Kite-shaped Trapani makes an impressive sight from lofty Mount Erice, connected to the peninsula below by cable car. On a clear day, the mountain also offers views of Tunisia - one destination of ferries from Trapani Port, alongside Cagliari, Pantelleria and the offshore Egadi Islands.

Overlooking the port is the old town, where arched doorways on narrow streets open onto many cheap apartments and B&Bs on Booking.com. Shabby chic façades sit alongside historic churches, such as understated Trapani Cathedral, somewhat lost amid elegant Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where pavement cafes sit in front of pastel-coloured buildings and metal balconies.

At the tip of the peninsula is the fortress-like Tower of Ligny lighthouse, now housing the Prehistory and Sea Museum. The Colombaia Castle protects the port from an island to the south, while in the other direction the sweeping coastline passes some beachfront hotels with swimming pools.

Villa Margherita Park offers shade from the Mediterranean sun, and Triton’s Fountain graces a neighbouring square. The simple façade of the Basilica of Maria Santissima Annunziata hides the treasures within, including a statue of the Madonna of Trapani which is at the heart of the Easter ‘Misteri’ celebrations.

Between the city and Trapani-Birgi Airport, historic windmills sit beside salt pans. The Salt Museum provides details of this major industry.