We plan some day trips from Palermo, and we have to decide between Trapani and Erice. I understand that the bus from Palermo goes to Trapani, and from there we have to take another one to Erice. So, till Erice is a longer way. For this reason, I am thinking to go only to Trapani. Is it a nice town to spend there some hours?

Would strongly suggest that Erice is worth the extra effort. Smaller, with more character than Trapani, and wonderful views as it's perched on a hilltop.

I agree with SeeDee. Erice.

Trapani is a modern anonymous relatively big town. People generally stop here only if they are going to take a boat to Egadi islands.
Erice is worth climbing.

Another vote for Erice.

OK, thank you; you convinced me!

I know the area very well having lived there. Yes, Trapani is more anonymous but there are plenty of things to do and see there. You can get to Erice by cable car from Trapani. It's a medieval town on the top of a mountain (about 800m high). The cable car takes about 15/20 minutes to get to the summit. Depending on when you are coming (if you haven't already) there is quite a big religious exhibition in several churches in Trapani at the moment (until the middle of April), centred around the crucifix. You could spend the day wandering around Trapani and then get the cable car to Erice in time for sunset. The views are breathtaking. You could have an early dinner in Erice and return to Palermo by bus from Trapani. I can recommend some transfer companies if you need/prefer a taxi.

Disagree that Trapani is just a big anonymous town - I enjoyed it much more than I expected. Yes, if you just take the bus in and the ferry out, you'll likely think that, but if you spend time in the old section you'll see a very different side of the town. Of course, I love Erice too... Pix of both at kwilhelm.smugmug.com/Travel/519560, passwords "trapani" and "erice".

Another vote for Erice - it is so charming and beautiful! Trapani is alright to visit but not as lovely to stay in (my opinion).

Do you know if the cable car operates every day of the week or is it closed on Monday?

What day is better to visit Erice...Sunday or Monday?