Palermo , Italy

Discover Palermo

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(111 reviews)

2h - 3h

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

Walking tour in the heart of the city of Palermo, discovering historical markets, churches and squares. A journey through the history and culture of a unique city in the world.

Available options

Discover Palermo

What's included

Certified guide

Walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One of the most beautiful squares of Palermo, with the charming fountain of shame in white Carrara marble. There are Palazzo delle Aquile, the Town Hall, and the extraordinary baroque church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria.

Stop 2

Center of the historic center, wonderful seventeenth-century Baroque square.

Visit to the beautiful cloister and the monastic confectionery inside the former Dominican monastery of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. Possible visit to the beautiful baroque church with a ticket to be paid by the customers.

Stop 4

Unique example of safe Norman and Baroque art. One of the most beautiful churches in Palermo.
(Please note: Visitable only when the site is available for visits! The site proposes the route as an alternative or in addition to the Church of Jesus)

Visit to a part of the Meschita neighborhood where the Jewish community of Palermo lived until their expulsion in 1493.

Stop 6

An astonishing example of Palermo baroque, this church takes your breath away due to the richness of its marble decorations. Entrance fee to be paid by customers.

The most ancient and important street of the city, full of noble palaces and shops of Sicilian craftsmanship.

Stop 8

Palisest of different styles and cultures, it is the most important church in the city for the presence of the tombs of the Norman kings and the silver chapel of Santa Rosalia.

Stop 9

Historical food market, full of fruit, vegetables, fish and spices. Soul of the city.

Stop 10

Opera Theater, the most beautiful in Sicily, the largest in Italy and the third in Europe. Majestic and in neoclassical style.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

26 reviews

5★

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Tripadvisor 4.9

85 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The guide awaits you in front of the Praetorian Fountain (Fontana della Shame), in Piazza Pretoria.

About Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city of rich history, stunning architecture, and a unique cultural blend. Known for its Norman-Arab-Byzantine influences, Palermo offers a mix of grand palaces, bustling markets, and delicious street food that will captivate any traveler.

Top Attractions

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful interior.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €7 for the cathedral and cloister

Palermo Cathedral

This grand palace was the seat of the Norman kings of Sicily. It houses the Palatine Chapel, known for its stunning mosaics and Arabic-Norman architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1.5-2 hours €12 for the palace and chapel

Ballarò Market

One of Palermo's most famous street markets, Ballarò offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce, street food, and local crafts.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to explore

Monreale Cathedral

Located just outside Palermo, Monreale Cathedral is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours including travel €6 for the cathedral and cloister

Teatro Massimo

The largest opera house in Italy and one of the most famous in the world, Teatro Massimo is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.

Architectural/Entertainment 1 hour for a tour €7 for a guided tour

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Panelle

Chickpea fritters, a popular street food in Palermo.

Snack Vegan

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Swimming and snorkeling at Mondello Beach Beach lounging at Mondello Beach Enjoying a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours to the nearby islands Swimming and water sports at the beach

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

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

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Palermo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you

Getting there

By air

Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport • 32 km from city center

By train

Palermo Centrale

By bus

Palermo Centrale Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Palermo. It's affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalsa Vigàta Mondello

Day trips

Monreale

7 km • Half day

Monreale is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and the Benedictine Abbey.

Cefalù

70 km • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beach and medieval cathedral.

Erice

120 km • Full day

A medieval hilltop town with stunning views and well-preserved architecture.

Festivals

Festa di Santa Rosalia • July 10-15 Sagra del Mandarino • January to February Palermo Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit the markets early in the morning for the best selection and freshest produce
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Take a food tour to discover the best street food and local specialties
Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Visit the cathedral and other religious sites early in the morning to avoid crowds