4-Hour Tour of the Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral from Palermo

Sicily , Italy

4-Hour Tour of the Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral from Palermo

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(14 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit with us one of the most impressive places in the world!
At the Capuchin Monastery in Palermo, you can explore the famous Catacombs. Between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, in exchange for rich donations, Sicilian nobles and illustrious figures entrusted the bodies of their deceased to the Friars, who were mummified with natural techniques. In addition to being an impressive place, the Catacombs represent an extraordinary historical testimony of a Palermo full of charm and mystery.
The second stop of the tour will take you to Monreale, nestled on the slopes of Monte Caputo. Founded by the Arabs, Monreale is one of the most significant examples of the fusion between Arab and Norman cultures. The famous Duomo, a World Heritage Site, dominates the town with its majesty. You will be fascinated by the refinement of the Byzantine elements and the immensity of Christ Pantocrator, who oversees the entire church.

Available options

4-Hour Tour of the Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral from Palermo

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Bottled water

Bilingual Italian-English driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Once in Piazza dei Cappuccini, you can buy tickets (5€ per person) and start the tour that will lead you through four corridors: that of the Friars, Men, Women and Professors. Each corridor tells stories of devotion and centuries-old traditions. Among all the bodies on display, one in particular catches the eye: that of Rosalia Lombardo. Her mummy, thanks to an incredible preservation process, has remained perfectly intact, so much so that it seems that she can open her eyes at any moment. This extraordinary conservation, which makes it one of the most famous mummies in the world, arouses wonder and admiration. Its history, still shrouded in mystery, has transformed it into a fascinating symbol of Palermo, attracting visitors from every corner of the world.

Stop 2

The Cathedral of Monreale is a masterpiece of Arab-Norman art and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located a few kilometers from Palermo. The cathedral is famous for its extraordinary mosaics decorating over 6,000 square meters of surface, representing biblical scenes of extraordinary beauty, including the famous mosaic of Christ Pantocrator in the apse. Entrance to the cathedral costs €4 per person, and inside you can admire the majesty of the architecture, with the carved wooden ceiling and elegant columns. The cloister, attached to the cathedral, is another treasure not to be missed. Composed of 224 columns, each decorated with unique capitals that tell stories of the Old and New Testaments, the cloister is a perfect example of cultural fusion between Christian and Islamic elements. The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the most fascinating artistic and spiritual experiences in Sicily.

What's not included

tour guide (bookable on request)

Cathedral of Monreale

Catacombs of the Capuchins

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 3.3

3 reviews

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Note: Our driver is not a specialized guide, he only provides background information about the tour.

About Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Valley of the Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.

Historical 2-3 hours €10

Mount Etna

Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nature Half day to full day €30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.

Architectural 1-2 hours €7

Taormina

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre

Cefalù

A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.

Beach Half day to full day Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.

Dessert Vegan and gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park Volcano trekking on Mount Etna Beach lounging in Cefalù Spa treatments in Taormina Visiting the Valley of the Temples Exploring the historic center of Palermo Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.

Getting there

By air

Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center

By train

Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale

By bus

Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Palermo Centro Storico Taormina Catania Centro Agrigento

Day trips

Aeolian Islands

25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight

A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.

Erice

100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day

A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.

Noto

90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day

A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.

Festivals

Infiorata di Noto • May Taormina Film Fest • June Sagra del Miele • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.