Palermo, Sicily Guide: 25 BEST Things to Do

Our Palermo Sicily travel guide with the best things to do, local markets, historic sites and where to eat authentic Sicilian food.

Is Palermo Sicily Worth Visiting?

Yes, Palermo, Sicily is worth seeing. Its Norman, Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque styles create a blend that can be seen in the Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace. Two of the best markets in Europe, the Vucciria and the Ballarò, are in the city and are incredible for both the local flavors, and Sicilian brouhaha.

Nightlife is also intense: there are street parties and local bars that are full of those who want an authentic vibe. The city feels raw and chaotic but rewards those who dive into its culture and history.

25 Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily

Here are 25 of the best things to do in Palermo, including some non-touristy and unconventional activities.

1. Visit the Palermo Cathedral

Check out the Palermo Cathedral. It blends Gothic, Arabic, and Norman styles. The roof offers stunning city views.

2. Explore the Palatine Chapel

Go see the Palatine Chapel in the Norman Palace. It’s famous for its stunning mosaics and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Check Out Teatro Massimo

Visit Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy. It's famous for its performances and scenes from "The Godfather Part III."

4. Marvel at Quattro Canti

Marvel at Quattro Canti, Palermo’s iconic baroque square. The facades represent the four seasons, Spanish kings, and saints.

5. Discover the Capuchin Catacombs

Discover the Capuchin Catacombs. It’s home to the world’s largest collection of mummies. The place offers a glimpse into unique burial practices.

6. Wander Through Ballarò Market

Wander through Ballarò Market. It's one of Palermo’s oldest markets. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sample local street food.

7. Visit the Church of San Cataldo

Make a pilgrimage to the Church of San Cataldo. Known for its striking red domes, it's part of the UNESCO heritage cluster with La Martorana.

8. Explore La Martorana

Visit La Martorana, also known as the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio. It’s famous for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics.

9. Relax at Mondello Beach

Relax at Mondello Beach. Just 20 minutes from the city center, it’s perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming.

10. Visit the Norman Palace

Check out the Norman Palace. It’s one of the oldest royal residences in Europe and houses the magnificent Palatine Chapel.

11. See the Zisa Palace

Visit Zisa Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 12th-century palace showcases beautiful Arab-Norman architecture.

12. Stroll Down Via Maqueda

Stroll down Via Maqueda. It’s a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy some gelato while you’re there.

13. Admire the Pretoria Fountain

Admire the Pretoria Fountain, also known as the “Fountain of Shame” for its nude statues. It’s a popular photo spot.

14. Visit the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti

Visit the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti. This former mosque turned church has a fascinating history and beautiful red domes.

15. Enjoy the Street Food

Enjoy the street food of Palermo. Try arancini, panelle, and cannoli. Take a street food tour to discover the best local eats.

16. Check Out the Admiral’s Bridge

Check out the Admiral’s Bridge. This medieval bridge is part of Palermo’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and often overlooked by tourists.

17. Visit the Museo delle Marionette

Visit the Museo delle Marionette. It’s home to one of Europe’s largest puppet collections and showcases Palermo’s puppetry tradition.

18. Explore Piazza Giulio Cesare

Explore Piazza Giulio Cesare, a busy square in front of Palermo’s central station. Great for people-watching and enjoying the statue of Vittorio Emanuele.

19. Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Catena

Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Catena. This Gothic-Catalan church near the harbor is a serene spot away from the bustling city center.

20. Discover the Regional Archaeological Museum

Discover the Regional Archaeological Museum. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Sicily’s ancient history.

21. Take an Anti-Mafia Tour

Join an Anti-Mafia Tour. Learn about the history and impact of the Mafia in Sicily. It’s an educational experience supporting local initiatives.

22. Visit the Botanical Gardens

Visit the Botanical Gardens of Palermo. This peaceful retreat has a vast collection of plant species, perfect for a relaxing walk.

23. Explore the Capo Market

Explore the Capo Market, one of Palermo’s historic street markets. It’s vibrant and offers fresh produce and local street food.

24. Check Out Stanze al Genio

Check out Stanze al Genio, a private museum showcasing over 5,000 colorful ceramic tiles. It’s a hidden gem for art lovers.

25. Visit the Porta Nuova

Visit the Porta Nuova, a monumental gate built in 1535 to celebrate Charles V’s victory in Tunis. It’s adorned with statues of Moors.

Beaches in Palermo

Yep, Palermo has some killer beaches. Mondello Beach is the most famous with its clear blue water and soft white sand. It's just 20 minutes from downtown, super easy to get to, and loved by everyone.

Sferracavallo is another great spot, mixing sandy and rocky beaches, ideal for snorkeling. For something quieter, Capo Gallo has a natural reserve with rocky shores and clear water. Also, check out Isola delle Femmine. It's technically an islet but has a great public beach, perfect for swimming and, if you're into it, birdwatching.

Best beaches in Palermo

Palermo has a bunch of the following, stunning beaches, each with its own vibe:

Mondello Beach

Mondello Beach is the most popular spot near Palermo, about 11 kilometers from the city center. It’s famous for its clear blue waters and fine white sand. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and beach clubs here. It gets super busy, especially on weekends. So, get there early or book a sunbed.

Capaci Beach

Capaci Beach is a bit farther from Palermo. It has both free and paid areas. The sandy beach is great for families with kids. There are lots of restaurants and bars around. The free areas can get chaotic during peak times.

Isola delle Femmine

Isola delle Femmine is a small islet near Capaci, reachable by boat tour. The name means "Island of Women," and it's full of legends. It’s a beautiful, serene spot with clear waters and a historic tower.

Spiaggia Vergine Maria

Spiaggia Vergine Maria is a peaceful beach with golden sand and calm, clear waters. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds closer to Palermo.

Spiaggia della Costa Sud

Spiaggia della Costa Sud has a great view of the harbor and mountains. It’s rocky, which makes swimming a bit tricky, but the scenery is worth it.

Lido Valdesi

Lido Valdesi is a picturesque beach that attracts VIPs. It has clean, golden sand and clear, shallow waters. The atmosphere is lively and fun.

Lungomare di Aspra

Lungomare di Aspra is in a small local village. It offers stunning views of the mountains behind Palermo. It’s a quiet and charming spot.

Is Palermo safe?

Palermo – the capital of Sicily – is a safe destination for tourists overall, but watch out for pickpockets and purse-snatchers in crowded areas and public transport. Be especially cautious around the central train station and trendy locales such as Piazza Sant’Anna, particularly after dark.

The neighborhoods of La Kalsa, Monte di Pietà, and Politeama Libertà are definitely safer and geared for tourism. The organized (Sicilian mafia) crime history has faded, and now it's more about petty theft and corruption. Don’t flaunt your cash, keep an eye on your pockets, and you’ll be fine. Public transport is safe enough, but you’ll be ripped off in a taxi if you don’t haggle over the price before you get in.

Palermo Safety Tips

When you're visiting Palermo, you gotta keep some safety tips in mind. Here are the essentials:

1. Watch Your Stuff in Crowds: Markets and tourist spots are pickpocket central. Keep your things close, don't flash cash, and use a cross-body bag.
2. Use Legit Transportation: Buses and trains are your best bet. If you take a taxi, agree on the fare first to avoid getting ripped off. Skip the sketchy rides, especially at night.
3. Avoid Certain Areas at Night: Steer clear of Albergheria, Brancaccio, and Ballarò after dark. Stick to well-lit, busy places. Ask your hotel for safe spots.
4. Secure Your Valuables: Leave important stuff in the hotel safe. When you're out, carry just what you need. Keep some emergency cash hidden.
5. Respect Local Customs: Sicilians are friendly, but follow their customs. Don't eat or drink near historic sites, and dress modestly, especially at churches.
6. Be Wary of Street Offers: Say no to drugs or unsolicited services. Buy from reputable shops and vendors only.
7. Have Emergency Contacts Handy: Keep key numbers like the U.S. Embassy's. A local SIM card can help with quick communication and navigation.
8. Stay Safe Solo: Palermo is generally safe for solo travelers. Stick to busy areas, let someone know your plans, and consider group tours.

Where is Palermo, Sicily?

Palermo sits on Sicily's northwest coast by the Gulf of Palermo in the Tyrrhenian Sea. It's framed by Conca d'Oro's fertile plains and Mount Pellegrino, which rises 606 meters to the north.

The geology here is a mix, showing off the clash between the Eurasian and African plates. You’ll find limestone and chalk from the Mesozoic era and evaporites from the Messinian age. Sicily’s geology is tied to the Apennine Peninsula, marked by volcanic and seismic activity due to ongoing tectonic movements in the Mediterranean.

Map of Palermo, Sicily

How big is Palermo, Sicily?

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a big deal. The city itself, with its 676,000 people, is the largest city on the island. With the addition of 26 surrounding municipalities in its metropolitan area, the grand total is around 1.07 million people.

With 1,391 square kilometers of land, it’s the largest urban area in Sicily. It’s also the most significant cultural and tourism node in the Mediterranean. It’s the fifth largest metro area in Italy (750 people per square kilometer).

The Best Tours in Palermo, Sicily

These tours offer a great mix of Palermo’s history, culture, and food. They're some of the best ways to experience the city.

Palermo: Teatro Massimo Opera House Guided Tour

Check out Palermo's famous opera house on this 40-minute tour. Walk through the stunning auditorium and other rooms of Europe’s third-largest opera house.

Palermo: NO Mafia Walking Tour

Hit the streets of Palermo’s historic center on this guided Mafia-themed walking tour. Visit key spots like Teatro Massimo, Il Capo market, and Piazza Della Memoria. Learn about the Mafia's history and the local pushback against their influence. Check out businesses that refuse to pay extortion money. This tour dives deep into the city’s culture and history.

Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo

Spend a day exploring Segesta, Trapani’s Salt Pans, and the medieval town of Erice. This 8-hour tour covers a Greek archaeological site and stunning coastal views. Learn about western Sicily’s history and culture. This day trip gives you plenty of time to explore each site, making it a perfect getaway from Palermo.

From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Half-Day Trip

Escape the hustle of Palermo with a half-day trip to Monreale and Cefalù. Check out the Norman cathedral on Monte Caputo and learn about Cefalù’s Greek and medieval history. The tour includes a visit to Monreale's Duomo and a stroll through Cefalù’s charming medieval streets.

Palermo: Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine

Spend an afternoon in Palermo making traditional Sicilian pizza and gelato. This fun cooking class lets you learn and enjoy your creations. End the session with a tasty dinner and wine. Perfect for foodies looking to dive into local culinary traditions.

Palermo: Vintage Fiat 500 Sightseeing Tour

Explore Palermo in a vintage Fiat 500. This tour takes you through the city’s historic center, navigating narrow streets and alleys that bigger cars can’t. Visit landmarks like Teatro Massimo, Palermo Cathedral, and Palazzo dei Normanni. Enjoy the thrill of driving a classic car while seeing the sights.

How many days in Palermo is enough?

I find that three or four days in Palermo is a good length for the majority of travelers. Three days give you enough time to see the main attractions, try the food, and perhaps do a day trip to Monreale or Cefalù.

If you also want to visit some of the city’s other museums, like the Palatine chapel (the royal palace), the archaeology museum, the modern art galleries – including the new Museo Punta Raisi… – or just relax at Mondello Beach or the beaches like the ones at Cefalù and San Vito lo Capo in greater detail (all of which lie just a short drive from Palermo), you’ll feel rushed with only three days.

On the other hand, if you just want to see the main sights, such as the Cathedral, the Capuchin Catacombs and the pier at Vucciria market, two days will give you enough time. At a slower pace, or if you want to see more of the city’s cultural side, I would spend a week.

How to Get to Palermo, Sicily

Air:

The easiest way to get to Palermo is flying into Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO). It's also called Palermo Airport. It connects well with many European cities and offers lots of international flights. From the airport, you can grab a shuttle, taxi, or rent a car to reach the city center, about 35 kilometers away.

Which airports fly to Palermo, Sicily?

You can fly directly to Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) from several big cities. London, Paris, Munich, Frankfurt, and Madrid all have direct flights. Ryanair, easyJet, and ITA Airways offer these flights regularly. Within Italy, you can catch direct flights from Rome, Milan, Venice, and Naples.

Train:

Traveling within Italy? Taking a train to Palermo is scenic and comfy. Trenitalia runs regular trains connecting Palermo with big cities like Rome and Naples. The main train station, Palermo Centrale, is right in the city center.

Ferry:

Love the sea? Ferries to Palermo run from ports like Genoa, Naples, and Civitavecchia (Rome). It’s a relaxing way to arrive with stunning Mediterranean views.

Renting a Car in Palermo:

Renting a car in Palermo is a great idea if you want to explore the city and the Sicilian countryside. DiscoverCars.com is a top choice for rentals with its easy-to-use platform and good prices. They offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to larger family rides, fitting different travel needs and budgets.

Tips for Renting a Car:

• Book ahead: Ensures you get a car and often better rates.
• Check insurance: Understand what's covered and think about extra protection.
• Learn local rules: Driving in Palermo is different, so know the traffic regulations and road signs.
• Pick-up/drop-off: Choose convenient spots like the airport or city center for your rental.

Where to park in Palermo, Sicily?

Parking in Palermo, Sicily may be confusing, particularly within the ZTL of the historic center. Usually, you can park in the private car garages in Palermo. Some good choices include Parking Piazza Orlando and Parking Piazza Ungheria which are placed near the most important attractions, such as Teatro Massimo and the cathedral. Costs are approximately €1.50-€1.60 an hour; the hourly cost is capped at €12 a day.

Blue-lined zones need a ticket. You can get these from machines, tobacco shops, or the Palermobilità app. Make sure to display them on your dashboard. Watch out for free spots near Piazza Marina and Foro Italico. But, be aware of unofficial attendants asking for tips. Using the app is a smart move to dodge these hassles.

Where to stay in Palermo, Sicily?

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Palermo, go for the Centro Storico for old-world charm and proximity to the sights; Castellammare for the markets and the harbor views; La Kalsa for penny-pinchers and partyers, near lots of bars and cheap places to stay; Politeama Libertà for families, with wide thoroughfares and upmarket stores; and Mondello for its beaches and laidback vibes – a short hop from downtown.

The Best Hotels in Palermo, Sicily

These top hotels in Palermo cover all bases, from budget to luxury:

Budget Hotels

Hotel Cortese
Hotel Cortese sits in Palermo's historic center. It's near the Palermo Cathedral and Ballaro Market. Great spot for exploring the city.

55 Aira Hotel
55 Aira Hotel is just a 12-minute walk from Fontana Pretoria. It offers comfy rooms and has a bar. Perfect for budget travelers looking for convenience.

Family Hotels

Mercure Palermo Centro
Mercure Palermo Centro is in the heart of the city. It has modern rooms and great facilities for families. Easy access to main attractions.

NH Palermo
NH Palermo is near the waterfront. It has a garden, an outdoor pool, and big rooms. Ideal for families wanting to explore historical sites and enjoy the seaside.

Mid-Range Hotels

Alma Hotel
Alma Hotel is close to Palermo harbor and Teatro Massimo. It offers a shared lounge and air-conditioned rooms. Friendly staff and a good breakfast make it a solid mid-range choice.

Hotel Politeama
Hotel Politeama is near the Politeama Theatre. It has modern rooms and all the necessary amenities. Great for exploring Palermo’s cultural spots.

Luxury Hotels

Grand Hotel Wagner
Grand Hotel Wagner is a luxury hotel near the Politeama Theatre. It has old-world charm and elegant interiors. Top choice for travelers wanting luxury and sophistication.

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel
Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel offers luxury near Palermo Cathedral. It mixes historic charm with modern comforts. Perfect for a high-end experience.

What to eat in Palermo, Sicily?

Palermo, Sicily is all about amazing, mouthwatering street food – arancine (breaded and fried meat or ricotta-cheese-filled rice balls), panelle (chickpea-flour fritters in sandwiches), pani câ meusa (a spleen sandwich, considered by some to be the city’s food par excellence) – next to pasta con le sarde (with sardines and fennel, for seafood fans) make Palermo a foodie’s paradise. Round off your savory meal with cannoli or cassata (ricotta with candied fruit, in a cake form). The Ballarò or Vucciria markets are the place to go for such local specialties.

Where to eat in Palermo, Sicily?

Palermo’s food scene is also rocking. Go to Buatta Cucina Popolana for traditional Sicilian with a seasonal twist, or to the fancier A’Cuncuma Restaurant, owned by the brilliant chef Fabio Cardilio.

For pasta con le sarde or other basics in a comfy setting, go to the cozy Osteria Nonna Dora. If you’re craving street food, Ballarò Market and Vucciria Market are both vibrant and lively, with splendid, local eats such as the spleen sandwich. Ke Palle offers arancine gourmet-style and FUD serves gourmet burgers.

They have donkey meat as well as buffalo meat! And for a proper quick bite, head to Passami U Coppu for arancine, as well as tasty small cones of fried fish.

The Best Restaurants in Palermo, Sicily

Casual Dining

GustOriana
This spot's a cozy wine bar and gastropub with a killer wine selection and chill vibe.

Scjavuru
They mix up Italian, pizza, and seafood in a laid-back, casual setting. Perfect for an easy meal.

Apud Jatum Panormus
Famous for world-class pizza and a brew pub feel. Ideal for a relaxed night out.

Family-Friendly

Pizzeria Arcobaleno
A go-to for families. They serve up tasty pizzas in a welcoming atmosphere. Great for dinner with the kids.

Trattoria Trapani
Classic Sicilian and Mediterranean dishes in a friendly, family-oriented spot. Perfect for a cozy family meal.

Ciurma Marina Yachting
Blends Italian and Japanese dishes in a family-friendly setting with beautiful marina views.

Mid-Range

Madonieat
Serves healthy, tasty Italian and Sicilian dishes. A delightful dining experience without breaking the bank.

POMO & POMO Sikulo Emporio
Offers a mix of Mediterranean and Italian dishes with top-notch service and a cozy feel.

Divino in gusto alla Magione
A hit for its Italian and seafood dishes. Warm, inviting, and perfect for a nice night out.

Fine Dining

Bye Bye Blues
Specializes in refined Italian cuisine. Elegant spot, perfect for special occasions.

L'Ottava Nota
Serves high-end Sicilian dishes. Sophisticated and a bit fancy.

Seidita Steakhouse
Top choice for steak and BBQ lovers. Serves exquisite Southern-Italian cuisine in a fine dining setup.

What to buy in Palermo, Sicily?

Palermo is a place where shopping is as authentic as it can get. Being among the largest open-air markets in Europe, haggling is not prohibited by law and most products bear a story that links them in the most natural way to local culture. You'll find unique and authentic products that scream local culture.

Grab some traditional ceramics from Caltagirone. They’re colorful and detailed. Check out the artisanal jewelry made from red coral, black lava stone, and obsidian.

Don't miss the iconic coppola hats and beautifully decorated coffee bags. They’re must-buys. Foodies should try local goodies like Marsala wine, Modica chocolate, and Sicilian liqueurs.

As for vintage and antique collectors, they can pick and choose from two of the largest open-air markets on the island: the Vucciria and Ballaro, selling handmade knick-knacks, as well as a wide range of artifacts from music boxes dating from the turn of the previous century to authentic ancient roman coins.

What towns are near Palermo, Sicily?

The good people of Palermo, Sicily, have the best answer when tourists ask where Sicilians themselves go to escape the hot, humid capital city: Mondello (beautiful beach … crazy Art Nouveau villas). Monreale (mind-blowing cathedral … complete with crazy over-the-top mosaics).

Cefalù (this picture-perfect fishing town a bit farther out has a beautiful beach and Norman cathedral). Corleone (this small town judicially coerced to clean up its mafia roots will fascinate history buffs interested in the anti-mafia museum).

Terrasini (nature and beaches, pure splendor). Castelbuono (the medieval Castle of Ventimiglia … few crowds and local feel). Gangi, Polizzi Generosa, and Geraci Siculo – all in the gorgeous mountains of Madonie.

Here's a list of some of the best towns within driving distance from Palermo, Sicily:

Cefalù

Cefalù is about an hour east of Palermo. This coastal town is all about medieval charm, with an impressive cathedral and sandy beaches. You can hike up La Rocca for some great views. It's perfect for watersports, fishing trips, and excursions to the Aeolian Islands. T

Terrasini

Terrasini is 20 kilometers west of Palermo. Known for its natural beauty and history, it has beaches like Praiola and Magaggiari. Check out the D'Aumale Palace and the Regional Museum of Natural History. The local food, like pasta with sea urchins, is a big plus.

Monreale

Just a short drive from Palermo, Monreale is famous for its stunning cathedral with intricate mosaics. The historic center is charming and the Norman-Byzantine architecture is impressive.

Castellammare del Golfo

West of Palermo, Castellammare del Golfo has a picturesque old harbor. The alleys and ancient center are great for exploring. The marina, with its fishing boats and yachts, is the town's heart and offers scenic views.

Gangi

Gangi is rich in history and culture. It has attractions like the mummies of the Crypt of the Priests, the Bourbon Prison, and noble palaces.

Corleone

Corleone is known for its mafia history but is now a popular tourist spot. Visit the CIDMA (Anti-Mafia Museum) to learn about its notorious past. The town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty in Sicily's interior.

Agrigento

Agrigento, the "Valley of the Temples," is perfect for archaeology and history buffs. It has ancient temples and stunning views of olive groves and the sea. Combine your visit with a trip to the "Turkish Stairs" beach for a memorable experience.

Savoca

Savoca is a small town famous for its role in "The Godfather." Explore Bar Vitelli, the church where Michael Corleone married Apollonia, and the Capuchin Convent with its mummified bodies. The town offers an authentic Sicilian vibe and beautiful hill views.

Segesta

Segesta is home to a major archaeological site with a well-preserved ancient temple and a Greek theater overlooking the Gulf. Its rich history and ancient structures make it fascinating for anyone into ancient civilizations.

Parco delle Madonie

Parco delle Madonie is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers scenic views, hiking trails, and a glimpse into rural Sicilian life. Enjoy the rolling hills and picturesque villages, sample local produce, and experience a serene landscape untouched by tourism.