looking for typical Sicilian foodie gifts including souvenirs. Located in the city centre, Sicilia Bedda offers a wide range of products like wines, pastas, sauces, olive oils, sweets, cheeses, salamis and pates. Also selling souvenirs like Sicilian books, ceramics, postcards, magnets, and much more.

Tourist Information

Public Transport

There is a motorway from Trapani city to major destinations in Sicily such as Palermo, Catania and Messina, and a coastal road to Mazara del Vallo in the province. All the other roads are quite small and often pocked, hence care should be taken. Public transport is inexpensive and frequent. To travel by bus or train, it is necessary to purchase a ticket before travelling, then it must be stamped in the machine when boarding on the bus, or at the platform for trains. Tickets are only valid for a definite time after stamping, which is indicated on the ticket itself. You can buy tickets in the stations, newsagents and tobacconists. Hefty fines are imposed if travelling without a ticket.

Taxi

In Trapani it is easy to find unregistered taxis, they are far less expensive but they are illegal, too. So, the use of official taxi companies is strongly recommended. In facilities and accommodations you will easily find the business cards of many companies. The phone number is also reported on taxis.

Aeroporto di Trapani-Birgi

Trapani’s airport - Aeroporto di Trapani-Birgi or Aeroporto di Vincenzo Florio - is located around 18km from Trapani city centre. Some of the airlines operating here are Ryanair, Alitalia and Meridiana. A.S.T. shuttles leave regularly from outside the terminal building with a journey time of 35 minute to Trapani centre. Tickets to and from the airport can be bought directly at the Airport Ticket Office or from the bus driver when boarding the bus. Taxis are also available just outside the terminal, opposite the main entrance. You will find some of the major national and international car rental companies at the Trapani airport such as AVIS, Hertz, Europacar, Sicily rent car and more. Head to ground floor of the terminal in the arrival hall for contract forms and key pick up and drop off.

Electricity

220 volts; two-hole and three-hole sockets.

Pharmacy

Pharmacies in Italy generally do not stay open during lunch time, and they are closed on Sundays. In rotation, pharmacies of each town/city/area provides Sunday and night services. Details are displayed at the pharmacies or on the websites of the town.

Post

Main post offices in Italy are open all day long during week, on Saturday morning and they are closed on Sunday. They are all run by PosteItaliane, the state post company

Telephone and WiFi

Country code: +39 Area code: 0923 (0 is included) Italian telephone rates tend to be among the highest in Europe—cheap rates are between 6.30pm and 8am weekdays and after 2pm on Saturday or all day on Sunday only. Booths in public places and phone cards are available from most newsagents or tobacco shops. Finding a free internet connection can be a challenge outdoor. Usually hotels and bars offer the service, and internet cafés are starting to spring up. There is provision for visitors to connect to the internet at the ferry terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Trapani?

The best time to visit Trapani is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

What are the must-see attractions in Trapani?

Don't miss the historic center with its Baroque architecture, the Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco, and the nearby ancient city of Erice, which offers stunning views.

How can I get to Trapani?

Trapani can be reached by flying into Trapani-Birgi Airport, which has connections to several European cities. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Palermo.

What local dishes should I try in Trapani?

Be sure to try couscous alla trapanese, a local variation of couscous with fish, and busiate pasta with pesto alla trapanese, made with almonds and tomatoes.

How many days should I spend in Trapani?

A stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal to explore Trapani's main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and take a day trip to nearby places like Erice or the Egadi Islands.

What is the best way to get around Trapani?

The best way to get around Trapani is on foot, especially in the historic center. For longer distances, consider renting a car or using local buses.

Are there any worthwhile day trips from Trapani?

Yes, consider visiting the medieval hilltop town of Erice, the Egadi Islands for their beautiful beaches, or the archaeological site of Segesta with its ancient temple.

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