High above Sicily’s western coast, the medieval town of Erice offers outstanding guided experiences. Walking tours provide the best introduction, letting you navigate the town’s stone-paved streets while learning about its rich Norman and Arabic history. My favorite is the 3-hour private walking tour – it hits all the must-sees, including the Venus Castle and those incredible city walls, while avoiding the midday crowds.
For food lovers, combine sightseeing with authentic Sicilian flavors on a food and wine tour. You’ll sample local specialties like almond pastries from Maria Grammatico’s famous bakery and sweet Marsala wines. The 7-day Sicily tour option makes an excellent choice for travelers wanting to experience Erice as part of a broader island journey.
Browse our carefully selected top tours of Erice:
Key Points
- Private guided walking tours offer an in-depth exploration of Erice’s historic old town and cathedral, led by knowledgeable local guides.
- Erice walking tours with local product tastings, such as almond cakes and wines, provide a comprehensive cultural experience in a small group setting.
- Tours combining Erice with nearby Marsala offer immersion in the region’s wine, salt, and olive oil heritage through winery visits and tastings.
- Specialized tours focus on Erice’s architectural gems, including the Gothic Cathedral and ancient Cyclopean walls, with panoramic views from the Castle of Venus.
- Multi-day Sicilian cultural tours encompass Erice as part of a broader exploration of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and Baroque towns.
Erice: Private Guided Walking Tour
Exploring the historic city of Erice is best experienced with a private guided walking tour. This 2-hour tour (£258.64 for up to 25 people) offers an in-depth look at the city’s charming old town and iconic Cathedral of Erice.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore Erice’s rich cultural heritage, uncovering the stories behind its medieval architecture and ancient traditions.
The tour’s 5-star rating from 3 reviews highlights its quality and value. You’ll have the freedom to ask questions and tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s learning about Erice’s role in Sicilian history or admiring the panoramic views from the hilltop town.
This private tour provides a personalized and immersive way to discover Erice’s unique character and highlights, making it a must for visitors seeking an authentic encounter with this captivating Sicilian destination.
Read our full review: Erice: Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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From Trapani: Erice Walking Tour and Local Products Tasting
This 4-hour guided tour takes visitors on a captivating journey from Trapani to the medieval town of Erice.
Beginning with a 30-minute van transfer, the tour showcases the stunning scenery along the way, offering photo opportunities.
Once in Erice, guests embark on a 2.5-hour walking tour to explore the city’s historic churches, quaint shops, and local artisan workshops.
The highlights include tasting the renowned almond cakes, known as “mandola,” as well as local wines.
Visitors can also witness the creation of traditional ceramics and hand-woven carpets.
With a maximum group size of 8 participants, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and entrance fees to the ceramics and carpet workshops.
Optional add-ons, such as visiting the Matrice church, King Frederick tower, and the ruins of the Monastery of the Holy Savior, are available at an additional cost.
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended for this engaging and immersive tour.
Read our full review: From Trapani: Erice Walking Tour and Local Products Tasting Review
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From Palermo: Erice & Marsala Salt, Olive Oil, and Wine Tour
Travelers seeking to experience western Sicily’s renowned colors and flavors will delight in this 8-hour tour from Palermo.
The tour offers a deep dive into the region’s famed wines, salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. Starting from Palermo’s P.za Giuseppe Verdi, the small group (limited to 7 participants) will venture to the historic town of Erice, known for its ancient streets and local pastry shops.
After exploring Erice, the tour continues to a local olive oil farmhouse for a 2-hour lunch and tasting of mixed regional products.
The scenic drive along the Salt Way Road showcases the traditional saltpans before reaching the renowned town of Marsala, famous for its eponymous fortified wine.
The tour concludes with a Marsala winery visit and tastings.
With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and all admission fees covered, this tour offers an immersive and hassle-free experience to discover western Sicily’s culinary treasures.
Priced from Kč 4,903 per person, this tour is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Read our full review: From Palermo: Erice & Marsala Salt, Olive Oil, and Wine Tour Review
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Erice: Cathedral of Erice & Old Town Private Walking Tour
Although Erice’s historic charm is well-known, visitors can delve deeper into the town’s architectural marvels and local culture on this private walking tour.
Lasting 2 hours, the tour covers key sights like the Gothic Cathedral of the Assumption, built in the 14th century, and the Tower of King Federico. Guests will stroll through Erice’s charming alleys, browse ceramic shops, and sample local pastries like almond cookies and Genovesi.
Along the way, they’ll marvel at the town’s ancient Cyclopean walls and Balio Gardens, created in the late 1800s. At the Castle of Venus, they’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Led by a licensed guide fluent in Italian and English, the tour provides an intimate look at Erice’s history and architecture. With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this private experience is a convenient way to make the most of visitors’ time in this picturesque Sicilian town.
Read our full review: Erice: Cathedral of Erice & Old Town Private Walking Tour Review
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Sicily: 7-Day Sicilian Culture and Art Tour
For those seeking a deeper exploration of Sicily’s rich cultural heritage and artistic treasures, the 7-Day Sicilian Culture and Art Tour offers an immersive journey.
Covering the island’s most captivating destinations, this tour delves into the region’s history, art, and architecture.
Travelers will discover the vibrant city of Palermo, with its magnificent cathedrals, Arab-Norman palaces, and bustling markets. They’ll venture to the ancient Greek ruins of Segesta and Selinunte, marveling at the well-preserved temples and amphitheaters.
The tour also includes visits to Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town, and the valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore Baroque towns like Noto and Ragusa, admiring the intricate architectural details that define Sicily’s unique style.
The tour culminates in the beautiful city of Syracuse, where visitors can wander through the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, as well as the charming old town.
Read our full review: Sicily: 7-Day Sicilian Culture and Art Tour Review
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Sum Up
Erice offers a variety of tours that showcase its rich history, culture, and local products. Whether you’re interested in a private walking tour, a tasting of regional specialties, or a multi-day exploration of Sicilian art and heritage, there’s an option to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, these tours provide an authentic glimpse into the charming hilltop town of Erice.