Sicily has plenty of picturesque coastal cities and towns scattered all along its 1400 kilometre-coastline, and Cefalù is one you shouldn’t miss out on.
This small city in the north has an incredibly vibrant atmosphere, popular with local Sicilians and travellers from further afield, particularly during summer to spend one day in Cefalu to lounge on the beach, explore the historic centre and spoil themselves with exceptional food.
Cefalù is a quintessential Sicilian town and as such, appeals to a variety of travellers. Families will love the relaxed pace and child-friendly beach, while couples can enjoy romantic strolls through cobblestone streets and a sunset drink by the sea.
It’s also a great destination for groups of friends looking to unwind on the beach and savour great food and drink in a picturesque setting.
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How Many Days in Cefalu?
Cefalù is a charming coastal town in Sicily, known for its stunning blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
A day trip to Cefalù from Palermo is ideal, as it’s just an hour away by train, making it easy to explore the highlights: the impressive Cefalù Cathedral, the picturesque old town, and the far-reaching sandy beach.
You can easily fill a day wandering its quaint streets, enjoying local shops, and sampling delicious Sicilian cuisine.
However, if you want to hike up La Rocca and the Norman Castle for panoramic views and ancient ruins, you may want to spend a couple of days in the city, as the climb takes a few hours, and you’ll want to end it with a well-deserved Aperol on the beach.
Getting To & Around Cefalu
Cefalù is located on the north-central coast of Sicily so if you’re on the island for a week to ten days, it can be tempting to try to travel around the coastline from town to town.
However, while you can do this if you’re renting your own car, it’s not so easy on public transport, as the main transport hub for the island is Palermo.
To reach Cefalù from Palermo, you have a few options, but the best is the direct train departing every hour from the city centre which only takes about an hour and, like most public transport in Sicily, is a very reasonable price, easily under 10 euros. You can view schedules here.
If driving, you can take the A19 highway from Palermo and be in Cefalù within an hour, but you should be very mindful that Sicilian drivers are often carefree, so you’ll need to be doubly careful.
Parking in Cefalù can also be limited, particularly in the historic centre, so the train, which is quick, comfortable and convenient, is by far the best way to get to Cefalù. You can browse car rental options here.
If you want to reach Cefalù from Catania, though, you’ll have to head to Palermo first with the bus before you can take the train across.
It can be fun to see where your mood takes you when in Sicily, but if you’re reliant on public transport, it’s usually beneficial to have your base in Palermo to reach most smaller towns, or in Catania if you’re travelling around the east coast.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Catania to Cefalù, changing in Messina, but this is a bit more long-winded and expensive.
If you don’t want to base yourself in Cefalu, you can visit on an organised tour from Palermo. Some options include this half-day tour which also visits Monreale or this full-day tour which heads to the village of Castelbuono.
Within Cefalù, you’ll find the city very walkable, with most attractions located within the compact old town which used to just be a small fishing village, so you won’t need to worry about public transport to move around.
If you decide to climb La Rocca, however, it’s advisable to wear sturdy footwear, such as trainers or hiking shoes, as the terrain is rocky and uneven. The hike can be strenuous, so it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly during the midday summer heat when temperatures can soar.
Bring water, wear sun protection, and consider an early morning or late afternoon climb to avoid the hottest part of the day.
1-Day Cefalu Itinerary
With its quaint historic centre and beautiful buildings, you can enjoy a morning wandering around the old town, before heading up to La Rocca for incredible vistas of the city and turquoise coastline below, or simply relax on the beach soaking up the sunshine.
Visit the Cefalù Cathedral (Duomo di Cefalù)
Cefalù Cathedral (Duomo di Cefalù) is a stunning example of Norman architecture and a great way to start your day in Cefalù.
Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light illuminates its twin towers and Byzantine mosaics, the cathedral’s façade and interiors are truly breathtaking.
Built in the 12th century by Roger II, the first King of Sicily, the cathedral holds immense historical and cultural significance as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, representing the island’s unique blend of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences, showcasing Sicily’s remarkable and long history.
Inside, the cathedral is adorned with exquisite mosaics, including the iconic Christ Pantocrator, one of the finest examples of Byzantine art in the world, which dominates the apse and draws visitors for its intricate details and vibrant colours.
The cathedral also features beautiful wooden ceilings, mediaeval frescoes, and stone sculptures that add to its grandeur.
A visit to the Cefalù Cathedral provides a glimpse into Sicily’s rich past, blending faith, art, and history – subjects held dear to most Sicilians and together forming the basis of Sicily’s culture.
It is the perfect way to experience the island’s unique heritage, offering a serene and spiritual counterpoint to the lively atmosphere of Cefalù’s bustling streets and beach.
Stroll through the Old Town (Centro Storico)
Cefalù’s old town, or Centro Storico, is a delightful maze of narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming squares that capture the essence of Sicilian life.
Strolling from the cathedral through the old town is a must on any Cefalù day trip, offering a leisurely way to soak up its unique atmosphere.
Visiting in the morning after stopping by the cathedral is ideal, as the streets are quieter and the light creates beautiful shadows on the centuries-old stone walls. Explore at a relaxed pace, enjoying the local shops, boutiques, and cafes that line the streets.
While ambling through Cefalù’s old town streets, you can stop by any of its fantastic little bakeries and cafes to indulge in Sicilian treats like cannoli – crisp pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese – and gelato in flavours ranging from classic pistachio to the sumptuous Amarena, made of mascarpone and sour cherries.
You’ll also find arancini, savoury rice balls, and granita, a refreshing slushy dessert perfect for a sunny day.
The old town, like the cathedral, showcases a blend of Arab, Norman, and mediaeval influences in its architecture.
You’ll find landmarks like the Lavatoio Medievale, an ancient washhouse that offers a glimpse into daily life in mediaeval Cefalù, and the Osterio Magno, a historic palace believed to have belonged to King Roger II.
From the lively Piazza del Duomo to hidden courtyards and artisanal shops, every corner reveals something new, making it a perfect place to wander, discover, and soak in the atmosphere, as well as duck out of the heat.
Climb La Rocca
After a relaxing morning, before the sun comes out in full force, it’s time to get your walking boots on – metaphorically – and start your ascent up La Rocca.
Climbing La Rocca is a highlight of any day spent in Cefalù, offering a rewarding adventure with panoramic views and historical intrigue.
The ascent takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace, and offers stunning encounters including the Temple of Diana, ancient fortifications, and lush Mediterranean flora.
At the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Cefalù, the picture-perfect coastline, and the Tyrrhenian Sea, before descending in around 30 to 45 minutes.
You won’t want to undertake the hike in flip flops, so make sure you have decent shoes like trainers, but don’t worry about not having all the proper hiking gear as the path isn’t too challenging. Just watch your step as it can be rocky and uneven in places.
Make sure to bring water, sun protection, and snacks, especially during summer – but this is standard advice for travelling anywhere in Sicily during July and August!
Spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds, so can be better for the climb, but the stunning panoramic views you get from the top make climbing La Rocca worthwhile any time of year, for the natural beauty and new perspective you can gain over the city.
While the hike is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness, it may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Sunbathe and Swim at the Cefalù Beach (Spiaggia di Cefalù)
Cefalù Beach is a fantastic spot to unwind, sunbathe, and swim, making it a great alternative to climbing La Rocca if hiking isn’t your cup of tea, or you find yourself in Cefalù on a hot summer afternoon.
The beach boasts fine golden sand and clean, shallow waters, which are perfect for a refreshing dip or a relaxing float, making it ideal for families with children, as you can wade out quite a distance before the water gets too deep.
The beach is also well-equipped with facilities, but it does get very crowded, particularly during peak summer months, so finding a spot can be challenging unless you opt for a sunbed and parasol from one of the adjacent beach bars, which also offer drinks, snacks, and shade.
For children, there’s an inflatable assault course out on the sea in summer, adding a fun and adventurous element to the day, and entertainment for the adults. The picturesque setting, with Cefalù’s old town and the towering La Rocca as a backdrop, makes it one of the most scenic beaches in Sicily.
Its convenient location near the town centre means you can easily combine a beach day with exploring Cefalù’s other attractions, creating the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. If you’d like to get on the water during your time in Cefalu, then this is also a good opportunity to go on a boat tour for a couple of hours.
Dine and Drink around the Piazza del Duomo
Ending your day with a meal or drink around the Piazza del Duomo is a perfect way to savour the town’s vibrant evening atmosphere and enjoy its culinary delights.
The Piazza is a lively hub with a range of dining options and bars set against the backdrop of the stunning Cefalù Cathedral, similar to the main square in Catania, although slightly more pricey.
For an authentic Sicilian meal, Ostaria del Duomo offers traditional dishes such as pasta alla Norma, made with aubergine, ricotta and basil, and fresh seafood, crafted with classic ingredients like ripe tomatoes, local olive oil, and paired perfectly with local wine from the base of Mount Etna to the east.
Taverna Tinchitè is also excellent for authentic Sicilian cuisine, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. For a livelier scene, Enoteca Rossorubino is a great spot for local wines and cocktails, offering a vibrant atmosphere.
If you like a pale ale, don’t miss trying Messina beer, a local favourite that complements Sicilian dishes perfectly.
Have More Time?
If you have more than one day, you can make the most of the coastline and enjoy a stroll along the promenade or an afternoon sunbathing, while climbing La Rocca and perhaps exploring the Capo Cefalù Lighthouse and the Cefalù Port on a second day.
The city isn’t huge, so you won’t be pushed for things to do, but it is a perfect place to relax and unwind and soak up the Sicilian culture.
If you’re feeling curious, however, you can discover a unique piece of Cefalù’s history at the Lavatoio Medievale, an ancient wash house, where women once did their laundry using freshwater springs that flow from the nearby mountains.
The site, with its stone basins and elegant arches, offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in mediaeval Sicily.
Over a few days in the area, you can also make the most of the cheap and regular coastal train. When travelling to and from Palermo to Cefalù, you pass through several charming seaside towns that are also worth exploring.
Bagheria offers beautiful villas and a glimpse into Sicilian aristocratic history, while Santa Flavia is known for its picturesque harbour and archaeological sites. Termini Imerese boasts Roman ruins and a lovely seaside promenade.
Each town features unique attractions and scenic views, making them ideal for a stopover or a day trip if you have extra time. Plus they’re less central and touristy, so you can enjoy quieter beaches and mix more with the locals.
The historic charm and coastal beauty in these small towns provide a rich complement to your visit to Cefalù, enhancing your experience of Sicily’s diverse heritage.
Where to Stay in Cefalù
Ossuna Bay Hotel – Just steps from the Cefalù beach, this lovely hotel is a great mid-range choice. There are several bright, spacious rooms available (some offering balconies and sea views), breakfast and free parking available.
Hotel La Plumeria – A luxe option located in the centre of the old town, this hotel has plenty of rooms and suites (some with terraces) and amenities like private parking, a hotel bar and breakfast available in the mornings.
Horizon Suites – These suites are a good option if you want a little more space while visiting Cefalù. They come equipped with seating areas and kitchenettes and the place is well-located with parking available.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more options in Cefalu!
While you may be drawn to the bigger cities of Palermo and Catania, it’s worth stopping by a smaller town bursting with character like Cefalù to get a feel for a different part of Sicily, complete with quaint historic streets, beautiful beaches and perfect panoramas.
Are you planning to visit Cefalù? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!
