Cefalù Tourist Information

What to see in Cefalù

Many tourists are attracted by Cefalù's sandy beach, stretching alongside the town. It is very attractive, but you should be prepared to find the beach crowded in summer months, and lined with fee-charging beach establishments.

Set in the medieval district, Cefalù's most obvious tourist attraction is the town's Duomo, an attractive two-towered Norman cathedral. Begun in 1131, this mighty church dominates the town's rooftops. Imposing and attractive, the building's interior is decorated with lovely mosaics dating back to 1138: a large Christ Pantocrator on a gold background dominating the apse, above the Madonna, archangels and Apostles.

Towering above the Duomo and the town centre is the massive crag called the Rocca. It's a steep climb to the top of the mountain (take a bottle of water and don't attempt in high temperatures) but it's well worth the effort. Near the top you'll reach the splendid ruins of the 'Tempio di Diana' (temple of Diana)' an ancient megalithic stone structure which was given a modernisation in the 5th-century BC in the classical Greek style. Around the summit of the Rocca are superb views and various bits of old fortifications, including a stretch of (reconstructed) battlements.

Back in town visitors can admire the picturesque harbour, alleys and medieval buildings. A Saracen wash-house, the Lavatoio is another sight worth seeing, as is the medieval Osterio Magno, the remaining part of a large 13th-century palace.

Around Cefalù, places of interest include the Sanctuary of Gibilmanna, a hillside pilgrimage destination, the ruins of Greek Himera and the Monti Madonie mountains, where holiday-makers will find skiing in winter and good hiking in spring and autumn. Palermo is an hour away by train, and the volcanic Aeolian Islands (including Vulcano) can be reached by hydrofoil in the summer.

Cefalù is pronounced chef-a-loo, with the stress on the accented last syllable.

Travel to Cefalù

Cefalù is within reach of the international airport at Palermo, which is served by direct budget flights from the UK. The two towns are connected by the Autostrada 20. and also by a railway line (with trains approximately hourly). Urban bus lines A, B and C provide transport within Cefalù, and more bus services link the town with surrounding towns and villages.

Cefalù accommodation

Hotel Alberi del Paradiso ****

This four-star hotel, whose name means 'trees of paradise', is a very comfortable option for staying in Cefalù. Uphill from the old town, the hotel is set in gardens and has an outdoors swimming-pool-with-a-view, a tennis court, children's play area and a restaurant: many more features than you would generally find in an urban hotel in Italy. A nice place to relax and enjoy thoroughly modern facilities.

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Atlantide B&B

The Atlantide bed and breakfast is a cheap and comfortable place to stay close to Cefalù; ideal for those travelling by car. It has very good reviews from past guests, a peaceful and attractive location, and large comfortable bedrooms. Have a look at the photographs to see the view from the B&B.

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Hotel Astro ***

The Astro is fairly typical Italian three-star hotel: nothing special, but a convenient place to spend a night or two. It has single, double and triple rooms with all-important air-conditioning for a summer break. The hotel has its own section of beach, and has a reasonably useful location for walking into the old town and for the railway station. Recommended by the Rough Guide.

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Case Molo Apartments

If you prefer an independent stay and appreciate a self-catering option, there are a number of holiday apartments available in the town. The Case Molo apartments are simple but well-equipped, have a shared terrace with sea views and are close to the sea.

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