Ryanair Reopens Its Base at Trapani Airport: A New Gateway to Western Sicily

After eight long years, Ryanair officially returns with a base at Trapani Airport, marking a historic turning point for tourism in Western Sicily. Closed in 2017, the base at Vincenzo Florio Airport is now fully operational again, restoring Trapani to its role as one of the most strategic low-cost gateways to the island.

Starting from January 6, one Ryanair aircraft is already based in Trapani. From the end of March and throughout the summer season, two aircraft will be permanently stationed, dramatically increasing connections between Sicily and Europe.

This reopening is not just an aviation milestone—it is a powerful opportunity for travelers looking to explore one of the most authentic, scenic, and still relatively undiscovered parts of Italy.

✈️ Ryanair Flights from Trapani: Destinations & Connectivity

With the first aircraft, Ryanair operates 13 routes, including 6 brand-new destinations such as:

• London Stansted

• Brussels Charleroi

• Baden-Baden

• Bratislava

• Katowice

• Pescara

In addition, frequencies on key domestic Italian routes have been increased, making Trapani even more accessible for travelers coming from mainland Italy.

With the second aircraft based at the airport, the network will expand to 23 total routes, adding new destinations such as:

• Stockholm Arlanda

• Bournemouth

• Saarbrücken

• Verona

• Bari

👉 Why this matters for travelers:Lower fares, more flexibility, direct connections, and Trapani as a stress-free alternative to larger Sicilian airports like Palermo or Catania.

🌍 Why Fly to Trapani Instead of Other Sicilian Airports?

Flying into Trapani is not just a convenient option—it is often the smartest decision for travelers who want to experience Sicily in a relaxed, authentic, and efficient way. Compared to larger and busier airports on the island, Trapani offers a series of practical and strategic advantages that can significantly improve your travel experience.

One of the most immediate benefits is the small size of the airport. Trapani Airport is compact and easy to navigate, which means short walking distances, faster baggage claim, and minimal waiting times. Arriving and departing is noticeably smoother, allowing you to start your holiday without stress and wasted time—something especially valuable after a long flight.

Another major advantage is reduced crowding, even during the high summer season. While larger Sicilian airports can become overwhelmed between June and September, Trapani maintains a calmer atmosphere. Fewer passengers mean shorter queues, more availability for car rentals, and an overall more pleasant arrival experience.

Geographically, Trapani enjoys an exceptional location. Landing here places you immediately in the heart of Western Sicily, one of the most diverse and fascinating areas of the island. There is no need for long transfers or city traffic before reaching your destination—your journey truly begins the moment you land.

Flying into Trapani also translates into lower overall travel costs. Thanks to low-cost airlines and competitive airport fees, flights are often cheaper. In addition, accommodation, car rentals, and dining in Western Sicily tend to be more affordable than in heavily touristic areas, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality experience without overspending.

Finally, Trapani is the ideal starting point for a road trip. The surrounding road network is scenic and manageable, making it easy to explore beaches, medieval villages, wineries, and nature reserves at your own pace. Renting a car here means maximum freedom and flexibility, whether you are planning day trips or a longer itinerary across the region.

From Trapani, you can reach sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, historic towns, charming islands, and protected natural areas within minutes or a short drive. San Vito Lo Capo, Erice, the Egadi Islands, Marsala, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve are all close enough to visit without long hours on the road—making Trapani a perfectly balanced base for discovering the very best of Sicily.

🏝️ What to See Near Trapani: Must-Visit Destinations

🏛️ Trapani Old Town

Trapani’s historic center is a blend of Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences, with elegant palaces, lively piazzas, and a beautiful seafront promenade.

Don’t miss:

• Corso Vittorio Emanuele

• Cathedral of San Lorenzo

• Sunset walk along the Tramontana walls

⛰️ Erice – The Medieval Village in the Clouds

Just 30 minutes from Trapani, Erice rises dramatically on top of Mount Erice, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the coastline and a truly fairy-tale atmosphere. Often wrapped in mist, this perfectly preserved medieval village feels suspended in time, with an almost mystical charm that captivates visitors in every season.

Walking through Erice means wandering along stone-paved streets, narrow alleys, and quiet squares framed by ancient walls and Norman architecture. The town’s elevated position rewards travelers with spectacular viewpoints, where the deep blue of the Mediterranean meets the salt flats and countryside below.

One of Erice’s most iconic landmarks is Venus Castle, a medieval fortress built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Venus. From its ramparts, visitors can enjoy one of the most impressive views in all of Sicily, especially at sunset.

No visit to Erice is complete without tasting its famous traditional almond pastries, known as Genovesi ericine. Filled with delicate custard or ricotta and baked fresh in local pastry shops, these sweets are a delicious reflection of the town’s long culinary tradition and are considered among the finest desserts in Western Sicily.

Erice is the perfect destination for travelers seeking history, atmosphere, and unforgettable scenery, whether as a half-day trip from Trapani or as part of a broader exploration of Western Sicily.

🏖️ San Vito Lo Capo & Zingaro Nature Reserve

 San Vito lo Capo is famous for its long stretch of white sand, shallow waters, and incredibly turquoise sea, often compared to Caribbean destinations. Sheltered by Mount Monaco and bathed in bright Sicilian light, this beach town offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a classic seaside escape.

• Just a short drive away lies the Zingaro Nature Reserve, one of Sicily’s most spectacular protected areas. Here, coastal hiking trails wind through Mediterranean vegetation, leading to a series of wild, unspoiled coves with crystal-clear water. The reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, offering dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and breathtaking viewpoints over the sea.

  Together, San Vito Lo Capo and the Zingaro Reserve create a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether you want to swim in transparent waters, hike scenic trails, or capture stunning landscapes with your camera, this area is perfect for beach lovers, hikers, and photographers looking to experience Sicily at its most natural and beautiful.

🧂 Marsala & The Salt Pans

Famous worldwide for its fortified wine and rich historical heritage, Marsala is a destination that perfectly blends culture, flavors, and unforgettable scenery. Strolling through its elegant historic center, visitors discover Baroque churches, noble palaces, and lively squares that reflect centuries of Mediterranean history and maritime traditions.

Marsala is also a must-visit for wine lovers. The surrounding countryside is dotted with historic wineries where you can enjoy guided wine tastings, learn about traditional production methods, and sample different styles of Marsala wine, often paired with local specialties.

Just outside the city lies one of Western Sicily’s most iconic landscapes: the salt pans of the Stagnone Lagoon, with their ancient windmills and shimmering basins. At sunset, the sky reflects off the salt flats, creating extraordinary colors and mirror-like reflections—a magical moment that has become one of the most photographed scenes in Sicily.

Marsala and its salt pans offer a unique experience where history, gastronomy, and natural beauty come together, making it an essential stop on any journey through Western Sicily.

🚤 The Egadi Islands

From Trapani port, daily ferries and hydrofoils connect travelers to the stunning Egadi Islands, one of the most beautiful island groups in the Mediterranean. These islands are renowned for their transparent waters, dramatic coastlines, and relaxed pace of life, offering a perfect escape from crowded tourist destinations.

The most famous island, Favignana, is known for its turquoise bays, flat landscape ideal for cycling, and iconic coves such as Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra. Levanzo charms visitors with its small fishing village, peaceful atmosphere, and crystal-clear snorkeling spots, while Marettimo offers a more rugged and authentic experience, with steep cliffs, sea caves, and excellent hiking trails.

The Egadi Islands are ideal for boat tours, snorkeling, swimming, and slow island living. Whether you choose a day trip or an overnight stay, these islands provide an unforgettable glimpse of Sicily’s most pristine marine landscapes and traditional island culture.

🚗 How to Get Around Sicily

🚘 Car Rental (Best Option)

• Highly recommended for flexibility

• Ideal for beaches, villages, nature reserves

• Affordable prices at Trapani Airport

🚌 Public Transportation

• Buses connect Trapani with major towns

• Slower but budget-friendly

• Limited schedules in rural areas

🚆 Trains

• Scenic but not always practical

• Better for cities like Palermo & Marsala

🚖 Private Transfers & Tours

• Comfortable

• Time-saving

• Ideal for families and small groups

🌟 Our Travel Services in Western Sicily

This is where we come in.

At Great Sicily Travel Blog, we don’t just share inspiration—we help you experience Sicily the right way.

✅ What We Offer:

• Private airport transfers from Trapani Airport

• Customized tours (Erice, Marsala, San Vito, Egadi Islands)

• Day trips & multi-day itineraries

• Local guides & authentic experiences

• Travel planning support before and during your stay

🎯 Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or two weeks, we design experiences tailored to your pace, interests, and budget.

🍝 Food, Wine & Local Experiences

Western Sicily is a paradise for food lovers:

• Cous cous di pesce (Trapani specialty)

• Fresh seafood

• Street food traditions

• Marsala wine tastings

• Family-run trattorias

We connect travelers with real local flavors, not tourist traps.

📌 A New Era for Trapani Travel

The return of Ryanair’s base at Trapani Airport is more than just new flights—it’s the opening of a door to a richer, easier, and more authentic Sicilian journey.

With:

• Direct European connections

• An uncrowded airport

• Extraordinary destinations nearby

• Reliable local support

Trapani is once again one of the smartest ways to discover Sicily.

✨ And we’re here to help you make the most of it—every step of the way.