15 Fun Things to Do in Castellammare del Golfo Sicily with Kids
Heading to Castellammare del Golfo and not sure what to put into your itinerary? We can help you there!
Castellammare del Golfo is a beautiful little coastal town located on the northwest part of Sicily.
This is where John’s parents are from, so we visit his family there as often as we can.
Castellammare is a great destination for a family vacation, with plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do that are suitable for kids.
From beautiful beaches to historic landmarks, an awesome food scene, and a nature preserve, this Sicilian town has it all.
Ready to learn more? Let’s dive right in!
Where is Castellammare del Golfo Located?
Castellammare del Golfo is a small coastal town located in the province of Trapani.
It is situated on the northwest coast of Sicily, on the Gulf of Castellammare, and is about 68 kilometres west of the city of Palermo.
Things to do in Castellammare del Golfo Sicily with Kids
There are so many awesome things to do in Castellammare del Golfo with kids.
Depending on your interests, your budget and how much time you have, you can stay pretty busy when visiting this coastal town.
Or perhaps, just lounging at the beach might sound even better (and we have definitely done this)!
1. Visit the Castle by the Sea
The Castle by the Sea, also known as the Arab-Norman Castle, is a popular tourist attraction in Castellammare del Golfo.
It is a medieval castle that was built by the Normans in the 11th century and later expanded and fortified by the Arabs.
The castle, which the town is actually built around, sits on a promontory overlooking the sea.
Not only does it offer some really nice views of the town, there is also a small museum tucked inside.
We took a peak inside during our last visit and found some pretty interesting artifacts and exhibits.
You only need about an hour to visit, so it’s perfect if you have younger children, or are short on time.
The castle is open to the public and can be visited during regular opening hours.
2. Dive into Some Fresh Seafood at the Marina
The marina in Castellammare del Golfo is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Not only is it a hub for the town’s nightlife, but this is where you will find the absolute best seafood in the area!
There are a number of restaurants located around the marina that serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
You will find everything from grilled fish and seafood pasta to seafood platters, fried calamari, specialty dishes like sea urchins, and even seafood pizza.
Many of the restaurants have outdoor seating with views of the marina and the sea.
We make it a point to try a different restaurant at the Marina every time we visit. And so far, we have not been disappointed once!
The fish is fresh, the views are gorgeous (especially when the sun sets), and it is the perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing.
3. Shop Local at Quattro Canti
Quattro Canti is a shopping street located in the center of Castellammare del Golfo.
It is a popular pedestrian-only area known for its local stores and markets.
The street is home to a number of bistros, small shops and boutiques selling a variety of items, including clothing, jewelry, gifts, and souvenirs.
You can also find a number of local markets at Quattro Canti, where you can buy fresh produce, meat, and fish from local vendors.
During our stay, we were able to grab many of our groceries from the markets, as they were quite close to our rental.
Just keep in mind, that many of the markets are a little more expensive than the larger grocery store located in the centre of the town.
But if you’re looking to shop local and support small businesses, Quattro Canti is a great place to do so.
It’s also a great place to wander and explore, as you never know what hidden treasures you might discover.
In fact, one of John’s cousins owns a small shop in the Quattro Canti area, selling a variety of handmade purses, accessories, and decor.
4. Have Trouble Choosing a Flavour at Gelateria Vernaci
Gelateria Vernaci is, without a doubt, the best place to get Italian gelato in town.
And we should know! We were there EVERY NIGHT of our stay in Castellammare del Golfo!
Let’s just say, the lovely people working there would greet us by name!
Not only does Gelateria Vernaci have a wonderful selection of regular gelato, but they also have a large selection of Vegan flavours as well.
And considering I have a dairy allergy, this made my trip!
From incredible flavours like Tiramisu, Amarena cherry, pistachio, mango, stracciatella, and espresso, to just the basic but delicious chocolate or vanilla, we guarantee you will have a hard time deciding!
If you’re having trouble making up your mind, you might consider trying a small sample of a few different flavours before making a decision.
Or just do what we did, and come back every night until we had tried them all!
5. Listen to Live Music at Villa Comunale Regina Margherita
Villa Comunale Regina Margherita is a public park located in Castellammare del Golfo.
This popular park is named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, and it was created in the late 19th century as a public recreational area for the town.
It is located just down the street from Quattro Canti and is considered part of the pedestrian-only area.
Conveniently located next to many great restaurants and eateries (like Gelateria Vernaci!), the park is a popular meeting place in the evening for families, couples, and anyone else looking for a place to enjoy their take-out.
Villa Comunale Regina Margherita is also home to a number of cultural events and activities throughout the year.
This may include live music performances, theatre performances, and other entertainment.
If you’re interested in listening to live music in the park, you can check at the local tourist office or do some online research to find out about any upcoming events.
6. Climb the Many Sets of Stairs from the Marina into the Town
Castellammare del Golfo is a town built on a hill.
As a result, there are many, MANY, sets of stairs that lead from the marina up into the town.
Climbing the stairs can be a good way to get some exercise, work off the bucket loads of gelato that you are eating, and explore the off-the-beaten-path areas of town.
The stairs are also a popular spot for tourists to take some Instagram-worthy photos.
If you’re planning on climbing the stairs from the marina into the town, be prepared for a bit of a workout.
The stairs can be steep, and a little uneven at times, and there are many of them, so you may want to wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
The view from the top is worth the effort, however, and you’ll be rewarded with some jaw-dropping views of the town and the surrounding sea.
7. Enjoy the Views at the Belvedere Castellammare del Golfo
The Belvedere Castellammare del Golfo is a popular tourist destination located just above Castellammare del Golfo.
The Belvedere, which is Italian for “beautiful view” is located on a hill overlooking the town.
It is a great spot to visit if you want to enjoy the scenery. But it’s an even better spot to grab some Insta-worthy and truly epic photos of the town, marina, castle and the sea.
To reach the Belvedere, you can either walk or drive up to the viewpoint.
There is a parking area nearby if you choose to drive. If you are walking, there are stairs and a path leading up to the Belvedere from the town below.
Once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll find a terrace with benches and a railing, where you can sit and enjoy the views.
There are also picnic tables, restrooms, and a hotel located just next to the viewing area.
We also noticed that there were always several food carts and vendors located in the parking area.
This is perfect if you just worked up an appetite walking up to the Viewpoint.
And speaking of food, there is also an excellent restaurant (Ristorante Quetzal) conveniently located adjacent to the viewpoint.
We enjoyed some incredible pizza and seafood dishes there, and would definitely recommend it.
The Belvedere is always open to the public. However the parking lot is not very large, so it does get busy during the summer months.
Local’s Tip: Be sure to visit the Belvedere during the day, as well as in the evening as both views are spectacular!
8. Build Sand Castles at Spiaggia Plaja
Spiaggia Plaja is a popular beach located in Castellammare del Golfo.
It is a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear water, and it is a great spot to relax, swim, and build sand castles.
The beach is located not too far from the center of town and is easy to reach on foot or by car.
As the largest beach in Castellammare, you won’t have to worry about finding the perfect place to sit yourself down for the day.
Alongside the beach, you will find a ton of restaurants and eateries, cafes, gift shops, and more.
They even have a few midway rides open in the evenings during the high season.
And don’t worry about bringing a beach umbrella either. There are several companies that offer umbrella services along Spiaggia Plaja.
For a very reasonable amount of money, you can rent comfortable lounge chairs and large umbrellas for the day.
And since many of these services are operated by the adjacent restaurants, they will also allow you to use their restrooms for free.
9. See the Grottos at Zingaro Nature Reserve
The Zingaro Nature Reserve is a protected area located on the northwest coast of Sicily, approximately 12 kilometres from Castellammare del Golfo.
It is a beautiful and unspoiled area known for its gorgeous coastline, crystal clear waters, and diverse plant and animal life.
The reserve is home to a number of grottos, or caves, which are popular attractions for visitors.
There are also some pretty scenic hiking paths and a beach at Zingaro Nature Reserve.
The best way to see the grottos at the Zingaro Nature Reserve is by taking a guided boat tour of the area.
There are several boat tours that operate out of Castellammare.
These tours typically include the opportunity to see the grottos from the boats, but many will allow you free time to swim or snorkel in the area.
Just be aware, if you decide to visit Zingaro Nature Reserve by car, you will be required to pay a small fee to get into the park.
10. Eat All the Cannoli at Gelateria Garibaldi
Cannoli are a traditional Sicilian dessert, and in my opinion, a little slice of heaven!
If you have not had the pleasure of trying one (just why?? 😲), they are a tube-shaped shell of fried pastry dough filled with a creamy filling, usually made with ricotta cheese.
Cannoli are a popular treat in Sicily, and you can find them at many pastry shops and gelaterias around the town.
If you’re looking to try cannoli in Castellammare del Golfo, look no further than Gelateria Garibaldi.
Gelateria Garibaldi is a small gelato shop near the popular Quattro Canti area.
While the shop is well-known for its delicious gelato, it also offers a variety of Italian sweets and pastries, including cannoli, filled croissants, waffles and crepes, Tiramisu and coffee.
With several flavours of cannoli to choose from, these are definitely a must-try when in Castellammare del Golfo.
11. Take an Evening “Passeggiata” Through the Town
The “passeggiata” is a traditional Italian custom of taking an evening stroll through the town or city.
The passeggiata is not only a popular pastime, but it is also a great way to experience the local culture, socialize with friends, and to meet new people.
If you’re in Castellammare del Golfo and want to take an evening passeggiata, there are several good routes you could follow.
One option is to walk along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the sea, the marina, and the castle lit up at night.
Another option is to walk through the town’s historic center and explore the narrow streets and charming squares.
Walk along the Quattro Canti area, where you can window shop, stop for a drink or some gelato, and then sit in the park to listen to live music.
As you walk, you’ll likely see many locals out for their evening passeggiata, and you may have the opportunity to chat with them and learn more about the town.
12. Enjoy the Tranquillity Inside Chiesa Maria Santissima del Soccorso & Chiesa della Madonna delle Grazie Churches
The Chiesa Maria Santissima del Soccorso and Chiesa della Madonna delle Grazie are two churches that are located in the heart of Castellammare del Golfo.
Both churches are Roman Catholic, and both are dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
As both churches are still active places of worship, they are open to the public.
You can enter the churches and take a look around, attend a service if you like, or just admire the gorgeous architectural details.
If you are taking pictures, be sure to be respectful of the altars.
13. Visit the Tonnara Fishing Museum at Scopello
The Tonnara Fishing Museum is a small museum located in the town of Scopello, approximately 20 kilometres west of Castellammare del Golfo.
The open-air museum is housed in a former tuna fishing factory or tonnara, and is dedicated to the history and traditions of tuna fishing in Sicily.
The Tonnara Fishing Museum offers a 30-minute guided tour which explores the history of the fishing industry and the role it played in the local community.
You can learn about the tools and techniques used to catch tuna, see photographs and artifacts from the tonnara’s history, and learn about the daily life of the fishermen who worked there.
To visit the Tonnara Fishing Museum at Scopello, you can drive or take a bus from Castellammare del Golfo to Scopello.
The museum is open to the public and has regular hours of operation, although these change depending on the season.
And in case the museum leaves you wanting more, the Tonnara at Scopello is also home to a lovely Inn as well as a small beach with incredible snorkelling.
14. Go for a Boat Cruise
Taking a cruise in Castellammare del Golfo is an experience not to be missed.
Head down to the marina where you will find several different companies, offering a variety of guided boat tours.
The tours are very family-friendly, some with English-speaking guides, and come in full or half-day options.
We have actually done both, and loved every minute!
During both tours, we had a captain who spoke English, who narrated what were seeing, and told stories about the area.
Depending on the tour you choose, many offer fresh lunches onboard, chances to swim and snorkel in the protected coves and grottos only accessible by sea, and even an extended stop at San Vito Lo Capo, a gorgeous beach surrounded by a cute little town.
We were served espresso when we sailed the first time. Followed by a lunch of fresh tomatoes in olive oil on freshly baked bread for lunch.
Then, ice-cold watermelon after our swim.
And in case you were wondering, you do not need to worry about there being sharks in Sicily!
We can’t recommend the cruises more! The kids had a blast, and it was a great way to see Castellammare from a different point of view.
15. Take Part in a Festival
If you’re visiting Castellammare del Golfo during a festival, you’ll have the opportunity to experience local culture and traditions up close.
Festivals are a popular form of entertainment in Italy, and there are many different types of festivals that are held throughout the year in Castellammare del Golfo.
From food and wine festivals to cultural, music, and religious festivals, you will find them all in Castellammare.
Of course, the festivals that are the most popular and draw the largest crowds, are the various religious festivals held throughout the year.
The largest and most important festival held in town is the Festa di Maria Santissima del Soccorso, which is celebrated annually from August 19th to 21st.
The Festival is dedicated to the Patron Saint of the people of Castellammare and involves everything from singing and dancing in the streets, to a procession through the town, and culminating in fireworks at the marina.
Where to Stay in Castellammare del Golfo
There are many accommodation options in Castellammare del Golfo, ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and camping sites.
During our visits, we mostly stayed in vacation rentals as it was more convenient to be close to family and other amenities.
Hotels
There are several hotels and B&Bs located within the town limits ranging from luxury resorts to simple accommodations. Many hotels have larger rooms perfect for families, as well as kitchenettes or swimming pools.
Luxury
- Hotel Punta Nord Est – swimming pool, close to the beach with an included shuttle, and air-conditioned rooms.
- La Piazzetta – Affordable accommodation with basic facilities and friendly service.
Moderate
- Residenza Le Zagare – A charming hotel with comfortable rooms and a central location.
- Hotel Al Madarig – Coastal hotel with family rooms, a scenic terrace, and included breakfast and parking.
Budget
- Locanda Scirocco – Simple rooms in a convenient location with a homely atmosphere.
- Cerri Hotel – Elegant rooms with easy access to the marina and beach.
Vacation Rentals
There are many vacation rentals available in Castellammare del Golfo, ranging from apartments and villas to houses and cottages.
Staying in a vacation rental can be a good option if you’re looking for more space or privacy, or if you’re travelling with a large group.
How to Get to Castellammare del Golfo
After you arrive on the island of Sicily, there are several ways to get to Castellammare del Golfo:
By Plane
The easiest way to get to Castellammare del Golfo if you are coming from somewhere outside of Sicily is to fly into either Palermo or Trapani.
Palermo’s Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) is located about 35 kilometres east of Castellammare del Golfo, and Trapani–Birgi Airport (TPS) is about 56 kilometres west of town.
From either airport, you can then rent a car or take a taxi to get to Castellammare.
By Car
Castellammare del Golfo is located on the northwest coast of Sicily and can be reached by car via the A29 motorway.
It’s about a 40-minute drive from Palermo Airport and an hour from Trapani Airport.
By Bus
Buses run from Palermo and Trapani to Castellammare del Golfo. The bus ride takes around 1-2 hours.
By Train
If you are already in Sicily, you would need to take the train to Trapani, which is the nearest train station to Castellammare.
From Trapani, it is a 50-kilometre drive (or taxi ride or bus ride) to Castellammare del Golfo. Definitely not the easiest way to get to town!
How to Get Around Castellammare del Golfo
Getting around Castellammare del Golfo is relatively easy, as the main part of town is pretty compact.
By Foot
The town is very walkable as it is a relatively small area and many of the streets are pedestrianized.
Castellammare’s main streets and squares are easily accessible by foot, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance.
While we mostly walked, it wasn’t always easy with the hills and the small, tight streets. So if you are pushing a stroller, keep this in mind.
By Bus
For those who prefer to use public transportation, there are bus services that run regularly between Castellammare del Golfo and nearby towns and cities.
The bus station is located in the town center and is a short walk from the main street.
Buses run frequently and are relatively inexpensive, making it a convenient option for getting around the area.
That said, while there are buses that run between towns, unfortunately, you will not find local buses in town.
By Scooter (Vespa)
Renting a scooter is a fun and convenient way to explore Castellammare del Golfo.
It allows you to navigate narrow streets and visit nearby attractions easily.
However, if you have never ridden a scooter before, this is DEFINITELY NOT the place to learn!
By Car
For those who prefer to drive, there is ample parking around the town.
However, during the high season, it can be difficult to find a parking spot in popular areas like the marina and the Quattro Canti.
We would also advise against renting a larger vehicle, as many of the streets in Cstellammare are quite narrow.
Is Castellammare del Golfo Worth Visiting with Kids?
Yes! Castellammare del Golfo is definitely worth visiting with kids.
The town has beautiful beaches with calm, shallow waters perfect for children to play in.
There are also many family-friendly restaurants serving delicious Sicilian cuisine.
Nearby attractions like the Zingaro Nature Reserve offer outdoor adventures that kids will love.
Plus, the town’s historical sites and scenic views provide plenty of opportunities for fun and learning.
Where to Eat in Castellammare del Golfo
There are plenty of awesome places to eat in Castellammare del Golfo.
You will find restaurants and cafes throughout town that offer a variety of cuisines, indoor and patio experiences, take-out places, and more.
Some of the places that we really enjoyed while visiting Castellammare del Golfo include:
Pizzeria QuattroCanti
Pizzeria QuattroCanti is a popular pizzeria located in the Quattro Canti pedestrian area.
The pizzeria is known for its delicious, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas made with the freshest ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
The menu also features a variety of antipasti and sandwiches. The Pizzeria QuattroCanti offers take-out and patio seating only.
La Tonnara
La Tonnara is a popular mid-range priced restaurant located in the marina area of Castellammare del Golfo.
This incredible eatery specializes in traditional Sicilian cuisine, with the menu featuring a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as meat and pasta options.
But what we enjoyed the most, was eating our amazing dinner on their outdoor patio (they have indoor seating as well).
The wonderful view of the marina at sunset made the perfect backdrop to our last meal in Castellammare.
Ristorante Quetzal
Ristorante Quetzal is a well-known restaurant located on the Belvedere in Castellammare del Golfo.
The restaurant is renowned for its modern and innovative take on Sicilian cuisine, with a menu that features a wide variety of fresh seafood and meat dishes, as well as vegetarian options.
We found this restaurant to be on the pricier side.
However, it was very stylish and the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. And let’s not forget that fantastic view from the Belvedere!
Castellammare del Golfo FAQs
The best time to visit Castellammare del Golfo is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded, while the winter can be chilly and wet.
Yes, Castellammare del Golfo is a great destination for families. There are plenty of activities and attractions that will appeal to both adults and children, such as beaches, boat trips and nature reserves.
Castellammare del Golfo is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Sicilian cuisine. Some popular dishes include pasta with sardines, arancini and cannoli.
Yes, there are plenty of shops and markets in Castellammare del Golfo. There are traditional Sicilian markets where you can find a wide variety of local products such as ceramics, textiles and food items. The town also has many shops selling traditional and modern souvenirs, clothes and other items.
Yes. There are several beaches in Castellammare del Golfo, including the popular beaches of Cala Petròlo and Spiaggia Plaja.
Yes, there are a variety of guided tours available in Castellammare del Golfo. Some popular options include walking tours of the town and boat trips to the nearby nature reserves.
Final Thoughts
Just to wrap up, Castellammare del Golfo is a great place for a family vacation.
The beaches are beautiful, the activities are kid-friendly, and the town is welcoming.
We had a wonderful time exploring the streets, eating local food, and enjoying the beach.
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing trip with your kids, we would definitely recommend adding Castellammare del Golfo to your itinerary.
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