Sicily is a trove of history, and Trapani holds its own as Peter of Aragon’s landing site, initiating Spanish occupation in 1282. Prior to that, Greek mythology had the enormous sweep of its crescent-shaped bay pegged as goddess of the harvest, Demeter’s sickle. Similarly, the famous Baroque statue of the god Saturn in Piazzetta Saturno is a nostalgic nod to the city’s mythic past.

As with any town in Sicily, a wander through the ambient streets of its old town will deliver you, at some point, to a vast and sprawling cathedral. The 15th-century Basilica Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is Trapani’s, and its intricate frescos and gold-embellished interiors certainly impress. Medieval and Baroque churches are liberally scattered around the city—a favourite is the tiny Chiesa di San Liberale, built entirely from coral.

For an authentic flavour of Trapani’s lively hustle and bustle, wake up early to witness the fishermen haul in their catch of the day to sell along the port. Locals haggle for prawns, sardines, octopus and sea snails fresh from the ocean—you’re likely to see those very same spoils plated with typical Sicilian flair at lunch. Wash it all down with local Marsala wine.

While in days of yore, Trapani made its living from fish, salt and coral, one of its more lucrative industries is now tourism. The Egadi Islands—a cluster of three idyllic, relatively unspoilt flecks off Trapani’s coast—pull in a roaring trade. Favignana is the largest of the archipelago, and the most popular for its protected Cala Azzurra beach. It’s followed by hilly Levanzo and the furthest flung rugged shores of Marettimo.

While the Egadi Islands’ beaches are certainly worth a day trip, there are plenty of prime sandy bays rolling out from Trapani’s harbour. San Vito Lo Capo, tucked up against the pristine Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, is less than an hour’s drive from Trapani and has been likened to the Caribbean for its crystalline turquoise waters and fine white sand.

Inland, discover the ancient town of Erice perched 750m above Trapani. Layered in history, the views across the coast from its 12th-century Castello di Venere fortress are spectacular. You’ll find more stunning little churches around the town, but the best spot to perch is with an espresso on the sloping Piazza Umberto I to watch the sleepy tides of Erice drift past.

Rent a car with Avis in Trapani to discover west Sicily’s rich history, charming towns and turquoise-fringed coastline.