Palermo
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Palermo
Capital of the beautiful region of Sicily, Palermo is a fascinating hidden gem awaiting to be discovered. This busy port city pulsates with vibrant energy, embodying a perpetual transformation that has firmly reinstated it among Europe's cultural hubs. Palermo is full of sights and treasures: from ornate Baroque churches and glorious Norman-Gothic architecture to elegant Art Nouveau villas and lively markets. Amidst the chaotic streets, the city's flamboyant spirit thrives, offering a delightful surprise at every turn.Hitta resa
The former royal palace of King Roger II in the 1100s, Palazzo dei Normanni is one of the most famous sights in Palermo. Dating back to the 9th century, the palace owes its current appearance to the embellishments realised by the Normans: covered in dazzling Byzantine mosaics, the Arab-Norman architecture is a symbol of the political and cultural union operated by the Normans. Be sure to check out the stunning Palatine Chapel.
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.
The grandiose Piazza Pretoria captivates with its fountain, spreading proudly in front of Palazzo Pretorio (City Hall) as one of the major symbols of Palermo. The Pretoria Fountain was sculpted by Francesco Camilliani in 1574 and initially placed in Florence for a few years. It was then bought by the municipality and transported to Palermo. The fountain is a true masterpiece and is considered one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy. The nude figures adorning the fountain have got the most prudish population in the city to nickname the square "Piazza della Vergogna", (Square of Shame).
One of the major examples of Sicily's unique encounter of architectonic styles, the Palermo Cathedral is the result of centuries of additions, redecoration, and restorations. It was built in 1185 on the site of a former Byzantine church, which was used as a mosque during the 9th century and it encompasses Medieval, Gothic, Arabic, and Neoclassical styles. Climb up to the roof and enjoy a great view of the city.
Officially known as Piazza Vigliena, Quattro Canti is considered one of the most fascinating landmarks of Palermo. Located at the intersection of Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, it has an octagonal structure shaped by the elegant facades of the buildings standing at its corners. During the day, the sun is always shining on at least one of the four facades: leading to this Baroque gem being nicknamed by locals "il teatro del sole" ("the theatre of the sun").
A Neoclassical masterpiece, Teatro Massimo is one of the largest opera houses in Europe. Opened in 1897, it is the lyrical temple of the city, staging the opera and ballet official season. The flamboyant interiors can be visited with a 30-minute tour available daily in several languages.
A hidden gem in Palermo, Stanze al Genio is a private collection of nearly 5,000 intricately crafted majolica tiles, spanning from 15th to 20th century Sicily and Campania. Adorning the walls and floors of the 16th-century Palazzo Torre Pirajno's piano nobile, these hand-painted tiles resonate with artistic history. On display is also a small collection of vintage stationery and Italian toys. Visits are possible only via guided tours that must be booked in advance.
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.
The former royal palace of King Roger II in the 1100s, Palazzo dei Normanni is one of the most famous sights in Palermo. Dating back to the 9th century, the palace owes its current appearance to the embellishments realised by the Normans: covered in dazzling Byzantine mosaics, the Arab-Norman architecture is a symbol of the political and cultural union operated by the Normans. Be sure to check out the stunning Palatine Chapel.
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.
Set in the eighteenth-century Palazzo Valguarnera Gangi, in the heart of Palermo's historic centre, Osteria dei Vespri graces one of the city's most enchanting squares. Here, the essence of Sicilian cuisine unfolds, inviting diners to savour fish dishes, pasta, and an array of culinary delights. Amidst the stone-lined interior or alfresco at courtyard tables, this osteria offers not only an exquisite dining experience but also an extensive wine list, ensuring a journey through flavours that are both tasteful and atmospheric.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Behind its unassuming facade, Ai Cascinari unveils a culinary delight. This family-owned trattoria exudes authenticity, serving a delectable array of antipasti, pasta, seafood, and other Sicilian classics. The fare is characterised by its freshness, high quality, and tantalising flavours, all set against a backdrop of cosy and rustic charm.
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.
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.
Set in the eighteenth-century Palazzo Valguarnera Gangi, in the heart of Palermo's historic centre, Osteria dei Vespri graces one of the city's most enchanting squares. Here, the essence of Sicilian cuisine unfolds, inviting diners to savour fish dishes, pasta, and an array of culinary delights. Amidst the stone-lined interior or alfresco at courtyard tables, this osteria offers not only an exquisite dining experience but also an extensive wine list, ensuring a journey through flavours that are both tasteful and atmospheric.
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.
Palermo's vibrant outdoor markets beckon exploration, and among them, the renowned Mercato Vucciria, affectionately known as La Vucciria, stands out. For seven centuries, Palermo's oldest market has been a fixture in the historic heart of Piazza San Domenico, offering a kaleidoscope of activity as vendors offer everything from seafood, fruits, and vegetables to a diverse mix of handcrafted creations. Opening its doors every day except Sunday, the morning hours unveil the market's vibrant energy, making it the prime time for exploration.
To truly experience Palermo, do not miss a stroll down the colourful and bustling Mercato del Capo. It is a food and flea market that imbibes the culture in Palermo with local delicacies, fruits, and vegetables, as well as souvenirs and houseware goods. Check out the beautiful mosaic of A Pupa ru Capu (Capo's sweetheart) at the entrance of Panificio Morello, too.
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.
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.
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.
Torregrossa is one of the first Italian prêt-à-porter multi-brand boutiques. boasting an impressive assortment of stylish clothing and accessories hailing from globally acclaimed luxury brands. A haven for fashion enthusiasts, this destination emerges as the perfect choice for those seeking to satiate their style cravings with a diverse range of offerings from the world of haute couture and sophistication.
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.
With a legacy dating back to 1911, Soldano has established itself as a reputable name in Palermo for sophisticated yet affordable footwear and accessories. Distinguished by their commitment to quality, each product is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, offering a testament to timeless elegance. A diverse range of designs awaits, ensuring that discerning shoppers can find their perfect match amidst a plethora of choices.
Palermo's vibrant outdoor markets beckon exploration, and among them, the renowned Mercato Vucciria, affectionately known as La Vucciria, stands out. For seven centuries, Palermo's oldest market has been a fixture in the historic heart of Piazza San Domenico, offering a kaleidoscope of activity as vendors offer everything from seafood, fruits, and vegetables to a diverse mix of handcrafted creations. Opening its doors every day except Sunday, the morning hours unveil the market's vibrant energy, making it the prime time for exploration.
To truly experience Palermo, do not miss a stroll down the colourful and bustling Mercato del Capo. It is a food and flea market that imbibes the culture in Palermo with local delicacies, fruits, and vegetables, as well as souvenirs and houseware goods. Check out the beautiful mosaic of A Pupa ru Capu (Capo's sweetheart) at the entrance of Panificio Morello, too.
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. Should you wish to rent a car, various car rental companies are conveniently located within the airport's Arrivals Hall.
Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
Country code: +39 Area code: 091 (do not omit the zero)
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. Should you wish to rent a car, various car rental companies are conveniently located within the airport's Arrivals Hall.
Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
