This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Cefalù.
Cefalù, Sicily, Italy, is the gem of the Sicilian coastline, the dream destination of beach lovers, and a place that will not let down the enthusiasts of culture either. The small town of about ten thousand inhabitants is located on the northern side of Sicily, only seventy kilometres or a short train ride away from the island's capital. Therefore, it can be a comfortable day-trip from Palermo, where one is spoilt with choices for hostels in Cefalù, Sicily, Italy, with options ranging from simple budget dorms to more luxurious Sicilian-style accommodations.
However, most backpackers prefer to stop in Cefalù for at least a few days to recharge their batteries and make the most of everything the place has to offer. And the list is long indeed ... first of all, the city boats with an amazing and centrally located sandy beach with breathtaking views of the historic city centre that tower above the coastline. The most prominent sight of Cefalù is the Duomo, a cathedral that dates back to the tenth century. As Sicily is a deeply Catholic island, this place is of central significance to the locals and you might be lucky to bump into one of the traditional religious processions or celebrations that are held on the square in front of the cathedral. However, if you want to enjoy both culture and nature at the same time, your best bet is to climb up La Rocca, the huge, rocky hill that provides the atmospheric background to the historic town, not only to enjoy a magnificent view over the town and the bay from the top, but to play hide and seek amongst the ruins of the ancient fortress. The hike to the top is strenuous but the panorama is guaranteed to compensate you for it!
Cefalù is a good place to go souvenir hunting; check out the old town centre that has not changed a lot during the last centuries -- it offers authentic goods and friendly sellers who are happy to invite you into their shops to hear what you think of their crafts, even if you end up not buying anything. A walk through the narrow streets can feel like a step back in time and during the night; the historic streets lit with atmospheric little street lights are an excellent place for a romantic dinner or a well-deserved gelato, and a walk along the shore in the night-time cooler temperature will definitely be a great memory as well. If you can, spend at least a night in the city, as catching the last train back to Palermo means that you would be missing out on these unique experiences.
Finding a hostel in Cefalù, Sicily, Italy, is easy, but if you are arriving during the peak season, you might have to book one or two days in advance. When choosing your Cefalù, Sicily, Italy hostel, always double-check if it is an actual hostel, as there seems to be a confusion with the naming of accommodation facilities and some places that are called hostels can be of a rather high quality, but also, of a high price. Most of the Cefalù, Sicily, Italy hostels available are of a Mediterranean style, run by local families, and are in easy reach of both the beach and the historic centre.
Written by local enthusiast for Cefalù hostels
JudyM
