Excursion Marsala & a taste of sicily tour at Trapani

Explore the unique flavours and sights of Marsala during this scenic visit to the city, and a wine-tasting at a local wine farm. Marsala is a coastal town in western Sicily with ancient origins closely tied with those of an unusual archaeological site nearby, the little island of Mozia, also known as San Pantaleo. Mozia was an important colonial stronghold of Carthage in North Africa, itself an early colony of the Phoenician people.

Depart the pier for the approximate one-hour drive to Marsala along the salt road, or 'via del sal'.  En route, a photo stop is made to capture the famous 'Saline' salt pan and windmills.  The drive to Marsala also offers panoramic vistas of Mozia Island.  Due to its location near the coast, Mozia became a key trade city, and one of the most important Phoenician and Carthaginian settlements in the Mediterranean.

Marsala

Marsala is situated on Cape Boeo at the westernmost end of the island. Phoenician refugees founded Marsala after the destruction of Mozia by Dionysius I of Syracuse.  The Romans, Vandals and Byzantines subsequently dominated the city.  It was occupied by the Muslims and renamed the Port of Allah, or 'Marsa-Allah'.  In 1072, the Normans' overtook Marsala, rebuilt the castle, and constructed churches and convents.

Regional Museum or Salt Museum

Your walking tour of this ancient city features a visit to the town centre and Regional Museum, which is part of the Archaeological Park of Lilybaeum.  The museum houses a famous Punic warship, along with archaeological remains documenting Lilybaeum's history and environs from the Prehistoric Era to the Middle-Ages. On Monday calls, when Marsala Museum is closed, a visit is made to the Salt Museum in Nubia where you will also see one of the ancient windmills.

Cantine Florio

Marsala is also renowned for the wine named after it. At Cantine Florio, a local wine farm, enjoy some Sicilian specialities accompanied by a variety of local wines, including Marsala wine.  

Ligny Tower

Afterwards, re-board your coach for the approximate one-hour return drive to Trapani.  En route, a photo stop is made at Ligny Tower, or 'Torri de Ligny', a massive, quadrangular tower built by Prince di Ligny in 1671.  One of the city's most beautiful panoramic viewpoints, the Ligny Tower offers splendid vistas of the Egadi, Lazzaretto and Torre della Colombaia islands in the distance.  Following your photo stop, re-board your coach and return to the pier.   

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Cape Boeo, Marsala, Regional Museum, Archaeological Park of Lilybaeum, Cantine Florio, Wine and local specialties, Ligny Tower, Egadi, Lazzaretto and Torre della Colombaia Islands

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 800 metres (.50 mile), at times over uneven terrain and cobblestones, with steps to negotiate at the museum.  This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, however it is not recommended for guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection. Order of sites visited may vary. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.