If you’re thinking about a vacation in Palermo and want to know what to visit in the historic center, you’ve come to the right place. We all know by now that Palermo is one of the undisputed gems of Sicily, and it’s no coincidence that it was declared the capital of culture in 2018. The city is rich in attractions, street food, culture, and traditions.
The best part is that you don’t have to worry about the weather, as Palermo enjoys beautiful weather all year round. Before we dive into the details, we recommend staying in the area between Teatro Politeama and Teatro Massimo.
Do you know Teatro Politeama? Originally a popular theater in Palermo, it is now the home of the Sicilian Symphony Orchestra Foundation. For just €5, you can visit it and, with a guided tour, discover all the rooms, interiors, and its features. Also worth mentioning is Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy.
This theater features a neoclassical style and is so impressive that it deserves a visit. Given its size, you can purchase tickets for each of the individual sections open to visitors.
Moreover, when in Palermo, you can’t miss the Quattro Canti. Though not a typical attraction, it is the main crossroads of the city. The name comes from the fact that it divides Palermo into its four most notable districts, thanks to the intersection of two main streets: Via Maqueda and Via Vittorio Emanuele. The result is an octagonal square with facades dedicated to four kings, four saints, and four seasons of the year.
Let’s also talk about the Vucciria, Ballarò, and Capo markets. Probably among the city’s most famous attractions, these markets are known for their colors and aromas. One moment you feel like you’re at a flea market, the next in an Arab souk, and just a bit further, in a classic market with colorful fruits and vegetables.
What to see and where to eat in Palermo’s historic center?
First up, we recommend Pasticceria Costa, located on the central Via Maqueda. It’s particularly famous for its cannoli, considered by many to be the best in the city. Everything here is super fresh and delicious, like sfincie, cassate, and buccellati.
Another great option is Pasticceria Scimone, where you must try their famous “Dito d’apostolo,” a soft and narrow crepe filled with cream and ricotta, which is simply delightful.
Then there’s Sciampagna, which stands out from the usual pastry shops in Palermo for its style. It’s very refined and “Milanese,” reminiscent of Rinaldini with its aesthetically beautiful desserts.
Besides these, there’s also Spinnato, where you can start with breakfast and end with dinner. They continuously offer delicious main courses, as well as sweets, arancine, and sfincione. You can stop by any time of the day.
Lastly, we mention Qcinu, a place that identifies as “gourmet street food” and offers various rosticceria products. However, their strength lies in the sandwiches with different fillings and toppings. These are soft and flavorful, a true delight for our taste buds.
