Considering how many trains stop at Isola delle Femmine station every day and how many people pass through, it is almost a miracle that this delightful little fishing village has managed to retain its authentic atmosphere and laid-back vibe.
The surprisingly large number of passengers passing through Isola delle Femmine train station is due to the simple fact that this charming little coastal town lies on the railway line from Palermo’s city center to the airport. For very few is Isola delle Femmine their final destination. And that’s a good thing, because it suits this hidden gem very well.
Isola delle Femmine
So, we went to Trapani for the sea, the salt, and the couscous. We visited Cefalù because it is a traveller’s legend. But in all honesty, we made our way to the Isola delle Femmine because it’s the fastest and easiest to reach from Palermo. Little did we know that it would turn out to be one of the best days during our stay in Sicily’s capital!
A day trip to Isola delle Femmine is like a mini-retreat from the fast-paced hustle and bustle of Palermo. In less than an hour, you can escape to a world of tranquility and unspoiled coastal charm.
The place is truly a stark contrast to the lively streets of Palermo. Pastel-colored houses, fishing boats gently bobbing in the harbor, and a unique rhythm that instantly slowed us down and gave us the vibe of a never-ending summer. However, we also had the opportunity to delve into everyday-life andl discover traces of old fishing traditions in the narrow streets of this darling village.
An Isola That Is Not An Island
Why this fishing village bears the name Isola delle Femmine, or Island of Women in English, is not entirely clear. Various myths and legends surround it—as with so many things in Sicily. Most importantly, despite its name, Isola delle Femmine isn’t actually an island. It borrows the name from a small, uninhabited islet located a few hundred meters offshore.
This real island is part of a nature reserve officially established in 1997. While it provides an undisturbed habitat for numerous bird and plant species, the main town offers relaxed and elegant holidays for those who want to experience unspoiled, authentic Sicilian coastal life.
Yet, the area also has much to offer in terms of history and culture such as the 18th-century church of Santa Maria delle Grazie or the remains of old watchtowers and a former tuna fishing and processing plant. Those are the reminders of how closely life here still is intertwined with the surrounding sea.
Love At First Sight
The coast and sea around Isola delle Femmine are known for their crystal-clear waters, fine sandy beaches, and rocky coves. Many areas are attractive to swimmers, snorkelers, and divers alike, as the marine landscape is rich in marine life. However, we’re in Sicily in November, and although we’ve already been able to swim twice in the still quite warm Mediterranean even during this winter month, it’s far too cold for that during our visit to Isola delle Femmine. But even a long walk along the picturesque shore is relaxing and beautiful.
After letting our gaze wander across the sea and the small island offshore from the northernmost tip, we stroll back to the fishing port. Here a market offers useful items such as pajamas in bright patterns, warm slippers, as well as all kinds of kitchen utensils. Obviously, also the most wonderful culinary treasures of Sicily are on display. We buy a whole pound of salted capers. They will bring the sunshine of Sicily to our plates and a dreamy smile to our faces long after our return.
Honestly, food is my favorite kind of souvenir.
Practical Information
How to Get There And Around
Isola delle Femmine is located about halfway between Palermo’s Falcone–Borsellino Airport and the city center. Therefore, getting there from Palermo at any time of the day is super easy. The regional train that goes from Sicily’s capital to the airport, which is located in Cinisi, about 30 kilometers west of the center, stops also at Isola delle Femmine. A one-way-ticket costs a bit over 3 €uros, and you can obtain them online on Trenitalia’s website and at the machines as well as counters at train stations.
However, there are also long distance buses serving the surrounding villages and taking you finally back to Palermo’s central bus station.
Once you’re in Isola delle Femmine, you can explore the quite small town on foot, obviously.
Visiting Organized
Although the regional bus system in Sicily is not bad at all, there are places on the island that are difficult to reach by public transport. If you are a slow traveler and can plan an additional overnight stay, it is possible to explore Sicily exclusively by public bus.
However, if you can’t plan a whole day for each remote attraction, here are some great options for exploring Sicily on organized day trips. Furthermore, you will of course need to book activities on the water and excursions to some islands through a tour operator*:
Where to Stay
If you plan on going to the Isola delle Femmine for longer than just one day, you can choose from a couple of accommodations in the very center as well as on the outskirts*:
Where to Shop
Isola delle Femmine isn’t a typical shopping destination, but that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. It’s less about large shopping streets and more about an authentic, relaxed, and very local shopping experience. Strolling through the small streets, you’ll find typical products like handmade ceramics, textiles, local foods, olive oil, spices, and wines, often directly from family businesses. These small, often unassuming shops or open workshops offer a glimpse into the real, everyday life of the island.
The market at the harbor plays a particularly important role. It takes place in various forms – sometimes as a fresh fish market in the early morning, sometimes as a small weekly market with fruits, vegetables, and regional products. The freshly caught fish, the colorful vegetables from the surrounding area, the sounds of the vendors advertising their wares – all of this conveys a truly authentic Sicilian atmosphere. As soon as you walk along the market, you’ll automatically get ideas for souvenirs: dried herbs, homemade preserves, fresh sea salt. Yet, this market isn’t a tourist trap. Rather, it’s a place where you can take a piece of real Sicily home with you.
Obviously, Italy is one of the 20 countries that have replaced their former local currency with the €uro. The exchange rate is 1 US$ = 0.85 EUR as of January 2026. However, you can check today’s conversion rate on this page. Mind you, paying by card and contactless is accepted everywhere, including regional and local public transport.
Map
On this map, you see where to find the most amazing places that make Isola delle Femmine a fantastic hideout. Clicking on the slider symbol at the top left or the full-screen icon at the top right will display the whole map, including the legend.
Isola delle Femmine was one of many overwhelmingly beautiful places I visited during my trip to Sicily. To read about the others, go to this post and take your pick!
Pinnable Pictures
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