Please sign in to post.

Cefalu day trip from Palermo, worthwhile for partial day?

My husband and I will be taking part in the Rick Steves Sicily tour starting October 20. After looking at the itinerary from Rick's website, it looks like we have a free afternoon on the 21st after visiting the Monreale cathedral. After listening to some of Rick's podcasts, it sounds like we should really try to see the fishing village of Cefalu. Would a partial afternoon and evening be a worthwhile excursion via train from Palermo? Any suggestions?

We are also free Sunday morning, but we need to meet the group at 3pm (and change hotels), and it looks like there is limited train service to Cefalu on Sundays.

I'd appreciate your input very much.
Thank you!

Posted by
1046 posts

If the weather is nice and you think you’ve seen enough Palermo, then yes. It’s small, but is enjoyable to explore, walk up La Rocca and have a drink/eats. Certainly easy enough to visit.

However, Palermo has a lot going for it and I’m surprised by how little time the RS tour actually spends there. You could have FOMO either way.

Posted by
403 posts

During a two week road trip in Sicily, September, 2022 we loved everywhere and everything. The only miss was Cefalu. We found it extremely crowded, touristy and, overall unwelcoming. Would happily return to Sicily…except for Cefalu. Recommend that you spend your time in Palermo.

Posted by
33 posts

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. Under the circumstances, it seems wise for us to remain in Palermo.