Holiday in Cefalù

About Cefalù

Cefalù is one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Sicily, combining everything that the island has to offer in a compact space: a golden sandy beach right in front of the medieval old town, an imposing Norman cathedral with Byzantine mosaics, winding alleys adorned with bougainvillea, and the dramatic rock La Rocca, which looms over the town like a guardian. Located just 70 kilometers east of Palermo, Cefalù is the perfect beach destination for those who want to combine sun and culture. The cathedral of Cefalù, built in the 12th century under the Norman king Roger II, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses one of the most impressive Christ mosaics in the world. The gold-backgrounded Christ Pantokrator in the apse gazes down at visitors with an intense look and is considered one of the masterpieces of Byzantine art. The two massive towers of the cathedral dominate the city skyline and are visible from everywhere. The ascent to La Rocca, the 270-meter-high limestone rock behind the town, is a must. The path leads past the remains of a temple dedicated to Diana and a Norman fortress, ending with a breathtaking panorama over the old town, the beach, and the Aeolian Islands on the horizon. The city beach of Cefalù, the Lungomare, is a wide sandy strip directly below the old town with crystal-clear water and views of the medieval houses. Cefalù is also an excellent starting point for excursions to the Madonie National Park with its mountain villages and hiking trails or for boat tours to the offshore coves. In summer, the nightlife pulses in the bars and restaurants of the old town, which fill up late into the night. From Germany, you can fly to Palermo (Falcone-Borsellino) in just two and a half hours and reach Cefalù in an hour by train or rental car. The best travel time is from May to October, with high summer being able to get quite hot. Cefalù offers excellent value for money compared to the more famous Italian coastal towns.