Vacation Packages and Escorted Tours to Palermo, Sicily

Discover Palermo's Wonders

No visit to Sicily is ever complete without a visit to Palermo, the jewel of the Mediterranean, and Sicily's largest and most cosmopolitan city. From the eleventh century onward, the history of Palermo is largely the history of Sicily. Palermo offers great dining as well as excellent shopping and sightseeing.

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Description

The Phoenicians founded Palermo as a trade port in 700 BC, and a long string of rulers followed. Carthage was the first to conquer it, followed by the Romans, the Vandals, and Arabian rulers who transformed it into a magical city with mosques, minarets, and markets. During the Crusades, the city was conquered by the Normans who continued building on the Arabian legacy of tolerance and enlightenment. That era is known as Palermo's "Golden Era". Today, tourists are discovering a city with an exciting mix of medieval areas with clothes hung on lines between buildings and elegant residential districts with palm trees and palatial villas. Palermo is a city with stunning historical sights, a mouth-watering gastronomy tradition, crystal-clear waters, and an energetic atmosphere.

Useful information

Population:

850,000 (2023)

Currency:

1 Euro = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

European emergency number: 112
Ambulance: 118
Police: 113
Fire brigade: 115

Opening Hours:

Shops in Palermo are usually open from 9am to 1pm and from 3pm to 8pm. Large department stores are usually open all day.

Do & See

Art Nouveau Kiosks

The three Art Nouveau kiosks by architect Ernesto Basile appear like unexpected gems along the buzzing streets of Palermo. Built about the end of the 19th century, the kiosks once hosted the traditional Sicilian vendors of soft drinks and refreshing beverages but are today converted into tobacconists. Chiosco Ribaudo located in Piazza Verdi, the most famous one, is a crimson and wrought iron building adorned with golden letters. The second Ribaudo kiosk in Piazza Castelnuovo is decorated with colourful majolica and mosaics while the Chiosco Vicari, in front of the Teatro Massimo, is a triumph of Moorish, Islamic, and Colonial architecture.

Ballarò Market

The Mercato di Ballarò is the oldest and largest market in Palermo where you can enjoy some exciting flavours and buy fresh produce. Resembling a colourful and buzzing souk, walking down the lanes of this busy street market will immediately show you how Sicily markets developed during the Arab occupation. Part of the experience is the jingles sung by the vendors to attract customers while offering samples to the passers-by.

Botanical Garden

Founded in 1781, the Orto Botanico di Palermo is considered to be a prestigious open-air botanical museum that has enabled in-depth studies on fascinating plants for about 200 years. Walk down the shaded pathways lined with subtropical plants, fig trees, Mediterranean herb gardens, local cacti, and hibiscus but don't forget to also check out the beautiful historical buildings where this restful paradise is set in.

Cappella Palatina

Located inside Normans Palace (Palazzo dei Normanni), the royal chapel of the Norman kings of Sicily, Cappella Palatina is the finest example of Arab-Norman art in the city. Every inch is a jubilation of craftsmanship, from the golden mosaics covering the walls to the marble floors and carved wooden ceilings.

Capuchin Catacombs

Located in the Capuchin Monastery since 1599, the Catacombe dei Cappuccini houses 8,000 mummified bodies and skeletons of former residents of Palermo who died between the 17th and 19th centuries. It's a somewhat macabre insight into the customs and traditions of the Palermitan society of the time, with gender, religion, profession, and social status rigidly applied to the disposition of the bodies.

Church of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

The Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo attracts visitors from all corners of the globe with its remarkable Sicilian Baroque architecture and ornate decor: the walls are full of ornamental paintings and there are vibrant frescoes, intricately carved statues, and stunning colourful marble interiors. Don't miss out on the magnificent majolica cloister and the view from the rooftop terrace. The bakery located inside the complex sells sweet treats prepared with century-old recipes from Sicily's convents.

Church of Saint John of the Hermits

One of the finest examples of Medieval architecture in Palermo, the church of Saint John of the Hermits (Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti) is famous for its red domes and architectural design that was greatly influenced by the Arabs during the 12th century. This was originally a mosque that was later converted into a Christian church dedicated to Sicily's hermit monks. Walk along the pretty garden of regional plants and the ruins of the cloister.

Diocesan Museum

Housed in the Archbishop's Palace, the Museo Diocesano di Palermo boasts an impressive collection of sculptures from the 15th to 18th centuries. It also displays interesting artworks, such as religious silverware and textiles, frescoes and Italian and Flemish paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Dining

A'Cuncuma

This cosy, family-run Sicilian restaurant combines tasty tradition with mighty modernity. Fresh ingredients and local products are used to create refined, gourmet dishes. A wide wine selection and an intimate yet unpretentious atmosphere are added values of this restaurant located just near the Cathedral of Palermo.

Aja Mola

Regarded as one of Palermo's premier seafood establishments, Aja Mola is a simple yet classy eatery serving the freshest fish, shellfish, and a curated array of special oyster selections from the Mediterranean. Complementing these exquisite dishes is a thoughtfully chosen collection of natural wines. The open-view kitchen with bar seating underscores the informal ambience that pervades this culinary haven.

Cagliostro Ristorante

Cagliostro captures the essence of innovation within a sleek setting, reimagining traditional Sicilian fare with contemporary flair — think modern pasta creations, massive burgers, and imaginative pizzas.

Casa del Brodo dal Dottore

Casa del Brodo dal Dottore opened its doors in 1890, making it one of the city’s oldest restaurants. Since then, it has been synonymous with good Palermitan cuisine. Amidst its vast culinary offerings, traditional delights shine — from the sumptuous tortellini in broth to the boiled meat with potatoes to the distinctive Sicilian appetisers like sarde a beccafico and eggplant rolls.

Ferro di Cavallo

Nestled in the heart of Palermo, Trattoria Al Ferro di Cavallo is a historic gem that has been serving typical Palermo and Sicilian specialities since 1944. Within its rustic embrace, the restaurant presents classic Sicilian pasta and seafood dishes that capture the essence of the region's flavours, with the option to dine al fresco at outdoor tables.

FUD

A young, modern eatery serving delicious panini, pinsa, and burgers following the long Sicilian street food tradition. Panini with fresh cold cuts, cheeses and the best of local ingredients and assembled on the spot at the counter, while tasty burgers, hot dogs, and salads are prepared in the kitchen. There are also many vegan and vegetarian options to be enjoyed in the relaxed atmosphere of this contemporary deli.

Gagini

Housed in the former studio of Renaissance sculptor Antonello Gagini, this Michelin-starred culinary haven offers tasting menus with modern twists on timeless Sicilian recipes in a cosy and rustic ambience with bare-stone interiors. Beyond the kitchen, a refined cellar awaits, boasting an extensive array of wines that perfectly complement the culinary artistry on display.

Il Baro

Il Baro is located in a charming neighbourhood outside of the city centre. The restaurant is popular with locals and much appreciated by tourists. First and foremost, they serve artisan pizzas, but there are other options on the menu, like pasta and meat dishes.

Cafés

Antico Caffè Spinnato

Founded in 1860, Spinnato epitomises the essence of a classic Italian café, standing as one of Palermo's finest patisseries. Revered for its range of traditional Sicilian deli specialities and a light lunch menu, this establishment offers a culinary journey through time. Delight in the ice cream-filled brioche or savour the rich flavors of the cassata, a traditional cake from Sicily composed of a round sponge cake moistened with fruit juices or liqueur and layered with ricotta cheese and candied fruit.

Bar Alba Pasticceria

A timeless fixture since 1955, Bar Alba stands as an unwavering beacon for Palermitans, intertwining tradition with innovation. A cherished local patisserie offering an array of yummy pastries in all forms, plus refreshing gelato, freshly made rotisserie, and some of the best arancini (deep-fried rice balls) to be found in Palermo.

Bar Marocco

Located just across the Cathedral of Palermo, Bar Marocco has earned the trust of many of its guests through the years thanks to its fresh and delicious treats, including the famous iris: a traditional Sicilian deep-fried dessert filled with ricotta cream and chocolate flakes.

Bar Pasticceria La Preferita Gelateria

A real local gem, this venue is as much of an ice cream parlour as a café, serving traditional Sicilian desserts and rotisserie products. Try the cream puff filled with coffee cream and the chocolate cake.

Casa Stagnitta

Nestled within the historic heart of Palermo, Casa Stagnitta is well worth a stop during a long day of sightseeing. From early morning, delight in breakfast delights such as croissants, brioches, and the quintessential Palermo rotisserie. The allure continues with freshly stuffed cannoli and cakes, as well as granita, a typical Sicilian cold, sweet treat made from water, sugar, and fruit.

Gelateria La Kala

At La Kala, the essence of homemade ice cream comes to life through the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and an unwavering commitment to traditional, natural methods. Among a wide spectrum of flavours, their speciality lies in fruit-infused delights, with the tre veli — a harmonious blend of three distinct fruit ice creams — being a standout recommendation. This haven of indulgence extends to Sicilian ice cream-filled brioche and the refreshing granita (slush).

I Segreti del Chiostro

I Segreti del Chiostro, born as a project to safeguard secret recipes of convent bakeries from all over Sicily, finds its home in the Santa Caterina convent. Within these historic walls, this establishment showcases exceptional and rare sweet treats crafted from the finest ingredients. From biscuits to cassata, cannoli, fritters, and Sicilian slush, the offerings celebrate the legacy of these secret recipes, capturing the essence of Sicilian culinary heritage.

Pasticceria Cappello

A haven for those with a sweet tooth, Pasticceria Cappello stands as a renowned name in Palermo's chocolate scene. Celebrated for its delectable creations, this pastry shop boasts an array of delights that cater to every craving. From the iconic Setteveli cake to the Kenya cake infused with chocolate and coffee to Sicilian classics like cassata and cannoli. Pralines and an assortment of chocolate bars complete the enchanting repertoire, making Pasticceria Cappello a paradise for indulgence in all forms of cocoa confections.

Bars & Nightlife

Alchimia Salotto Arabo

Famous for its delicious fusion of cocktails and drinks, Alchimia is a cosy hookah bar in Palermo that plays soft music with some belly dancing performances in a typically Arab atmosphere.

Botteghe Colletti

Nestled at a picturesque corner in Palermo, Botteghe Colletti offers the perfect spot for mingling with the locals over a drink. Embark on a sensory journey through flavours and aromas, guided by the expertise of the bartenders. With both street and indoor seating options, its rustic yet refined interior exudes charm, complete with exposed brick walls and antiques that resonate with a captivating retro vibe.

Bottiglieria Massimo

For over five decades, this family-run bar has shone as a beacon of excellence, offering a diverse range of champagne, top-notch cocktails, craft beer, and fine spirits. Now, Bottiglieria del Massimo boasts an added gem: the Lievitoteca-Oyster Bar, a haven for gourmet delights.

Cantavespri Vini e Vinili

Housed within a 16th-century palace in the heart of Palermo's city centre, Cantavespri is an Italian restaurant, wine bar, and nightclub. It offers special cocktails, aperitifs and typical Italian and Sicilian cuisine, as well as live music and DJ acts, plus a wide array of vinyl to choose from.

Igiea Terrazza Bar

Located at the Villa Igiea Hotel, Igiea Terrazza Bar welcomes guests into an inviting space graced by charming frescoes painted in the 1950s by Palermo's revered local artist, Eugenio Morici. The bar boasts a stylish games room and evening live music during the summer months, as well as an exclusive outdoor terrace that gazes upon the glimmering Gulf of Palermo, creating a magical setting for enjoying drinks or dancing the night away. Within this setting, the bar crafts a menu embracing Sicilian flavours along with an expertly crafted cocktail selection.

Il Siciliano

Il Siciliano is one of the best places to have aperitifs in Palermo, boasting a blend of cocktails, regional wines, and a rich selection of Italian tapas. The venue's colourful and cosy ambience draws crowds, particularly during late afternoons in the summer. They frequently host live music gigs.

Malox Cult

Malox is a no-frills pub offering a wide selection of beers and cocktails at reasonable prices, plus bar bites and occasional live music evenings. A favourite among local youth and students, its allure is heightened by a leafy terrace — an ideal spot to unwind and socialise.

Nautoscopio

Located right at the beach, Nautoscopio offers a stunning view of the ocean and the harbour. This outdoor venue is open from June to September and features street food, as well as cultural activities like music, art, and theatre. Enjoy drinks and a relaxing atmosphere at one of Palermo’s gems.

Shopping

Archigiana per Alab

The owner of Archigiana, Morena, has devoted her passion to the creation of unique accessories through the combination of design and craftsmanship. Made of various materials like leather, faux leather and wood, the bags and purses have a distinctive style and can also be customised upon request.

Centro Commerciale Forum

With 120 stores, the Centro Commerciale Forum is the biggest shopping mall in Palermo. It features many luxurious boutiques, restaurants, services and other establishments making it a favourite shopping destination for many tourists. Shops such as Guess, H&M, Timberland, United Colors of Benetton, Pandora, Swarovski and Adidas, are all included here.

Ceramiche Tre Erre

Ceramiche Tre Erre is a famous pottery shop and showroom in Palermo founded in 1979. The colourful, handmade Sicilian ceramics fill up the place, varying from platters and vases to decorative items. This is a great place to look for rare and fabulous pieces of majolica art and ceramics. The prices are not the cheapest, but the quality is top-notch.

Ciatualab

Ciatualab was founded by three young and creative Sicilian craftsmen selling leather products and recycled inner tube bags. Today, they offer a wide selection of uniquely designed leather bags, backpacks, briefcases, pochettes, and sandals made by several Sicilian designers.

Cittacotte di Vincenzo Vizzari

Looking for a great and unique memento from Palermo? Come and visit Cittacotte for creative handmade miniatures of renowned monuments and buildings from the city. Every piece is made in terracotta and shaped by the Italian architect Vincenzo Vizzari, using innovative and exceptional techniques to create an extremely detailed and elaborate design.

Enoteca Picone

Enoteca Picone, a delightful fusion of a wine bar and shop, beckons wine enthusiasts seeking an exceptional experience. Boasting an impressive collection of over 7000 wine labels and a diverse array of premium beers and spirits, it is a haven for both connoisseurs and novices. A visit here not only offers the chance to indulge in regional wines and liquors but also to expertly pair them with high-quality cold cuts, cheeses, and sausages.

Fiorentino Milestone

When it comes to trendy jewellery, Fiorentino is considered one of the most trusted places in the city. They have a great collection of classy and luxurious watches, charms, silverware, and jewels with classic and contemporary designs. The products are either from prestigious brands or made especially for Fiorentino.

La Coppola

Symbolic of the island's rich heritage, the Sicilian coppola — the iconic flat hats of the region — is a cherished emblem, echoing the resonance of ancient traditions that have withstood the test of time. And at La Coppola, the art of crafting modern Sicilian coppola comes to life. These meticulously crafted pieces serve as perfect souvenirs to bring back home.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Palermo is during spring and autumn, when the temperatures are still pleasantly warm and tourist flows decrease, leading to more affordable accommodation rates. The best months are from April to June, as well as September and October.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Italy, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Palermo Airport (PMO)

The Falcone Borsellino Airport or simply Palermo Airport (PMO), formerly Punta Raisi Airport, is an international airport located at Cinisi, about 35 kilometres from Palermo. With the bus company Prestia e Comandè, you have a convenient option for reaching Palermo's city centre from the airport. The travel time from the airport to the central rail station in Palermo takes approximately 50 minutes. Among the final stops is Piazza Ruggiero Settimo / Via Emerico Amari, with a travel time of 40 minutes. This stop is strategically situated near the northern harbour and city centre hotels in Palermo. For those seeking access to the Old Town, the nearest bus stop is Via Roma, requiring a 45-minute journey. The bus operates from 5am to 12:15am. Tickets are available for purchase online, onboard the bus, and at the ticket office situated at the airport, adjacent to the Arrivals area and the bus stop. An alternative transportation option is the Trinacaria Express train, connecting Palermo's Central Station directly to Punta Raisi, where the airport is situated. The train journey takes about 1 hour to reach the main railway station, Palermo Centrale. Airport taxi services can be found in the Arrivals Area exit and are synchronised with the arrival flight schedule.

Public Transport

Use the AMAT network of buses and trams to get around Palermo. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes and can be bought from tobacco vendors, select newsagents, the AMAT kiosks at Piazza Ruggero Séttimo and at the central station. There are also two free shuttles to get to the historic centre quickly: - 'Free Centro Storico', which connects Piazza del Cavalluccio Marino with Piazza Indipendenza by passing some important places such as la Cala, Quattro Canti, Stazione Centrale, Palazzo Reale, la Cattedrale, and the Teatro Massimo. The orange bus passes every 11 minutes. You can take this free bus every day between 6:35am and 9pm. - 'Free Express' connects the Basile parking lot to Piazza Indipendenza. This bus runs every day between 6:20am and 9:10pm. Upon boarding, remember to validate your ticket using the machines positioned near the vehicle entrances.

Taxi

When taking a taxi in Palermo, make sure it is run by an official taxi company and always check if there's a taximeter before boarding the taxi. Taxi ranks are located at the train station, Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, and Piazza Independenza. Taxi Palermo +39 091 8481 Radio Taxi Trinacria +39 091 6878

Electricity

Italy uses the Type F electrical sockets with two round holes, the same as in many countries in Continental Europe. You will also encounter Type L sockets with three round holes arranged in a line. A “universal“ socket, that accepts Type C, E, F and L plugs, is commonly used in Italy. The standard voltage is 230 volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.

Pharmacy

Palermo’s pharmacies have alternating opening hours during weekends and nights. Antica Farmacia Cavour, located in the city centre, is open 24/7. Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 96 +39 091 611 9419

Post

Stamps can be purchased at the post office as well as tobacconists that carry either the blue and white "Tabacchi" sign or are simply marked with a "T". Besides the main post office, small branches can be found around the city, including one at the central station.

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