Trapani Holidays

A hidden gem rooted in Greek mythology

Look at Sicily on a map and your eyes will probably go straight to the capital, Palermo. But find the tiny bit of land that sticks out on the island’s west coast, and you’ll have spotted Trapani. This hidden gem gets its name from the Greek word for scythe, as the city was supposedly formed after the goddess Demeter dropped her crescent moon-shaped tool while searching for her daughter. And it’s in prime position for anyone who likes their holidays on the quieter side.

Sandy shores and hilltop castles

There’s a big sandy beach just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, and the secluded swimming coves and snorkelling spots of Favignana and Levanzo are just a short boat trip away – that’s why you often see Trapani nicknamed ‘the gateway to the Egadi Islands’. If you’re brave enough to venture 750 metres above sea level, you can also visit the Medieval town of Erice while you’re here. It sits on a hilltop, and it’s got not one but two castles with panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea.

Cobbled streets without the crowds

Back at base, centuries-old churches stand tall between traditional ceramics shops and stylish boutiques. It wouldn’t be a Sicilian city without street food, so of course there are lots of places to grab a rice-stuffed arancini ball or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, crispy cannoli dusted with sugar. There are also loads of wine bars serving locally produced vino in town. You can even take a trip to Marsala, the town that makes the fortified wine of the same name, if you fancy – it’s only 45 minutes away.