Isola delle Femmine
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Latest page update: 4 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Isola delle Femmine
Isola delle Femmine, a seaside town near Palermo, is known for its sandy beaches and nature reserve. Much of the local accommodation consists of residences and holiday apartments, but there are a few established hotels nearby offering good facilities.
In Isola delle Femmine, Saracen Sands Hotel & Congress Centre is a large beachfront property with pools, sports facilities and entertainment, regularly praised for its family-friendly services (€€€). In Sferracavallo, Hotel Bellevue del Golfo provides sea-view rooms, a spa and a restaurant, often noted for its convenient coastal setting (€€). Another option is NH Palermo, located in the city itself, offering modern rooms, a pool and views over the Foro Italico, with consistently strong guest feedback (€€).
In Isola delle Femmine, Saracen Sands Hotel & Congress Centre is a large beachfront property with pools, sports facilities and entertainment, regularly praised for its family-friendly services (€€€). In Sferracavallo, Hotel Bellevue del Golfo provides sea-view rooms, a spa and a restaurant, often noted for its convenient coastal setting (€€). Another option is NH Palermo, located in the city itself, offering modern rooms, a pool and views over the Foro Italico, with consistently strong guest feedback (€€).
Where is
Where is Isola delle Femmine?
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The seaside town of Isola delle Femmine is situated on the Tyrrhenian Coast, in the Metropolitan City of Palermo province.
It has a population of around 7,000 residents and the main highlights are the harbour, the restaurants and the small island that sits just a short distance out to sea. Nearby places of interest include Sferracavallo, Mondello, Palermo, Monreale and Bagheria. |
Comune di Isola delle Femmine
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Province: Metropolitan City of Palermo
Region: Sicily Population: 7,039 (in 2024 - source) Size: 3 km² Highlights: harbour, restaurants Close by: Sferracavallo, Mondello, Palermo, Monreale, Bagheria Recommended stay: Unìco Boutique Hotel d'Arte (9 km) |
What People Ask About Isola delle Femmine
Is Isola delle Femmine worth visiting?
Yes, Isola delle Femmine is worth visiting for its sandy beach, fishing village atmosphere, and views of the small island just offshore with its historic watchtower. It is also a popular spot for seafood dining and snorkelling.
How do I get to Isola delle Femmine?
Isola delle Femmine lies about 15 kilometres west of Palermo. It can be reached by car via the A29 motorway, by train from Palermo to the local station, or by bus services running along the coast.
What are the main attractions in Isola delle Femmine?
Attractions include the sandy beach, the offshore island with its 16th-century watchtower, and the seafront promenade lined with restaurants. The nearby Capo Gallo–Isola delle Femmine Marine Protected Area is popular for diving and snorkelling.
When is the best time to visit Isola delle Femmine?
The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for swimming and water sports. July and August are busiest, while June and September usually provide good conditions with fewer visitors.
How long should I stay in Isola delle Femmine?
A day trip is usually enough to enjoy the beach, seafront, and views of the offshore island. Some visitors stay one or two nights to explore the marine reserve and enjoy local seafood in the evening.
Related links
Discover
Discover Isola delle Femmine
Isola delle Femmine is a coastal town in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, located on the northwestern shore of Sicily. The settlement takes its name from the small island that lies just offshore, visible from the beach and accessible by boat. The town stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, with sandy shores, a fishing harbour, and a backdrop of low hills that mark the start of the Palermitan coastline. Its atmosphere blends the character of a traditional fishing village with that of a modern seaside resort.
Off the coast stands the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve, home to seabirds and coastal vegetation, while inland the town preserves historic watchtowers and small churches. Its proximity to Capaci and Palermo makes it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors seeking easy access to the sea. Known for its clear waters and coastal promenade, Isola delle Femmine forms part of the scenic route that connects the beaches and natural sites along Sicily’s northwestern coast.
Off the coast stands the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve, home to seabirds and coastal vegetation, while inland the town preserves historic watchtowers and small churches. Its proximity to Capaci and Palermo makes it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors seeking easy access to the sea. Known for its clear waters and coastal promenade, Isola delle Femmine forms part of the scenic route that connects the beaches and natural sites along Sicily’s northwestern coast.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Isola delle Femmine
- Isola delle Femmine (Island) is a small, uninhabited islet located just offshore from the town and visible from the beach and promenade. It is part of a protected marine area and home to native bird species and plant life. The remains of a 17th-century watchtower stand on the island’s highest point. Although access is restricted, boat tours pass around the islet during the summer months.
- Riserva Naturale Orientata Isola delle Femmine encompasses the surrounding marine environment and aims to preserve local biodiversity. The waters are known for their clarity and support a variety of fish and marine flora. The area is popular with snorkellers and divers, particularly near the islet. Educational programmes and guided nature activities are occasionally organised in the area.
- Spiaggia di Isola delle Femmine stretches along the town’s coastline and includes sandy sections with clear water, suitable for swimming and family visits. Both free and serviced beach areas are available, with lidos offering umbrellas, food and changing facilities. The beach becomes busiest in July and August. Lifeguards are often present in designated areas.
- Torre di Isola delle Femmine is a 16th-century coastal tower once used for spotting pirate ships and guarding the shore. Although now in ruins, it remains a historical landmark that recalls the area’s defensive past. The tower can be viewed from the main beach and appears silhouetted against the sea at sunset. Restoration efforts have helped to preserve its structure.
- Lungomare Eufemio is the town’s main seafront promenade, lined with bars, restaurants and gelaterie overlooking the beach and islet. It’s a popular spot for evening walks, offering wide sea views and fresh air. Local markets and small festivals take place here in summer. The promenade links residential areas with the beach and harbour.
Tours and Activities
Isola delle Femmine Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Isola delle Femmine Photo Gallery
Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Isola delle Femmine
By Rail: Isola delle Femmine has its own train station on the Palermo–Punta Raisi line, served by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect the town to Palermo Centrale in around 20 minutes and to Palermo Airport in approximately 15 minutes. The station is located just inland from the main part of town, within walking distance of the seafront and local services.
By Road: Isola delle Femmine is situated on the northwestern coast of Sicily, about 15 kilometres west of Palermo. The drive from central Palermo takes around 25 minutes via the A29 motorway or coastal roads. From Trapani, the journey is approximately 90 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Public parking is available near the beach, train station, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Isola delle Femmine is situated on the northwestern coast of Sicily, about 15 kilometres west of Palermo. The drive from central Palermo takes around 25 minutes via the A29 motorway or coastal roads. From Trapani, the journey is approximately 90 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Public parking is available near the beach, train station, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport: The nearest airport, located about 15 kilometres southwest of Isola delle Femmine. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes via the A29 motorway.
- Trapani Birgi Airport: Situated roughly 100 kilometres to the west, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Catania Fontanarossa Airport: Located around 220 kilometres to the southeast, the journey takes approximately 3 hours by car via the A19 and inland roads.
Private Transfers
Isola delle Femmine Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel to or from Isola delle Femmine, offering a direct connection along the northern Sicilian coast without the need to arrange car hire or use public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken straight to your destination by a professional driver.
Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport is the closest and most convenient airport, with routes following the Palermo–Trapani coastal road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Sferracavallo, Capaci, and Palermo city centre, or to other towns across northwestern Sicily, including Monreale and Castellammare del Golfo.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport is the closest and most convenient airport, with routes following the Palermo–Trapani coastal road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Sferracavallo, Capaci, and Palermo city centre, or to other towns across northwestern Sicily, including Monreale and Castellammare del Golfo.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

