Guided tour of the historic center Palermo
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour of the historic center will take you to discover the most characteristic aspects of the city of Palermo. You will visit an ancient market, stroll through the most elegant streets of the old town and visit Unesco heritage monuments such as the Cathedral and the wonderful Martorana church, famous for its colorful Byzantine mosaics.
The tour will end inside the Cape Market, among stalls and ancient fishmongers.
Don't miss this unique experience with a guide - cultural heritage restorer.
Available options
Guided tour of the historic center Palermo
What's included
martorana church
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Guided walk inside the historic Cape Market, among street stalls and ancient fry shops. Possibility of lunch directly at the market.
The market is included in the itinerary only in the morning.
2
Stop 2
Guided tour of the Cathedral of Palermo
3
Stop 3
guided tour of the Church of the Martorana (open only from Tuesday to Saturday morning). Afternoon is closed. On Sunday morning it will only be visible from the entrance without the possibility of accessing the interior.
4
Visit of the cloister of the Monastery and break at the ancient Dolceria di Santa Caterina.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
IT
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
43 reviews
5★
43
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Appointment in front of the Pastry Costa
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
