Salemi Voyage Tips and guide

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Salemi is a historic hill town in the province of Trapani, in western Sicily, Italy. It is known for its well-preserved medieval core, winding streets, and layered history stretching back to the Elymians and Romans.

The town gained wider attention as the setting for the BBC series Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job, where Amanda Holden and Alan Carr took on the renovation of a €1 house in the historic centre during the summer of 2023.

In 1860, Salemi was declared the first capital of unified Italy by Giuseppe Garibaldi during his campaign. Its strategic inland position has given it a distinctive cultural character, shaped by Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences. Earthquakes and depopulation have left parts of the old town quiet, but restoration efforts are ongoing.

Salemi is accessible by road from Trapani, Marsala, or Palermo. The nearest train stations are in Mazara del Vallo and Castelvetrano, with bus connections available to the town. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Salemi and explore the surrounding rural areas and wine country.

The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot, with its narrow streets, stairways, and panoramic viewpoints. Free parking is available outside the historic core. A car is recommended if you plan to visit the countryside or nearby towns.

• 37.8183712.800751 Castello Normanno-Svevo (Castello di Salemi), Piazza Alicia. A Norman-Swabian castle with panoramic views over the surrounding hills. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been used for various civic and ceremonial events. Occasionally hosts exhibitions and cultural programs. 

• 37.8171312.80182 Church of San Bartolomeo (Chiesa di San Bartolomeo), Via Francesco d'Aguirre. A beautiful example of Baroque ecclesiastical architecture, this church features ornate interior decoration and an impressive facade. It stands on the site of an earlier medieval church. 

• 37.8175512.800843 Museum of the Mafia (Museo della Mafia), Ex Collegio dei Gesuiti, Piazza Alicia. Housed in a former Jesuit college, this museum offers an engaging and sobering look at Sicily’s relationship with organised crime, featuring multimedia exhibits and historical documentation. 

Stroll through the medieval alleys of the old town, visit the local museums, or take part in festivals such as the Feast of San Giuseppe in March, known for its elaborate bread altars. Nature lovers can also explore the nearby Belice River valley or enjoy rural agritourism experiences in the surrounding countryside.

• 37.82812.81 Trek in Bosco Angimbè (Salemi CAI) (Guided hike in Bosco Angimbè woodland), Meet at Salemi (parkingVittime di Nassiriya); hike proceeds toward Bosco Angimbè. Guided walks scheduled seasonally; confirm with CAI Salemi. This guided hike, organised by the local CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) section, leads through 200 ha of cork oak woodland about 4 km north of Salemi. The 3.5 km loop involves ca. 80 m of elevation gain and takes around 3½ hours, with breaks included. Trails pass under dense shrubs and scenic viewpoints. Ideal for hikers seeking nature close to town. Free (optional lunch €7; CAI members only activity). 

Salemi is known for traditional bread crafts, ceramics, and locally produced olive oil and wine. Small artisan shops and occasional street markets offer handmade goods and regional food products.

Local cuisine blends inland Sicilian flavours with Arab and Mediterranean influence. Expect hearty pastas, stews, and dishes based on legumes, seasonal vegetables, and lamb. Don’t miss local specialities like pane votivo (decorative bread) and almond-based pastries. Agriturismi in the nearby countryside also offer farm-to-table dining experiences.

Salemi lies within the Western Sicily Wine Region, and local producers craft high-quality wines including Nero d'Avola, Grillo, and Catarratto. You can sample wines in nearby cellars or during local festivals. Several bars in the old town offer aperitivo with regional wines and views over the hills.

Accommodation in Salemi includes boutique B&Bs, guesthouses in restored buildings, and rural agriturismi just outside town. It’s a quiet, authentic base for travelers looking to explore western Sicily off the beaten path.

• Segesta – A stunning ancient Greek temple and theatre set in rolling countryside, just a short drive north.
• Marsala – A coastal town known for its wine, baroque streets, and nearby salt pans.
• Western Sicily Wine Region – Salemi is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, with scenic wine routes stretching across the valleys.