Is Cefalu expensive to visit?
Cefalu is a popular fishing village that draws numerous visitors, each showcasing different travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
If you choose to make it so, Cefalu can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $63 (€61) per day, mid-range travelers spend $143 (€139) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $274 (€265) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Cefalu.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Cefalu is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to La Rochelle or Linz.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cefalu Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Cefalu?
The average Cefalu trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cefalu travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cefalu cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Cefalu on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $63 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Cefalu, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. Most travelers to Cefalu will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $143 per person, per day.
Cefalu offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Agrodolce B&B is an excellent option for kids, and B&B Villa Di Giorgi is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Cefalu here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $274. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the fishing village, be prepared for premium pricing. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Cefalu
Hotel prices in Cefalu can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $127, while in peak summer season it jumps to an average of $237. Budget accommodations range from $86 to $401, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cefalu for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $182 (€174). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $91 (€87) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cefalu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Cefalu include:
- Astro Suite Hotel starting at $238
- Artemis Hotel starting at $136
- Le Calette Garden & Bay starting at $289
- Alberi Del Paradiso starting at $227
- Hotel La Plumeria starting at $157
This fishing village offers a variety of resorts to select from. You may find accommodations that provide meals or at least breakfast, and many resorts feature onsite dining options.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and skip summer), you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.
Cefalu is a well-known tourist destination, but it's smaller than some other places, so hotels can fill up fast. If you're visiting during summer, it's smart to book your reservations early.
Many visitors prefer to discover Cefalu by walking, so it's best to find accommodations in a central location. However, this convenience may come with a higher cost.
The fishing village's historic old town attracts many visitors. Hotels in this area might be more expensive, but they often boast a unique character and are conveniently located near everything.
Transportation Budget in Cefalu
Cefalu lacks an efficient public transit system. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.
Those who enjoy exploring on foot will have a great time here. The town is small enough to explore on foot.
Public Transit: 



(poor)
Walkability: 



(great)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $4.48 (€4.29) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cefalu. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cefalu is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$4.48
€4.29
If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer for $94 details
- Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer for $105 details
- Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa for $105 details
How much does it cost to go to Cefalu? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Cefalu will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Cefalu
The food in Cefalu is delightful, and it's important to take the time to experience all the local tastes. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Cefalu can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cefalu is $50 (€48) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$50
€48
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cefalu is around $50 (€48) per person, with previous travelers spending from $22 to $95. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cefalu are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $7 to $20
- Dinner: $15 to $35
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
As a major tourist destination, there are many restaurants around town. Most cater specifically to tourists so you can expect to the quality and price to reflect this. Seafood options are plentiful as are budget dining options. It should not be difficult to find a cheap or quick meal.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
You can cut costs and soak in the views by having a picnic. Swing by a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh goodies, and head to a lovely park or picturesque location to savor your meal.
Instead of buying drinks, carry a water bottle with you. It's also a good choice for the planet.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Cefalu. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse for $241 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cefalu
It's evident that Cefalu is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its romance, food, resorts, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cefalu typically cost an average of $5.98 (€5.71) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$5.98
€5.71
There are a decent number of historic attractions around town. The town's Cathedral dominates the center of the city and is an impressive sight. It was begun in 1131 and built in the style of Norman architecture. The exterior remains well preserved. The interior was restored in 1559 though parts that date back to the 12th century are still visible.
Other churches around town include the Santa Maria dell'Odigitria, the Santa Oliva, the San Sebastiano, the Sant'Andrea, the San Leonardo, the Immacolatella, the Oratory of the Santissimo Sacramento, Chapel of San Biagio, Santo Stefano, Santissima Trinia, Santissima Annunziata, and the Monastery of St. Catherine.
You should also visit the Abbey of Thelema which is where Aleister Crowley lived in Sicily before his expulsion by Mussolini's Fascist government. Other sights around town include the Seminary and the Bishops Palace, Palazzo Atenasio Martino, Palazzo Maria, Palazzo Piraino, Osterio Magno, and the ancient Roman baths.
If you're interested in visiting a museum, the Mandralisca Museum is an option. There you will find "Ritratto d'ignoto marinaio", or "Portrait of a Man", a painting by Antonello da Messina.
One popular activity in Cefalu is to climb "The Rock" so that you can take in the fabulous views of the city. From here you can see the red roofed town as well as the surrounding bay. It's also possible to visit Diana's Temple from here. Other popular places to explore include the harbour as well as the tourist port where there are many fishing boats. Probably the most popular activity is to simply relax on the beach. This is one of the best beaches in Sicily. Some parts of the beach offer umbrellas and beach chairs for rent while others do not.
Beaches:
Numerous travelers flock to Cefalu to unwind on the beach. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.
Historical Sights:
The historic old town attracts a large number of visitors. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Cefalu. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- High Madonie wild jeep adventure for $184 details
- Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours for $142 details