Erice: what to see, how to get there and what to do in Sicily’s most enchanting medieval village

Perched high above the sea and the Egadi Islands, Erice is a place where time seems to stand still. A maze of cobbled lanes, the scent of almond pastries and breathtaking views make it one of the most fascinating destinations in Sicily.

From its hilltop, the village dominates the western coast, offering vistas that stretch all the way to Africa. This guide will help you discover how to reach Erice, what to see, where to eat, and the best time to visit. To make your trip truly memorable, combine it with a visit to the Saline Culcasi guided tours, where the ancient tradition of sea salt meets one of the most spectacular sunsets in Sicily.

Where it is and why it’s special

This charming village stands about 750 meters above sea level, just a few kilometers from Trapani. From its ramparts, you can see the coast, the salt pans, the Egadi Islands and, on clear days, even the Tunisian coastline.

For centuries, Erice was considered sacred. The Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans worshipped here, and it was home to the famous Temple of Venus Erycina, dedicated to the goddess of love and fertility.

Today, wandering through its narrow streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Stone houses, flowered courtyards, and panoramic terraces create an atmosphere that blends Northern charm with Mediterranean warmth.

How to get there

Getting to Erice is part of the experience. From the center of Trapani, it takes about 25 minutes by car along a scenic road lined with olive trees and sea views. The easiest and most panoramic option is the cable car connecting Trapani and Erice in about 10 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the coast and the salt pans below.

• By car: take the SP31 or SP3 provincial road; there are several viewpoints along the way.
• By cable car: departs from Casa Santa (Via Capua); return tickets cost around €9.
• By bus: during summer, several direct buses connect Trapani to Erice.

Local tip: ride the cable car in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the Trapani coastline and the shimmering salt pans.

What to see in one day

Erice is compact and perfect for walking. A few hours are enough to explore its main attractions, but every alley hides something worth discovering.

Porta Trapani and the historic center

The main entrance, Porta Trapani, leads into Via Vittorio Emanuele, lined with shops, churches, and pastry stores. The medieval charm here is palpable—stone arches, courtyards and ancient doors whisper stories of centuries past.

The Cathedral and King Frederick’s Tower

Just beside the gate stands the Cathedral of the Assumption with its striking Gothic façade. Climb the adjacent tower for a breathtaking 360° view of Trapani and the sea.

The Balio Gardens and the Castle of Venus

Follow the path to the Balio Gardens, a peaceful park with panoramic terraces and shady walkways. Beyond lies the Castle of Venus, built on the ruins of the ancient temple of the goddess. The view from here is one of the most iconic in all of Sicily.

Craft shops and local products

Erice is known for its hand-painted ceramics, woven carpets, and traditional sweets. Take time to browse the artisan workshops where everything is still made by hand.

Evenings in Erice

When evening falls, the village glows with golden light. The streets grow quiet, lanterns flicker, and the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air. Enjoy dinner in a cozy restaurant with a sea view or walk to the Balio Gardens to admire Trapani’s lights below. In summer, the village hosts open-air concerts and cultural events, while in winter Erice becomes a Christmas postcard with its festive markets and warm atmosphere.

What to eat

Food is one of Erice’s greatest pleasures. The local cuisine blends Arabic influences with Sicilian tradition, creating dishes rich in flavor and history.

• Fish couscous — the signature dish of Western Sicily.
• Busiate pasta with Trapani-style pesto, made with almonds and tomatoes.
• Roast lamb, a Sunday favorite in local households.

Don’t leave without tasting the famous Genovesi — shortcrust pastries filled with warm custard and dusted with sugar. The most renowned bakery is Maria Grammatico’s, whose recipes come from the ancient convents of Erice and tell a story of patience, faith, and sweetness.

When to visit

Each season paints Erice in different colors. Spring brings blooming gardens and clear skies, summer offers cool mountain air, and autumn and winter wrap the village in mist, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

Spend at least half a day to explore, but if you love photography or quiet walks, stay longer — the light and mood change throughout the day, offering endless inspiration.

Nearby attractions

Descending from Erice, you reach Trapani — a lively port city with elegant architecture and sea promenades. Just outside town, the Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco form a surreal landscape of white mounds and windmills reflecting the sunset.

• San Vito Lo Capo and the Zingaro Nature Reserve for crystal-clear waters.
• Segesta with its ancient Greek temple.
• Marsala and the Stagnone Lagoon, home to pink flamingos.

From the hilltop to the Saline Culcasi salt pans

After exploring Erice, follow the panoramic road back down to the coast. Near Trapani, you’ll find the Saline Culcasi — shimmering salt flats dotted with windmills, glowing pink and gold at sunset.

Join one of the guided tours at the Saline Culcasi to learn how sea salt is still harvested by hand, visit the Salt Museum, and walk among the centuries-old basins. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the entire landscape turns golden. End your day with an aperitif by the salt pans or a traditional dinner at the Trattoria del Sale, where you can taste Fior di Sale, local EVO oil, and Nubia red garlic.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Erice from Trapani?

About 14 km — 25 minutes by car or 10 minutes by cable car.

How high is Erice?

Around 751 meters above sea level.

How much is the cable car?

Roughly €9 for a return ticket, with discounts for children and families.

Where can I park?

Parking areas are available near Porta Trapani and lower parts of the village.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Local sweets, ceramics, honey, woven rugs, and traditional Trapani sea salt.

Conclusion

Erice is a place that speaks in whispers — of wind, stone, and time. Visitors leave with the memory of a Sicily that is authentic and eternal, where hospitality and history meet at every corner.

And when you descend toward the sea, among the glowing salt flats and the calls of seagulls, you’ll understand the balance that defines this land — between mountain and water, memory and present.

To complete your journey, take part in one of the Saline Culcasi guided tours: an experience that combines history, nature, and the unforgettable magic of a Sicilian sunset.