What to do and what to see in Marsala, Sicily.
Marsala is one of the many small and large cities and towns in Sicily that deserve to be visited at least once in a lifetime. Marsala is a significant city in Sicily, both in terms of historical events and natural beauty. It is the fifth largest city in Sicily and is situated on the West coast of the island approximately 100KM from Palermo. Marsala is known for its fortified wines and your primary reason for stopping will most likely be to visit one of the area’s many wineries. Read along to explore what to do and what to see in Marsala, Sicily.
What to do in Marsala
Marsala is a great place to visit. There are numerous options available to make your vacation one to remember.
1. Cantine Pellegrino offers wine tastings
If you are a wine enthusiast, then Cantine Pellegrino will be a dream come true, here you will be able to tingle your taste buds by sampling three different styles of wine. The wine is drawn straight from the barrels which in itself is a memorable experience. And a cherry on top, the tour is not costly.
2.Take a quick cruise to Egadi
This cruise takes you to two islands, Favignana and Levanzo, and is a must-see during your Marsala tour. Before lunch on board, you have the opportunity to swim and walk around Favignana. The lunch is delightful and savoury, and the crew prepares it with care.
After lunch, you’ll continue your cruise to Levanzo, where you’ll have another swim. This is a superbly planned trip that you must have on your bucket list. Swimming, fishing, dining, and relaxing are all common activities on the Egadi Islands (Isola Egadi).
3.Try kitesurfing or windsurfing.
In the bay of Lo Stagnone in Sicily, there is a windsurf school, this school is ideal for beginners who want to learn how to kitesurf or windsurf. It is a suitable place to learn surfing because of the hip-deep shallow water making it safe for learners. You will be advised on the choice of equipment, how to set up and be given surfing tips. Private lessons are offered for those who want to advance their knowledge of surfing. Relax at the shade and order a cold drink at the Chill-Area.
4.Stagnone Nature Reserve is a great place to visit.
The Marsala Lagoon’s Stagnone Reserve is a mystical, time-traveling location. A magnificent natural scenery, unique in its colours, scents, waves, sunsets and windmills. Between Trapani and Marsala lies the Stagnone Nature Reserve, which consists of four islands. This place should be at the top of your list if you enjoy nature and adventure. The Stagnone is also a haven for birdwatchers. Several species of migratory birds, including, wild ducks, cavalieri d’Italia herons, and white or pink flamingos, stop or nest here when migrating at different times.
5.Visit the ancient archaeological site of Mothia “Mozia”
Mozia is a small island in the Stagnone lagoon, which is located between Trapani and Marsala. It is well worth a day trip. The Phoenicians founded Stagnone Natural Reserve in the 12th century BC, and it is the largest island in the reserve. Mozia was discovered by chance by Joseph Whitaker, an English archaeologist. Mozia is just something else in the world. The Tophet, the House of Mosaics, ancient necropolis, the House of the Amphoras, the temple, are all well-known. This is a must-see for those interested in ancient ruins, archaeology, or exploration.
6.Pay a visit to the stunning Porta Garibaldi.
The triumphal arch known as Porta Garibaldi was designed in 1768 by Stefano Ittar and Francesco Battaglia to celebrate the marriage of Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies and Maria Carolina of Habsburg-Lorraine. It’s in the ‘u Futtinu neighbourhood, which was named after a fort founded by Claudio Lamoraldo after an eruption in 1669 destroyed the city’s medieval defences. This historic location is charming and has an old appeal that is still appreciated today.
7.Visit Marsala’s Wine estate
Learn more about Sicily’s finest wines by visiting the wine estate in Marsala. This winery has been in business for 160 years and produces some of Sicily’s finest wines. You can sample four varieties grown on the farm, as well as local snacks including cheese, bread, and salami. The wine estate is a fantastic tour for wine and food enthusiasts.
8.Take a tour to Donnafugata Winery
Donnafugata was founded in Sicily by a family dedicated to revolutionizing the style and understanding of Sicilian wine throughout the world. The term “Donna Fugata” means “Fleeing woman.” If you usually enjoy wine, there is no better tour for you than this one. You’ll get a glimpse into the past of winemaking as well as the family that has been making wine for over 160 years. Donnafugata can evoke feelings of kinship and connection in you. The tour is even more appealing because it is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to people with physical disabilities.
What to see in Marsala
Marsala has a lot to offer in terms of historical places, beautiful beaches, and, of course, the numerous islands that are close to the city’s coast. Marsala is not a typical tourist destination, and it is often ignored in favour of other Sicilian cities such as Palermo, Catania, and Messina. Nevertheless, Marsala has great things to see while around as listed below;
1.Isola Favignana
Favignana is undoubtedly the first stop on your island-hopping journey from Marsala. It is the largest of the Aegadian Islands, and its shape has earned it the nickname La Farfalla, or butterfly. It is located 15 kilometres off the coast of Trapani. The crystal-clear water, soothing environment, numerous caves and scenic rock formations, and beautiful beaches, such as Cala Rossa, are all reasons to visit Favignana.
Favignana is the name of the island’s main settlement. Along with Palazzo Florio, one of the main attractions is the Arab-built Fort of Santa Caterina.
The best way to experience Favignana is by boat. If you enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving, the island offers numerous opportunities.
2.Isola San Pantaleo
While Pantaleo is a small island, it was once home to a strong Phoenician group known as Mozia or Motya, and was connected to Sicily by a man-made pedestrian bridge.
The complex of lagoons that have evolved over time is the most interesting aspect of this island. These lagoons are salt-filled, giving the water a distinct reddish hue that leaves visitors gasping for air. The lagoon can be visited, and you can also walk on walkways that cross the water, allowing you to capture stunning images of the strangely coloured water.
3.Isola di Levanzo
Levanzo is the smallest of the Aegadian Islands, located north of Favignana. There are less than 500 people who live there.
The Genovese Caves and the Capo Grosso Lighthouse are two of Levanzo’s most popular attractions.
Levanzo is a heap of elegance, as you would expect. The main village, the beaches, and every corner of this island will transport you to another world, where life is still simple and slow.
4. Isola Grande
The Stagnone channel’s largest island is Isola Grande. The complex of lagoons that have evolved over time is the most interesting aspect of this island.
These lagoons are salt-filled, giving the water a distinct reddish hue that leaves visitors gasping for air.
The lagoon can be visited, and you can also walk on walkways that cross the water, allowing you to capture stunning images of the strangely coloured water.
5.Museo Archeologico
The Punic ship (nave punica) held in the Museo Archeologico Baglio Anselmi on Lungomare Boeo is one of the most interesting sights to see in Marsala While there seems to be nothing left of the ship other than planking to the untrained eye, archaeologists have learned a lot about ancient ships and naval warfare from it.
6.Piazza della Repubblica
Since Norman times, the Piazza della Republica has served as Marsala’s cultural core, and it’s a great place to launch your exploration of the town’s gleaming marble streets. The Bourbon Dynasty came to an end here in 1860, when Giuseppe Garibaldi proclaimed himself dictator of Sicily.
There are many bars and cafes in this square, and the nearby streets are perfect for shopping.
7.Chiesa del Purgatorio
The two-tiered Baroque façade of this church dates from the 16th century. A plethora of decoration and colourful frescos can also be found inside the confines of this fantastic religious structure.
8. Lido Marakaibbo
A series of stunning golden beaches and coastal resorts can be found farther down the coast from Marsala. Lido Marakaibbo and the Playa Blanca to be specific have golden sand and the wet, gentle waters that lap at the beach are ideal for swimming and paddling.