Our recent adventure took us from the historic city of Pisa to the sun-soaked shores of Sicily, and what a journey it was!
Starting in the charming town of Trapani, we indulged in some of the region's finest cuisine, basked in the wild beauty of Pantelleria, and wrapped up our trip with a brief but memorable visit to Palermo.
Arriving in Trapani
We began our trip by flying from Pisa to Trapani, a city that surprised us with its serene, almost deserted streets. After landing, we headed straight to Casemiro, a local gastronomia where the vibe is easy-going, and the food is ordered right from the stand. The simplicity of the setup didn't prepare us for the delicious lunch that followed—a delightful introduction to Sicilian cuisine.
In the afternoon, we took a stroll through Trapani, where we stopped for a Granita da Colicchia. It came highly recommended, but honestly, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. The granita was refreshing, but nothing out of the ordinary. However, our spirits were lifted when we found Meno Tredici, a small ice cream shop that served some of the best gelato we've had in Sicily. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it was an absolute treat.
For dinner, we opted for a more modern dining experience at Gennaro30. The restaurant was trendy and offered a fresh twist on traditional Sicilian dishes. The evening in Trapani was quiet—almost eerily so—with barely a soul in sight. It felt like we had the whole city to ourselves.
Onward to Pantelleria
The next morning, we took the ferry to Pantelleria, a rugged island known for its wild landscapes and vibrant nightlife. The ferry ride was about 2.5 hours long, and with the sun beating down, we were hoping for some wind to cool us off, but unfortunately, there was none. The heat was intense, but it was all worth it when we finally arrived at this untamed paradise.
We spent every day on a boat, exploring the island's hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. After each sun-soaked adventure, we made a beeline for Katia al Porto to indulge in their granita. It quickly became our daily ritual, with each icy treat more delicious than the last. For those with a sweet tooth, we also discovered Ulisse, where the ice cream was divine, offering a perfect end to our boat-filled days.
Dinner in Pantelleria was a highlight, with three standout restaurants: L'Officina Coste Ghirlanda, I Giardini di Rodo, and Zá Teré. Each offered a unique dining experience, from rustic charm to elegant sophistication, and all served up exquisite meals that celebrated the flavors of the island. After dinner, we often found ourselves at Tanit Lounge Bar. With cool music and a laid-back vibe, it was the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the island's vibrant nightlife, which seemed to be filled with techno beats wherever we went.
A Day in Palermo
Our journey concluded with a flight from Pantelleria to Palermo. We had just one day to explore this bustling city, and while it was a whirlwind visit, it left a lasting impression. We spent the day at Rocco Forte Villa Igiea, a luxury hotel that promised much but, unfortunately, fell short.
Despite this, Palermo itself was delightful. It was our first time in the city, and we were struck by its lively atmosphere, a stark contrast to the quiet streets of Trapani. The city was brimming with tourists, all of us enduring the relentless heat, but the rich history and vibrant culture made it all worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Our trip through Sicily was a blend of unexpected surprises and unforgettable experiences. From the empty streets of Trapani to the wild beauty of Pantelleria, and the bustling energy of Palermo, Sicily is a land of contrasts that beckons to be explored. Whether you’re looking for tranquility, adventure, or a taste of Sicilian life, this enchanting island has something to offer every traveler.