Erice is a medieval hill town suspended 750 metres above the sea, between stone alleys, Norman churches and views stretching from the Stagnone of Marsala to the Egadi Islands. Just take the cable car from Trapani and you'll find yourself in another era — and another climate.
What to see in Erice
- Venus Castle: the Norman ruins on a temple once dedicated to Astarte.
- Duomo dell'Assunta and its churches: an old town with 60 places of worship.
- Pasticceria Maria Grammatico: the most famous almond pastries in Sicily.
Trapani, the sea city
The historic centre of Trapani, between the port and the salt pans, is a labyrinth of baroque palaces, churches and neighbourhood bars. Don't miss sunset from Via Torrearsa and a fish dinner on the seafront.
San Giuliano beach
A few minutes from the centre, San Giuliano beach is the longest free beach in the area: 3 km of fine sand, perfect for a relaxed day without having to drive to San Vito.
Getting there from Villa Beatrice
Trapani: 15 minutes. Cable car to Erice: 20 minutes in total. Private on-site parking at the villa — no restricted-zone issues on your way back.
