 | Erice has been nominated for featuring on the main page as Off the Beaten Path. We may have failed to notice some minor glitches in the article. Please plunge forward and help improve it further before it hits the main page. |
Erice is a hilltop town in western Sicily, perched on Monte Erice above the coastal city of Trapani. The historic centre retains a largely medieval layout, with cobbled streets, ancient landmarks, pre-Roman fortifications and numerous churches reflecting its religious significance.
Today, it has become a centre for international scientific conferences and peace-making efforts, while also being close to beaches, local wineries, parks and hiking trails, retaining its ancient association with love linked to the Temple of Venus on its summit.
Recognised as one of I Borghi più belli d’Italia (The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy), the town takes on a distinctive atmosphere after dark, when its narrow alleyways glow around open restaurants and viewpoints look down over the lights of Trapani and the moon reflecting across the Tyrrhenian coast.
Understand
[edit]Erice has been famous as a place to visit for millennia.
History
[edit]In antiquity, the city was one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Mediterranean world. At the summit of Monte Erice stood the great sanctuary of Temple of Venus Erycina, dedicated to a local form of the goddess Venus associated with love, fertility, and protection for sailors. The temple’s reputation spread far beyond Sicily, drawing visitors from across southern Italy, North Africa, and Greece, and establishing Erice as an early international destination.
Travel continued to shape the town in the medieval period. The Andalusian traveller Ibn Jubayr visited Erice in the 12th century and described a lively town with vineyards on the surrounding slopes, a strong fortress guarding the summit, and a busy urban centre. His account suggests a prosperous settlement welcoming travellers moving between Sicily and the wider Mediterranean world — much as visitors still do today.
Religious pilgrimage also played a central role in Erice’s development. For centuries, worshippers from across western Sicily travelled to the town for festivals, holy days, and devotional visits. This steady flow of pilgrims led to the construction of numerous monasteries, convents, and churches, giving Erice its unusually high concentration of religious buildings.
The town’s ancient architectures still line the streets and shape its historic centre today.
In the 20th century, Erice entered a new chapter as a gathering place for scholars and scientists. Through institutions such as the Ettore Majorana Centre for Scientific Culture, the town began hosting international conferences that brought together many of the world’s most prominent scientists and Nobel laureates. These meetings still foster dialogue on global challenges, contributing to Erice’s modern reputation as a place associated with scientific cooperation and peace-making.
Geography and climate
[edit]
Erice is about 100 km from Palermo and occupies the summit and upper slopes of Monte Erice, rising 750 m above Trapani and the coastal plain. The surrounding area includes ancient sites such as Segesta, coastal headlands within the Monte Cofano and Zingaro nature reserves, wine-growing areas of the Val di Mazara, and the low-lying Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco.
The historic centre is compact and steep, shaped by the mountain’s slopes, with most streets designed for walking rather than vehicles. Beyond the town walls, the mountain connects a patchwork of woodland, vineyard, and coastal landscapes.
Erice’s elevation gives it a noticeably cooler climate than the coast below, particularly in summer, when temperatures are often several degrees lower and breezes are common. This cooler air made Erice a popular seasonal retreat from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, when families from coastal towns would spend entire summers here in a tradition known as villeggiatura.
In winter, cloud often gathers around the mountaintop, with mist drifting through the streets and lending the town a distinctive character.
Culture
[edit]Erice blends religious tradition with a growing calendar of cultural, scientific, and sporting events. Its elevated setting and medieval streets provide a unique backdrop for everything from candlelit processions to open-air concerts.
The most iconic event is the Misteri di Erice, a Good Friday procession where sculpted scenes of the Passion are carried through the streets by local guilds in traditional dress. In late August, the Festa di Maria Santissima di Custonaci honours the town’s patron saint with music, parades, and the symbolic “handing over of the golden keys” to the Madonna. During the winter holidays, EricèNatale brings festive lights, Christmas markets, nativity scenes, and New Year’s Eve celebrations to Piazza della Loggia.
Erice is also home to the Ettore Majorana Centre for Scientific Culture, a prestigious institute that hosts international conferences and summer schools in restored monasteries around the town. Subjects range from particle physics to climate science, often attracting Nobel laureates and students from around the world.
Summer brings Ericestate, a season-long programme of concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and food-and-wine events. Performances often take place in small piazzas or cloistered courtyards. Visitors may also encounter the Erice Climb, a national hillclimb motor race from Valderice, or join the springtime Erice Trail, a scenic trail-running event through forested slopes and rural paths.
The town’s architecture and landscapes have been used as filming locations and references in several productions.
Visitor information
[edit]1 Erice Tourist Information Centre, Viale Conte Pepoli (near the cable car base station), ☏ +39 0923 869388. Information point for maps, brochures, walking routes, and local advice. Staff usually speak English. Best starting point for visiting the historic centre, but with limited hours.
2 Erice Tourist Information Centre (Ufficio Informazioni Turistiche di Erice), Piazza della Loggia, Erice (Erice's main square.), ☏ +39 0923 869388, [email protected]. Daily 09:00–13:00 and 15:00–18:00 (seasonal; may vary). Main info hub for maps, brochures, walking routes, and the Erice Card/church tickets. Staff usually speak English. Longer hours, so this is the most reliable starting point. Free.
You can also explore Erice in advance through the city's official photographic virtual tour.
Get in
[edit]
Erice can be reached by road, cable car, or public transport from nearby Trapani, and is also accessible via air through two regional airports.
By air
[edit]The closest airport is Trapani–Birgi Airport (Vincenzo Florio Airport), about 30 km south of Erice, served by domestic and some international low-cost carriers. Palermo Airport (Falcone–Borsellino) is around 90 km away and has broader international connections. Both airports have bus or rail connections to Trapani.
By sea
[edit]Ferries and hydrofoils arrive in Trapani Port from the Aegadian Islands, Pantelleria, and Tunis. Trapani’s port also serves cruise ships and offers connections into Erice by bus, taxi, or cable car.
By rail
[edit]Erice does not have a train station, but nearby Trapani is served by regional trains operated by Trenitalia. From Trapani, there are direct services to nearby towns such as Marsala, Mazara del Vallo, and Castelvetrano. A longer but scenic route connects Trapani to Palermo, with stops in towns like Alcamo; travel time to Palermo is around 4–5 hours due to the indirect line and current infrastructure.
A more efficient rail connection is under development, with a new station at Trapani–Birgi Airport expected to reconnect the Palermo–Trapani railway line, which has been undergoing electrification and modernisation. Once complete, this will reduce travel time between Trapani, the airport, and Palermo to under two hours. To reach Erice from Trapani station, travellers can take a local bus or a short taxi ride to the cable car station in Casa Santa.
By car
[edit]From Trapani, Erice is connected by provincial roads SP31 and SP3. The drive to the historic centre is steep and winding but scenic, with panoramic views of the coast. From Palermo, the A29 motorway connects to Trapani in about 1.5 hours, with Erice reachable shortly after. There are two parking areas, one close to Porta Trapani and the other adjacent to the Church of John the Baptist (Chiesa di Giovanni Battista).
Historic entry gates to the town:
- 3 Trapani Gate (Porta Trapani), Piazza Porta Trapani. Southern entrance; near Upper Cable Station
- 4 Carmine Gate (Porta Carmine), Piazza Carmine. Northern entrance; closest to main town square
- 5 Spada Gate (Porta Spada), Viale Porta Spada. Eastern entrance; closest to Eymian-Punic Walls
By cable car
[edit]A scenic cable car (funivia) links the lower district of Erice called Casa Santa to the historic centre in about 10 minutes. The station is at Via Capua in Trapani. It operates daily, though schedules may vary by season or weather conditions.
- 6 Lower Cable Car Station (Funivia Trapani-Erice), Via Capua, Trapani (Casa Santa), ☏ +39 0923 569306. Generally 08:00–20:00 (shorter hours in winter); closed in strong winds. Fast and scenic way to reach the historic centre. Parking at the lower station. €5.50 one way, €9 return (discounts for residents, groups, and children).
- 7 Upper Cable Car Station (Funivia Trapani-Erice), Via della Pineta, ☏ +39 0923 569306. Generally 08:00–20:00 (shorter hours in winter); closed in strong winds. Fast and scenic route between Erice's upper and lower districts. €5.50 one way, €9 return (discounts for residents, groups, and children).
By bus
[edit]AST and local Trapani municipal buses operate between Trapani and Erice (Casa Santa and the hilltop centre). Buses to the historic centre are less frequent than those to the lower districts. Travel time varies but typically takes 30–40 minutes. Check local schedules in advance, especially outside summer months.
Get around
[edit]
The historic centre of Erice is best explored on foot. The town is compact and walkable, with most landmarks, churches, and restaurants located within a few minutes’ walk of each other.
Accessibility
[edit]The cobbled streets, steep gradients, and narrow alleys can be challenging, particularly for visitors with mobility issues. Uneven paving and limited ramps make wheelchair access difficult. Recent efforts to improve accessibility—such as the introduction of limited electric shuttle services, digital guides, and interpretive signage—are ongoing but remain constrained by the need to preserve the town’s medieval layout and heritage status.
See
[edit]Erice offers a wide range of sights within its compact historic centre, shaped by centuries of religious, military, cultural, and academic life. Many cultural sites are included with the Erice Card, a multi-access visitor pass providing entry to participating monuments and museums. Online purchase is in Italian only, but the card is also available at tourist information offices and participating venues.
Historic landmarks and panoramic views
[edit]
- 1 Castle of Venus (Castello di Venere), Via del Castello. Apr–May & Oct: 10:00–18:00; Jun–Sep: 10:00–19:00 (Aug until 20:00). 12th-century Norman castle built over the ancient Temple of Venus Erycina. Set on a cliff with wide views over the coast and valleys. Included in the Erice Card.
- 2 Elymian-Punic Walls (Mura Ciclopiche Elimo-Puniche), Runs between Porta Spada and Porta Trapani. Accessible at all times. Ancient walls built from the 8th century BCE by the Elymians, later expanded by Punic and medieval builders. Free.
- 3 Balio Towers (Torri del Balio), Viale Conte Pepoli. Exterior open; towers included in Erice Card ticket. Group of medieval towers that once guarded the castle approach and housed royal officials. Overlooks the coastline and Balio Gardens. Included in the Erice Card.
Science and peace-making sites
[edit]
- 4 Pepoli Turret (Torretta Pepoli), Below Balio Gardens. 10:00–17:00 (seasonal; check site). Neo-Gothic retreat built in the 1870s by Count Pepoli, combining Moorish design elements, ceramic tiles and Favignana stone. Once a meeting place for intellectuals, it now houses a peace observatory linked to Erice’s modern identity as a centre for science and dialogue. Included in the Erice Card.
- 5 Patrick M. S. Blackett Institute (Convent of San Domenico), Piazzetta San Domenico. Part of the Ettore Majorana Centre, housed in a former Dominican convent adapted for scientific conferences and events. It includes the Paul A. M. Dirac Museum and is associated with the drafting of the Erice Statement, a landmark declaration on scientific responsibility and nuclear disarmament. Included in the Erice Card.
- 6 Eugene Wigner Institute (Convento di San Francesco), Via San Francesco. Former Franciscan convent founded in 1364 by Count Francesco Ventimiglia and expanded over the following centuries. After briefly serving as a hospital, the historic complex was repurposed as the Eugene Wigner Institute, part of the Ettore Majorana Foundation, and now hosts scientific conferences and research activities. The atmospheric spaces are also used for art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural performances. Included in the Erice Card.
Churches and religious heritage
[edit].jpg)
Parish churches
[edit]- 7 Royal Mother Church (Chiesa Matrice o Real Duomo), Piazza Matrice. 10:00–18:00. 14th-centry church commissioned by Frederick III, with Gothic–Renaissance interiors and a climbable bell tower. Included in the Erice Card.
- 8 Church of Saint Julian (Chiesa di San Giuliano), Via Roma, 7. 10:00–18:00. It was founded by Roger I, and rebuilt in the 17th century. It is used for religious and civic gatherings. Included in the Erice Card.
- 9 Parish Church of San Cataldo (Chiesa di San Cataldo), Piazza San Cataldo. Gothic church with three naves, documented in 1339 and rebuilt with stucco decoration between 1740 and 1786.
- 10 Church of Saint Anthony the Abbot (Chiesa di Sant'Antonio Abate), Near Spanish Quarter. Coastal-view church with Byzantine frescoes and distinctive Tuscan columns.
Confraternities
[edit]- 11 Church of Saint Ursula (Chiesa di Sant'Orsola), Viale Porta Spada. 15th-century church that houses the Misteri statues used during Good Friday processions.
- 12 Church of Saint Martin (Chiesa di San Martino), Via Pietro Salerno, 8. 17th-century confraternity church with Renaissance and Rococo-style interiors. Included in the Erice Card.
- 13 Church of Saint John the Baptist (Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista), Via San Giovanni. Gothic-style church with marble works by the Gagini school and Erice’s largest nave.
Monasteries
[edit]
- 14 Church of Saint Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro), Via Gian Filippo Guarnotti, 52. Built in 1365 and rebuilt in 1610 in Baroque style; connected by an arch to the Monastery of the Poor Clares
- 15 Monastery and Church of Saint Charles (Monastero e Chiesa di San Carlo), Via Gian Fillippo Guarnotti. Founded in 1617 as a home for orphaned girls, this former convent complex became known for its confectionery tradition, including almond sweets such as pasta reale. Following recent restoration, parts of the historic site are now reused for education and residential accommodation for enrolled pupils of the local hospitality school (not open to visitors).
- 16 Monastery of the Most Holy Saviour (Ruins) (Monastero del Santissimo Salvatore), Via Vittorio Emanuele. Ruin of a Benedictine monastery built over a medieval noble residence. Included in the Erice Card.
- 17 Church of Santa Teresa (Chiesa di Santa Teresa), Via Vito Carvini. Moved to its current site around 1828–1830, this former hospital chapel has a single nave and houses a revered statue of its patron saint, central to a popular annual procession still celebrated in Erice and nearby areas. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries the adjoining monastery was converted for civic use.
Convents
[edit]- 18 Annunciation or Carmine Church (Chiesa dell'Annunziata o del Carmine), Piazza Carmine. Founded in 1423 by Don Bernardo Militari in his palace, this church is a rare example of private ecclesiastical architecture in Sicily. It blends Gothic and Renaissance styles with vibrant local Baroque touches. It was historically attached to a Carmelite convent, founded in 1423. The adjoining convent buildings are now used as a hotel.
- 19 Church of the Capuchins (Sorelle Povere di Santa Chiara Monastero Sacro Cuore), Strade Provinciale. A 16th-century Roman Catholic church built as part of a Capuchin convent in 1571; today the adjoining convent is home to the Poor Clares. Inhabited by nuns; generally closed to visitors, though the exterior can be admired.
Other churches
[edit]
- 20 Church of Saint Albert (Chiesa di Sant'Alberto dei Bianchi), Via Calatafimi. Oval-plan 16th-century church with altars and stuccoes, once used by a charitable brotherhood.
- 21 Church of Saint Isidore (Chiesa di Sant'Isidoro), Via Vito Carvini. Small sanctuary near the birthplace of Blessed Luigi Rabatà, historically linked to farming communities. Included in the Erice Card.
- 22 Church of the Most Holy Saviour (Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore), Via Santissimo Salvatore. 14th-century church founded by count Enrico Chiaramonte; decorated with stuccoes by Pietro dell'Orto in 1794. Included in the Erice Card.
- 23 Church of Saint Francis of Assisi (Chiesa di San Francesco), Via San Francesco. Founded in 1364 by Count Francesco Ventimiglia in his former palace, this active church—once part of a major Franciscan complex—features a single nave and a Renaissance-style vestibule added in the early 20th century.
- 24 Chapel of Our Lady of Custonaci (Cappella della Madonna di Custonaci), Via Piscina Apollinis. This small chapel overlooks the countryside with distant views toward Custonaci, where the main sanctuary of the Madonna of Custonaci is located. It is dedicated to the Madonna of Custonaci, one of the most venerated Marian figures in western Sicily. Free.
Museums and exhibitions
[edit]
- 25 Cordici Museum (Polo Museale A. Cordici), Vico San Rocco. 10:00–18:00; audio tours in 5 languages. Housed in a former convent. Exhibits include Elymian and Roman artifacts, sacred art, and Italian modernism. Included in the Erice Card.
- 26 Spanish Quarter (Quartiere Spagnolo), Behind Chiesa di Sant’Antonio. Unfinished 17th-century Spanish garrison now housing exhibitions on crafts, marine life, and local traditions. Terrace views over the coastline. €4 solo, €12 integrated Erice Card; reduced €2/€6.
- 27 Erice in Miniature (Erice in Miniatura), Via Dr. Vultaggio, 12 (Palazzo Sales). Apr–Oct: daily 10:00–18:00; Nov–Mar: weekends/by reservation. 1:100 scale model of Erice made from traditional materials, with mechanical and lighting effects. Included in Erice Card; standalone approx €2.
- 28 Agro-Forestry Museum of San Matteo (Museo Agro-Forestale San Matteo), Contrada San Matteo, about 4 km southeast of the summit. Check seasonal opening (often closed in winter). Set in a traditional rural baglio, the museum explores local agricultural and forestry traditions on Monte Erice. Free or small donation.
Civic and historic architecture
[edit]Palaces
[edit]
- 29 Palazzo Platamone (Platamone Palace), Via Vittorio Emanuele / Via Barberi. One of 17th-century Erice’s largest and best-preserved patrician homes, this palace—once owned by the Barbier-Stabile family and later by the Platamone marquises—features dual façades and spacious upper-level living quarters above service rooms. Free (Exterior visible).
- 30 Palazzo Municipale (Erice Town Hall), Piazza della Loggia. This 19th-century municipio (town hall) bears a marble plaque commemorating the 875 men from Erice who joined Garibaldi’s 1860 campaign for Italian unification. Led by Cavaliere Giuseppe Coppola, they fought at Calatafimi. The plaque, installed in 1910, celebrates their role in Sicily’s liberation. Free (Exterior visible).
Noble and historic residences
[edit]- 31 Coppola House (Casa Coppola), Via Vittorio Emanuele. Former home of Cavaliere Giuseppe Coppola, a patriot and officer of the Crown of Italy, this house bears a 1910 plaque honoring his noble roots, role in Italy’s unification, and steadfast resistance. Free (Exterior visible).
- 32 Majorana House (Casa Majorana), Piazzetta San Domenico. This elegant 18th-century townhouse, once home to the noble Majorana family, is a refined example of barocchetto siciliano, a lighter, more graceful take on Sicilian Baroque. Free (Exterior visible).
- 33 Curatolo-Ragusa House (Casa Curatolo-Ragusa), Piazza della Loggia. Overlooking Erice’s main square, this elegant 18th-century residence features a crest with a crane, stars, and mountain, and encloses a small courtyard. Free (Exterior visible).
- 34 Laudicina House (Casa Laudicina), Via Pietro Gervasi. Overlooking the Balio Gardens, this imposing former residence of Trapani mayor Domenico Laudicina blends two historic houses around a courtyard, featuring ornate plasterwork with Art Deco touches. Free (Exterior visible).
Repurposed heritage buildings
[edit]- 35 Church of the Most Holy Sacrament of the Quarantors (Chiesa del SS. Sacramento dei Quaranta), Via Albertina Degli Abbati. Founded in 1765, this small Baroque church with an oval interior was later repurposed as a grocery store, political office, and eventually a private holiday home. Free (Exterior visible).
- 36 Former Hotel Igea (Ex Hotel Igea), Via Albertina degli Abati. Early 20th-century Liberty-style (Art Nouveau) building that once served as Erice’s grand hotel during the interwar tourism boom. The historic structure is now reused as residential accommodation for enrolled students of the local hospitality school and not as a public hotel. Free (Exterior visible).
Do
[edit]Erice has both historic sites and nearby trails for outdoor activities. The area includes hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, parks suited to families, and swimming along the coast.
Gardens and nature walks
[edit]
- 1 Balio Gardens (Giardino del Balio), Viale Conte Pepoli. Open daily. Public gardens near the Castle of Venus, with terraces, fountains, and Mediterranean plants. Landscaped in the 1870s by Count Pepoli, they are now part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani network. Offers panoramic views over Trapani and the sea. Free.
- 2 CAI 601 – Saint Anna Trail (Sentiero di Sant'Anna), Starts near Porta Trapani, ends at Sant'Anna Sanctuary near the lower cableway station. Always open. 5.5-km trail through forested slopes and picnic areas, ending at the Sant’Anna Sanctuary near the cable car base station. Free.
- 3 CAI 602 – Three Churches Trail (Sentiero Porta Castellammare–Tre Chiese), Starts at Porta Castellammare, loops east past rural chapels and viewpoints. Always open. 4.5-km loop with wildflower meadows, panoramic overlooks, and small chapels east of the town. Free.
- 4 CAI 603 – Pepoli Turret Trail (Sentiero Torretta Pepoli), Starts at Balio Gardens, loops through Bosco dei Runzi and returns near Pepoli Turret. Always open. 2.7-km shaded loop with views of the Castle of Venus and wooded terrain. Good for birdwatching and photography. Free.
- 5 CAI 604 – San Matteo Forestry Trail (Sentiero Demanio Forestale San Matteo), Starts just near the upper cable station, ends at the Agro-Forestry Museum of San Matteo. Always open. 6.9-km trail with pine woods, agro-pastoral landscapes, and educational signage. Ends at the Forestry Museum. Free.
Recreation and sporting events
[edit]- 6 Saint Julian Beach (Spiaggia di San Giuliano), Lungomare Dante Alighieri (About 20 minutes walk from the lower cable station). Open all year (beach clubs seasonal). A long, sandy beach stretching for about 1 km along the Tyrrhenian coast below Erice. The water is generally calm and clear, making it good for swimming. Several beach clubs line parts of the shore, offering meals, sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports, while other sections remain free and undeveloped. Free (public areas; beach clubs charge for sunbeds and umbrellas).
- 7 Sports Garden (Giardino dello Sport), Via del Cipresso, Casa Santa (Across the road from Saint Julian Beach). Large outdoor sports park near the seafront, featuring an open-air gym and fitness area, football pitches, padel and tennis courts, basketball courts, and beach volleyball facilities. The complex also includes indoor courts, a children’s playground, and refreshment kiosks. It is widely used by local sports teams and for organised activities, with several areas open for casual public use. Some activities free; others require payment or booking.
- 8 Gymfit (Palestra e Centro Benessere), Via Fratelli Aiuto, 12, Casa Santa, Erice (TP), ☏ +39 0923 24604. Modern gym and wellness centre offering a large fitness area with cardio and weight equipment, a variety of group classes (including pilates, functional training and dance fitness), and personalised training sessions. The wellness zone features a spa with sauna, Turkish bath, hydromassage pools, relaxation areas, and massage and beauty treatments. A small bar/lounge area is also available for refreshments after workouts. Membership and day passes available.
- 9 Erice Adventure Park (Parco Avventura Erice), Contrada Martogna (near SP31). Seasonal opening; booking recommended. Adventure park with aerial rope courses, zip lines, an archery area, and picnic zones in wooded surroundings. Suitable for children and adults. From ~€14; group/event packages available.
- Erice Trail. Recurring springtime trail running event with multiple distance options on the slopes of Monte Erice, attracting regional runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Dates and routes vary by year.
- Monte Erice Hill Climb (Cronoscalata Monte Erice). An automobile hillclimb race established in 1954 and part of the Italian national championship calendar, typically held in September, with the course finishing at the summit of Monte Erice.
Culture and learning
[edit]- 10 Gebel Hamed Theatre (Teatro Gebel Hamed), Vico San Rocco. Founded in 1576 as the Church of Saints Rocco and Sebastiano and later adapted for other uses, the building was converted into a cinema in 1940 and now serves as a small theatre and cultural venue.
- 11 Palazzo Sales (Former Monastery of Santa Teresa), Via Vito Carvini. Originally the Monastery of Santa Teresa, this historic complex now houses Erice’s Officucina culinary laboratories — purpose-built teaching kitchens within the former monastery used for training, food innovation projects, and cooking events, some open to the public.
- 12 Scuola di Arte Culinaria Maria Grammatico (Maria Grammatico pastry school), Via Vittorio Emanuele. Traditional pastry school run by renowned Erice-born pastry chef Maria Grammatico, known for preserving the town’s convent-based almond sweet traditions. The school offers short public classes and demonstrations focused on local specialities such as pasta reale di Erice and other historic Sicilian pastries.
Eat
[edit]
Erice’s cuisine blends traditional Sicilian flavours with mountain and rural influences. Local specialties include cheeses and olive oil produced in the highlands, while dining options range from simple trattorias in the historic centre to seafood spots along the coast.
Local products
[edit]Cheese
[edit]Erice and the surrounding uplands are known for traditional sheep and goat cheeses made by small-scale producers. Ericino is a mixed-milk cheese made from cow’s and sheep’s milk, typically aged and served with bread or in rustic dishes. Other local varieties include tuma, a soft, unsalted sheep’s milk cheese eaten fresh, and ricotta infornata (baked ricotta), with a firm golden crust and soft interior. These cheeses are often sold at village markets, festivals, or directly from farms and agriturismi.
Olives and olive oil
[edit]Several farms in the Erice area produce olives and extra virgin olive oil using traditional methods. Local cultivars include Nocellara del Belice — used both for oil and table olives — and Biancolilla, prized for its light, aromatic oil. To learn more, arrange tastings, or purchase directly from producers, see the listings under Val di Mazara Wine Region.
Restaurants
[edit]Restaurants in Erice range from simple cafés to more refined spots, with prices generally moderate for the region.
Historic centre
[edit]- 1 Antica Pasticceria da Michele, Via Vittorio Emanuele, 10. Historic pastry shop and bar with outdoor tables. Great for a morning cappuccino and pastry, plus panini and light snacks all day.
- 2 Ecirè, Via Vittorio Emanuele, 119, ☏ +39 3929514411. Friendly all-day café and eatery offering light meals, sweet treats, and gelato.
- 3 Sapori di Badia, Piazza Porta Trapani, 6. Convenient café near Porta Trapani, for breakfast, coffee, or a light lunch. Popular stop when entering town, with pastries, panini, and a pleasant terrace.
- 4 La Tonda Fritta, Near Porta Trapani, ☏ +39 351 988 7145. Small takeaway specialising in arancini and other Sicilian fried snacks (€2–4).
- 5 Osteria di Venere, Via Roma, 6. A small osteria serving seasonal Sicilian dishes. Casual but elegant atmosphere.
- 6 Ristorante Monte San Giuliano, Vicolo San Rocco, 7, ☏ +39 0923 869595, [email protected]. Traditional Sicilian restaurant with a rustic interior and summer terrace. Mains €16–30. Highlights include couscous and almond-based desserts.
- 7 La Prima Dea, Via Vittorio Emanuele, 17, ☏ +39 0923 869223, [email protected]. 12:00–15:00, 18:30–23:00 daily; closed 11 Nov–20 Dec. Refined restaurant serving traditional Erice recipes and seasonal specialities. Indoor and outdoor seating available. A commemorative plaque outside marks the birthplace of Rocco La Russa Peraino, a local patriot and physician who died fighting with Garibaldi at the Battle of Ponte dell'Ammiraglio in 1860.
- 8 La Pentolaccia, Via G.F. Guarnotti, 17, ☏ +39 0923 869099, [email protected]. Small, informal restaurant known for homemade pasta and regional starters. Relaxed and good value.
- 9 Ristorante Caffé San Rocco, Via F. Guarnotti, 23, ☏ +39 0923869337, [email protected]. A family-run restaurant open year-round, with a rustic interior of stone and exposed wood, offering traditional Sicilian dishes alongside a good local wine selection.
Drink
[edit]
From shaded cafés in the historic centre to beachside bars and summer music events, Erice and its surrounding districts offer a range of places to relax, including stops along the local wine route. The Birrificio Baroni "Birra Erice" is a good local beer to try.
Wine route
[edit]The hills around Erice form part of the officially designated Erice DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), one of 13 wine routes in Sicily. The area's clay-limestone soils, Mediterranean climate, and strong day–night temperature shifts support a range of native and international grape varieties. Wines from Nero d’Avola, Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia, Zibibbo, Syrah, and Chardonnay are among the most common.
To learn more, arrange tastings, vineyard tours, or book accommodation, see the winery listings under Val di Mazara Wine Region.
In late August, the historic centre hosts Borgo diVino in Tour, a travelling wine and food festival. Dozens of Sicilian wineries, food vendors, and live performers gather in piazzas like Piazza della Loggia and Piazza San Giuliano, offering a relaxed way to sample local wines.
- 1 Domus Blanca Lounge Bar, Via Gian Filippo Guarnotti, 60. Cocktail bar with garden seating and a small boutique attached. Serves refined cocktails in a quiet, design-focused setting.
- 2 Ristorante Nuovo Edelweiss, Piazza della Loggia, 4. Set on Erice’s main square, this relaxed spot is a pleasant place for an aperitivo while people-watching in the evening sun. Run by friendly owners (and their charming dog Napoleon), it’s also known for a surprisingly good carbonara if you decide to stay for dinner.
- 3 Moonteasy Pizzeria Ristorante Bar, Piazza della Loggia, 13. All-day bar and casual eatery right on Erice’s main square. Outdoor tables are perfect for sipping cocktails or local wines in the evening sun. Open year-round and a relaxed spot for both drinks and light bites.
- 4 Caffè del Balio, Via Vicolo Balio. Charming seasonal café set in the Balio Gardens, perfect for a granita or cold drink on a hot day. The historical building offers shaded outdoor tables and panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. A peaceful spot to rest and refresh in summer.
Buy
[edit]Shops mainly sell local specialties such as almond pastries, marzipan, ceramics, woven textiles, and regional food products. Most are located near Porta Trapani and Piazza della Loggia. Many shops offer tastings, and some also operate as cafés or wine bars.
- 1 La Sicilia in Bocca (Gourmet food and wine shop), Via Vittorio Emanuele. Specialty food store offering tastings of local wines, cheeses, sweets, and preserves. Friendly service and carefully selected products.
- 2 Domus Blanca Boutique (Fashion and artisan goods), Via Gian Filippo Guarnotti, 60. Stylish concept boutique attached to the Domus Blanca lounge bar. Sells contemporary fashion, accessories, and handmade decor.
- 3 Pasticceria Maria Grammatico (Maria Grammatico pastry shop), Via Vittorio Emanuele. Historic pastry shop founded by Maria Grammatico, known for traditional almond sweets and genovesi. Offers takeaway, a small café area, and cooking classes.
- 4 A Putia du Mastru d’Ascia (The Shop of the Master Carpenter), Via Vittorio Emanuele 80. Artisan wood shop showcasing handcrafted Sicilian wooden pieces—decor objects, small furnishings, toys, lamps, and unique souvenirs—linked to the Agueci woodworking atelier in nearby Valderice.
Sleep
[edit]Most accommodations are in the historic upper town, often housed in former monasteries or stone buildings with views of the sea or mountains. These lodgings blend historic charm with basic modern amenities. Additional options, including beach resorts and larger hotels, are found in the coastal district of Casa Santa and along San Giuliano Beach.
- 1 Hotel Il Carmine Dimora Storica, Piazza del Carmine. Converted 15th-century Carmelite monastery next to the Church of the Annunziata. Offers a quiet courtyard and preserved architectural features.
- 2 Residence San Martino, Via San Martino. Small residence with courtyard rooms combining historic details and modern comfort.
- 3 Hotel Elimo, Via Vittorio Emanuele, 73. Traditional hotel with panoramic views, a restaurant, and helpful staff.
- 4 Casa Cattauro, Via Sales, 33, ☏ +39 0923 568824. A B&B featuring a terrace with views of the Church of Saint John the Baptist and Monte Cofano.
- 5 Venere di Erice Resort & Spa, Contrada Santa Croce. Modern resort just below the historic centre, featuring coastal views, pool, and spa. Reservations recommended as it sometimes closes in winter.
- 6 Baia dei Mulini Resort & Spa (Hotel Baia dei Mulini), Lungomare Dante Alighieri, Lido di Erice, ☏ +39 0923 841111. Beachfront hotel with sea-view rooms, pool, tennis, and direct beach access. Popular with families and groups.
Stay safe
[edit]Erice is generally a very safe destination with low rates of crime. Violent incidents are rare, and visitors can explore both the historic centre and coastal districts with confidence. That said, there are a few practical concerns to keep in mind:
- Slippery streets – The cobbled lanes of the upper town can become slick when wet, especially during fog or rain. Wear shoes with good grip, and watch your step on uneven paving.
- Fog and visibility – The hilltop is often shrouded in mist, especially in the early morning or evening. Take extra care when driving up or down the mountain, and avoid hiking alone in low visibility.
- Driving – Roads leading to Erice are steep, winding, and sometimes narrow. Drive cautiously, especially at night or in poor weather.
- Hiking safety – If venturing onto rural trails or forest paths, carry water, wear proper footwear, and check weather forecasts. Mobile reception may be limited in remote areas.
Cope
[edit]8 Civic Hospital of Erice (Ospedale Sant'Antonio Abate), Via Cosenza, 118, Casa Santa, ☏ +39 0923 809111. Main hospital serving Erice and surrounding areas. Emergency services available.
Emergency services (Police, fire, ambulance), ☏ 112. Pan-European emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance.
Local police (Carabinieri), ☏ 113. For reporting crimes or urgent law enforcement assistance.
Fire department, ☏ 115. For reporting fires or civil protection emergencies.
9 Vito Carvini Municipal Library (Biblioteca Comunale Vito Carvini), Piazza della Loggia. Historic municipal library housed in a former palazzo. The library preserves local historical works, manuscripts and cultural collections related to Erice and the surrounding area, and serves as a quiet reading and research space within the old town.
Go next
[edit]- Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco – Shimmering coastal salt flats near Trapani, striking at sunset and rich in history.
- Aegadian Islands – Reach Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo by hydrofoil for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxed island life.
- Segesta – Visit a well-preserved Doric temple and ancient amphitheatre with sweeping countryside views.
- Stagnone Lagoon and Islands Nature Reserve – Explore shallow lagoons, salt pans, and the archaeological island of Mozia.
- Gibellina – A modern art town rebuilt after an earthquake, known for avant-garde architecture and land art.