Trapani is a stunning historic town nestled on the west coast of Sicily. With impressive landscapes, from salt pans, to coastlines, to nearby mountains to take in, this city really is a wonder for the eyes. Discover the best times to visit, where to stay, and most importantly what to do and eat whilst you’re here in our complete guide.
Table of Contents:
- Where is Trapani?
- When is the Best Time to Visit Trapani?
- How to Get to Trapani
- 4 Best Things to Do in Trapani
- 3 Best Hotels in Trapani
- Restaurants You Must Visit
- Is Trapani Featured in Any Movies or TV Shows?
Where is Trapani?
Trapani is a city and municipality on Sicily’s west coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and delicacies such as marzipan, it certainly is a welcoming city. Sicily is an island of Italy located in the south-west of the country. The city is bordered by a coastline, with its shores being lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea.
When is the Best Time to Visit Trapani?
When choosing the best time of year to visit Trapani, one of the main considerations will be the Sicialian weather – but price and crowds can also factor into your decision too.
- May – September – The summer months are the warmest in Trapani, making it a fabulous time to enjoy the city’s beaches and outdoor activities especially for those in want of an Italian family holiday. As this is peak season, you should expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- April or October – Just outside of Trapani’s tourist season, these months still see comfortable temperatures for enjoying the city, but without having to swim through the crowds.
- November – March – These are the quieter times of year, and also the cheapest. Whilst the weather will be colder and with some rain showers, there are some events during this time that will ensure you have a great visit. During Easter Weekend you can catch the famed Good Friday Procession, whilst March sees the annual cous cous festival (certainly one for food lovers)!
How to Get to Trapani
Getting to Trapani couldn’t be easier – with an international airport (international airport code: TPS), ferry, trains, and buses – no matter where you are, Trapani is within reach.
The airport is just a 25 minute taxi ride to the centre of the city, or a short bus ride, there’s plenty of ways to reach the city. If you’re already in a port city of Italy, why not take a leisurely route and book a ferry to take in Italy and Sicily’s coastline?
Are There Direct Flights from London to Trapani?
Yes, there are direct flights from London airports (including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted) to Trapani Birgi Airport (TPS). If you plan on taking a road trip of the island, there are lots of other direct flights between London and Sicily for your journey home.
Currently the only airline offering direct flights from London to Trapani is Ryanair.
4 Best Things to Do in Trapani
Trapani is a stunning city that boasts charming side streets, beautiful architecture, luscious beaches
- Take in the Historic Sights of the City – Trapani is full of charming historic buildings that are just waiting for you to soak them up. From the Ligny Tower that offers views over the city and harbour, to the Agostino Pepoli Regional Museum that has a collection of Roman mosaics and sculptures to marvel at.
- Visit the Trapani Salt Pans – Offering a unique and stunning landscape the salt pans offer a tour to learn all about the production of salt and simply to enjoy the view.
- Relax on the Beach – Trapani is known for its beautiful beaches, with gorgeous sand and vibrant blue waters. Head down to San Vito Lo Capo Beach, Marcari Beach, or Cala Rossa to enjoy the warm weather the city has to offer.
Go on a Local Wine Tour – The region surrounding the city is well known for its vineyards and wineries. Book yourself on a tour to learn all about the winemaking process and, more importantly, try a tipple for yourself.
3 Best Hotels in Trapani for Every Budget
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Trapani? We’ve got recommendations for hotels for every budget, here are our top picks:
- Palazzo Gatto Art Hotel & Spa – This four star hotel is located in a beautiful 18th century building, right in the heart of the town. For those after a little relaxation, their modern spa offers a sauna, salt room, shower infused with calming scents, and treatments.
- Albergo San Michele – A three star hotel with tastefully decorated rooms, and buffet breakfast available at a small extra cost. You’ll certainly be comfortable spending your nights here.
- B&B Hotel Trapani Crystal – This affordable hotel option has nicely decorated, clean rooms and is in the centre of the city. They have a buffet breakfast and for a small additional charge you can even bring your pets with you.
Unmissable Restaurants in Trapani
Planning a gastronomy tour around Sicily? Well it should certainly be on your list! Whilst the city is not yet home to any Michelin starred restaurants, there are plenty of delicious dishes on offer! Here are some of our top choices:
For a romantic dinner:
Vintage Restaurant – This cosy restaurant is just calling for date night. The dishes are gorgeously presented, all inspired by the local delicacies. Just a street over from the ocean, you can have a lovely romantic stroll after you’ve finished dining.
Best restaurant for seafood:
Osteria La Dolce Vita – Specialising in seafood and pasta dishes – you can’t go wrong with this local favourite.
Where to Eat for Vegetarians & Vegans:
Currently there are no solely vegan restaurants in Trapani, however there are plenty that offer vegetarian options.
AC Beach – Is a casual restaurant serving ip pizza, Italian cuisine, and pastas. Their menu currently has vegan options, including those for breakfast (plant milks are on offer for coffee) and dinner.
Is Trapani Featured in Any Movies or TV Shows?
With its stunning natural beauty, it’s no surprise that Sicily has played a role in many films and TV shows. Trapani in particular has been the backdrop to a handful of movies and shows you may have seen:
- Ocean’s Twelve (2004) – This famous heist movie features the old town of Trapani and the beautiful harbour in its shots.
- Maurice (1987) – Based on E.M. Forster’s novel, this British drama showcases the city and its impressive coastal landscapes.
- The Amazing Race (2001) – In one season of this CBS show, Trapani was one of the pit stops for the competing teams.
Experience All That Italy Has to Offer
Before jetting off on your trip to this gorgeous region of Sicily, make sure you follow Virtual Wanderlust on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to inspire your next trip. From the hidden Italian islands you must visit, to our Taormina travel guide, we’ve got the inspiration for you.
