Over the years, Visiting Cefalù has always been one of my favourite things to do with family and friends. It’s perfect for a day trip, but could also be a fantastic base for a holiday in north Sicily.
How to spend a day when visitng Cefalù? There are so many options! This historic town has something for everyone! We’ve put our heads together, and put together an itinerary for a day in Cefalù. Let’s go on a trip to one of Sicily’s most famous seaside towns!
Getting to Cefalù
Taking the train to Cefalù is the best option for many. The train station is only a short walk away from the town centre, and there are regular trains throughout the day from both Palermo and Messina. The northern train line stops off at many villages along the way, and is a fantastic way to see the coastline with its pretty bays and sea views. You can also drive into the town, as there are many carparks that offer daily rates. However, I prefer the romance of arriving by train, watching the town get closer and closer, without a care in the world.
Stroll into Town
Jump off the train and stroll into town! The best place to start? The town’s main piazza! Follow the narrow street – lined with boutique shops and coffee bars – and you’ll eventually reach the main piazza. This is the perfect first stop on your day in Cefalù. Sit at one of the bars in the main piazza and order a coffee to set you up for the day. I love a caffè shakerato. This cold coffee is prepared in a cocktail shaker (with ice and a bit of sugar) and often served in a cocktail glass. It’s the perfect pick-me-up and cool-me-down on a hot day! You’re also treated to the view of the impressive Arab-Norman cathedral from the main piazza. This cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You should definitely pop in and admire the mosaics and beautiful cloister.
Incredible Views from La Rocca
I always tell friends to bring comfortable shoes when they visit Cefalù. It’s always a good idea to be comfortable when wandering through a pretty town, but it is especially important when visiting Cefalù. One of the best things to do requires proper shoes: walking up La Rocca. It’s impossible to ignore La Rocca, the large rocky outcrop that soars above Cefalù. For a small charge of €5, you can walk up La Rocca. The path snakes through the rocks, and along the way you can see the ancient Temple of Diana (from the 9th Century), and the ruins of the 13th Century Cefalù castle. When you get to the top you are rewarded with some of the best views imaginable. You’ll see Cefalù’s red rooves, the sparkling sea, jewel-like islands in the distance, and Sicily’s magnificent coastline. The best time to walk up is in the morning, as it can get very hot in the afternoon! Bring suncream, a hat, and some water too!
Lunch by the Sea
Once you have conquered La Rocca, head back into town and go for a walk around town. Visiting Cefalù’s town centre is a charming experience. Small alleys radiate out from the main street, often with laundry hung between them creating a picturesque environment. There are many shops where you can pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home. Make your way to Bastione di Capo Marchiafava for a beautiful sea view, and then walk along the rocky sea path as the waves lap against the shore. You’ll see many restaurants on pontoons above the rocks. This is the perfect time for lunch! Liberty Bistrot is a great option, where you can choose from fresh fish antipasti, or incredible pasta. With a bottle of cool local white wine, the sea breeze, and the delicious food, lunch is Cefalù is always a feast for the senses.
A Chilled-Out Afternoon
What could be better than lounging on the beach after such a busy morning? However, you must make sure to stop off at the Medieval Wash House on the way. Take the wide staircase down to the old public laundry house, where townsfolk made use of the river flowing into the sea to wash their laundry. It’s an evocative sight that has been wonderfully restored in recent year.
After this, it’s time to hit the beach! Head to the large sandy beach right by the town and lay down and relax. There are free areas, or lidos where you can rent sunloungers for half a day. It’s the best way to unwind under the sunshine, with regular dips in the refreshing sea! The views of the town from the beach are magical, and only enhance the feeling of pure relaxation and holiday vibes.
Apertivo Time!
It’s important to say goodbye to Cefalù properly. The best way to do so is undoubtedly an aperitivo as the sun sets. Cefalù’s seafront has many bars that are the perfect place to watch the sun descend into the sea in the company of a good drink. The view of the town at sunset is magical. Many of these bars also serve traditional Sicilian snacks like panelle, arancine, and caponata that go well with an evening glass of wine. Once the sunsets, it’s time to head back to the train station and head home. Or, if you’re lucky enough to be staying in or around Cefalù, you could stay for dinner at one of the great local restaurants.
Near Cefalù
There’s plenty to see in the area surrounding Cefalù. The Madonie Mountains sit above the town, and are a must-visit protected area of natural beauty. Over 2,600 different plants can be found in this rugged mountainous region, and there are many trails to hike along to enjoy the incredible nature. There are also characteristic hilltop towns to visit, Castelbuono is especially beautiful with its imposing castle. Castel di Tusa is a nearby small seaside town with a Blue Flag beach and incredibly clear waters. Santa Stefano di Casamastra is another sleepy town famous for colourful ceramic production. Art lovers will adore the Fiumara d’Arte, a series of land-art sculptures that you can visit. Of course, Palermo is also close by. There’s never a dull moment in this part of Sicily.
Our Villas Near Cefalù
We have several beautiful villas near Cefalù so you can really make the most of this amazing part of Sicily. A holiday near Cefalù means exploring beautiful nature, spending time on pristine beaches, and discovering Sicily’s impressive history. Whatever type of holiday you are looking for, visiting Cefalù is a joy!
Take a look at our villas in Sicily today. It’s easy to find your perfect villa in our range of beautiful villas near Cefalù, and all over the island. Whether you want a family holiday, or a romantic getaway, we have a villa for you! If you have any questions, get in touch with the team. We are always happy to share our local knowledge about Sicily with you, and help you plan the perfect villa holiday in Sicily.
