Palermo
Palermo
Palermo is a fascinating hidden gem, the capital of the beautiful region of Sicily and a busy port city that brims with energy! It is a city that changes continually and has reclaimed its place among Europe’s cultural cities. Palermo is full of sights and treasures, from Baroque churches and glorious historic buildings to modern Sicilian restaurants. This is the city where the welcoming and kind-hearted Italians will invite you with open arms!Hitta resa
Palazzo dei Normanni is one of the most famous sights in Palermo which was the former royal palace of King Roger II in the 1100’s. Covered in dazzling Byzantine mosaics (akin to those in the church of the Martorana and in the Monreale Cathedral), this Arab-Norman architectural edifice is a symbol of the political and cultural union operated by the Normans.
This little town with a population of 30,000 lies in the mountains southwest of Palermo. Its postcard-perfect views are only rivaled by the Norman Catedrale di Monreale, Italy’s largest medieval building which holds 6,000 square meters of Byzantine art.
Also known as square of sham, the spectacular Piazza Pretoria captivates with its fountain and the numerous gleaming white naked statues, thereof the name. The Pretoria Fountain was sculpted by Francesco Camilliani and in the beginning, in 1574, it was placed in Florence for a few years but then transported to Palermo, divided into 644 pieces. The fountain is a true masterpiece, takes up the entire piazza, and considered being one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy.
Santa Caterina Church in Palermo has attracted many tourists and visitors from all over the world because of its remarkable Sicilian Baroque architecture. The walls are full of ornamental paintings and there are vibrant frescoes, intricately carves statues and a lot more to explore.
Housed in a Renaissance monastery, Museo Archeologico Regionale has a rich collection of Roman and Ancient Greek artefacts including many items spanning most of Palermo’s history. The most exciting exhibits are the statues from the lost city of Selinunte.
Teatro Massimo is one of the largest theatres in Europe (7730 mq), a Neoclassical masterpiece started by Giovanni Battista Basile in 1875, and completed by his son, Ernesto, in 1897. Recently restored, it is now the lyrical temple of the city, staging the opera and ballet official season.
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 St. John of the Hermits.
Festa di Santa Rosalia is a grand annual festival that takes place every 14-15th of July. The festival dedicates to Palermo's patron saint, Santa Rosalia who was apparently the one who freed the city from a dreadful plague in 1624. This festival is full of dazzling fireworks, religious processions, live music and sumptuous Sicilian delicacies.
Palazzo dei Normanni is one of the most famous sights in Palermo which was the former royal palace of King Roger II in the 1100’s. Covered in dazzling Byzantine mosaics (akin to those in the church of the Martorana and in the Monreale Cathedral), this Arab-Norman architectural edifice is a symbol of the political and cultural union operated by the Normans.
This little town with a population of 30,000 lies in the mountains southwest of Palermo. Its postcard-perfect views are only rivaled by the Norman Catedrale di Monreale, Italy’s largest medieval building which holds 6,000 square meters of Byzantine art.
Osteria dei Vespri is situated in the ancient heart of Palermo. The kitchen is led by Alberto Rizzo, whose purpose is to valorize traditional products. The wine cellar, has more than 600 labels, selected among the most interesting Italian and foreign producers.
Gagini Restaurant claims to be a "social restaurant", meaning that they mix food with art, music and fashion. Romantic lit candles and fresh flowers on the tables set the mood in this open and inspiring venue. If you desire something different from a “Social Dinner” don’t miss their great atmosphere and perfect space for a dinner, either for two, a group of friends, family or business.
This classic restaurant opened its doors in 1890, making it one of the city’s oldest restaurants. The interior is worn and has some less attractive modern details, but this doesn’t stop it from being full on most evenings. The menu offers Sicilian specialties and food from the sea such as pasta con le sarde (fresh sardines with raisins and pine nuts).
This is where the locals go, a long-standing favourite that usually get pack on the Sunday afternoons. A place where to relish a hearty Sicilian meal, for a reasonable price and where the owner is friendly and has created a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Il Baro is located in a charming neighbourhood outside of the city centre. The restaurant is frequented by locals and much appreciated by tourists. First and foremost, they serve pizza, but there are other things on the menu as well like pasta and meat dishes.
Italian food is quite exquisite, but sometimes you reach a point where you crave something entirely different than bruschetta, antipasti and pizza. At Billy's, you can have more of an American fare like hamburgers, chicken nuggets and hearty sandwiches.
This is more than just a sushi bar, they also serve Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese dishes, all cooked with quality produce. The food is artistically and skilfully presented and the ambience authentically Asian but yet modern. Pop in to try something else than Italian flavours!
The team at L'Ottava Nota is passionate about food, mixing traditional cooking with innovation. The goal is to create an experience that combines scent, presentation and flavour in the best way possible. The restaurant is located in the historic quarters close to the port.
Osteria dei Vespri is situated in the ancient heart of Palermo. The kitchen is led by Alberto Rizzo, whose purpose is to valorize traditional products. The wine cellar, has more than 600 labels, selected among the most interesting Italian and foreign producers.
Gagini Restaurant claims to be a "social restaurant", meaning that they mix food with art, music and fashion. Romantic lit candles and fresh flowers on the tables set the mood in this open and inspiring venue. If you desire something different from a “Social Dinner” don’t miss their great atmosphere and perfect space for a dinner, either for two, a group of friends, family or business.
Vucciria Market is one of the most popular markets in Palermo. From fresh sea food, meat and vegetables to creative handmade crafts, Vucciria Market will always be full of diverse and interesting products making it a very popular destination not just for tourists but also for the locals alike.
With 120 stores, Forum Palermo is considered as one of the biggest shopping malls in Palermo. It has many luxurious boutiques, restaurants, services and other establishments making it a favourite shopping destination of many tourists. Shops such as Guess, H&M, Timberland, United Colors of Benetton, Pandora, Swarovski and Adidas, are all housed here.
La Coppola Storta manufactures genuine Sicilian coppolas. The stylish designs of the coppolas are influenced by the modern and fashionable trends that are made up of high quality fabric. This is the perfect souvenir to bring back home.
Looking for a great memento from Palermo? Come and visit The Cittacote for creative handmade miniatures of renowned edifices and monuments not only in Palermo but in other cities of Sicily as well. Every piece is made by the Italian architect Vincenzo Vizzari himself using innovative and exceptional techniques to create the detailed and elaborate designs.
Torregrossa is one of the first Italian boutiques where the products of well-known designers in the city of Palermo are found. Torregrossa offers a great array of fashionable clothing and exquisite accessories making it a great choice to visit for fashion needs.
A wine bar and a store, Picone Enoteca is a great haven for wine enthusiasts. With a wide selection of best tasting wines, beers and brandy, Picone Enoteca is a good place to buy liquors as well as its matching high quality meat, cheese or sausage.
Soldano has been in business since 1911 and is a great name when it comes to classy but affordable footwear and accessories in Palermo. Each product is made up of high quality materials and there are multitude of designs to choose from! There are two locations, one in Via Ruggero Settimo 75 and one in Via Petrarca 10.
Ciatu ALAB is a cool place to shop for bags and luggages. Founded and managed by three young and creative Sicilian crafters, Ciatu ALAB offers a wide selection of uniquely designed bags and accessories that are made with high quality materials.
Vucciria Market is one of the most popular markets in Palermo. From fresh sea food, meat and vegetables to creative handmade crafts, Vucciria Market will always be full of diverse and interesting products making it a very popular destination not just for tourists but also for the locals alike.
With 120 stores, Forum Palermo is considered as one of the biggest shopping malls in Palermo. It has many luxurious boutiques, restaurants, services and other establishments making it a favourite shopping destination of many tourists. Shops such as Guess, H&M, Timberland, United Colors of Benetton, Pandora, Swarovski and Adidas, are all housed here.
Palermo International Airport
Palermo International Airport, also called Falcone–Borsellino, is located 35 kilometres (20 miles) from Palermo. With the bus company Prestia e Comandè, you can get to the city centre of Palermo from the aiport. The bus runs between 05.00 and 00.15 and from 06.30 the bus runs every 30 minutes. The tickets can be bought online (www.prestiaecomande.it), on the bus and at the ticket office at the airport (next to the Arrivals and the bus stop). The airport taxi service is on the exit Arrivals Area and they are coordinated with the timetable of the arrival flights. Car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, Europecar and Sixt are all located in the Arrivals Hall of the airport if you would like to rent a car. There is also an information desk outside the arrivals area if you would need any further help.
Public Transport
Use the AMAT network of buses and trams to get around the city. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes and can be bought from tobacco vendors, some newsagents or at the AMAT kiosk at Piazza Ruggero Séttimo and Stazione Centraleà. You need to stamp the ticket in the machines that are located near the entrances of the vehicle when boarding. The tram system operates four lines in Palermo and is an easy way to get around. AMAT also run night buses, while Trenitalia manage the train network. AMAT: +39 091 350111 Trenitalia Sicily: +39 091 6170224
Taxi
Taking a taxi in Palermo can be expensive, especially in the evenings and if you have a lot of luggage. Always agree on a price before starting the journey and also make sure it is run by an official taxi company (check if there is a taximeter before boarding the taxi). Taxi ranks are located at the train station, Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo and Piazza Independenza. Autoradiotaxi +39 091 8481 - +39 091 51 33 11 - +39 091 51 27 27 www.autoradiotaxi.it autoradiotaxipalermo@libero.it Cooperativa Radiotaxi Trinacria +39 91 225030 www.radiotaxitrinacria.it
Post
Stamps can be purchased from the post office, including tobacconists that carry either the blue and white "Tabacchi" sign or are simply marked with a "T". One post office is located at:
Pharmacy
Palermo’s pharmacies have alternating open hours during weekends and nights. One pharmacy called Farmacia Cerasola M.L is located on the following address.:
Telephone
Country code: +39 Area code: 091 (do not omit the zero)
Electricity
230 V, 50 Hz
Palermo International Airport
Palermo International Airport, also called Falcone–Borsellino, is located 35 kilometres (20 miles) from Palermo. With the bus company Prestia e Comandè, you can get to the city centre of Palermo from the aiport. The bus runs between 05.00 and 00.15 and from 06.30 the bus runs every 30 minutes. The tickets can be bought online (www.prestiaecomande.it), on the bus and at the ticket office at the airport (next to the Arrivals and the bus stop). The airport taxi service is on the exit Arrivals Area and they are coordinated with the timetable of the arrival flights. Car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, Europecar and Sixt are all located in the Arrivals Hall of the airport if you would like to rent a car. There is also an information desk outside the arrivals area if you would need any further help.
Public Transport
Use the AMAT network of buses and trams to get around the city. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes and can be bought from tobacco vendors, some newsagents or at the AMAT kiosk at Piazza Ruggero Séttimo and Stazione Centraleà. You need to stamp the ticket in the machines that are located near the entrances of the vehicle when boarding. The tram system operates four lines in Palermo and is an easy way to get around. AMAT also run night buses, while Trenitalia manage the train network. AMAT: +39 091 350111 Trenitalia Sicily: +39 091 6170224
