15 things to see and do in Cefalù, the most beautiful town in Sicily

Cefalù is often hailed as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy, and once you approach it along the coastal road, you'll quickly understand why. This charming village, with its rich Arab-Norman heritage, attracts visitors from all over the world. Its picturesque landscapes and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Sicily. In this article, we will explore 15 things to see and do in Cefalù, ensuring you don't miss out on any of its unique offerings.

If you're wondering, yes, this is the same town featured in the second season of "White Lotus." However, cinephiles may recall it more for the iconic film "Nuovo Cinema Paradiso," directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, which also filmed several scenes here.

To kickstart your adventure, consider joining a free walking tour. It's an excellent way to break the ice with this enchanting destination!

1. Discover the Old Port: Cefalù's Most Beautiful Area

If you only have time for one activity, head straight to the Old Port. Stroll to the end of the small dock, and take in one of the best views in Sicily. You'll see the stunning Cefalù beach lined with charming white, cream, and yellow buildings that appear to rise from the sand itself.

For an even more breathtaking perspective, consider taking a boat tour along the coastline.

2. Take a Dip in the Refreshing Waters

Don't forget your swimsuit, as resisting the urge to take a refreshing dip is nearly impossible! During peak season, if the beach feels crowded, just keep walking along the extensive shoreline until you find your perfect spot.

3. Enchanting Spots for Watching the Sunset

At the pier, there are two must-visit spots for sunset viewing. The first is through a small gate in the wall that leads to the rocks and the open sea. The second involves climbing a few steps to the top of the wall for a panoramic view. Both locations offer magical sunset experiences, though the scenery is beautiful at any time of day.

4. Stroll Along Via Vittorio Emanuele and Corso Ruggero

Explore Via Vittorio Emanuele and Corso Ruggero, the two main thoroughfares in Cefalù. These streets are packed with shops, selling everything from ethnic clothing to ceramics, and are home to various eateries serving famous cannoli and chic restaurants.

5. Climb the Rock of Cefalù: A Must-See

Make your way up to the Rock of Cefalù, which towers over the town. The hike begins at the "Cuesta de los Sarracenos" and takes about 30-40 minutes, passing through three ancient walls.

At the top, you'll find the ruins of the Temple of Diana dating back to the 9th century BC, an ancient castle, and breathtaking viewpoints. There's a small fee of 5€ to access the site, but the views will take your breath away.

Interestingly, the Rock's shape resembles a head, which is reflected in the town's name, Cefalù, derived from the Greek word "kephaloidion," meaning "head." Don't miss this experience; it's one of the top things to do in Cefalù!

6. Via Carbonari: A Hidden Gem

After your descent, take a detour through Via Carbonari. Keep an eye on your left to spot the narrowest street you’ve ever seen!

7. Visit the Cefalù Cathedral

The Cefalù Cathedral is a sight not to be missed. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, this cathedral features unique Arab-Norman architecture and offers a delightful little square. However, be cautious of surrounding cafes that have received poor reviews for their high service charges and average quality.

While we couldn't enter the cathedral as it was closed, we learned that it houses a stunning 6th-century Byzantine mosaic and a remarkable Norman cloister, the only one of its kind in Sicily. Legend has it that Roger II commissioned the cathedral after surviving a shipwreck and arriving in Cefalù.

8. Piazza Duomo: A Central Hub

In Piazza Duomo, you can also admire the Town Hall, which was once the Monastery of Santa Catalina, alongside the beautiful Palazzo Pirajno, Palazzo Maria, and the ancient Vescovile Seminary, one of the oldest in Sicily. It's best to sit on the steps of the cathedral and watch the world go by; you won't get bored!

9. Explore Piazza Garibaldi

Another charming square worth visiting is Piazza Garibaldi, located a bit further from the town center. The ambiance here feels more local and is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Chiesa di Maria SS della Catena, the historic Porta Maggiore, one of the ancient city's gateways, and the Clock Tower.

10. Chiesa della Badiola: A Historical Treasure

The Chiesa della Badiola is another historical site worth exploring. Dating back to 1159, it was built by Roger II before the cathedral. Initially dedicated to Saints George and Lawrence, it transformed into an orphanage in the 17th century, giving it its current name.

11. Osterio Magno: A Royal Residence

On Corso Ruggero stands the magnificent Osterio Magno, once a residence for King Roger II of Sicily. This palace has passed through the hands of various nobles and has been enhanced over time. The striking “bichromatic palazzetto” is particularly notable, combining yellow sandstone with black lava rock.

12. Via Ortolani di Bordonaro Carlo: A Scenic Walk

From the Old Port heading north lies the picturesque Via Ortolani di Bordonaro Carlo. It's a fantastic place to grab a drink at one of the terraces, bars, or restaurants. Following the coast, you’ll reach the Chiesa dell’Itria, where you can climb stairs to the Bastione di Capo Marchiafava, a 17th-century defensive bastion offering expansive sea views.

13. Medieval Washhouse: A Unique Historical Site

A quirky attraction is the Medieval Washhouse, where women once gathered to wash clothes. You can still see the beautifully preserved curved staircase leading to the spring, along with the stone basins and supports used for laundry.

14. Porta Pescara: A Romantic Spot

Nearby is Porta Pescara, an access point to the sea that boasts stunning views. This spot is a favorite among Instagram enthusiasts and couples. Legend has it that if you kiss your partner here, you'll be together forever—though there’s no scientific backing for this, it’s worth a try!

15. Stroll Along the Lungomare

Another delightful activity in Cefalù is to walk along the Lungomare, the town's waterfront promenade. Here, you can soak in the scent of the sea while passing by various lidos (private beach areas offering sunbeds and umbrellas) and public beaches, not to mention chic cafes and eateries. The views of the town below and the promontory are absolutely beautiful.

Extra: Where to Eat in Cefalù

If you're on a budget, we recommend Pasta & Pasti, where you can enjoy delicious pasta dishes starting from just 6€. For a nicer dining experience, Al Porticciolo offers seafood menus and a variety of pasta (12-17€) and pizza options.

Don't forget to indulge in a gelato or a cannoli! We tried some at Gelateria del Lavatoio, located by the Medieval Washhouse, where there's a bench perfect for enjoying your treats. The gelato costs around 2€, while the cannoli is about 2.50€, both of which were delightful.

Map of Things to See and Do in Cefalù

Here's a helpful map highlighting all the interesting spots in Cefalù:

We hope your visit is fantastic, and if you have any additional tips or suggestions for things to do in Cefalù, we’re all ears!

For those planning their trip, here are some tips to save on your journey:

How to Climb the Rock of Cefalù