Palermo
Italy · Sicily · 14 m
Description
Palermo is the vibrant capital of Sicily and a fascinating center of history, culture, and Mediterranean everyday life. The city is known for its Arab-Norman architecture, magnificent landmarks such as the Palazzo dei Normanni with the Cappella Palatina and Palermo Cathedral, its lively Ballarò and Vucciria markets, and its diverse street food culture. Palermo combines centuries of cultural influences with winding streets, weathered palazzi, and the distinctive spirit of southern Italian life. One of Italy’s most characterful cities, it is an ideal gateway to discovering Sicily’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 4 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – June
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel
- Palermo Cathedral & Rooftop
- Arab-Norman Palermo (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Ballarò Market & Palermo Street Food
- Quattro Canti & Historic Old Town
- Piazza Pretoria & Fontana Pretoria
- Teatro Massimo
- Martorana & San Cataldo Churches
- San Giovanni degli Eremiti
- Mondello Beach
- Capuchin Catacombs
- Vucciria Market & Nightlife
- Mercato del Capo
- Church & Monastery of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
- Oratory of San Lorenzo
- Palazzo della Zisa
- Foro Italico & La Cala Waterfront
- Teatro Politeama & Piazza Castelnuovo
- Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri
- Palazzo Abatellis & Regional Gallery of Sicily
- Monte Pellegrino & Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia
- Orto Botanico di Palermo
- Palazzina Cinese & Favorita Park
- Arancine, Panelle, Sfincione & Pane ca Meusa
- Cannoli, Cassata & Sicilian Pastries
- Monreale Cathedral & Cloister(Day trip)
- Cefalù Old Town & Cathedral(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- PMO
- Train stations:
- Palermo Centrale, Palermo Politeama, Palermo Vespri
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry