Imagine standing 750 meters above sea level, surrounded by medieval architecture and breathtaking views.
Welcome to Erice, a village that seems to have stepped straight out of a fairy tale.
Perched on Mount San Giuliano, this captivating destination offers panoramic views of western Sicily and the Egadi Islands.
Step Back in Time: Discover the Medieval Charm of Erice
Erice is one of the most picturesque towns in Italy, a place you’ll long to visit again and again, where fantasies come to life.
As an Italian passionate about exploring lesser-known places, I can assure you that Erice is one of Sicily’s hidden gems.
Why Visit Erice?
Picture yourself strolling along cobblestone streets flanked by ancient stone houses and churches hundreds of years old.
That’s Erice for you!
It’s perfect for:
- History lovers looking to connect with the past
- Photography enthusiasts in search of picturesque medieval scenes
- Couples seeking a romantic walk through history
Exploring the Medieval Town of Erice
An important thing to note is that Erice is largely closed to car traffic.
But don’t worry; that’s part of its unique charm!
Given the town’s small size and beauty, the best way to explore is on foot.
So, don’t forget to pack: comfortable shoes and a joyful attitude for a delightful walking tour.
Believe me, you won’t mind the exercise when surrounded by stunning scenes.
Trapani Gate (Porta Trapani)
You’ll likely enter Erice through Porta Trapani, situated towards the city of Trapani, as the name suggests.
Fortunately, there are parking options available if you choose to drive.
The Mother Church and Bell Tower
Just a short walk from Porta Trapani, you will discover your first must-see in Erice: the Mother Church and its impressive Bell Tower.
As you stroll along the cobblestone path, you’ll arrive at a square where these two splendid structures are located.
The first thing that catches your eye may be the tower, but the well-preserved exterior of the Mother Church is equally captivating.
This is where you begin to appreciate the signature style of Erice: streets adorned with small stone pebbles that harmoniously blend with the grey stone walls of the buildings.
Erice San Martino Church
Next, immerse yourself in the charming alleyways of Erice.
As you wander, you’ll spot several religious buildings.
One that stands out is the Church of San Martino, notable for its rare pink façade, a result of its reconstruction in 1682.
Indulge Your Taste Buds at Pasticceria Maria Grammatico
I know it may seem early for a food stop, but trust me on this.
Near the Church of San Martino lies what is arguably Erice’s most beloved attraction: Maria Grammatico pastry shop.
Fair warning: the lines may be long, so it’s best to grab a tray of treats as soon as you can.
From ricotta-filled cannoli to almond pastries, cassata, and marzipan fruits, there’s something to satisfy every craving!
The Church of San Pietro
Keep wandering through Erice’s charming alleys toward the Church of San Pietro.
You will find it nestled in one of the village’s most picturesque and vibrant streets.
The reason? Simply put, you are now in the heart of the historical center.
Remember, Erice is one of Italy’s “Borghi più belli,” or most beautiful villages, and as you explore, you’ll quickly understand why.
Savor your pastries, be patient, and enjoy the medieval ambiance, while occasionally looking up to admire the stunning architecture!
Piazzetta San Domenico
Your adventure in Erice continues with another must-see: Piazzetta di San Domenico. The highlight of this square is the church that shares its name.
The façade of San Domenico Church has remained relatively unchanged over the years, and you may be surprised to learn that its interior now serves as a conference hall.
A Must-See in Erice: Piazza della Loggia
Next on the list is the town’s main square, Piazza della Loggia.
Don’t expect a sprawling plaza—this is the actual center of Erice’s local life, and it’s charmingly compact.
You’ll find delightful cafes, quaint shops, and, of course, the town hall. It’s the ideal spot to take a break, grab a coffee, and observe the local life around you.
Carmine’s Gate (Porta Carmine)
As you continue your exploration, you’ll encounter Porta Carmine—the second of Erice’s three historic entrances.
Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship of the ancient walls.
While you’re here, why not lose yourself for a while in the surrounding cobbled alleys?
Marvel at the stone houses, and if you’re fortunate, you might even witness a stunning sky display.
Erice Panorama: Another Must-See
After passing through Porta Spada (the third entrance to the walled city) and leaving the village, a short walk will guide you to what is known as “Erice Panorama.”
Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy a remarkable view from here. However, we’re saving the best viewpoint for last!
Erice’s Spanish Quarter
Continue along the short cobblestone path through lush greenery, and you’ll first come across the Church of Sant’Orsola.
If you visit in May, you’ll be treated to a garden bursting with vibrant poppies.
Keep following the signs to the Spanish Quarter, where a fort housing a museum awaits you.
But here’s a tip: before you leave, make sure to soak in the view of the sea from this spot (in my opinion, it’s the best in Erice) and the picturesque panorama of the village stretching before you.
Erice Castle (Castello di Venere): A Must-See
After a short hike up (which can be quite exhausting in the heat—just a heads up!), you will arrive at the Giardino del Balio (Balio Garden).
Cross through it to enjoy stunning views of the landscape and the Trapani salt flats.
Even before you reach the castle, you’ll be in awe of the breathtaking views of the Castle of Venus.
However, a quick heads up: unfortunately, the castle is undergoing renovations, so it is currently closed.
It’s a good idea to check the official website for updates on its reopening.
While it’s disappointing, just think of it as a perfect reason to visit Erice again.
Remember, the beauty of exploring Erice is not just about ticking sites off your list.
It’s about the winding streets you discover, the people you meet, and the enticing aromas from bakeries and restaurants. So feel free to get lost occasionally and revel in this beautiful medieval town!
Getting to Erice
Now, let’s talk logistics.
Getting to Erice is quite straightforward.
If you’re driving, take the A29 Palermo-Mazara del Vallo motorway, exit at Trapani, and follow the signs to Erice.
Keep in mind that access to the historic center is restricted to pedestrians, and you’ll need to park outside the walls.
There are paid parking options available, so there’s no need to worry.
If you prefer public transport, riding the train or taking the bus can often be less stressful than driving.
One popular way to reach Erice is via a cable car from Trapani, which takes about 10 minutes.
A round-trip ticket costs approximately €11, and the ride itself is a breathtaking experience!
If you’re on a budget, worry not! Local buses connect Trapani and Erice several times a day, with tickets costing only €3-4.
While the journey might take a bit longer, you’ll have more time to soak in the beautiful views, right?
Once you arrive in Erice, the best way to get around is by walking since the town is small.
Just a heads up: the streets are quite narrow, and some can be steep, but every turn reveals fascinating sights and stunning landscapes.
The effort is absolutely worth it.
Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to work up an appetite for all the wonderful Sicilian cuisine!
Is Erice Worth a Day Trip?
If you plan to spend your vacation in Trapani or Palermo, then Erice is ideal for a day trip.
You can easily spend several hours exploring the town and still have time to head back to the coast for dinner.
Where to Stay in Erice
If you have additional time or wish to experience a night in Erice, consider staying overnight.
Erice offers a handful of small hotels and B&Bs, and waking up amidst the old town, enveloped in misty fog and historic stone buildings, is truly unforgettable.
Here are some of my top recommendations:
Bella Vista B&B: This B&B is ideally located in the heart of Erice, and it features a rooftop terrace where you can savor breakfast while overlooking stunning views.
If you’re traveling with family, they also offer studio apartments in addition to regular rooms.
And the best part? It provides excellent value for money.
Hotel Elimo: Looking to treat yourself to a hotel stay?
This 3-star gem might just be the perfect choice for you, with various room styles available to suit your preferences.
Residence Erice Pietre Antiche: Prefer an apartment over a hotel or B&B?
This residence could be an ideal option. You can choose from multiple houses equipped with a kitchen and dining area (perfect for families), and breakfast from the famous Maria Grammatico bakery is included in the rate. How sweet is that?
Santa Teresa: Here’s another apartment option situated right in the center of Erice, just a 400-meter walk from the cathedral.
The rooms feature beautiful rustic decor with stone walls, providing a timeless feel while still offering modern comforts, making it a great choice for families.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your travel guide to Erice, a slice of Sicilian paradise ready to be explored.
Whether you’re interested in history, culinary delights, wine tasting, or simply seeking something unique, Erice has it all.
Why not start planning your visit today? This enchanting village is eager to capture your heart!
If you’re planning a trip to Italy or are interested in visiting additional cities and towns in Sicily, here’s a list of my articles on the subject:
How to Plan a Trip to Italy – 15 Essential Tips
A Comprehensive Guide on How to Get to Sicily in 2024
What To See in Siracusa, Sicily: 12 Best Things To Do
The 6 Best Things To Do in Marzamemi: All You Need to Know
How to Experience the Best of the Egadi Islands Like a Local
If you’re looking for activity recommendations to help plan your trip to Italy, check out the Viator guides I’ve prepared.
Ciao for now, alla prossima!” (That’s Italian for “Until next time!”)
