Palermo is one of the most well-known and visited cities in Sicily, famous for its extraordinary beauty and architecture, with a history spanning millennia and influenced by various cultures. In this article, we want to provide you with a complete guide to discovering the city of Palermo! Here’s everything you need to know about this wonderful city.
Monuments of Palermo: the most beautiful to visit
Palermo is rich in art and architecture, with a heritage ranging from Arab and Norman influences to the splendors of the Baroque. Here are the top ten monuments not to be missed during a visit to the city:
- Palermo Cathedral
- Palazzo dei Normanni and Palatine Chapel
- Teatro Massimo
- Church of the Martorana (Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio)
- Quattro Canti
- Piazza Pretoria
- Basilica of San Giovanni degli Eremiti
- Oratory of San Lorenzo
- Ballarò Market
- Catacombs of the Capuchins
1-day Itinerary of Palermo
For those with only one day to spare, you can follow an itinerary that allows you to discover the most splendid jewels of this historic city. Departure from Teatro Massimo, From Quattro Canti to Piazza Pretoria, Church of the Martorana and Basilica of San Cataldo, Palermo Cathedral.
3-day Itinerary of Palermo
With a three-day itinerary, you can immerse yourself in the cultural, historical, and gastronomic richness of Palermo, discovering its most significant monuments, lively markets, and historic churches.
Departure from Teatro Massimo, Continuing along Corso Vittorio Emanuele to Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, Church of the Martorana, and Basilica of San Cataldo. Lunch in the famous Vucciria market. Conclusion with a visit to the Palermo Cathedral.
Day 2: Royal Palaces and Secrets of Palermo
Start your second day with a visit to the Palazzo dei Normanni. Inside, don’t miss the Palatine Chapel, with its incredible mosaics. After that, you can visit the Camera delle Meraviglie at Porta di Castro, where the blue-painted walls and Arabic inscriptions tell hidden stories. End the day with a visit to the Capuchin Catacombs.
Day 3: Discoveries Outside the City
Finally, on the third day, you can consider exploring some beauties outside the city, such as Monreale Cathedral, Mondello Beach, or the towns of Cefalù or Cinisi.
Flights to Palermo: Where is the airport?
Palermo Airport, officially called Falcone-Borsellino Airport, is located about 35 kilometers west of the city of Palermo. This airport is also known by its IATA code, PMO, and is named after judges Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, heroes in the fight against the mafia.
Palermo Hotels: Top Rankings
If you are planning a visit to this charming Sicilian city, here is an accurate guide to the best hotels in Palermo, based on guest reviews and ratings from leading tourism portals. Here’s where to stay to ensure a smooth and entirely satisfying experience.
B&B Palermo: Top Rankings
Palermo, a city rich in history and culture, offers a wide choice of cozy and refined B&Bs, perfect for those looking for a more intimate and personal stay. Here are some of the best bed and breakfasts in the city.
Typical Dishes in Palermo: What to Eat
Palermo’s cuisine is a delightful encounter between Mediterranean flavors and Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences, which have left an indelible mark on local dishes. From panelle to arancine, caponata to sfincione, pasta alla norma to cannoli, Palermo offers a culinary journey not to be missed.
