You’ll find Trapani’s cruise port on Sicily’s western coast, just 4km from the city centre. The modern port welcomes cruise ships up to 202 metres long. You can easily access taxis, buses and hydrofoils to the Aegadian Islands from the terminal.

For other Sicily cruise destinations check out our Mediterranean Cruise Ports in Sicily page.

The port features new facilities after a ÂŁ60 million upgrade, including:

  • A passenger terminal
  • Floating piers
  • Waterfront facilities

From the port, you can:

  • Visit ancient ruins at Segesta
  • Explore local wineries
  • See the traditional salt flats
  • Take a cable car to Erice
  • Hop between nearby islands

Your ship docks in an ideal spot to discover western Sicily’s main attractions, with direct transport links to your chosen destinations.

Map of Trapani Cruise Ship Port

Port Location and Facilities

The Port of Trapani operates on Sicily’s western coast at coordinates 38.0061N, 12.4873E. You can access the port easily from Trapani-Birgi Airport, with nearby attractions including Segesta and the Aegadian Islands.

You’ll find specialised cruise terminals that accommodate vessels up to 202 metres in length, with an 8.5-metre draft capacity. The port divides into distinct zones: a commercial area, fishing port, and dedicated cruise and yacht piers. Your berthing options include extensive facilities across all zones.

The port handles:

  • General and bulk cargo
  • Local exports (salt, coral, marsala wine)
  • Cruise ships up to 35,000 tonnes DWT
  • Passenger vessels
  • Fishing boats
  • Private yachts

You can use all standard passenger services throughout the port complex, with facilities designed for both commercial and leisure activities.

Getting Around Trapani

Transportation Options from Trapani Port

The cruise port sits 4 km from Trapani’s centre. You can choose from several easy ways to get around:

Taxi Services:

  • Private transfers start at ÂŁ24.55
  • Minivan services start at ÂŁ30.21
  • Book through Suntransfers or local operators

Public Transport:

  • AST buses connect to the airport
  • Trapani Central Station is 5-10 minutes by taxi

Airport Connections:

  • Trapani Birgi Airport: 25-minute taxi ride
  • Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport: 1-hour taxi ride

Parking:

  • Open-air facilities available outside the port
  • Some providers offer free shuttle buses to the terminal

Shore Excursions Worth Taking

After arriving at the port, you can choose from several excellent Trapani excursions.

The Favignana and Levanzo boat trip offers the best value, taking you to pristine beaches and hidden coves whilst you enjoy lunch on board.

You can take the Segesta day tour to explore ancient ruins, visit local wineries and discover the famous salt pans.

If time is limited, the two-hour Salt Flats Tour gives you a quick but thorough overview of this historic industry.

Want more flexibility? Book a private Marsala tour to taste local wines and sample regional specialities at your own pace.

Remember to secure your chosen tour early to match your cruise ship’s timetable.

Local Transportation Options

Getting around Trapani is easy from the port. You can walk to most city attractions, or take local buses and taxis for longer distances.

The cable car takes you to Erice’s medieval town, whilst hydrofoils connect you to the Egadi Islands. A tourist train circles Trapani’s main landmarks with guided commentary.

Airport transfers offer several options:

  • Private drivers take you directly to your destination
  • Hourly shuttles run from Trapani and Palermo airports
  • Public buses connect to both airports
  • Regular trains link Trapani with Palermo

For public transport, you need to check the current timetables before travelling.

Each option suits different budgets and comfort levels – taxis cost more but offer convenience, whilst buses provide cheaper travel for those willing to follow fixed schedules.

See what’s on offer from the Port of Taormina for a different Mediterranean cruise destination.

Port Development Projects

Trapani’s port is transforming with a ÂŁ60 million redevelopment project. The works stretch along one kilometre where the city meets the sea.

You can now use the new 1,000-square-metre passenger terminal, featuring a 300-metre pier.

The waterfront includes:

  • A public park
  • Floating piers
  • Boating workshops
  • Market buildings
  • Restaurants
  • 15,000 square metres of urban squares
  • Additional parking spaces

Your cruise experience will benefit from improved boarding facilities and waterfront services.

The port has completed 200,000 cubic metres of dredging to ensure safe ship access, meeting modern cruise port requirements.

The new facilities make Trapani a more practical and enjoyable cruise destination.

You’ll find everything you need within easy reach of your ship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Local Dishes Should I Try When Visiting Trapani?

When visiting Trapani, you should taste these local favourites:

Order the Couscous alla Trapanese, a traditional seafood dish with fresh fish stew. Try Pasta cu L’Agghia, which features a local garlic pesto sauce. For street food, grab an Arancina – a crispy rice ball filled with meat or cheese – and Panelle, savoury fritters made from chickpea flour. Complete your meal with a Cannolo, the famous Sicilian pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream.

Are There Beaches Within Walking Distance of the Cruise Port?

You’ll find stone beaches right by the port, but these aren’t suitable for swimming. Two better beach options await nearby: Lido Paradiso, 2 kilometres away, and Lido San Giuliano, 4.5 kilometres away. You’ll need to take a taxi or catch a local bus to reach either beach.

What Are the Best Months to Visit Trapani for Ideal Weather?

The best time to visit Trapani spans June to September for ideal weather conditions. You’ll experience peak temperatures and minimal rain during July and August. If you prefer fewer crowds, plan your trip in June or September when the weather stays warm but tourist numbers drop.

Where Can I Find ATMS and Currency Exchange Near the Port?

ATMs and currency exchanges are located within a 5-minute walk from Trapani’s port area. You’ll find several cash points at banks along Via XXX Gennaio and Via Garibaldi in the city centre. Exchange services are available at most major banks during standard business hours (8:30-13:30, 14:30-16:30). Remember that some ATMs charge international withdrawal fees, so it’s worth checking with your bank before travelling.

Are There Any Traditional Markets or Shopping Areas in Trapani?

You can explore several traditional markets in Trapani:

The Mercato del Pesce offers daily fresh seafood from local fishermen. You’ll discover the morning’s catch displayed across market stalls.

The Thursday Morning Market lets you browse local produce, clothing and household items. You can find this market in the city centre every Thursday.

Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main shopping street, features boutiques and traditional shops. You can walk along this historic street to find local crafts, fashion and souvenirs.

These markets operate during regular business hours, though seafood markets open early in the morning for the freshest selections.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Palermo Cruise Ship Port.