Cefalu is popular with tourists as it offers something for everyone. There you can soak up the history of the town by visiting the old quarter with its Byzantine and medieval buildings before walking to the town’s cathedral which has beautiful mosaics inlaid into its floor.
Take a drive down to the Piazza Marina in your hire car to watch the fishermen land their daily catch whilst eager restaurateurs haggle over the price of the fish. Finally for some rest and relaxation, head for the resorts main attraction, the beach, acknowledged as one of the best on the island.
Cefalu Mini Guide
Where is Cefalu?
Cefalu is a fishing village and beach resort on the northern coast of Sicily. Every summer the population doubles as tourists flock from all over Sicily and Italy.
How can I get There?
The nearest airport is Palermo Airport and from there it is 1 hour by train to Cefalu or you can hire a car to make your transfer easier. You can also get there via Trenitalia who offer train services from Italy and Sicily or by bus with AST. Within the town the buses are infrequent but it can be easily explored by foot.
So, What is There to see in the Town?
See the Norman-Romanesque Cathedral built in 1131 – it has a striking design with 4 storey towers either side of the façade. Inside you will find byzantine mosaics and granite columns. Visit the Mandralisca Museum which has many archaeological artefacts from the area including coins and shells. Stroll around the atmospheric old town and then go to the Piazza Marina and harbour area. If you are feeling energetic, climb up to Rocca, see the views over the bay and town and visit the ruins of Diana’s Temple.
What Else can I do?
Head for Lungomare Beach, it is right in the town and in summer gets incredibly busy – look out for the charges for sun beds and umbrellas, the further you walk the cheaper it will get! Shop at the Saturday Market for your gifts and souvenirs and browse the boutiques on Corso Ruggero. Stop for lunch at one of the many great restaurants found on this street too.
Out and About
Why not visit the Aeolian Islands by hydrofoil. Try the mud bath and sulphuric sea water at Vulcano. Visit the old quarter in Lipari or watch the pumice rocks float into the sea at the beach there. At night time, take a trip to Stromboli, the only island that is volcanically active, you will see the magma from the volcano.
I Want to Stay a few Days…
Stay at the Alberi del Paradiso, it is an ancient manor house in lush gardens with a swimming pool. They offer a shuttle bus service to their private beach and to the town centre. The hotel has 55 elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi, that overlook the gardens or the sea. There is a fitness centre and wellness area and tennis courts for your use. The hotel restaurant serves Sicilian specialities.
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