Venus Castle
1 / 10

Venus Castle

4.3
·79 reviews·Erice, Italy

Explore the ancient Norman castle ruins and medieval village of Erice, Sicily, offering breathtaking views and a journey back in time.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
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Venus Castle

Venus Castle

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancient Norman castle ruins and medieval village of Erice, Sicily, offering breathtaking views and a journey back in time.

4.3
(79 reviews)

"Incredible views from the Castle of Aphrodite at sunset make this a must-see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Catch the 'golden hour' for incredible photos, especially at the Castle of Aphrodite around sunset.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Expect lots of walking on hilly, narrow streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Venus Castle Ruins

Venus Castle Ruins

Erice, Sicily

Explore the ancient Norman castle ruins with breathtaking coastal and sea views.

Medieval Streets of Erice

Medieval Streets of Erice

Erice, Sicily

Wander through charming cobblestone streets and soak in the rich history of this ancient hilltop town.

Castle of Aphrodite

Castle of Aphrodite

Erice, Sicily

Experience incredible sunset views from this strategic vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during the 'golden hour' for incredible photos, especially at the Castle of Aphrodite around sunset. Be prepared for a lot of walking, as it's a hilly medieval village. Consider bringing layers, as it can be cool even in summer.

Navigating Venus Castle

Access Venus Castle via cable car or car. While some main paid sites can be reached by vehicle, expect to walk through narrow roads and explore on foot. The village offers a rewarding trekking experience with stunning scenery.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, better experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Disclaim: I am NOT complaining!! But this is the reality🧚🏻‍♀️ For more, 1G: THE CASTLEDIARY✨👑 #castle #italia #princess
@thecastlediary
3M likes • 15.3M views

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Catch the 'golden hour' for incredible photos, especially at the Castle of Aphrodite around sunset. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Expect lots of walking on hilly, narrow streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Reddit

The Bath of Venus, The Royal Palace, Caserta. #palace #palaces #chateau #beautifulplaces #palazzo #baroque #schloss #garden #beautifulgarden #venus #neoclassical
@andyricci
492.1K likes • 2.4M views
Sending Love To @cortis 💖 • • •Space :- @venus_dance_castle_ • • •#cortis #gogo #dance #reels#instagram #explore #explorepage #venusdancecastle #shubhamshyam
shubham_shyam_
172 likes • 3.7K views

🧥 Pack a Light Layer

Even in summer, it can be cool here. Bring a light jacket or shawl. Reddit

🚗 Cable Car or Car Access

Access Erice via cable car (€5) or by car. Park centrally and walk the rest. Reddit

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sasssynehh
1.1K likes • 56.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Catch the 'golden hour' for incredible photos, especially at the Castle of Aphrodite around sunset. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Expect lots of walking on hilly, narrow streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Reddit

🧥 Pack a Light Layer

Even in summer, it can be cool here. Bring a light jacket or shawl. Reddit

🚗 Cable Car or Car Access

Access Erice via cable car (€5) or by car. Park centrally and walk the rest. Reddit

💰 Value for Money?

Some visitors feel it's not worth the entry fee for the limited information provided. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.3
(79 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Venus Castle offers breathtaking views and a charming medieval experience, with many praising the 'golden hour' for photography and the friendly locals. However, some visitors find the entry fee steep for the limited historical information provided and note potential issues with site administration and cleanliness.

"This is a 3-4 hour beautiful experience with many areas to visit in different spots but all in the same "village".
You may pay €15/pp (discount prices for teens and free for kids).
It's a hill, so expect a lot of walking from one site to another or you may use a car for the main paid sites and then park at a central area and walk the rest of the narrow roads.
The people living and working here are very accommodating and friendly and the prices at the small restaurants/cafes are good.
If you are into trekking, this can be a much more lengthier experience, and the scenery is rewarding."

Loucas Ioannou

"This was very poorly administrated it is totally not worth. It is no other thing than a nice viewpoint but there is no information about anything related to the archeological site. There's still nice viewpoint around so it is not worth to enter the place"

Diego Chile

"Shame it's closed. Nice view"

Dale Deus

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Magical sunset 'golden hour'
Charming medieval streets

What People Dislike

High entry fee
Lack of historical info
Poor administration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Venus Castle, located in Erice, Sicily, by cable car (around €5) or by car. Once in Erice, it's best to park centrally and explore the medieval village on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. Reddit

Yes, parking is available in Erice. It's recommended to park in a central area and then walk to explore the various sites within the village, including the castle ruins. Reddit

While you can walk to Venus Castle from the main parking areas in Erice, the village is quite hilly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore extensively on foot. Reddit

Many visitors recommend exploring Erice on foot to fully appreciate its medieval charm. The cable car offers scenic views on the way up. Reddit

Due to the hilly terrain and narrow cobblestone streets, Venus Castle and the village of Erice can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Consider this when planning your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees can vary. Some reviews mention a fee of around €15 per person, with discounts for teens and free entry for children. However, some visitors felt the value was not there for the price. Reddit+1

Information on specific ticket options is limited, but some visitors purchased a ticket for a church without a museum for €6. It's advisable to check on-site for current pricing and what is included. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that parts of the site can be closed. It's best to check the most current opening hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Opinions are divided. Some find it a must-see with beautiful viewpoints, while others feel it's not worth the cost due to a lack of information about the archaeological site. Reddit+1

Information on advance ticket purchases is scarce. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival, but be aware of potential closures. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Castle of Aphrodite offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunset. The panoramic views of the coast and sea from the castle ruins are stunning. Reddit

The 'golden hour' after 4 PM is highly recommended for photography, as the light creates a magical atmosphere. Sunset from the Castle of Aphrodite is particularly spectacular. Reddit

A wide-angle lens would be beneficial for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots, but be mindful of crowds. TikTok

No specific photography restrictions are widely mentioned, but always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary by location and are often restricted in historical or protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the people working and living in the village are accommodating, and the small restaurants and cafes offer good prices and local pastries. Reddit

While specific recommendations are few, be cautious with local pastries as some may contain margarine. Reddit

The prices at the small restaurants and cafes in Erice are generally considered good. Reddit

Specific dietary options are not detailed, but traditional Sicilian cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes. It's best to inquire at the restaurant. Reddit

Yes, there are small cafes and restaurants within the village where you can find snacks and drinks. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Venus Castle and the medieval village of Erice can be a fun adventure for families, offering a sense of stepping back in time. The castle ruins and the hilltop location provide a sense of exploration. However, be prepared for a lot of walking on uneven, hilly terrain, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Reddit Consider the cable car ride up as an exciting part of the journey. Reddit While there are cafes for snacks, the focus is more on historical exploration than dedicated children's activities. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, opinions on Venus Castle are mixed. Some visitors feel the entry fee isn't fully justified by the information provided, suggesting that enjoying the views from outside the paid areas might be sufficient. Reddit+1 However, the cable car ride up is relatively inexpensive (€5) and offers great views. Reddit Exploring the medieval streets of Erice on foot is free and highly recommended. Reddit Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs within the village. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Venus Castle and Erice are a photographer's dream, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset. The Castle of Aphrodite is a prime spot for capturing stunning panoramic views of the Sicilian coastline. Reddit The medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and dramatic hilltop setting provide endless opportunities for unique shots. TikTokInstagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions during sunset. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Mythology of Venus Castle

Venus Castle, located in the medieval hilltop town of Erice, Sicily, is steeped in history and mythology. The site is believed to have ancient origins, with evidence suggesting it was a sacred site even before Roman times. The name 'Venus Castle' itself hints at its connection to the Roman goddess of love and beauty, Venus, who was often associated with earlier deities. The Norman castle that stands today was built on the foundations of earlier structures, adding layers of history to the location. Instagram+1

This ancient site has been compared to other significant medieval towns like Toledo or Mont Saint Michel, highlighting its unique historical and architectural importance. The area was once a Templar sacred shrine, adding a layer of mystique and spiritual significance. The strategic hilltop location has always made it a place of importance, offering commanding views and a natural defense. TikTokInstagram

While the current castle structure is Norman, the site's history stretches back to the 3rd century BC, making it a fascinating blend of different eras and cultures. Exploring Venus Castle offers a glimpse into the past, from ancient pagan rituals to medieval fortifications. Reddit

Experiencing Erice: Beyond the Castle

While Venus Castle is a primary draw, the entire medieval village of Erice offers a captivating experience. Visitors are encouraged to wander through its charming cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards and soaking in the atmosphere of centuries past. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its unique medieval character. Instagram+1

The town is perched high on a mountain, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the sea. This makes it a rewarding destination for those who enjoy scenic beauty and photography. The 'golden hour' around sunset is particularly recommended for capturing breathtaking vistas. Reddit

Beyond the visual appeal, Erice offers a glimpse into local life. The residents and workers are known for their friendliness and accommodation. While some visitors have expressed concerns about the administration and information provided at the paid sites, the overall experience of exploring the ancient streets and enjoying the views remains a significant draw. Reddit+1

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