Castellammare del Golfo is a harbour town in western Sicily, between Palermo and Trapani. Its houses climb from a small port guarded by a castle, and the gulf in front of it offers some of the clearest water on the island.
Why visit Castellammare del Golfo
For sea, nature and history close together. Castellammare is an ideal base for the coves of the Zingaro Reserve, the village of Scopello, the Greek temple of Segesta and the beaches of San Vito Lo Capo.
Top things to do in Castellammare del Golfo
The harbour and the castle
The Arab-Norman castle stands on a rock by the harbour; it now houses a small museum. The marina and the waterfront are lively in the evening.
Scopello
A tiny village with an old tonnara (tuna fishery) and spectacular sea stacks rising from turquoise water.
The Zingaro Reserve
Sicily’s first nature reserve: a coastal path of about 7 km with coves reachable only on foot or by boat.
Segesta
A remarkably intact Doric temple and a Greek theatre on a hilltop, about 20 minutes away.
Beaches
Sandy Playa beach east of town and the cove of Guidaloca towards Scopello.
Best time to visit Castellammare del Golfo
May, June, September and October are ideal for swimming and walking in the reserve. July and August are hot and busy.
Getting to and around Castellammare del Golfo
Palermo airport is about 40 minutes away by car, Trapani about 45. The town has a station on the Palermo–Trapani line, but a car is the best way to reach Scopello, the reserve and Segesta.
What to eat in Castellammare del Golfo
Fresh fish, busiate pasta with Trapani-style pesto, couscous of fish from the Trapani tradition, cannoli and granita.
Castellammare del Golfo FAQ
How far is the Zingaro Reserve?
The southern entrance near Scopello is about 15–20 minutes by car.
Is Castellammare good for a beach holiday?
Yes: it has a sandy beach in town and many coves nearby.
