Car Hire Cefalu

Mini guide to Cefalu

The picturesque Sicilian fishing town of Cefalu boasts an attractive old town, a sandy beach, bustling market and vibrant nightlife.

Must-see sights on this island jewel include the beach, good for relaxing, and in whose sheltered waters you can go swimming. Also of interest is the small Museo Mandralisca, which houses portraits by medieval masters, thousands of shells and ancient Greek art. The mountain above the town, La Rocca, has many of Cefalu’s sights, including the impressive 12th century cathedral at its base.

If you are feeling energetic, a great walk takes you to the top of La Rocca, where the views are breathtaking. The footpath to the summit begins in Piazza Garibaldi and passes the cathedral before reaching the temple of Diana. The path then continues beyond the temples and city walls until it reaches the mountaintop. The walk takes about 90 minutes.

For food sampling and shopping opportunities be sure to visit the waterfront market where you can buy fresh seafood, olives, sun dried tomatoes and inexpensive clothing and trinkets. Or you can relax in the many eateries with good pizza, pasta, shellfish and Sicilian wines. The Vecchia Marina in particular specialises in seafood.

Just outside Cefalu is the shrine of Santuario di Gibilmanna, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and sits atop a mount. Inside the ancient building is a famous 11th century Byzantine fresco depicting the Virgin and child.

To get to Cefalu take the tourist or car ferry from Messina, which is accessible by train or car on the ferry from Reggio Calabria. Sicily’s capital, Palermo, is home to the island’s airport and also receives a ferry service from Naples (journey time 11 hours). From Palermo you can take Highway A20 and drive to Cefalu.