Cefalù Destination in Sicily · Province of Palermo

The main things to see in Cefalù are close together: the Norman cathedral with its medieval mosaics, the old town around it, and La Rocca, the rock that rises above the rooftops. The beach starts right at the edge of the old town, so you can go sightseeing and swimming on the same day.

Things to see in Cefalù

The cathedral

Cefalù Cathedral is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Normans built it under King Roger II, and it is known for its medieval mosaics. The largest is the Christ Pantocrator in the apse above the altar. In front of the two-towered facade lies Piazza Duomo, the main square of the old town.

The old town

Narrow streets lined with historic buildings run off Piazza Duomo. One stop is the medieval washhouse, the Lavatoio, where water still runs into stone basins. The Museo Mandralisca holds a portrait of a man by Antonello da Messina, the best-known piece in its collection. In the evening, people come out to walk along the Corso, the old town's main street.

La Rocca

A footpath climbs from the old town up La Rocca, the rocky promontory above Cefalù, with panoramic views over the roofs, the cathedral and the coast. Along the way are the remains of the so-called Temple of Diana. The path is steep in places and has little shade. In summer, start in the morning and bring water.

Beach, sea and food

Cefalù's beaches work for quiet days by the water and for water sports alike. The town beach starts at the edge of the old town, and from the water you can see the cathedral and La Rocca.

The town's trattorias and restaurants serve Sicilian cooking, from fresh fish and seafood to pasta and desserts. Cannoli, a Sicilian specialty, are on most menus.

Where Cefalù is and what's nearby

Cefalù is a coastal town on Sicily's north coast, in the Province of Palermo. The mountains of the Madonie Regional Natural Park rise behind it, with countryside and small villages. That makes the town a practical base for a day trip inland.

When to go

On the north coast near Palermo, long-term averages put July and August daytime highs at about 30 °C (86 °F), with the sea around 28 °C (82 °F). June and September reach about 27 °C (81 °F), with water at roughly 24 °C (75 °F) and 26 °C (79 °F). In October, air and sea both sit around 23 °C (74 °F). For the cathedral, the old streets and the climb up La Rocca, May (about 23 °C / 73 °F) and October are more comfortable than midsummer. Swimmers find the warmest water from June through September. Winter highs run from 14 to 16 °C (57 to 61 °F).

Parking in Cefalù

If you arrive by car, a few rules in the center are worth knowing:

• Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL): The town center has restricted traffic zones. Non-residents are usually not allowed in during certain hours. Watch the signs to avoid fines or towing.
• Blue lines: They mark paid short-term spaces with meters that take coins or cards. Rates depend on the location and time of day.
• Public lots: There are several public parking lots in and around the town center, signposted "Parcheggio".
• Free parking: Free spaces are available a little farther from the center, a short walk from the old town.
• Arrive early: In peak season, spaces near the old town fill up during the morning.

If your accommodation is within walking distance of the center, leave the car parked. The old town is easy to explore on foot.