In northern Italy's Veneto region, Verona stands as a masterpiece of romance, history, and architectural beauty. While many travelers know it as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting city offers so much more than star-crossed lovers' tales. This comprehensive Verona travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
From the magnificent Arena di Verona, where opera still soars through summer nights, to the hidden trattorias serving perfect plates of bigoli pasta, we'll help you discover both the iconic landmarks and local secrets that make Verona special.
Verona with just over 250,000 residents, sits gracefully along the Adige River and serves as one of northern Italy's premier tourist destinations. The city reached its golden age under the della Scala family's rule in the 13th and 14th centuries, leaving behind magnificent monuments that still stand today.
While many know Verona as the setting for Shakespeare's famous works "Romeo and Juliet" and "The Two Gentlemen of Verona," it also holds significance as the birthplace of Renaissance humanist Isotta Nogarola, one of history's first prominent female scholars. UNESCO recognized Verona's remarkable urban design and architecture by declaring it a World Heritage Site in 2000, celebrating both its ancient Roman structures and its medieval treasures.
Verona captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders that span over two millennia. While many Verona travel guides focus only on the famous sites, this city reveals countless hidden treasures that tell stories through its perfectly preserved streets, each corner unveiling another layer of its rich heritage. At its heart, Verona is a city that rewards both the casual tourist and the dedicated explorer with an endless array of discoveries.
Built in the 1st century AD, the Arena di Verona stands as Verona's crown jewel and one of the world's best-preserved ancient Roman amphitheaters. This magnificent structure continues to host spectacular opera performances and concerts, creating a living bridge between ancient and modern culture.
During the medieval period, particularly under the della Scala family's rule (13th-14th centuries), Verona transformed into a powerful city-state. This golden age produced spectacular Gothic architecture and the elaborate Scaliger Tombs, exemplifying the pinnacle of medieval artistic achievement.
Shakespeare immortalized Verona through his works, especially "Romeo and Juliet." While the playwright likely never visited the city, his choice wasn't arbitrary. Verona had already established itself as a city of passion through real-life feuds between noble families like the Montecchi and Cappelletti, who inspired the famous Montagues and Capulets.
Verona's city center showcases an exceptional blend of historical periods, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. From Roman ruins to Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and Renaissance gardens, the city preserves layers of history. The Piazza delle Erbe, originally a Roman forum, continues to serve as the city's vibrant heart, surrounded by frescoed buildings and medieval towers.
Verona holds profound cultural importance as a center of art and learning. The city gave birth to Isotta Nogarola, one of the Renaissance's most important female humanists, and maintains its position as a center for music, particularly opera. The annual summer opera festival in the Arena draws world-class performers and audiences globally.
Verona's position makes it a gateway to some of Italy's most beautiful regions. Located near Lake Garda and the Valpolicella wine region, famous for Amarone wines, the city's strategic location at the Alps' foothills historically facilitated trade between Italy and northern Europe. Today, it continues this legacy as a major economic center in northern Italy.
Recommendation: September-October is the best time to visit Verona as it offers the best balance of weather, events, and fewer crowds.
erona is centrally located for exploring Northern Italy, with several popular cities nearby. Venice, known for its canals and stunning architecture, is easily accessible. Milan, Italy's fashion capital with world-class shopping and the Duomo, is also within reach. For those consulting a Verona travel guide, it's clear the city is a fantastic base for exploring the region.
Bologna, famous for its history, cuisine, and arcaded streets, is another close option. Padua, home to a prestigious university and frescoes by Giotto, is a short trip away. Similarly, Vicenza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for Palladian villas, is also nearby. These cities are all easily accessible from Verona by train or car, making them suitable for day trips or longer stays.
Here are some popular routes to Verona:
The quickest way to get from Venice to Verona is by train. The train from Venice to Verona takes 1 hour on the fast train or between 1.5 hours to 2 hours on the slower train. The faster train is more expensive but worth it if in a rush.
If you took a car from Venice to Verona it will take around 1.5 hours.
Check the Venice to Verona train ticket prices
Getting to Verona from Milan takes around 1 hour 10 minutes on the fast train and up to 2 hours on the slower train. The price is about double for fast train. A quick tip is book your tickets early as sometimes they are lower in price.
Driving to and from Milan from Verona takes just over 2 hours.
Check the Milan to Verona train ticket prices
The quickest journey from Vicenza to Verona takes 26 minutes and is by the fast train. The slower trains take around 40 minutes to 1 hour.
When taking a car from Vicenza to Verona it takes 50 minutes.
View the Vicenza to Verona train prices
Getting to Verona from Bologna is an amazing day trip and takes 52 minutes on the fast train or 1 hour and a half on the slow train. I took this recently and much preferred the fast train.
Taking a car from Bologna to Verona takes around 2 hours so definitely worth taking a train.
Check out the Bologna to Verona train ticket prices
Planning where to park in Verona requires a bit of strategy. A helpful Verona travel guide tip is to use one of the city's convenient parking structures located just outside the historic center. The Cittadella and Arena parking garages offer secure spots within walking distance of major attractions, though they can be pricey (around €2.30-€4 per hour). Most have a daily cap with the Cittadella and Arena being €21 euros last time I checked.
Sometimes private owners of garages may try and direct you to a parking. Make sure to check the price before you say yes as they may want to rip you off.
Free parking in Verona is available at the Stadio Bentegodi with a shuttle service to the city center. The Porta Vescovo and Stazione Porta Nuova railway stations also offer reasonably priced long-term parking options. If you're staying at a hotel in the center, check if they offer parking services, as many have arrangements with nearby garages at discounted rates.
Warning: Driving into Verona's historic center without proper authorization can result in hefty fines. The ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) is strictly enforced by cameras that automatically photograph license plates of unauthorized vehicles. Many people mistakenly follow their GPS into the restricted zone or trail behind other cars through the entry points, only to receive a fine in the mail months later.
Verona's historic center is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), designed to preserve the city's ancient heart. Here's what you need to know about accessing this area:
During weekdays (Monday-Friday), vehicles can enter during two windows:
On weekends and holidays, access is limited to:
Evening entry (8:00 PM to 10:00 PM on weekdays) is possible through advance booking on Verona's mobility services portal. Each registered user can:
Here is a link to the Verona ZTL map from the government website. The signs can be hard to see when your in the car so make sure to study this or even print it out.
A visit to Verona reveals a city rich with historical and cultural experiences that shouldn't be missed. Any Verona travel guide will confirm these attractions as the city's crown jewels.
Step into one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, dating back to the 1st century AD. While impressive during the day, the Arena truly comes alive during summer evenings when it hosts spectacular opera performances under the stars.
You can see who's on and purchase tickets on the official Arena di Verona website. This is not to be missed if you have a few days in Verona. The festival is open in the summer months whilst the teatro usually is on all year round.
If you don't have a few days you book a 30m - 1h Verona Arena tour here. Purchasing in advance means you don't have to wait in the line that sometimes has lines over 1 hour just to get in. Also you will be in a small tour group with a local guide.
Visit the 13th-century home with its famous balcony that inspired Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. While the connection to Shakespeare is largely symbolic, the medieval building and its romantic courtyard capture the imagination of visitors from around the world.
When I last went it was a pretty long line around midday so went there a bit later and the line eased off. Many people will be stopping to take pictures and taking pictures next to the statue so prepare for a slight wait.
Quick tip, it is believed if a man rubs Juliets right breast it will bring good luck in finding love. This is also why it take a bit longer to get through as many people are taking pictures.
One of my favourite things to do in Verona was visit the Castel San Pietro. To get there you have to cross the Ponte Pietra and take a long walk up the stairs to this magnificent view point. The view itself of the whole city and surrounds is why it is on my Verona travel guide.
When we went there we decided to go up the Cable car which costs 2 euros one way or 3 euros there and back. I personally went up in the cable car and enjoyed the walk back down. A quick stop at their bar at the top was fantastic.
Explore this impressive medieval castle and its bridge (Ponte Scaligero), both masterpieces of Gothic architecture. The castle now houses an excellent museum of art, while the bridge offers some of the best views over the Adige River.
For an authentic tour in Verona that goes here, you should definitely jump on a walking tour with a local guide It costs under 10 euros and they take you around for 2-3 hours. You can enter the Castelvecchio courtyard and garden for free.
Walking tour tickets can be purchased here.
Climb this 84-meter tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Verona. Dating from 1172, it's the tallest tower in Verona and offers unparalleled vistas of the city's red roofs, historic monuments, and the distant mountains.
The tickets are usually sold out so make sure to call them or email them a few days before. It cost 6 euros last time I checked. Here is a link too the Torre dei Lamberti ticket office.
When planning a trip to Italy, choosing the right accommodation is key to a truly memorable experience. Verona offers a range of fantastic hotels, from historic palazzi to modern boutique stays. These hotels, each with its own distinct charm, enhance any visit to Verona by providing not just a place to sleep, but an integral part of the city's rich cultural experience. Check out my favourite stays in my Verona travel guide.
The 5-star NH Collection Palazzo Verona provides a comfortable and convenient stay in Verona's heart. Housed in a 14th-century building near top attractions, it offers 70 stylish rooms with modern amenities and some suites with rooftop views. You can enjoy Italian dining and drinks in the restaurant/bar by a relaxing courtyard.
View the prices & availability for NH Collection Palazzo Verona
Hotel Gabbia D'Oro offers elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi in an 18th-century building on Verona's Piazza delle Erbe. Featuring period furnishings, oriental carpets, and luxurious fabrics, each room includes a mini-bar, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom. Located in the historic center, it's 250m from Juliet's balcony and a 10-minute walk from the Arena, with Lake Garda a 30-minute drive away.
View the prices & availability for Hotel Gabbia D'Oro
The Due Torri Hotel, Verona's most renowned 5-star hotel, is located in the historic center near key attractions like the Church of Sant'Anastasia, Juliet's balcony, Piazza Bra, and the Arena. Its elegant period furnishings and "old-time" atmosphere are appreciated by a distinguished clientele. Each uniquely spacious and functional room features refined furnishings, linen sheets, hypoallergenic duvets, and either carpeted or hand-painted parquet floors.
View the prices & availability for Due Torri Hotel
Byblos Art Hotel Style is a reinterpreted 16th-century Venetian villa transformed into a luxury hotel and contemporary art exhibition space. Guests can enjoy rare spirits and vintage Champagne at Peter's Bar, and from June to September, relax by the outdoor pool and pool bar, surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant flowers.
View the prices & availability for Byblos Art Hotel Style
This luxury Verona hotel in the city center offers a full-service spa, included breakfast, a bar, pool, and gym. It's conveniently located a 3-minute walk from Juliet's House and a 5-minute walk from Piazza delle Erbe.
View the prices & availability for Vista Verona
For more hotels & details, check out my luxury hotels in Verona blog.
My Verona travel guide wouldn't be complete without restaurant recommendations. After spending a lot of time in Verona, I have dined at quite a few restaurants. My favourite Verona restaurants ended up being down the side roads away from the main road in as those tended to be overpriced and for tourists. Here are top restaurants in Verona Italy.
Located in a 19th-century building just 20 meters from the Arena, La Griglia offers an elegant dining experience with Roman columns and two intimate rooms featuring an open fireplace. Specializing in carefully selected meats grilled on an open flame, the restaurant serves exquisite dishes like Florentine steak and homemade gnocchetti with black truffle, complemented by 24-month aged Parma ham and a warm, refined atmosphere.
View more details for La Griglia
In Verona's historic center near the Arena and Teatro Filarmonico, Ristorante Il Cenacolo has been a culinary landmark since 1980. This refined restaurant offers traditional Italian and Veronese cuisine, perfectly grilled meats, and an excellent wine selection
View the Ristorante Il Cenacolo menu
i\In the historic Veronetta quarter, Antica Trattoria Pero D'Oro occupies the ground floor of a 15th-century palace. With classic decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere, this trattoria offers an authentic, family-friendly dining experience. Beloved by locals for its quality, affordable cuisine, it provides a genuine taste of traditional Veronese cooking.
View the Antica Trattoria Pero D'Oro menu
We hope this Verona travel guide has inspired your journey through one of Italy's most enchanting cities. Verona's blend of history, romance, and culinary delights offers something magical for everyone.
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San Vito Lo Capo is a picturesque seaside town located in the northwestern part of Sicily, which is approximately an hour's drive from Trapani. Established in the 18th century, the town is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and boasts the world-renowned San Vito Lo Capo Beach that is part of the best beaches in Sicily. The town's economy primarily relies on tourism and agriculture, with small farmers owning olive groves being a common sight.
The population of the town is 4,702 however does grow during summer seasons as many people come to enjoy the beaches and historical sites plus close to two main airports Falcone Borsellino Airport & Trapani-Birgi Vincenzo Florio Airport. The top things the town of San Vito Lo Capo is known for are:
Historical sites - Some of the top-rated tourist attractions in San Vito Lo Capo include the 18th-century watchtower known as Torre dell'Usciere, the deserted Tonnara del Secco tuna factory, and the Sanctuary of Saint Vito Martyr.
Adventure sports - Adventure enthusiasts can take advantage of the town's prime location, surrounded by mountains and near the Riserva Dello Zingaro, by exploring over 1000 popular spots for rock climbing and hiking.
Beaches - The main reason to visit this town is its stunning beach Spiaggia San Vito lo Capo which boasts crystal-clear waters and fine white sand that can be enjoyed on a sunbed with an umbrella. Macari Beach is located nearby and although it is a stony beach, it is perfect for snorkelling. Cala dell'Uzzo is another hidden beach that is pebbly, and swimming shoes are recommended.
Cous Cous Festival. Since 1988, every September, chefs from around the world participate in the couscous world championship at the festival. The event aims to celebrate couscous, a humble ingredient rooted in the Mediterranean area, through an international competition that brings together different people, histories, traditions, cultures, and religions. During the festival, there are DJs on the beach, music, and concerts. Visitors can enjoy cooking shows, qualifying heats, and the main event, the world championship.
Italian is the official language spoken in San Vito Lo Capo. When traveling to the area, it's good to learn some Italian words and phrases to communicate with the locals. This can be an excellent way to experience the culture and connect with the people. Although many locals speak English, particularly in the city centre, knowing some basic Italian can enhance your trip and make it more memorable.
San Vito Lo Capo experiences warm, humid, and dry summers with mostly clear skies, while its winters are, cool, wet and partly cloudy with occasional winds. Throughout the year, temperatures usually range from 10°C to 29°C.
According to the charts, the optimal time to visit San Vito Lo Capo for a summer Italian holiday is between mid-June and late August. Restaurants in San Vito lo Capo are also mainly seasonal.
Getting to and navigating San Vito Lo Capo is a breeze, thanks to its small size and convenient access to major airports. Here are some helpful tips for getting around:
Aeroplane - For visitors coming from abroad, the most efficient mode of transportation to reach San Vito Lo Capo is by air. The nearest airport to the city is Trapani-Birgi Vincenzo Florio Airport, which is approximately an hour away. However, it's important to note that this airport has limited international flight routes. A more viable option is to fly into Palermo Airport, which is just over an hour's drive away from San Vito Lo Capo. Palermo Airport offers better connectivity and accessibility, with direct flights available from various cities, including affordable options like from the UK to Palermo flights starting at £28 with a flight duration of under 3 hours. Coming from New York, the flight duration is approximately 11 hours. Moreover, both Palermo and Trapani Airports have excellent connections to other domestic cities in Italy and European destinations, making San Vito Lo Capo a convenient and well-connected destination.
Bus - Buses serve as a practical mode of transportation in Sicily, however, it's important to be aware that they may be subject to delays or cancellations. The primary bus company operating in the San Vito Lo Capo region to Palermo is Russo. The journey from Palermo Airport to the city centre typically takes around 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It's advisable to check the schedule and book in advance, especially during the busy summer season. The cost of a ticket with Autoservizi Russo is €9.40, and they offer limited buses per day. If you're arriving at Trapani Airport, you can opt for the AST bus line, which takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Please note that tickets for the AST bus can only be purchased on board.
Car - To conveniently explore San Vito Lo Capo and its surroundings, the best option is to travel by car. If you're arriving at Palermo Airport, it typically takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the city centre. If you're driving from mainland Italy, there are a few additional steps to consider. First, you'll need to take a 20-minute ferry from Villa San Giovanni Port to Messina. From there, it's a drive of just under 4.5 hours to reach San Vito Lo Capo. Remember that in Italy, driving is done on the right-hand side of the road, with the driver seated on the left-hand side of the car. Manual cars are more common than automatics giving them a premium price when renting. It is advisable to choose a reputable rental car agency to avoid falling victim to scams or overcharging schemes often aimed at tourists. Start saving now and secure your rental car reservation.
Cycling & Walking - Cycling and walking are excellent ways to explore San Vito Lo Capo, a charming and compact town. Its small size allows you to effortlessly visit its buildings, restaurants, and beaches in close proximity. San Vito Lo Capo is known for being highly accommodating to cyclists, and there are numerous rental options available for bicycles, making it convenient to find one that suits your needs. Whether you choose to pedal or stroll, you'll have no trouble discovering the attractions of this town.
Taxi - A taxi offers a convenient transportation option for reaching and exploring San Vito Lo Capo. Particularly if you've had a long journey from overseas, it may be worthwhile to invest in a taxi fare to avoid waiting for buses or dealing with rental cars. When traveling from Palermo Airport or Trapani Airport to the city centre, I suggest a local taxi available just outside the arrivals area. The cost is estimated to be around €150 for an individual, but it becomes more affordable when traveling in a group. The approximate duration of the journey is 1 hour and 20 minutes. A reliable taxi service in San Vito Lo Capo is Campo Transfer.
Parking can be an intimidating task for tourists when visiting a foreign country, as it involves finding the right location to avoid fines. Simplifying parking in San Vito Lo Capo, please note that in most cases, payment is required, and it's advisable to carry cash alongside the option of card payment.
Navigating parking in San Vito Lo Capo can pose some challenges, particularly during the summer months when the narrow streets become crowded. While street parking is available, it's limited, and it's crucial to be mindful of spots designated for residents. Free parking is generally indicated by white lines unless a blue sign with a white P states otherwise. Blue lines indicate paid parking. When parking on the street, find a parking meter or purchase a ticket from a local tobacconist. Remember to display the ticket visibly on your dashboard and be punctual, as parking wardens are consistently present.
EasyPark is the most convenient way to pay for parking in Italy. It's an app that works in most places around the country, and it lets you pay directly from your phone, without having to find a parking meter or newsagent. You can pay for a few hours upfront, or if you come back early, you can stop the timer and pay less. One tip: when you download the app, enter a random Italian phone number. If you enter your local number, the app won't recognize that you're in Italy.
Awareness of the Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) in specific areas of San Vito Lo Capo is important. These zones have restricted access, allowing only residents and authorized vehicles during specific times. To avoid substantial fines, it's best to refrain from entering a ZTL area with your own or rental car. Always check the ZTL website for the most up-to-date information. Zone A is restricted 24 hours a day.
When it comes to parking, the most hassle-free choice is often the parking garages, which can be easily found by searching "Parcheggio" on Google Maps near your desired location. However, if you are staying at a hotel, it is recommended to use their designated parking area for security purposes. Certain San Vito Lo Capo hotels may provide complimentary parking, while others may require a small fee.
Parking in the centre is near impossible in San Vito Lo Capo with only a select few blue lines. They have a free Parcheggio outside of town that has a free shuttle bus into town, its a bit far though. The paid ones are a bit closer and a short walk into town, and if you book via the hotel, the hotel usually will drop your car off and collect it when you need it.
To make the most of your time in town, I recommend allocating a budget of at least €230 per day. Here's a more comprehensive breakdown of the different activities to consider within that budget:
| Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Breakfast (sometimes included in accommodation) | €20 |
| Lunch | €30 |
| Dinner | €50 |
| Tourist Activities | €30 |
| Going out | €30 |
| Accommodation | €70 |
| Total cost per day | €230 |
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If you plan to explore Sicily, I recommend dedicating a minimum of 2-3 days to stay in San Vito Lo Capo. However, if you wish to engage in various activities and visit all the notable attractions, it would be advisable to extend your stay for a longer duration. The length of your visit will also depend on your personal preferences and the nature of your trip, whether it's a family holiday, a solo adventure, or a romantic getaway. If you happen to arrive in September, it would be advantageous to book your stay during the renowned Cous Cous festival.
During a 2-3 day stay, you can explore significant historical sites such as the Torre dell'Usciere and the Sanctuary of Saint Vito Martyr, while also experiencing the main attractions of the town. If you are more inclined towards activities, options like rock climbing or exploring Riserva Dello Zingaro are available. San Vito Lo Capo boasts a wide range of excellent restaurants, making it a culinary delight worth exploring.
It's important to note that San Vito Lo Capo is an incredibly popular destination, particularly during the summer season, and is home to one of the most stunning beaches in Sicily. Therefore, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodations well in advance, as availability tends to fill up quickly each year. Additionally, prices may increase over time. As a tip, I recommend considering booking your luxury Italian holiday before the end of the year to secure the best options.
Make sure to read our blog on Travel Essentials for Europe for more tips when planning a trip.
Cefalu is an incredibly beautiful town on the northern coast of Sicily between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Madonie mountains. It houses some of the best beaches, picturesque streets, and deep history.
Its population is only around 13,200 people however during the summer seasons and public holidays can greatly inflate, especially as it's very close to Palermo Airport an international airport.
The top things that Cefalu is known for are:
Food - Albicocca di Scillato, which is a type of apricot grown near Cefalu, blooms and matures at the start of May. It is a small sensitive fruit with an intense flavour mostly hand-picked and sold at nearby markets as is not strong enough to handle transportation. The jams are incredible. Wines, olive oil, and cheese are also locally grown around the area and there are some great Cefalu markets.
Historical Attractions - It has many sites to explore such as the Cefalu Castle which is on top of the town, The Cathedral of Cefalu which has two soaring towers, Osterio Magno a complex from the 13th century, and the Temple of Diana an ancient temple built around the 4th or 5th century.
Beaches - Wind down and head to one of Cefalu's many beaches. Some popular ones are Cefalu Beach which is a clear blue sandy beach and one of the best beaches in Sicily, Kalura Beach which is pebbly, Lungomare Beach, and the Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio.
Shopping & Hotels - Cefalu has many small local businesses that sell clothing, lingerie, food, soaps and much more. There are also some incredible places to stay ranging from small bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels in Cefalu.
People in Cefalu mostly speak Italian so make sure to learn a few words & sentences before you go however many vendors also speak English around the beaches and in the centre of town.
There are a variety of ways to get to and around Cefalu and also depends on where you are coming from.
Aeroplane - This is usually the fastest way to get to Cefalu from another country. The closest Airport is Palermo Airport PMO. You can travel from the UK direct to Palermo for just £28! This takes just under 3 hours or you can travel from Australia using that takes around 25 hours using Emirates Airways. Palermo Airport it is around 98 kilometres away and takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive/ take a taxi to Cefalu.
Train - This is definitely a fast way to get around Sicily and get to Cefalu. The nearest train station is called Stazione FS/ Cefalu Station and is operated by TRENITALIA. The station is just a 9-minute walk to the beach. If you are flying into Palermo, you can get the train to Cefalu in under 2 hours from just €12.60 one way and trains depart from 9 am - 7 pm. You can also get a train straight from Rome to Cefalu town.
Car - Driving a car is the most economical mode of transport to get to and get around in Cefalu and takes around 1 hour from Palermo Airport. If you are driving into Cefalu from mainland Italy note you will have to take a ferry into Messina (31 minutes) from Villa San Giovanni Port and then it takes just under 2 hours. Always remember that you drive on the right-hand side of the road with the driver on the left-hand side of the car. Manual cars are the preferred and cheapest option and usually half the price of an automatic rental car. Parking can be a struggle though, especially in the town during peak season. Make sure to use a reputable rental car agency if not using your own. Save now and book a rental car.
Taxi - Taxi can be a great way to get around to and around Cefalu however can be the most expensive option, however, it means you don't have to wait for a train, or pick up a rental car and find and pay for parking. It is the preferred option especially if flying in from overseas and have had a long trip. A reputable taxi company in Cefalu is Taxi Services Cefalu. I would also advise getting a local taxi if travelling from Palermo Airport. This should be around €150 one way for one person and more value when travelling in a group. You can also potentially taxi share with Coop Radio Taxi which could save some money.
As a tourist parking can be very daunting going to a new country, making sure you park in the right place and don't get fined. Here is parking in Cefalu simplified. Please note if you want to park most of the time you will have to pay for it. Sometimes you can pay by card but always carry cash just in case.
Parking in Cefalu is very tricky, especially during the summer season. You can park on the street however that is very limited and need to be careful which is resident parking. White lines mean free parking unless the sign says parking for residents. The sign will be blue with a white P inside of it. Blue lines mean ticketed parking. With parking on the street always look for a parking meter or you can go to the local tobacconist to purchase a ticket. Always display the ticket clearly on the dashboard and do not be late even by a minute as there are parking wardens all the time. Depending on where you go there are also pricing differences in certain months, such as it becomes a lot more per hour in summer seasons.
The best way to pay for parking in Italy is with the EasyPark app. It's available in most places, and you can use it to pay directly from your phone, so you don't have to find a ticket machine or newsagent. You can also use it to pay for a few hours, or to stop the timer and pay less if you come back early.
Here's a tip: When you download the app, use a random Italian phone number, because your local number won't register. EasyPark charges a small fee for parking, but the convenience is worth it.
The most common and accessible are the local car parks in town. 1 is the Harbour that has free parking. 2nd is the Cefalu Historical Parking Centre (Centre of Cefalu town) starting from €2 per hour - €22 for 24 hours. 3rd is Cefalu Beach Parking (right next to the beach), and is the largest however is uncovered. Prices from €3 for 2 hours to €18 for 24 hours
The safest and best place to park is the accommodation car parks if you are staying there. Some will include parking for free or charge you a small fee.
There are so many things to do in Cefalu as it's surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea and is deep in History. Here are some of the best things to do in Cefalu.
While there are several categories to consider based on activities, I recommend allocating a minimum of €260 per day per person for budgeting purposes. To provide a more in-depth breakdown:
| Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Breakfast (sometimes included in accommodation) | €20 |
| Lunch | €30 |
| Dinner | €50 |
| Tourist Activities | €30 |
| Going out | €30 |
| Accommodation | €100 |
| Total cost per day | €260 |
I strongly recommend utilizing the Wise card for transferring money during your vacation. It's one of the top international cards available that eliminates the need to visit the post office to convert money into cash. Even before receiving the physical card, you can use Wise with Apple Pay or Google Pay.
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I would recommend staying in Cefalu at least for 2-3 days if traveling around northern Sicily but ideally longer if you want to do lots of activities and see all the sights. It also depends on your preferences and whether it might be a family holiday, solo holiday or couple etc.
2-3 days will allow you to go to some historical sites like The Cathedral of Cefalu, and Castello della Rocca, and see Cefalu's main attractions.
If you are more into activities, you can visit Santuario Gibilmanna or walk around Madonie Mountains.
Restaurants are also very big and Cefalu has many of the best restaurants in Sicily so worth exploring and not rushing.
Cefalu is a very popular town to go to, especially in the summer seasons so make sure to book your flights and accommodation early as these get taken up very quickly each year considering there are only a handful of 5* hotels. Prices also do sometimes rise every year so my tip would be to book your summer luxury Italian holiday the year before. I have seen them go up as soon as the Christmas holidays are over.
Make sure to read our blog on Travel Essentials for Europe for more tips when planning a trip.