Overview
Palermo Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Palermo, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a significant historical landmark in Sicily. It's a blend of various architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical.
It houses the tombs of notable historical figures, including Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, and is a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Sicily.
Location
Address
Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo, Sicily
Neighborhood: Casco Antico
Coordinates
38.115700, 13.361500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild and pleasant
- • Blooming gardens
- • Easter celebrations
summer
hot and sunny
- • Extended visiting hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • Fall foliage
- • Wine festivals
winter
cold and rainy
- • Christmas markets
- • Holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Dress modestly
- Check opening hours
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking and climbing stairs)
- • Climbing stairs to access certain areas
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
Currency
Euro (€)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable shoes for walking, Comfortable walking shoes, Shorts, Sleeveless tops, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 week
- • Official website or authorized resellers
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • Available for purchase
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Palermo Cathedral Official Guide
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets, Rooftop access
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Rooftop
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO)
Distance: 32 km
Travel Time: 35-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a symbol of Palermo's rich history and cultural heritage, and a place of worship for the local community.
Historical Significance: The cathedral has been a witness to numerous historical events and is a testament to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Sicily over the centuries.
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning before official opening hours
- The best food stalls can be found at the back entrance
- Guided tours in English are available daily
Local Recommendations
- • Try a granita and brioche at a local café
- • Explore the nearby Quattro Canti
- • Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the grand façade
Result: Stunning shot of the cathedral's entrance with warm lighting
Rooftop
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Wide-angle shots of the city
Result: Breathtaking panoramic views of Palermo
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Palazzo dei Normanni
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Palace and Historical Site
Quattro Canti
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historical Square
Teatro Massimo
Distance: 700m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Opera House
Mercato del Capo
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Local Market
Orto Botanico di Palermo
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Botanical Garden
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book your tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit early for the best photos"
- "Don't miss the rooftop views"
- "Comfortable shoes are a must"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Palermo Original Street Food Walking Tour by Streaty
Night Street Food Tour of Palermo with a Local -For real foodies!
3-hours Guided Tour with tasting in Palermo
Get Curious in Palermo SoHo
Erice and Segesta Day Trip from Palermo
Palermo: Anti-Mafia 3-Hour Walking Tour
Markets and monuments: walking tour and street food in Palermo
Palermo Street Food Walking Tour at Sunset
Palermo: Medieval castles of Caccamo & Cefalù. Small Group Tour
Recoleta and Palermo Bike Tour - Private Tour
Private Palermo & Monreale Historical Tour
ETNA and TAORMINA departing from PALERMO, Private Tour
Palermo to Siracusa: stop at Valley of Temples & Roman Villa
Segesta, Erice and Saline di Nubia from Palermo
Hidden Palermo Bike Tour with Organic Wine Tasting
Palermo Food & Wine Tours with Eating Europe
Sunset catamaran tour: Aperitif on the boat in Palermo
Savoring Palermo: In The Markets and Beyond
Palermo, Monreale, Mondello and Monte Pellegrino from Palermo, Private Tour
Valley of the Temples Private Guided Tour / Pick Up Palermo
From Palermo to Agrigento with stop in Erice and Marsala Saltpans
Private Tour from Palermo to Monreale, Santa Rosalia and Mondello
Palermo to Taormina Tour with a stop in Agrigento and Armerina
Private Arab Norman Tour from Palermo to Monreale and Cefalu
Quick Info
Available Tours
89
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000
Adult Entry
€10