Grotta Mangiapane
When looking for day trips from Palermo that are off the traditional tourist trail, then Grotta Mangiapane is one of those must-see places in Sicily.
Grotta Mangiapane is a small village, inhabited from 1819 until the mid-1900s. The main part of the village is built within the walls of a cave and apparently, they have left everything exactly the same as it once was.
The bedrooms, saloon, kitchen, art studio & pottering-making studio are all still intact.
Today it’s more of a museum, visitors are free to explore the area and many of the rooms can only be viewed from the doorway. Entry is free, they just ask for a donation as you leave.
While exploring this area it felt like we could have been in Mexico or the Wild West. The landscape was very dry, cactuses lined the path and the wooden farming equipment looked like it came from a film set.
The main part of the village in the cave is incredible, and one of the most unique places I visited in Sicily.
Grotta Mangiapane is a hidden gem in Sicily and as an added bonus, there’s a stunning beach only a 15-minute drive away.
Baia di Cornino
This beach was far less crowded than Mondello or Cefalù, with plenty of space to spread out. The first 50 meters of the water is a bit rocky, with lots of seaweed patches. But there was a floating walkway so all that could easily be avoided. Towards the end of the walkway, the pristine ocean will make you fall even more in love with the Sicilian coastline.
To make these ocean views even more beautiful, there are stunning mountains hugging the coastline on both sides.
Also, Baia di Cornino has two restaurants, I really enjoyed our light meal and drinks at Tribe Dynamic Bar.
Distance from Palermo: 94 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, there is free parking at Grotta Mangiapane and at the beach, there is a car park across the road that charges .30 cents an hour. Although the machine doesn’t give change so keep small coins handy.
San Vito Lo Capo
When searching for idyllic day trips from Palermo that offer an escape from the beaten tourist path, San Vito Lo Capo is another amazing option. This captivating town is nestled along Sicily’s picturesque coastline.
San Vito Lo Capo boasts a magnificent beach that stretches for 3 km, delighting visitors with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. As you take your first steps into the gentle waves, you’ll feel a sense of complete relaxation. There are many sun beds available for hire on the sand, but still, plenty of room has been left for other beachgoers.
The beach is famous for its natural beauty and has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status, a testament to its cleanliness and environmental preservation.
Aside from its breathtaking shoreline, San Vito Lo Capo offers a charming town centre filled with vibrant colours and a laid-back atmosphere. There is some really good shopping so take time to stroll through its narrow streets and explore these quaint shops. Also, plenty of cafes, and restaurants serving up delicious local delicacies.
Distance from Palermo: 109 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, there’s plenty of free street parking. Although, parking is timed, just leave a small note on your dash with the time you arrived – I love this honesty policy.
There is also, Autoservizi Russo offering a tourist shuttle between Palermo & San Vito Lo Capo for 9.40 euros one way.
Castellammare
Nestled on a picturesque hill, Castellammare is a charming town with insane views of the port & sparkling sea. You’ll find yourself strolling through its streets, where colourful buildings draped in bougainvillea set the scene for a relaxed coastal vibe that’s totally infectious.
Castellammare is a quieter town and not one you would need to spend the whole day at. It’s in the perfect location to stop by before or after visiting somewhere like San Vito Lo Capo, Scopello or Zingaro Nature Reserve.
If it works with your plans I would recommend ending your day here before heading back to Palermo. The town often has a vibrant seaside market and plenty of dining options with ocean views.
Distance from Palermo: 66 km
Best transport option: Self-drive
Zingaro Nature Reserve
To step away from civilization and embrace Sicily’s picturesque coastline, you need to take a day trip from Palermo to Zingaro Nature Reserve. The protected, 7 km, coastal strip boasts rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and an abundance of native flora and fauna. As you hike along its well-marked trails, be prepared to be mesmerized by the unspoiled beauty of this pristine wilderness.
There are two entrances to Zingaro; the north entrance is 12 km from San Vito Lo Capo and the south entrance is only 1 km away from Scopello.
The entrance fee to Zingaro Nature Reserve is 5 euros and there isn’t any food or drink available inside. So pack what you’ll need for the day, remembering to take plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Distance from Palermo: 77 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, and start from the southern entrance near Scopello. There is also the option to book a tourist shuttle with Autoservizi Russo, going via Castellammare from Palermo. This transport option is more time-consuming though and if travelling in peak season you should pre-book these tickets on their website.
Scopello
Don’t let the size of this tiny town give you the idea it isn’t worth visiting. Scopello is absolutely stunning, a hidden gem along Sicily’s breathtaking coastline. This charming seaside village is a must-visit destination that will steal your heart. With idyllic beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere, Scopello offers the perfect escape from everyday life.
Imagine lounging on soft sandy beaches, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun, and taking refreshing dips in crystal-clear turquoise waters. The most popular beach in Scopello is Tonnara di Scopello but this beach does come with a hefty price tag. During August entrance to Tonnara di Scopello is 15 euros per person (or 7 euros if you’re staying in town). I had read that during the quieter months, this beach only cost 4.5 euros to enter.
If you aren’t interested in paying this fee, there’s still the rest of Scopello’s mesmerizing coastline. With rugged cliffs and hidden coves, you’re invited to explore and find your own private paradise. We settled for the day at Cala Dell ‘Ovo and it was absolutely divine, I only wish we had brought along our snorkelling gear!
Before leaving Scopello, take some time to wander through the village’s narrow cobblestone streets and get some food in one of the laid-back cafes.
Distance from Palermo: 76 km
Best transport option: Self-drive and there’s free parking near the village entrance.